Current News and Projects
2008 is a milestone year for Grunwell-Cashero as we celebrate 55 years in business. It is an exciting time for us as we find ourselves involved in a wide variety of construction projects. From the façade restoration of the Federal Center in Battle Creek, MI to a waterproofing and concrete remediation project at Orion Academy in Cincinnati, OH, we are expanding our horizons while maintaining our focus in preserving masonry structures.
Pease Auditorium, Ypsilanti, MI
Located on the campus of Eastern Michigan University and constructed in 1913-14, Pease Auditorium is an impressive structure built of terra cotta, brick, and cast stone. The extensive masonry restoration project began in November 2007 and is slated to be complete in August 2008. The terra cotta façade at the front entrance elevation was completely dismantled to expose and refurbish the rusting steel support structure. Over five hundred new terra cotta units were fabricated from molds made using the original stone. The project also consists of brick repointing, brick replacement, sealant replacement and cast stone replacement. To complete the façade renovation the original wood windows are being refurbished, cornice, doors and windows painted and interior plaster repaired.
(click on photos to enlarge)
Ford Piquette Plant, Detroit, MI
The Ford Piquette Plant is the birthplace of the Model T and is currently being renovated by Grunwell-Cashero Co in preparation for the monumental Centennial Celebration. Constructed in 1904, the building is of significant historical importance and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Over the years the brick façade had been coated with white paint. A portion of the project scope is to remove the paint from the brick and repoint all of the mortar joints at the main entrance elevation. Due to the age and condition of the brick units a lime putty mortar with a low p.s.i is being used for repointing. Deteriorated brick units are being replaced throughout the façade along with wood window restoration, painting and the construction of a new front entrance.
(click on photos to enlarge)