Masonry Restoration & Preservation

Preserving the Architectural Heritage of Iowa and Illinois

Historic masonry buildings represent irreplaceable pieces of our architectural heritage. At Bi-State Masonry, we specialize in the careful restoration and preservation of these significant structures, bringing together traditional craftsmanship with modern conservation techniques to protect buildings for future generations. Since 1999, we have completed restoration projects on some of the most important historic buildings throughout Iowa and Illinois.

What sets Bi-State Masonry apart in the field of historic restoration is our commitment to following the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. We work directly with State Historic Preservation Offices and understand the documentation, approval processes, and specialized techniques required when working on designated historic buildings and landmarks. This expertise allows us to serve property owners, institutions, and municipalities who need contractors capable of meeting the rigorous standards that historic preservation demands.

Historic Building Restoration

Historic masonry restoration requires a fundamentally different approach than standard repair work. The goal is not simply to fix deteriorated elements, but to preserve the building's historic character while ensuring its structural integrity for decades to come. This demands careful material matching, an understanding of original construction methods, and respect for the building's architectural significance.

Our restoration team has completed projects on landmark buildings throughout the region, including university facilities, historic hotels, churches, schools, and commercial buildings dating back over a century. We understand that each historic structure presents unique challenges—from matching century-old mortar formulations to sourcing appropriate replacement materials that are compatible with original construction.

Notable Historic Restoration Projects

Bi-State Masonry has been entrusted with the restoration of significant historic properties across Iowa and Illinois:

• University of Iowa Chemistry Building — Iowa City, IA
• University of Iowa Kinnick Stadium — Iowa City, IA
• Midland Hotel — Des Moines, IA
• Historic Midland Building — Des Moines, IA
• Roshek Building — Dubuque, IA
• Rock Island Renaissance Building — Rock Island, IL
• Tower Restoration at Sacred Heart Church — Davenport, IA
• McKinley School — Des Moines, IA
• Davenport Central High School — Davenport, IA

View more examples of our completed work in our project gallery.

Facade Stabilization and Structural Repairs

Aging masonry facades can develop serious structural issues that compromise building safety if left unaddressed. Deteriorating mortar joints, displaced masonry units, corroded anchors and ties, and water infiltration all contribute to facade instability. Our restoration team specializes in identifying these problems and implementing solutions that restore structural integrity while preserving historic appearance.

Facade stabilization often requires a combination of techniques tailored to each building's specific conditions. We perform comprehensive assessments to understand the root causes of deterioration before recommending repairs. This diagnostic approach ensures that our solutions address underlying problems rather than simply treating visible symptoms.

Facade Stabilization Services

• Masonry anchor and tie replacement
• Helical tie installation for wall stabilization
• Lintel repair and replacement
• Structural crack repair and monitoring
• Parapet wall stabilization
• Shelf angle repair and replacement
• Masonry rebuilding of deteriorated sections
• Resetting displaced stone and precast elements

For infrastructure projects, we provide structural repairs to bridges, parking garages, tunnels, and other concrete and masonry structures. Our crews have the equipment and expertise to work on projects ranging from historic downtown buildings to modern infrastructure facilities.

Stone Preservation and Conservation

Natural stone elements on historic buildings require specialized preservation techniques that differ significantly from modern repair methods. Original limestone, sandstone, and granite features were often carved by skilled craftsmen and cannot simply be replaced with modern materials without compromising the building's historic integrity. Our stone preservation services focus on extending the life of original materials whenever possible.

We employ conservation techniques developed specifically for historic masonry, including the use of specially formulated repair mortars designed to be compatible with historic stone. When deterioration requires intervention, we prioritize consolidation and stabilization over replacement, preserving as much original material as possible while ensuring long-term durability.

Stone Preservation Techniques

When replacement is necessary, we source stone that matches the original in composition, color, texture, and finish. For carved or decorative elements, we work with skilled craftsmen who can replicate historic details that maintain the building's architectural character.

Concrete Restoration and Repair

Concrete structures throughout the Midwest face significant deterioration challenges due to our harsh climate. Freeze-thaw cycles, deicing salts, carbonation, and reinforcement corrosion all take their toll on concrete facades, parking structures, and infrastructure. Our concrete restoration services address these issues with proven repair techniques that extend structure service life.

We perform both cosmetic and structural concrete repairs, from surface patching and protective coatings to deep section repairs and reinforcement rehabilitation. Our approach emphasizes proper surface preparation, material compatibility, and attention to the underlying causes of deterioration to ensure lasting results.

Concrete Restoration Services

• Concrete cleaning and surface preparation
• Spall repair and patching
• Crack repair and epoxy injection
• Reinforcement corrosion mitigation
• Protective coatings and sealers
• Decorative concrete restoration
• Stucco repair and restoration
• Deck coating systems for parking structures

Complete Restoration and Preservation Services

Bi-State Masonry offers a comprehensive range of restoration and preservation services for commercial, institutional, and historic properties. We work with general contractors, architects, building owners, and preservation consultants to develop and execute restoration programs that meet project requirements and budget constraints.

Masonry Assessment and Evaluation

Every successful restoration project begins with a thorough understanding of existing conditions. We provide masonry condition assessments and building surveys that document deterioration patterns, identify underlying causes, and recommend appropriate repair strategies. These assessments support project planning, budgeting, and prioritization of restoration work.

Mortar Joint Restoration

Deteriorated mortar joints are one of the most common issues in aging masonry buildings. Our tuckpointing services include dustless cutting and repointing techniques that minimize mess and disruption while producing clean, consistent results. For historic buildings, we analyze original mortar composition and formulate compatible replacement mortars that match in color, texture, and performance characteristics.

Cleaning and Surface Preparation

Proper cleaning is essential for both aesthetic improvement and as preparation for other restoration work. We employ appropriate cleaning methods for each substrate—from low-pressure water washing to chemical cleaning systems—selecting techniques that effectively remove soiling without damaging historic materials.

Waterproofing and Protective Treatments

Protecting restored masonry from future water infiltration is critical to long-term preservation. Our waterproofing services include breathable water repellent treatments that prevent moisture penetration while allowing trapped moisture to escape. We also provide complete sealant removal and replacement for building joints and penetrations.

Full List of Restoration Services

Commercial Sectors We Serve

Our masonry restoration expertise serves a wide range of commercial and institutional clients throughout the Iowa-Illinois corridor. From Des Moines through the Quad Cities to the greater Chicago area, we have the capacity and experience to handle restoration projects of significant scale.

We maintain ongoing relationships with major institutions including the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the Iowa Department of Transportation. These partnerships reflect our ability to consistently deliver quality restoration work that meets demanding institutional standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you follow Secretary of the Interior's Standards for historic restoration?

Yes. Following the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties is central to our approach for designated historic buildings and landmarks. We work directly with State Historic Preservation Offices when required and understand the documentation and approval processes involved in historic preservation projects. This expertise is one of our key differentiators in the restoration field.

What types of buildings do you restore?

We restore a wide variety of commercial, institutional, and historic structures including office buildings, schools, universities, churches, government buildings, historic hotels, healthcare facilities, and industrial properties. We also perform restoration work on infrastructure such as bridges, parking garages, and tunnels. Our project history includes landmark buildings throughout Iowa and Illinois.

Do you offer masonry condition assessments?

Yes. We provide comprehensive masonry condition assessments and building surveys as part of our restoration services. These evaluations document existing conditions, identify causes of deterioration, and provide recommendations for repair. Assessment reports support project planning, budgeting, and prioritization of restoration work.

Can you match historic mortar for repointing work?

Absolutely. For historic buildings, matching the original mortar is essential for both aesthetic and performance reasons. We analyze original mortar composition and formulate replacement mortars that match in color, texture, aggregate, and physical properties. Using compatible mortar prevents damage to historic masonry units and maintains the building's authentic appearance.

What is your service area for commercial restoration projects?

Our commercial restoration service area extends from Des Moines through the Quad Cities to the greater Chicago area, covering the Iowa-Illinois corridor. For significant projects, we have the capability to work throughout the broader Midwest region. Contact us to discuss your specific project location.

How do you approach stone preservation versus replacement?

Our philosophy prioritizes preserving original historic materials whenever possible. We employ conservation techniques including stone consolidation, dutchman repairs, and specially formulated repair mortars to extend the life of original stone. When replacement is necessary, we source stone that matches the original in composition, color, texture, and finish to maintain the building's historic character.

Schedule Your Restoration Consultation

Whether you are planning a major historic restoration project or need to address deterioration on a commercial building, Bi-State Masonry has the expertise and resources to deliver quality results. Our team understands the unique requirements of preservation work and brings more than 26 years of experience to every project.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or masonry condition assessment. We provide free estimates for all commercial restoration and preservation projects throughout the Iowa-Illinois region.

Call us at (309) 786-8800 or visit our East Moline office to discuss your restoration needs. We look forward to helping preserve your building for future generations.