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Terra Cotta Repair

At MGR Restoration, we specialize in the meticulous restoration, repair, and replacement of architectural terra cotta, helping property owners preserve the elegance and character of historic buildings throughout New York City. Our expert team blends traditional artisan techniques with cutting-edge restoration technologies to revitalize ornate façades while ensuring compliance with modern safety and performance standards.

Terra cotta—once a defining material in early 20th-century architecture—requires specialized knowledge and a commitment to detail. Our experienced craftsmen are trained to carefully restore or replicate these delicate yet durable components, ensuring that your building retains its historic charm, structural safety, and landmark integrity.

Our Terra Cotta Services

We offer a complete range of terra cotta façade restoration services for landmark properties, commercial buildings, and institutions:

  • Detailed Survey & Documentation: We provide full photographic surveys, elevation mapping, and CAD documentation of terra cotta conditions to guide restoration planning.

  • Crack Repair & Stabilization: Using injection grouts, stainless pins, or internal reinforcement rods, we stabilize cracked elements without full removal whenever possible.

  • Custom Fabrication of Replacement Units: Where replication is needed, we use traditional molds, CNC carving, or 3D scanning to match historical profiles and glaze finishes precisely.

  • Glazing & Colour Matching: We provide in-house and manufacturer-supported glazing services to ensure seamless visual integration with existing units, even on aged or weathered façades.

  • Structural Reinforcement & Anchorage Upgrades: We upgrade terra cotta support systems with modern anchoring assemblies, stainless steel rods, and hidden shelf angle reinforcements.

  • Cleaning & Restoration of Original Elements: Our gentle cleaning process preserves patinas and antique glazing while removing biological growth, efflorescence, or pollutants without damage.

  • Waterproofing & Protective Coatings: We integrate waterproofing membranes and breathable coatings to prevent future infiltration and reduce freeze-thaw deterioration.

What is Terra Cotta Restoration?

Terra cotta restoration involves the assessment, repair, replication, and preservation of decorative or structural terra cotta elements on historic or architecturally significant buildings. Unlike general masonry work, terra cotta restoration demands precision, artistic skill, and a deep understanding of traditional fabrication and modern anchoring systems.

At MGR Restoration, this process typically includes:

  1. Detailed inspection and mapping of damaged or deteriorating pieces

  2. Removal of unstable sections while protecting surrounding architecture

  3. Custom fabrication of matching replacement units, using molds or 3D scanning

  4. Colour-matched glazing or hand-finishing for visual consistency

  5. Reinforcement of anchor systems to meet modern building codes

  6. Installation using stainless steel anchors and waterproofing membranes

  7. Cleaning, sealing, and preservation of existing terra cotta finishes

Role of Terracotta in NYC Architecture

  • Preserves Architectural Heritage: Maintains the visual identity and craftsmanship of iconic New York architecture.

  •  Ensures Structural Integrity: Prevents loose or cracked pieces from becoming hazardous and avoids progressive façade damage.

  • Supports Landmark Compliance: Meets the strict guidelines set by NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) and FISP (Local Law 11) requirements.

  • Enhances Curb Appeal & Value: Restored terra cotta details enhance a building’s aesthetics, increasing marketability and prestige.

  • Reduces Long-Term Costs: Early restoration and anchoring upgrades prevent larger future failures and costly emergency repairs.

  • Sustainable Restoration: Promotes conservation over demolition—preserving embodied energy and reducing waste.

Our Expertise with Terracotta

  • Historic Restoration Expertise: Our specialists are trained in traditional and modern terra cotta restoration, blending old-world skill with new-world technology.

  • Advanced Replication Technology: We use 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, and CNC machining for perfect reproduction of historic components.

  • Hands-On Fabrication & Installation: Whether through partner kilns or custom casting, we control every detail from clay selection to final glaze.

  • Landmark & DOB Coordination: We handle all permitting, LPC reviews, and DOB documentation needed for historic properties.

  • Safety & Compliance Focused: All work is completed in compliance with FISP, OSHA, and NYC façade access requirements, including swing stages and protection plans.

  • End-to-End Project Management: From condition assessment through final inspection, we coordinate every step with engineers, architects, and property owners.

  • Warrantied Work: Our materials and installation methods meet the highest durability standards—backed by written warranties and long-term support.

Feature Projects

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