Preserving Masonry & Roofing

We all have a responsibility to steward and safeguard the gift that we have been given.

In 2020, the Basilica Preservation Fund commissioned a comprehensive assessment of the Basilica. The resulting Historic Structure Report would become the guideline for future preservation and restoration.

The assessment concluded that the Basilica of St. Lawrence urgently needs to repair and restore structural damages and deterioration of materials brought on by decades of exposure to extreme climate and natural aging of the structure. The widely respected preservation architectural firm of John G. Waite Associates, a leading consultant in the field of historic preservation architecture for over twenty five years, was selected to lead the preservation effort. The firm brings a meticulous and individualized approach, driven by a fundamental respect for historic buildings and a commitment to the stewardship of these critical resources.

JGWA’s team of architects, historic interiors specialists and building materials conservators have extensive experience applying sustainable design solutions and state-of-the-art preservation technology to culturally significant buildings and environments.

The full project scope could take a projected 6-to-10 years to complete and will require an investment of $23 million dollars. To approach the construction and funding of these critical projects in a responsible and realistic manner, the Basilica is anticipating four phases.

the plan - basilica preservation fund

Phase 1 – Highest Priority Repairs
The highest priority is a set of interrelated structural damages and deterioration of materials that developed over time due to natural aging and decades of exposure to inclement weather. The most urgent need: roof repair/replacement and reconfiguration of the rainwater collection and dispersal system. 

Replacing the copper roof over the main dome and reconfiguring the rainwater collection and dispersal system is of paramount importance because damage to these areas presents life/safety hazards and threatens the structural integrity of the building. We are committed to addressing these issues with a great deal of urgency. The copper roof on the main dome is beyond its life expectancy, and the entire rainwater collection and dispersal system needs to be redesigned and reconfigured. 

The project goal is to address the following  high priority water intrusion and safety needs:

    • Stop the water intrusion that is causing the most damage to the Basilica and safety hazards in the church.
    • Eliminate the safety hazard of failing masonry that can fall to the ground below.

Scope of Work:

    • Replace oculus skylight.
    • Replace copper dome roof.
    • Repair and partially reconstruct masonry cornice surrounding copper dome roof.
    • Replace lower-level roofs to which the copper dome roof drains.
    • Replace storm water drainage for roofs to be replaced.
    • Complete miscellaneous masonry repairs at failing masonry.

The parish has already raised over $3 million of the estimated $6.5 million required to address the most critical needs for Phase 1 of the repairs. This initial project is very important to the integrity of the Basilica. 

The Basilica Preservation Fund has secured grants for an additional $1 million towards this important preservation work, including a prestigious Save America’s Treasures grant from the National Park Service and a grant from the National Fund for Sacred Places.

The BPF is currently seeking to raise an additional $2 million to ensure this important preservation work is completed in a timely manner.  These funds will come from generous individuals and corporate donors across the country and around the world who recognize the value and importance of preserving this architectural treasure. To join this import effort please donate now.