Restoration Tools and Materials of DC’s Historic Masonry Buildings – Preservation Cafe

Nov 1, 2019

Gary Barnhart presented Restoration Tools and Materials of DC’s Historic Masonry Buildings,November 20, 2019, at East City Bookshop.

Washington DC has one of the highest concentrations of historic brick buildings in the United State and preserving the historic value of our masonry makes good sense: in May 2019 the Washington Business Journal estimated the building portfolio in this city is worth more than $250 billion. Real estate values may go through their ups-and-downs, but it is easy to see why proactive preservation and preventative maintenance are worth the cost.

Gary Barnhart, a Capitol Hill mason, discussed masonry materials and also  the historic tools he uses.

 

More From This Category

Preservation Café: Choosing Interior Paint Color

Dec 30, 2025

Choosing interior paint colors can feel daunting, particularly in DC row houses where light, or lack thereof, is tricky. At our next free online Preservation Café, color consultant Linda Bassert of Masterworks Design will help you learn how to make that choice.

read more

Preservation Cafe: An Evening With the L’Enfant Trust

Sep 3, 2025

Preservation easements were the subject of a free online talk on September 25. Part of our Preservation Café series, the talk was led by staff of the L’Enfant Trust, which holds most of Capitol Hill’s easements. The talk was recorded and is available on YouTube.

read more