2. Preserve
Architecture is an
expression of our
values. Preserving
architecture through
building restoration
is a sustainable,
responsible use of
resources. What is
sustainable building
if not preserving
what we have
already built?
The art of
craftsmanship,
the science of 44,000 commercial buildings
are demolished annually in the
New construction is estimated
to create 1.5 times more
The demolition of buildings in
the United States produces
United States. greenhouse gas than building about 124 million tons of
lasting solutions. (Environmental Building News,
as cited in Architecture, April 2003)
restoration.
(Carnegie Melon Green Design Institute)
debris every year.
(Deconstruction Institute)
3. An unconventional look at
building restoration
Why is restoration important? Restoration is responsible
and sustainable stewardship
Restoration is a legacy of our resources
we leave to the next generation
The urgency for sustainability and preservation
Architecture embodies our heritage. Our buildings of our natural resources grows daily. What can
are a reflection of our values. As you tour the be more sustainable than restoring an existing
great cities of the world, you can read the story building? When a building is restored we keep
of these cities in their skylines... a rich story waste out of landfills and make responsible use
worth preserving. Through restoration, we of existing resources. By restoring rather than
preserve our link to the past. demolishing, we leave the built environment
better than we found it, using our resources
Restoration is about vitality
wisely for today’s needs while being mindful of
and renewal
Restoration: the needs of future generations.
Restoration preserves our history, our culture and
What does it really mean? our progress. If we allow our buildings to fall to
Restoration utilizes existing infrastructure. It
Building restoration can be defined as preserves the equity invested in buildings such
corrosion, deterioration and disrepair, we erode
the act of preserving assets, returning as embodied energy, labor, money and emotion.
the fabric of our neighborhoods and communities.
them to their former position or an It presents us with the opportunity to make an
Building restoration has the power to transform. important and significant impact on the built
improved condition. It can heal and revive, strengthening the social world that enhances the quality of life.
Restoration is structure of our communities.
about craftsmanship
It requires thoughtful planning, skill,
knowledge and ability. But it also takes
passion and appreciation for the legacy
we leave for the future; a perspective
that includes the important relationship
between buildings, their inhabitants
and the environment.
4. Search
It’s time to find a better way... one that avoids demolishing
repairable structures, filling landfills with construction debris,
and destroying the character of our cities.
Sustainability
begins with
The EPA has noted that building
restoring our own construction debris constitutes
around a third of all waste
generated in the U.S., and has
communities. projected that more than 27% of
existing buildings will be replaced
between 2000 and 2030.
(“Historic and Green”, Traditional Building,
Donovan Rypkema)
5. The search for
better solutions
begins with
asking the right The challenges of restoration Knowledge is the key to
long term solutions
questions. Restoration is vital to the future of our cities, but
the industry faces many challenges. Restoration Material science is rapidly evolving, with constant
efforts are often “too little too late.” Problems are technological advancements as well as changes
ignored or repairs are minimal – treating the to meet new regulations and performance
symptoms rather than the cause. Job site requirements. Knowledge is essential in order to
variations, non-standard design and fast track make informed decisions and formulate the most
construction schedules can compromise long effective restoration strategies. To be successful,
lasting repairs. you need a knowledgeable team.
Many repairs do not last because of lack of BASF restoration specialists join with design
knowledge about the root causes of the problems, professionals and contractors to solve problems by
material chemistry and interaction, misdiagnosis or bringing knowledge, experience and insight to the
inexperience. The complexity and volume of task. They are able to understand the relationship
information can be daunting – design professionals between various chemistries, how they relate to
and contractors cannot know it all. one another and how they function together in
the building envelope. A partnership of knowledge
The better solution: A holistic approach can be a powerfully effective tool.
and a comprehensive strategy
It’s a simple premise: look at the entire picture,
past, present and future. For the building envelope
to function properly and be sustainable, it is critical
that all conditions are examined and all questions
answered. Every project requires a unique set of
solutions. Successful repair combines knowledge
and experience with a comprehensive strategy that
dovetails with the right compatible products and
the most effective methods.
From 1957 to 1962, two
hundred buildings over 17 square
blocks in Minneapolis’ Gateway
district were demolished. This
amounted to 40% of the city’s
historic central business district.
(Lost Twin Cities, Larry Millet)
6. Reach
The scope is wide:
wherever we live,
work, play and learn, • Condominiums
• High-rise Office Buildings
restoration enhances • Hotel & Resort
quality of life. It restores • Retail
• Healthcare
vitality to downtowns,
• Colleges & Universities
breathes new life into • Schools
• Government Buildings
neighborhoods and
• Historic Preservation
stimulates the economy. • Landmarks
Return on investment
in building restoration Montgomery Plaza
Fort Worth, Texas
is considerable and PROBLEM
Built in 1928, the eight story structure withstood
flood and tornado damage to secure its place as
far-reaching. a local historic icon. After years of sitting empty,
the graceful exterior had degenerated into a
leaking hulk.
SOLUTION
BASF sealants, water repellents and waterproofing
products were chosen for their proven
performance, material compatibility and local
sales support and service.
Wheaton Center
Wheaton, Illinois
The benefits of PROBLEM
Years of chloride ingress and freeze thaw
degradation resulted in deterioration that prompted
restoration are numerous surface repairs. Many of these repairs
failed, exacerbating the original problems.
SOLUTION
everywhere. BASF sealants, repair mortars, corrosion protection
and waterproofing systems were used to address
the significant deficiencies while returning the
building to its original aesthetic.
7. Solutions for every
building challenge in every arena...
Long-lasting, sustainable restorations When building restoration is
require a long-term vision successful, the benefits
Conditions for building type, building use and are far-reaching:
geography vary, but one thing remains the same: • The performance of the structure is enhanced
the need for long-lasting repairs. with improved resistance to the elements.
At BASF, our approach begins by understanding • Thermal efficiency is enhanced with improved
the long term objectives. With our broad product
protection against water infiltration, a prime
offering and wide range of chemistries, we are
contributor to diminished R-values.
able to think and act in ways that others cannot,
aways reaching for the strongest solutions... • Better seals prevent the passage of air
because we can. and moisture, improving interior comfort,
We have been partnering with owners, design energy efficiency and preventing deterioration.
professionals and contractors across North • Successful restoration enhances aesthetics.
America for over 100 years solving problems
on every type of building, in every market and • The return on investment is considerable:
in every condition, from historic to new. financial, environmental and emotional.
• The restored building becomes an attractive
asset to the community, increasing in value
and desirability.
• Safety is improved with the structural
integrity of the building and facade.
• Buildings last longer, contributing to
sustainability and quality of life.
Towers Condominium
Venice, Florida
PROBLEM
Built in 1968, the seven story structure suffered
from a long list of maladies, from waterproofing
problems to structural deficiencies.
SOLUTION
BASF’s range of repair solutions allowed the
contractor flexibility in approaching the building’s
unique repair challenges. Repair mortars,
sealants, adhesives, corrosion inhibitors and
waterproofing systems were used to create the
necessary structural repairs while improving
appearance and providing long term protection.
8. Solve
Lasting restoration
depends upon customized
solutions that address the Solutions that stand the test of time:
The BASF line of diverse, proven products
root cause and utilize addresses repair challenges and provides
compatible products. time-tested solutions for every aspect of
building restoration – from the foundation to
At BASF we are expert
exposed balconies, from concrete repair,
at helping solve the waterproofing, corrosion mitigation, and
moisture protection to aesthetics.
complexities of building
restoration with proven
products that meet
the specific challenges
design professionals
and contractors face
on every project.
Helping make
complex
restoration
challenges simple.
9. Compatible high performance
product solutions
Joint Sealants Wall Coatings Balcony and Traffic Coatings
Building restoration is a demanding science requiring Keeping surfaces beautiful and walls dry requires Balconies and parking garages represent some of
materials that bond to a variety of substrates and in protection more powerful than the elements. The the toughest challenges in protecting a building from
diverse conditions to provide long lasting, high-build coatings of Thoro® and Sonneborn® moisture related damage. Proper protection requires
weatherproof seals. BASF’s Sonneborn® sealants are include smooth, textured or elastomeric coatings an integrated system of materials. BASF’s wide
formulated with high-performance elastomers to that protect against moisture, carbonation or crack range of chemistries (polyurethane, epoxy,
ensure outstanding weatherproofing and protection bridging. BASF’s high-build coatings combine methacrylates) can be customized to meet diverse
against extreme elements. From hybrid to urethane to waterproofing with improved aesthetics to enhance application requirements from speed to durability to
silicone, there is a Sonneborn sealant for every the value of buildings and provide long term aesthetics.
project. protection.
Concrete Strengthening
Concrete Repair Water Repellents The effects of corrosion, physical damage or a
Long-lasting repair requires a sound strategy Although brick, masonry and concrete surfaces change of use can shorten the life of a building.
and the use of high-performance products. provide character to a building, they require effective BASF M-Brace® composite strengthening systems
MBT® Protection and Repair materials provide protection from the damages of wind-driven rain, are designed for strengthening beams, slabs, walls
comprehensive answers to the complex challenges freeze-thaw cycles, and chloride ion intrusion. and columns. M-Brace® can cost effectively meet
of building restoration. Ranging from primers and Hydrozo® patented silane water repellents maintain complex repair challenges while delivering versatility,
bonding agents to engineered repair mortars, MBT® the original appearance of the substrate and allow ease of application and long-term performance.
Protection and Repair materials are formulated to moisture vapor to escape, while sealing and protecting
provide sustainable repairs that restore long-term the concrete and masonry for years to come.
integrity and strength to buildings and facades.
Corrosion Mitigation
Waterproofing
Steel reinforced concrete is an integral part of
Moisture penetration is one of the most critical building structures. Unfortunately corrosion often
challenges facing buildings today. Interior or exterior, compromises the integrity of many structures. MBT®
above grade or below grade, unprotected buildings Protection and Repair advanced corrosion control
suffer from water-induced damage. Deterioration solutions are formulated to inhibit corrosion, extending
and corrosion are caused by alkalis, salts, acids the service life of buildings and enhancing safety.
and mold. Sonneborn’s liquid-applied high The compatibility of MBT® Protection and Repair
performance membranes offer long-lasting concrete repair and corrosion control materials
protection against the most damaging conditions. provide assurance of long-lasting performance.
For over 100 years, owners, specifiers, and design
and installation professionals have looked to the
trusted brands of BASF for solutions to the most
challenging issues in building restoration.
10. Succeed
The restoration of
existing buildings in a
sustainable manner is an
extraordinary opportunity.
What part will you play?
As part of BASF, we offer
technology, materials
and know-how; our
knowledge and expertise
span continents, yet we
are ready to team up
locally to help you, our
customers, succeed.
BASF: working
together for a To repair all concrete 90% of all moisture 205 cities have 24,987 Early intervention is
deficiencies in all building penetration occurs within brownfield sites awaiting required to achieve
more sustainable facades would cost an
estimated $2 billion.
1% of the building exterior
surface.
redevelopment. cost-effective extension
of the life of existing
(ASCE 2003 REport)
(Vision 2020)) (Mark Howell, Structural Preservation) concrete structures.
future. (ConcRepNet)
11. It takes commitment, vision
and people you can count on
BASF offers: How committed are we to
• Tailored solutions for every building restoration?
restoration challenge Immensely. We consider the urgency for Technological Advancements. From solving
sustainability as a call to action for us all; a new significant industry problems such as cracking in
• Over 100 years of innovation
ethic in building, with restoration at it’s foundation. concrete, sealant adhesion, moisture and corrosion
• Dedicated support services management, to innovating high performance
A Legacy of Innovation. For over 100 years,
• Access to far-reaching the brands of BASF and the people who support materials from renewable sources... our
expertise and resources them have been focused on building restoration. investment in research advances technologies and
Countless “firsts” and innovations have lead the methodologies.
• Highly experienced technical
industry. Our eyes were on the future then, and the World-class expertise. Highly experienced
team committed to restoration
future is now. BASF continues to invest in people, and passionate about what they do, BASF technical
research, state of the art processes and forward professionals are considered among the most
thinking to solve the restoration challenges ahead. knowledgeable restoration experts in the industry.
Experience. When you need support we’re the From sales through technical service, the BASF
best there is.The average industry tenure of our support network of experts can become your most
sales and technical service groups is 20 years, valuable restoration resource.
and BASF continues to recruit, attract and develop
It’s all here – what part will you play?
professionals with world-class expertise.
Restoration is an opportunity for us all to make
Industry Advocacy. Utilizing our formidable an important impact on the built world – and it
influence and resources, we reach out to advance begins in our own backyard. At BASF we are
restoration within the industry through associations passionate about restoring and preserving our
and by building alliances. built environment. What part will you play in the
Around the world, BASF is actively involved in story of your community’s restoration and revival?
reshaping the way we build by providing innovative Change requires commitment. All that remains is
products to customers who are, in turn, building the commitment and the will to do the right thing.
better structures.
Photo of people
BASF is the world's first company to present a
comprehensive carbon balance for its operations.
Third party testing determined that BASF products
can save three times more greenhouse gas emissions
than the entire amount caused by the production and
disposal of the company's products.
