EDISON STORAGE BATTERY BUILDING

CLIENT
Barton Partners

LOCATION
West Orange, New Jersey

STRUCTURE
Constructed by Thomas Edison in the early 1900s, the Edison Storage Battery Building is reflective of Edison’s personal interest in concrete technology.  The historic multi-storied concrete building is light pink in color. The large steel industrial windows pivot and provide light and ventilation to the various tenants now occupying the building.

CHALLENGE
The exposed concrete structure was deteriorating in areas due to corroded reinforcement steel and general weathering. The steel industrial windows were not functioning properly and no longer desirable due to the buildings conversion from industrial to residential use.  Any concrete restoration treatments and window replacements were to be sympathetic to the historic significance of the building.

SCOPE OF SERVICE
  • Inspect and assess the entire 200,000 square foot façade for deterioration and provide treatment recommendations.
  • Inventory approximately 800 windows and provide details for appropriate replacements.
  • Present findings and recommendations to local Historical Commission.
SOLUTION
  • Provided construction documents and specifications for the concrete façade restoration program. Repairs included epoxy crack repair with Sika products and replenishing the color with mineral stains by Keim Mineral Systems.
  • Provided typical construction details and schedules for the replacement of all 800 windows.
HISTORIC STATUS
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.