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A Federal facelift

Words: Jennifer MorrellOn the cover of the July 2015 issue of Masonry, you’ll see the Mason Contractor’s Association of America’s South of 40 group in front of the U.S. Capitol building. The group attended the MCAA’s Legislative Conference, touring the U.S. Capitol as well as the U.S. Library of Congress. You can read more about the MCAA Legislative Conference in this issue.

You will notice, in the cover image, that the dome of the Capitol building is experiencing a facelift of sorts — in fact, a total restoration. It’s a sight to behold, indeed. Although the dome of the Capitol is made not of masonry, but of cast iron, it has been an interesting transformation to follow.

The dome was constructed more than 150 years ago. Although restoration did take place between 1959 and 1960, weather and sheer age have caused cracks and damage that warrant another full restoration.

Prep work for the project began in January 2014. A canopy system was installed inside, in the Capitol Rotunda. Outside, a scaffolding system surrounds the exterior of the dome. This includes scaffold bridging that was constructed on the west-front side of the Capitol building, so workers can transport materials and move back and forth safely.

Masonry will be on site in Washington, D.C., in November to attend the Greenbuild International Conference and Expo. Stay tuned for more images documenting the makeover of the U.S. Capitol building’s star characteristic, the dome.
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