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Historic Preservation - Technical Procedures

Spectitle:
Replicating Bronze Hardware

Procedure code:
0870001R

Source:
National Capitol Region Specifications - Pres Ntbk Series

Division:
Doors And Windows

Section:
Hardware

Last Modified:
02/24/2012

Details:
Replicating Bronze Hardware



REPLICATING BRONZE HARDWARE


PART 1---GENERAL

1.01 SUMMARY

    A.   This procedure includes guidance on replicating missing
         or irreparably damaged bronze hardware at historic
         buildings. The Contractor will fabricate custom castings
         by making molds from existing, original pieces, or when
         no original exists, from original drawings or photographs.
         The more detailed the documentation, the better.

    B.   To get an estimate for replication, provide the
         fabricator with close-up photographs and/or drawings
         showing front and side views of the element(s), exact
         dimensions, and any complex detailing. Ideally, a 35mm
         camera, macro lens, and slow exposure should be used.
         Architect/Engineering firms can be contacted to provide
         photographs if your office does not have the needed
         equipment. Provide a list of the quantity of each element
         needed, since it will determine the unit cost.

    C.   See 01100-07-S for general project guidelines to be
         reviewed along with this procedure. These guidelines
         cover the following sections:

         1.   Safety Precautions

         2.   Historic Structures Precautions

         3.   Submittals

         4.   Quality Assurance

         5.   Delivery, Storage and Handling

         6.   Project/Site Conditions

         7.   Sequencing and Scheduling

         8.   General Protection (Surface and Surrounding)

         These guidelines should be reviewed prior to performing
         this procedure and should be followed, when applicable,
         along with recommendations from the Regional Historic
         Preservation Officer (RHPO).  

1.02 SUBMITTALS

    A.   Samples: Submit one sample of each unique casting for
         approval by Contracting Officer's representative prior to
         proceeding with fabrication remaining elements listed in
         scope of work.


PART 2---PRODUCTS

2.01 MANUFACTURERS

    A.   Abercrombie and Company
         9159A Brookville Road
         Silver Spring MD 20910
         301/585-2385
         Casts brass, lead, bronze, silver

    B.   Ball and Ball
         463 W. Lincoln Highway
         Exton PA 19341
         215/363-7330

    C.   Bronze et al
         Holbrook Road
         Briarcliff Manor NY 10510
         914/941-1015

    D.   Conant Custom Brass
         P.O. Box 1523
         270 Pine Street
         Burlington VT 05401
         802/658-4482

    E.   Brian Leo
         7520 Stevens Avenue South
         Richfield MN 55423
         612/861-1473
         Also provides custom castings in aluminum, steel and
         other alloys


PART 3---EXECUTION

3.01 ERECTION, INSTALLATION, APPLICATION

    A.   Design Requirements: Replace missing hardware with
         replicas to match originals.  Design(s) to be taken from:

         1.   Existing original hardware.

         2.   Original construction drawings.

         3.   Photographs of original hardware.

    B.   New elements must match originals in all respects,
         including form, material, finish, and fineness of detail.
         Use the casting and finishing methods which produce the
         highest quality of detail. Sand casting is acceptable for
         large, flat elements such as exterior grilles. Lost wax
         casting (also known as 'investment' casting or 'ceramic
         shell' casting) is required for finely detailed
         ornamental hardware.

    C.   The artisan is responsible for shrink factoring so that
         the replacement element matches the dimensions of the
         original.

    D.   If no original elements exist, and original drawings or
         specifications indicating the originally intended finish
         are not available, fabricate new hardware to match the
         original finish (color, texture, sheen) of other original
         hardware in the building.

                         END OF SECTION