GKW Restoration Group

Water Repellents and Sealers: The Chemistry of Masonry Protection Water is the greatest adversary of masonry structures. It infiltrates microscopic pores, dissolves mineral content, and, through freeze-thaw cycles, causes fractures that lead to spalling, cracking, and structural degradation. Staining, efflorescence, and embedded reinforcement corrosion are all symptoms of moisture infiltration. At GKW Restoration, we deploy scientifically formulated water repellents, consolidators, and dustproofers designed to block water while allowing masonry to breathe. This balance—preventing moisture ingress without trapping internal vapor—is critical to long-term performance. Understanding Water Repellents and Their Role in Facade Longevity Water repellents are not surface coatings. Unlike impermeable sealers that trap moisture, silane and siloxane-based repellents penetrate deep into the substrate, chemically bonding with the internal pore structure to form a hydrophobic (water-repellent) barrier. 1. Silane sealers are low molecular weight, allowing them to penetrate deeply into dense surfaces such as architectural concrete and limestone. 2. Siloxane sealers are more effective on highly porous materials like brick and sandstone, where deeper penetration is not required. Both types prevent water from soaking into the substrate, stopping the primary mechanism of freeze-thaw expansion and mineral leaching. For historic masonry, where degradation has already occurred, consolidators chemically react with weakened mineral structures, restoring their strength and preventing further loss. These treatments are especially useful for sandstone, terracotta, and aging limestone, where traditional repair methods may not be feasible. Interior concrete floors and exposed surfaces benefit from dustproofers and densifiers, which chemically react with calcium hydroxide to reduce surface porosity and improve abrasion resistance. What This Means for Building Owners and Engineers 1. Water repellents extend the life of masonry by decades, preventing unnecessary repairs and replacements. 2. Efflorescence and staining are signs that water is moving through the facade—early intervention with repellents prevents further damage. 3. Not all sealers are created equal. Selecting the wrong product can trap moisture inside the masonry, accelerating deterioration rather than preventing it. At GKW Restoration, we don’t just apply sealers—we specify scientifically tested solutions that protect your building from the molecular level up. #waterrepellents #masonryprotection #facademaintenance #moisturecontrol #silane #siloxane #buildingpreservation #historicrestoration #waterproofing #facadeengineering #masonrysealers #freeze-thawprotection #efflorescenceprevention #brickrestoration #concreteprotection #structuralengineering #buildinglifespan #hydrophobiccoating #moisturemitigation #stoneprotection #terracottarestoration #consolidators #dustproofers #masonryscience

The Science of Sealants: Protecting Facades from Failure Joint sealants are a building’s first line of defense against water infiltration, air leakage, and structural movement. When properly installed, they prevent deterioration, reduce maintenance costs, and extend facade life. However, failed or poorly applied sealants can allow moisture penetration, leading to freeze-thaw damage, cracking, and material degradation. At GKW Restoration, we take a scientific approach to sealant application, ensuring proper material selection, joint preparation, and installation techniques to maximize long-term performance. Why Sealants Matter Buildings are constantly subjected to expansion, contraction, wind loads, and settlement. These forces create stress on joints, making flexibility and adhesion essential for a reliable sealant system. The choice of sealant depends on factors such as substrate composition, expected movement, and exposure conditions. 1. Silicone sealants offer superior UV resistance and flexibility, making them ideal for high-movement joints in curtain walls, glass facades, and metal panels. 2. Polyurethane sealants provide excellent adhesion to masonry and concrete, ensuring durability in porous materials. 3. Hybrid sealants combine the benefits of silicone’s elasticity with polyurethane’s adhesion, offering a balanced solution for various applications. Selecting the correct sealant is only part of the equation—installation quality determines its longevity. The Importance of Tooling Tooling is the process of shaping and compressing the sealant after application, ensuring full contact with joint surfaces. Proper tooling: 1. Eliminates voids and air pockets, which can lead to premature failure. 2. Optimizes the depth-to-width ratio, allowing for controlled movement without stress fractures. 3. Enhances adhesion, reducing the risk of cohesive or adhesive failure under expansion and contraction cycles. Sealant failure can take many forms—cracking due to insufficient flexibility, adhesion loss from inadequate surface preparation, or water infiltration from improper application. Each failure accelerates facade deterioration, leading to expensive repairs and structural risks. At GKW Restoration, we apply building science principles to every sealant installation. We evaluate joint movement, substrate compatibility, and exposure conditions to ensure the right solution for each project. Properly installed joint sealants are not just a protective measure—they are an investment in a building’s longevity. #sealantscience #buildingprotection #facademaintenance #waterproofing #sealantapplication #structuralintegrity #jointsealants #buildingrestoration #fa?adeengineering #moisturecontrol #buildingperformance #commercialbuildings #infrastructuremaintenance #sealanttechnology #thermalmovement #expansionjoints #masonryprotection #buildinglongevity #architecturalpreservation #constructionmaterials #siliconesealant #polyurethanesealant

Lintel Corrosion: The Hidden Structural Threat Inside Masonry Walls Lintels—the horizontal structural elements above windows and doors—are among the most critical yet overlooked components in facade design. When steel lintels corrode, they expand, displacing surrounding masonry, causing cracking, and eventually leading to structural instability. At GKW Restoration, we specialize in diagnosing, restoring, and protecting corroded lintels to prevent catastrophic facade failures. What Causes Lintel Corrosion? Steel lintels are vulnerable to moisture infiltration. The primary causes of their deterioration include: 1. Water intrusion due to failed sealants around window perimeters, allowing moisture to saturate the masonry. 2. Chloride exposure from de-icing salts and urban pollution, accelerating rust formation. 3. Carbonation of mortar, lowering pH levels and breaking down the protective oxide layer on steel. 4. Freeze-thaw cycles, causing trapped moisture to expand and force masonry apart. When steel rusts, it expands up to ten times its original volume, generating enormous pressure within the masonry system. This results in bulging brickwork, fractures, and eventual displacement. How GKW Restoration Engineers Long-Term Solutions 1. Condition Assessments with Probes and Corrosion Mapping We conduct structural evaluations to determine section loss, bearing conditions, and water infiltration points. 2. Structural Reinforcement and Lintel Replacement If damage is extensive, we replace lintels with galvanized or stainless steel to prevent future corrosion. 3. Moisture Control Measures Installation of proper flashing and weep holes allows water to escape rather than accumulate. Rust-inhibiting primers and epoxy coatings prevent future oxidation. 4. Long-Term Monitoring and Preventative Maintenance Routine inspections and strategic water management ensure lintels do not deteriorate prematurely. What Property Owners Need to Know 1. Cracking or bulging above windows is a sign of lintel failure—early intervention prevents costly facade displacement. 2. Corroded lintels reduce structural integrity. The longer they are left unchecked, the more expensive repairs become. 3. Proper drainage, flashing, and protective coatings dramatically extend lintel lifespan. At GKW Restoration, we don’t just replace failing lintels—we engineer long-term facade stability by ensuring water management and material compatibility at every level. If your building is showing signs of distress, now is the time to act. #lintelcorrosion #structuralfailure #buildingrestoration #facademaintenance #masonryrepair #corrosiondamage #steelcorrosion #structuralengineering #fa?adeinspection #waterinfiltration #buildingpreservation #moisturecontrol #rustprevention #expandingsteel #masonrydamage #constructionfailures #brickrestoration #lintelreplacement #engineeringdesign #facadeconsultants #commercialbuildings #historicpreservation #buildingcodecompliance

Beyond the Surface: Why Fluid-Applied Air Barriers Are Essential for Modern Building Performance A building’s greatest vulnerabilities often lie beneath the surface. While a facade may appear intact, uncontrolled air and moisture movement can silently undermine its integrity—leading to energy loss, structural deterioration, and costly repairs. At GKW Restoration Group, we specialize in both historic facade restoration and high-performance building envelopes. As an ABAA-certified company, we understand that air barriers are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Fluid-applied air barriers, such as Tremco ExoAir and W.R. Meadows Air-Shield, provide seamless, monolithic protection in projects where traditional sheet membranes fall short. The Science Behind Air and Moisture Control A building’s envelope must do more than just enclose space—it must actively defend against air and moisture infiltration. Without an effective barrier, air carries moisture deep into a structure, setting off a chain reaction of freeze-thaw damage, corrosion of embedded steel, and material degradation. Fluid-applied air barriers solve these challenges by: 1.?Reducing energy loss – Up to 40 percent of a building’s energy is lost through air leaks. A continuous, uninterrupted air barrier prevents unnecessary thermal exchange. 2. Controlling moisture movement – Water vapor condensation can lead to mold growth, facade deterioration, and system failures over time. 3. Eliminating weak points – Sheet membranes depend on seams and fasteners, which create inherent vulnerabilities. A fluid-applied system forms a seamless, adaptable layer. 4. Enhancing longevity – Unlike rigid assemblies, fluid-applied barriers flex with the structure, preventing cracks, air gaps, and long-term performance loss. Building Longevity Starts with the Right Barrier Air barriers are not just an installation detail—they are an engineering decision that impacts a structure’s lifespan, energy efficiency, and resilience. Whether preserving a century-old masonry facade or ensuring a new development meets stringent energy codes, the right air barrier dictates whether a building thrives or deteriorates. At GKW Restoration Group, we don’t just restore facades—we future-proof them. With a deep understanding of historic preservation and modern envelope solutions, we ensure that every project stands the test of time. #airbarriers #fluidappliedbarrier #buildingperformance #energyconservation #moisturecontrol #airtightbuildings #sustainabledesign #highperformancebuildings #buildingrestoration #historicpreservation #facaderestoration #thermalperformance #buildinglongevity #envelopedesign #structuralprotection #weathertight #energyefficiency #buildingtechnology #seamlessprotection #sustainableconstruction #airleakage #buildingdurability #engineeredsolutions #constructionmaterials #architecturalengineering #nycbuildings #commercialconstruction #constructioninnovation

Adapting and reusing existing historic buildings so they can be enjoyed for many more years is one of the most satisfying parts of what we do!

Lee Lofts: Breathing New Life into Salina’s Industrial Past with GKW Restoration Some buildings don’t just occupy space—they tell a story. The Lee Lofts in Salina, KS, is one of those rare places where the past is etched into every brick, beam, and corbelled cornice. Built in 1904 after a devastating fire consumed the original H.D. Lee Mercantile Co., these twin brick towers were more than just warehouses—they were the backbone of Salina’s industrial rise and the birthplace of the Lee Jeans legacy. For over a century, the Lee Lofts stood tall through economic booms, industrial shifts, and decades of change. But even the strongest buildings need care. Time and the elements had taken their toll, leaving behind cracked masonry, weathered stone, and structural wear. Preserving the soul of Lee Lofts while strengthening it for the future—that was the challenge, and GKW Restoration Group answered the call. Restoring a Legend, One Brick at a Time This wasn’t just another renovation—it was a surgical operation in historic preservation, requiring a deep respect for craftsmanship, materials, and the building’s original engineering. Here’s how GKW Restoration ensured Lee Lofts remains a landmark for generations to come: 1. Tuckpointing the stone foundation and brick exterior, stabilizing the structure while preserving its industrial character. 2. Brick replacement, seamlessly matching historic materials to maintain authenticity. 3. Stone parapet cap replacement, reinforcing one of the building’s most exposed architectural features. 4. Stone patching, reviving the intricate details that make the building unique. 5. Biological wash of the exterior masonry, gently removing a century’s worth of buildup while protecting the original brickwork. 6. New openings for doors and windows, allowing for modern functionality without compromising the structure’s historic integrity. 7. Exterior caulking, sealing the building’s envelope for long-term weather protection. Why This Restoration Matters This isn’t just about fixing old brick and stone—it’s about honoring the craftsmanship that built Salina’s industrial identity. It’s about revitalizing a historic space so it can continue to be a part of the city’s future. Thanks to GKW Restoration’s expertise, the Lee Lofts aren’t just standing strong—they’re living history, blending past and present in a way that few buildings ever do. This is what preservation is all about: not freezing history in time, but giving it the strength to keep moving forward. #historicpreservation #masonryrestoration #leelofts #gkwrestoration #salinakansas #brickrepair #facaderestoration #preservinghistory #tuckpointing #stonepatching #buildingconservation #industrialheritage #historiclandmark #revitalizinghistory #architecturematters #sustainablepreservation #adaptiveuse #urbanrevitalization #salinahistory #brickwork #constructionhistory #historicrenovation #landmarkrestoration #buildingmaintenance #restorationproject #masonrywork

Masonry restoration and joint sealant replacement at parapet caps and terra cotta bands will start as soon as school lets out for the Summer!

The Science of Sandstone: Why Some Walls Last Centuries—And Others Crumble A deteriorating sandstone wall is more than just an aesthetic issue—it’s a chemical and structural failure in progress. The visible damage, from efflorescence to spalling, is only the symptom. The real battle is happening at a microscopic level, where moisture, salts, and pollutants interact with the stone’s mineral structure. Historic sandstone retaining walls, balustrades, and parapets were built to endure, but without the right preservation approach, they degrade faster than they should. The key to longevity isn’t just repair—it’s understanding why deterioration happens in the first place. The Science of Sandstone Decay Sandstone is composed of quartz grains bound by a mineral cement—usually silica, calcite, or iron oxide. This binding material dictates how the stone reacts to environmental exposure. Decay typically occurs through: 1. Capillary Action & Salt Crystallization – Water moves through the stone and evaporates, leaving behind salts that crystallize inside the pores. This expansion creates internal pressures that cause fractures, a process known as sub florescence. 2. Freeze-Thaw Damage – Moisture trapped in the stone expands by 9% when frozen, generating internal stresses that lead to microfractures and surface loss. 3. Acidic Degradation – Airborne pollutants react with moisture to form acidic compounds that dissolve calcite-based binders, weakening the stone. 4. Incompatible Repairs – Cementitious mortars and non-breathable sealants can trap moisture, accelerating internal decay rather than preventing it. The Right Approach to Preservation Effective restoration isn’t about making sandstone waterproof—it’s about managing moisture intelligently to allow the stone to breathe while preventing excessive water infiltration. Science-based techniques include: 1. Desalination via Poulticing – Clay or cellulose poultices remove harmful salts before they crystallize inside the stone. 2. Breathable Mortars – Natural hydraulic lime (NHL) mortars allow moisture to escape through the joints, preventing stress-related failures. 3. Permeable Water Repellents – Silane and siloxane treatments reduce water absorption while maintaining vapor permeability. 4. Microbial Growth Control – Biocidal treatments remove organic growth without altering the stone’s chemical structure. 5. Mineral Consolidation – Nano-lime or silicification treatments reinforce weakened stone without sealing it off. Sustainability & The Future of Restoration Too often, historic sandstone walls are written off as unsalvageable when, in reality, misapplied repairs and neglect are the real threats. Demolition and replacement carry high embodied carbon costs, whereas proper restoration extends a structure’s lifespan while reducing environmental impact. #sandstonerestoration #historicpreservation #facaderestoration #masonryconservation #stoneconservation #buildingmaterials #structuralengineering #PROSOCO

We are excited to see this project coming out of the ground as we see the Kansas City - City Market continue to grow. Here's some great aerial footage of progress taking place as we roll into Spring!

GKW Restoration Group is proud to have handled much of the exterior building envelope on this project with Mark Young Construction, LLC. Check out these photos below!