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UNITED STATES CAPITOL BUILDING, WASHINGTON, DC
The United States Capitol Building, located in Washington, D.C., stands as a prominent symbol of American democracy. Situated atop Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall, it is easily recognizable by its iconic dome. This historic edifice serves as the meeting place for the United States Congress, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives. Beyond its legislative function, the Capitol is also a significant tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its grandeur and learn about the nation’s governance. Its purpose extends to housing numerous offices for members of Congress and their staff, as well as providing spaces for various ceremonial events and public gatherings. In essence, the Capitol Building is the heart of American legislative power and a testament to the nation’s democratic ideals.
From Keim:
The preservation of the U.S. Capitol Building’s stone facade is a long-term project involving various restoration techniques. Work included cleaning, removal of biological growth, stone and mortar repair, and replacement of severely deteriorated elements. Over the years, numerous types of mortar and grout have been applied to the West facade, impacting its appearance and the stone’s integrity. The Architect of the Capitol’s office, specifically Mary Oehrlein, chose to use Keim products for restoration, acknowledging their reliability and the positive experiences of others familiar with the products. A key decision was to remove all existing paint and coatings, preparing for three coats of Keim Mineral Coatings. Keim was chosen because of the mineral coatings high vapor-permeability, protective, and durable qualities, crucial for preserving such a significant historic building.
Project Summary
PROJECT
United States Capitol Building, Washington, DC
Architect
Architect of the Capitol, Mary Oehrlein
Architectural Consultant
Hartman Cox Architects
Completion
2023