As finishing touches continue for phase one of the restoration of Assumption Church, planning is underway for the next phase that involves the plaster ceiling.
The architects and historic plaster consultants advise that we need to secure the plaster before it is exposed to the potential trauma from work on the brick and stone exterior walls. Although major restoration of the exterior walls, balustrade and pinnacles is required, there is no immediate threat to their structural integrity.
The plaster consolidation consists of three steps:
- the removal of all insulation and vacuum cleaning in the attic above the ceiling;
- the application of several coats of an epoxy-like solution that reattaches the plaster to the lathe;
- the liquid solution will seep through the cracks in the plaster and must be quickly wiped off the ceiling to prevent damage to the paint and murals
The plaster and paint work are expected to take a few months to complete. Doing the work in three stages has been approved by the Diocesan Building and Loan Commission starting with the east aisle (2A), then the west aisle (2B), and lastly the centre aisle, the sanctuary and the two side chapels (2C).
It is expected that weekend celebrations can continue during this process, but a temporary return to Holy Name of Mary has not been completely ruled out.
The budget for Phase 2 has been established at $3.5 – $4.1 million depending on how soon the work can be completed. Since we can only proceed based on the money in hand, we may have to proceed in stages even though this may ultimately be more costly. The actual costs will only be known after tenders have been completed.
More information on this phase will be released in the coming months.