Restoring the Legacy of Christ Lutheran Church in Sharon, WI
At Inspired Heights, we don’t just restore churches; we preserve their history and renew hope. Our recent project at Christ Lutheran Church in Sharon, WI, was no exception. This brick church tower stood as a testament to faith and community for near a century, but time had taken its toll. The tower needed extensive work, including tuckpointing, structural repairs, and fortification of its roof and parapet walls.
Here’s how we preserved this community landmark.
Understanding the Need
Christ Lutheran’s iconic brick tower is a symbol of faith for the Sharon community. However, years of exposure to Wisconsin’s harsh winters and humid summers had caused significant wear and tear. Mortar between the bricks had eroded, creating gaps that allowed water to seep in, compromising the tower’s structural integrity. The parapet walls and roof were also showing signs of instability, posing a safety risk to the congregation.
The church leadership turned to Inspired Heights to address these challenges. As specialists in church masonry, we were honored to take on this project and ensure the tower would stand strong for generations to come.
Step 1: Tuckpointing with Precision
Tuckpointing was the first order of business. This meticulous process involves removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it with new, durable material.
Our team carefully assessed the tower, brick by brick, to determine the areas most in need of attention. We matched the new mortar to the original color and texture to maintain the historical appearance of the tower. Using advanced tools and techniques, we filled in the gaps, ensuring the bricks were securely bonded and protected from further water damage.
Step 2: Structural Repairs
With the tuckpointing complete, we turned our attention to the structural issues. Years of water infiltration had weakened some of the internal supports. Our team worked to design and implement reinforcements that would restore the tower’s stability without altering its historical character.
We replaced damaged materials while preserving the original structure as possible. This phase required careful coordination to ensure the tower’s integrity was maintained throughout the process.
Step 3: Fortifying the Roof and Parapet Walls
The roof and parapet walls were critical to the tower’s long-term durability. The parapet walls, in particular, had suffered from cracking and displacement, which could lead to further damage if not addressed.
We repaired and reinforced the parapet walls, ensuring they were securely anchored to the structure. For the roof, we installed new waterproofing materials to prevent leaks and protect the interior of the tower. These upgrades not only enhanced the tower’s strength but also improved its resistance to Wisconsin’s challenging weather conditions.
The Finished Product
After weeks of dedicated effort, the Christ Lutheran Church tower was restored to its former glory. The vibrant brickwork now stands strong, a visual reminder of the church’s enduring presence in Sharon.
The parapet walls are secure, the roof is fortified, and the entire structure is prepared to withstand the elements for years to come. This restoration not only preserved an important piece of local history but also renewed the church’s commitment to being a beacon of faith in the community.
Why Inspired Heights?
At Inspired Heights, we understand that restoring a church is about more than just repairing a building—it’s about honoring the legacy of those who built it and ensuring it continues to inspire future generations. Our skilled team brings a combination of craftsmanship, expertise, and a heart for ministry to every project we undertake.
The Christ Lutheran Church restoration is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose. We are grateful to have played a part in preserving this beautiful structure and look forward to serving more churches in need of restoration.
Looking Ahead
Does your church or historic building need restoration? Whether it’s tuckpointing, structural repairs, or other specialized work, Inspired Heights is here to help. Our work for Christ Lutheran brought us to the small town of Sharon, Wisconsin (outside of the larger cities like Milwaukee, Madison, Janesville) but our services are offered throughout Wisconsin and throughout the country. Contact us today to discuss how we can restore and preserve your church’s legacy.