Hollis Street - Halifax, N.S.

When BMR undertook the Bank of Nova Scotia Cladding Restoration Project, they realized their task was not only to restore the structural integrity of this important business property, but to preserve the original character and intricate details of the Indiana lime stone cladding.

The building was constructed in 1931 and houses the Corporate Head Offices of the Bank of Nova Scotia. To obtain information on the design and construction of the building, the original drawings, prepared by architect John McIntosh Lyle, were located by a search of the Nova Scotia Archives.

At the time the building was constructed, cladding design had not advanced sufficiently to ensure the performance and durability that is now provided by good engineering practice and detailing. For example, the supporting steel structure was not protected from the elements, there was no provision for drainage of the cavities, and there was a lack of flashings and air/vapor barriers. Cladding anchorage was not corrosion resistant and there were no control joints to compensate for movements due to changes in temperature and moisture. As a result, structural steel members corroded, requiring reinforcement or replacement. Expansion of the corroding steel caused the limestone cladding to shift and crack. This, accompanied by deterioration of the stone anchors, resulted in an unsafe condition and a potential danger to the public.

The project required careful planning and design to allow the building envelope to be restored and upgraded to meet current building codes without significantly altering the appearance of this historic landmark. This required extensive site recording and the development of details to suit the observed conditions. Incorporating present day advances in materials and construction methods, BMR was able to restore the building's structural integrity and detail the limestone cladding to accommodate movements due to fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels.

BMR provided prime consulting services on this $3.5 million restoration and continues to provide follow up with periodic inspections to monitor the cladding's performance and identify maintenance requirements.