Univ. of Virginia’s $50 million Jefferson-designed rotunda restoration underway

The University of Virginia's rotunda, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is undergoing a $50.6 million renovation to repair and restore the historic dome and exterior. The seven iron tension rings, some dating to Jefferson's era, that keep the dome from spreading outward were corroding, and the crumbling marble capitals atop the portico columns had to be draped with black netting to protect people below.
Jan. 28, 2013

The University of Virginia's rotunda, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is undergoing a $50.6 million renovation to repair and restore the historic dome and exterior. The seven iron tension rings, some dating to Jefferson's era, that keep the dome from spreading outward were corroding, and the crumbling marble capitals atop the portico columns had to be draped with black netting to protect people below.

Workers are removing the badly rusted roof and replacing it with copper that eventually will be painted white. Scaffolding covers much of the structure, with guards posted through the night to keep students from climbing to the roof. The skylight in the oculus of the dome room will be replaced with more historically appropriate fenestration.

(http://www.dailyprogress.com/news/local/uva/article_b0a43dc8-65d8-11e2-aa81-001a4bcf6878.html)

About the Author

Drew Ballensky

Drew Ballensky is general manager of Duro-Last Roofing, Inc.’s central U.S. facility in Iowa and company spokesman for Duro-Last’s cool roofing, sustainability and architectural education programs. He is past-president of the Chemical Fabrics and Film Association and chairman of CFFA’s Vinyl Roofing Division. Drew earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial technology from the University of Northern Iowa and master’s degree in business administration from Florida State University. Drew has over 29 years experience in business and industry in various engineering and managerial capacities. He has worked in the U.S. and Canadian operations for a major international manufacturer of pre-engineered steel buildings, was a financial analyst with a major athletic apparel manufacturer and was an owner of a general contracting company.
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