Restoration

 

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When Wilderstein was established as a not-for-profit historic site, the mansion and grounds were in a severe state of decay.  The exterior of the house had not been painted since 1910, windows from the tower were missing, and water had penetrated the failing roof.  Below is a summary of the progression of restoration work that has been completed on the exterior of the Wilderstein mansion.

Tower, 1994.  First major project.  Fourth and fifth floors of the tower were painted, the slate and finial on the tower roof were restored.
Main Roof, 1997.  Roofing was replaced with red slate from the same quarry near Albany, NY where the original material was mined.  Box gutters were also replaced as part of this project.
West Elevation, 2000.  Restoration of eyebrow shingles, siding on the second and third floors, and sunburst below curved-top window.  
South Elevation, 2001. Replaced all cedar siding, restored balcony on third floor, re-shingled eyebrow, re-glazed and restored all windows.  
Porte Cochere, 2002.  Replaced foundation, repaired and re-milled structural columns and archways, restored roof with red slate from original quarry.
North Porch, 2003.  Replaced foundation, repaired and re-milled structural columns, recreated original stairway.  Also added handicap access ramp under porch to basement area.
East Elevation, 2004.  Restored and repainted cedar siding, windows and trim.  Project included area above the porte cochere and the library.
  Main Verandah, 2006.  Replaced metal roof.  Restored and repainted railings, columns and all decorative details.  Refurbished decking.
  Servants' Wing, 2007.  Replaced cedar siding. Restored and repainted windows and trim.
  Glass-enclosed Verandah, 2008 - 2010. Restoration and repainting of railings, decking, columns, glass panels and all decorative details. Replacement of south stairs.