Hello.

I’m shopping for a new home. Hope to move back to Bklyn!
I’ve looked at some limestone buildings that have had their limestone exteriors been painted. If I were to buy one of these, how much trouble and expense would be involved in stripping the paint and restoring the beautiful limestone?

Has anyone on Brownstoner had experience with this?

Thanks!


Comments

  1. Hi. Architect, Interior Designer and Construction manager here…

    I have a lot of experience restoring/ renovating townhouses and row houses in NYC. I agree with “daveinbedsty” that the limestone is much more durable than b-stone. You should be alright, unless previous owners painted to cover up some sin of the past. I know some great exterior masonry sub-contractors that can help you if you are looking for recommendations.

    Also, if you want Design, Arch or Interiors help I have recently moved my practice to Brooklyn and am actively seeking local projects. Offering very reasonable pricing right now to get my new practice off the ground.

    Either way: Good luck with your new home.
    Cheers,

    Alan Barr
    GOWANUS DESIGNinitative

    gowanus.design@gmail.com
    +1.917.748.0119

  2. Stripping shouldn’t run more than a couple of thousand dollars. The price begins to escalate quite rapidly depending upon what restoration work is necessary for the underlying stone. That said, limestone seems to be quite a bit more durable than brownstone and I typically son’t see many limestone facades needing much repair. I just had my facade done and they did an excellent job of stripping the paint. It took two applications of stripper over the course of a week.