Preserving plaster medallion
We are renovating our house and have a large plaster medallion on the parlor level ceiling. The contractor is worried about it being damaged when he works on the floors above or has to install the ceiling light fixture. Can anybody recommend somebody who can preserve it (eg, by taking it down and then reinstalling it later)? Thanks.

pgfgyckqcjdvzrjd
in General Discussion 6 years and 3 months ago
16
Please log in, in order to post replies!

cate | 6 years and 2 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5128 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5116 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "176696" ["user_login"]=> string(4) "cate" ["user_pass"]=> string(63) "$wp$2y$10$4JNbGAK5cKoEp6kzsYVSBO7oMZphxvnQPCDInpVARCm3B1Dj6U75i" ["user_nicename"]=> string(4) "cate" ["user_email"]=> string(20) "cate@brownstoner.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:24:59" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(13) "Cate Corcoran" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(176696) ["caps"]=> array(2) { ["administrator"]=> bool(true) ["editor"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(2) { [0]=> string(13) "administrator" [1]=> string(6) "editor" } ["allcaps"]=> array(191) { ["switch_themes"]=> bool(true) ["edit_themes"]=> bool(true) ["activate_plugins"]=> bool(true) ["edit_plugins"]=> bool(true) ["edit_users"]=> bool(true) ["edit_files"]=> bool(true) ["manage_options"]=> bool(true) ["moderate_comments"]=> bool(true) ["manage_categories"]=> bool(true) ["manage_links"]=> bool(true) ["upload_files"]=> bool(true) ["import"]=> bool(true) ["unfiltered_html"]=> bool(true) ["edit_posts"]=> bool(true) ["edit_others_posts"]=> bool(true) ["edit_published_posts"]=> bool(true) ["publish_posts"]=> bool(true) ["edit_pages"]=> bool(true) ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_10"]=> bool(true) ["level_9"]=> bool(true) ["level_8"]=> bool(true) ["level_7"]=> bool(true) ["level_6"]=> bool(true) ["level_5"]=> bool(true) ["level_4"]=> bool(true) ["level_3"]=> bool(true) ["level_2"]=> bool(true) ["level_1"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["edit_others_pages"]=> bool(true) ["edit_published_pages"]=> bool(true) ["publish_pages"]=> bool(true) ["delete_pages"]=> bool(true) ["delete_others_pages"]=> bool(true) ["delete_published_pages"]=> bool(true) ["delete_posts"]=> bool(true) ["delete_others_posts"]=> bool(true) ["delete_published_posts"]=> bool(true) ["delete_private_posts"]=> bool(true) ["edit_private_posts"]=> bool(true) ["read_private_posts"]=> bool(true) ["delete_private_pages"]=> bool(true) ["edit_private_pages"]=> bool(true) ["read_private_pages"]=> bool(true) ["delete_users"]=> bool(true) ["create_users"]=> bool(true) ["unfiltered_upload"]=> bool(true) ["edit_dashboard"]=> bool(true) ["update_plugins"]=> bool(true) ["delete_plugins"]=> bool(true) ["install_plugins"]=> bool(true) ["update_themes"]=> bool(true) ["install_themes"]=> bool(true) ["update_core"]=> bool(true) ["list_users"]=> bool(true) ["remove_users"]=> bool(true) ["promote_users"]=> bool(true) ["edit_theme_options"]=> bool(true) ["delete_themes"]=> bool(true) ["export"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Gallery overview"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Use TinyMCE"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Upload images"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Manage gallery"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Manage tags"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Manage others gallery"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Edit album"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Change style"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Change options"]=> bool(true) ["email_users_notify"]=> bool(true) ["email_single_user"]=> bool(true) ["email_multiple_users"]=> bool(true) ["email_user_groups"]=> bool(true) ["NextGEN Attach Interface"]=> bool(true) ["copy_posts"]=> bool(true) ["ure_edit_roles"]=> bool(false) ["ure_create_roles"]=> bool(false) ["ure_delete_roles"]=> bool(false) ["ure_create_capabilities"]=> bool(false) ["ure_delete_capabilities"]=> bool(false) ["ure_manage_options"]=> bool(false) ["ure_reset_roles"]=> bool(false) ["edit_ads_txt"]=> bool(true) ["manage_feed_settings"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_source"]=> bool(true) ["read_feed_source"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_source"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["edit_others_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["publish_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["read_private_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["delete_private_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["delete_published_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["delete_others_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["edit_private_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["edit_published_feed_sources"]=> bool(true) ["manage_feed_source_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_source_terms"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_source_terms"]=> bool(true) ["assign_feed_source_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_item"]=> bool(true) ["read_feed_item"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_item"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["edit_others_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["publish_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["read_private_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["delete_private_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["delete_published_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["delete_others_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["edit_private_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["edit_published_feed_items"]=> bool(true) ["manage_feed_item_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_item_terms"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_item_terms"]=> bool(true) ["assign_feed_item_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_blacklist"]=> bool(true) ["read_feed_blacklist"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_blacklist"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["edit_others_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["publish_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["read_private_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["delete_private_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["delete_published_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["delete_others_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["edit_private_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["edit_published_feed_blacklists"]=> bool(true) ["manage_feed_blacklist_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_blacklist_terms"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_blacklist_terms"]=> bool(true) ["assign_feed_blacklist_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_template"]=> bool(true) ["read_feed_template"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_template"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["edit_others_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["publish_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["read_private_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["delete_private_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["delete_published_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["delete_others_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["edit_private_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["edit_published_feed_templates"]=> bool(true) ["manage_feed_template_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_feed_template_terms"]=> bool(true) ["delete_feed_template_terms"]=> bool(true) ["assign_feed_template_terms"]=> bool(true) ["edit_shortcoder"]=> bool(true) ["read_shortcoder"]=> bool(true) ["delete_shortcoder"]=> bool(true) ["edit_shortcoders"]=> bool(true) ["edit_others_shortcoders"]=> bool(true) ["publish_shortcoders"]=> bool(true) ["delete_shortcoders"]=> bool(true) ["delete_published_shortcoders"]=> bool(true) ["delete_others_shortcoders"]=> bool(true) ["edit_published_shortcoders"]=> bool(true) ["aioseo_manage_seo"]=> bool(true) ["aioseo_page_analysis"]=> bool(true) ["aioseo_page_general_settings"]=> bool(true) ["aioseo_page_advanced_settings"]=> bool(true) ["aioseo_page_schema_settings"]=> bool(true) ["aioseo_page_social_settings"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_edit_htaccess"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_titles"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_general"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_sitemap"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_404_monitor"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_link_builder"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_redirections"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_role_manager"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_search_console"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_site_analysis"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_onpage_analysis"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_onpage_general"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_onpage_advanced"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_onpage_snippet"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_onpage_social"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_admin_bar"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_analytics"]=> bool(true) ["rank_math_content_ai"]=> bool(true) ["srm_manage_redirects"]=> bool(true) ["SPF Manage Analytics"]=> bool(false) ["administrator"]=> bool(true) ["editor"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
That’s an exceptional, extraordinary medallion, and it’s hand formed. Guessing you have a circa 1840s/50s Greek Revival-ish house (possibly shading into Italianate). I see you have the original window trim too. Curious what neighborhood this is in. Good luck with everything.

jamesjacob
in General Discussion 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "2" object(WP_User)#5135 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5138 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "193500" ["user_login"]=> string(10) "jamesjacob" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BJRs9ChuK68NFrqiJ69RiMPYX/1OgU." ["user_nicename"]=> string(10) "jamesjacob" ["user_email"]=> string(26) "jamesjacob1988@outlook.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2024-02-23 11:05:40" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(23) "James Jacob James Jacob" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(193500) ["caps"]=> array(1) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(1) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" } ["allcaps"]=> array(3) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
We used Bestwall Plastering a few years ago they stabilized the ceiling and medallion,it still in place. hope this helps .Aidan is the guy there 1917-415-6215

2345bcde | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5128 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#4884 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "182176" ["user_login"]=> string(8) "2345bcde" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BT1GdemTDzk0aVkxaSI2TRjKMlqFUB1" ["user_nicename"]=> string(8) "2345bcde" ["user_email"]=> string(26) "Richardstaglieri@yahoo.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:00:28" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(8) "2345bcde" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(182176) ["caps"]=> array(1) { ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(1) { [0]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(1) { ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
That is an incredible medallion. I do like the idea of getting some pencil rod and clips ( they’re called vertical sammy’s). Screw the vertical Sammy into the floor joists above mount a 1/2 plywood platform with foam on it and just snug it to the medallion. Then get a grinder and with a vacuum cut around the medallion and you can remove the plaster around the medallion. The grinder doesn’t make and crazy vibration and will make a nice clean cut ( give yourself a few inches around the medallion). Don’t let the contractor smash the plaster away with a hammer. You can plaster in around the medallion later. Please take that metal strapping off ( yikes! ).

phe
in General Discussion 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "2" object(WP_User)#5133 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5140 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "195028" ["user_login"]=> string(3) "phe" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BdK6O8mPDqQpGLv4aSq.8CSS2h6KFg1" ["user_nicename"]=> string(3) "phe" ["user_email"]=> string(20) "phe_tran@hotmail.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2024-02-23 15:32:55" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(17) "Phe Tran Phe Tran" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(195028) ["caps"]=> array(1) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(1) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" } ["allcaps"]=> array(3) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
I’d use a typical lime putty+gauging plaster mix, heavier on the gauging, no retarder. No need for Browncoat, but the ceiling plaster should not have any paint where you are cementing the medallion. If you wanted to risk it, you could use pure P of P, but it goes off extremely fast. For repairs, use yellow glue; size the edges of the break with diluted glue let dry, then glue on the fragments. If they are big enough fragments, install them with a dab of plaster at the same time the medallion is installed, and also glue the break. (reviewcart) https://reviewcart.us/

tsgrlc | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5128 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5136 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "199755" ["user_login"]=> string(6) "tsgrlc" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BouLYr10we/NLA2zeL.KE3pXiQ84ZX." ["user_nicename"]=> string(15) "tsgrlcgmail-com" ["user_email"]=> string(16) "tsgrlc@gmail.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:33:06" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(26) "OTFCHRIS600 Your Last Name" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(199755) ["caps"]=> array(1) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(1) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" } ["allcaps"]=> array(3) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
I agree with what 2345bcde said above. In fact, I used the silicone rubber method with Smooth-On’s products to repair damage to my ceiling medallions. It’s sticky and messy, but relatively straightforward and gets the job done.
Definitely don’t remove the medallion. The medallions actually tend to be pretty robust if left in place. I had a three-story chimney demolished in my house, and I thought for sure that the medallion in my back parlor would come down once they started throwing bricks on the floor in the room right above it. But it was completely unscathed. Even the crown molding near the chimney stayed relatively intact.

BKALLDAY | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5137 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#4929 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(4) "6172" ["user_login"]=> string(8) "BKALLDAY" ["user_pass"]=> string(0) "" ["user_nicename"]=> string(8) "BKALLDAY" ["user_email"]=> string(20) "bkayallday@yahoo.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2008-01-02 19:13:01" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(8) "BKALLDAY" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(6172) ["caps"]=> array(0) { } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(0) { } ["allcaps"]=> array(0) { } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
Also whoever tells you to take it down (for something newer) should be shown the door as quickly as possible. It is a stunning piece and very intricate. Save it if you can. The phrase they don’t make ’em like they used to is so true in these beautiful old home.

BKALLDAY | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5133 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#4928 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(4) "6172" ["user_login"]=> string(8) "BKALLDAY" ["user_pass"]=> string(0) "" ["user_nicename"]=> string(8) "BKALLDAY" ["user_email"]=> string(20) "bkayallday@yahoo.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2008-01-02 19:13:01" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(8) "BKALLDAY" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(6172) ["caps"]=> array(0) { } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(0) { } ["allcaps"]=> array(0) { } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
When we replaced and repaired our ENTIRE ceiling on the parlor level, they cut double pieces of plywood slightly larger than the medallions in the front and back rooms and put old comforters we had as a cushion (between the plywood and the medallions)and propped them up with lolly columns (they did this also with a long length of straight detail). This kept the medallions very safe and they were able to quickly bring down the rest of the flat areas and detail that was lost to moisture or missing. This left the medallions safely in place and when they began the restoration the medallions were the first things reattached. Then then brought down the straight length and used it as a mold to re-create the straight lengths throughout the rest of the parlour floor and then they put up the flat areas last. Worked like a charm and a very seamless process.

catbk | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5128 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5135 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "180043" ["user_login"]=> string(5) "catbk" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BtrsXtoiQwB0Rwql0qwgpXLakL7fAV0" ["user_nicename"]=> string(5) "catbk" ["user_email"]=> string(17) "marsvi0let@me.com" ["user_url"]=> string(24) "/forums/users/stonergut/" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:05:28" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(5) "catbk" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(180043) ["caps"]=> array(2) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(2) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" [1]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(4) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
I remember some episode of This Old House with a master plasterer, I think in New Orleans, preserving a ceiling including a medallion. I think he supported the plaster with
all of the above, then added a plywood shelf, wedged in place with 2x4s from the floor to the plywood support below the medallion.

RobertGMarvin
in General Discussion 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "2" object(WP_User)#5128 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5144 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(3) "779" ["user_login"]=> string(13) "RobertGMarvin" ["user_pass"]=> string(0) "" ["user_nicename"]=> string(13) "RobertGMarvin" ["user_email"]=> string(40) "64df18426207ddf12f1789eba7eabd04a9c3f615" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2007-08-10 18:03:45" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(10) "Bob Marvin" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(779) ["caps"]=> array(0) { } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(0) { } ["allcaps"]=> array(0) { } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
When I had my front parlor ceiling skim coated a couple of years ago the plasterer used plaster washers around the perimeter of the medallion as a precaution.

daveinbedstuy | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5137 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#4928 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(4) "3864" ["user_login"]=> string(13) "daveinbedstuy" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BtJYyObAQmff2MQp.qFP7/kmwU1bBZ1" ["user_nicename"]=> string(13) "daveinbedstuy" ["user_email"]=> string(19) "djl135e54@yahoo.com" ["user_url"]=> string(55) "http://bstoner.wpengine.com/forums/users/daveinbedstuy/" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:23:53" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(13) "daveinbedstuy" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(3864) ["caps"]=> array(2) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(2) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" [1]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(4) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
That IS a very impressive medallion.

Rick | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5139 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5133 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(4) "1470" ["user_login"]=> string(4) "Rick" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BAu.JvH2s1Xx4WSWCj1RPGTP7/OK53/" ["user_nicename"]=> string(4) "rick" ["user_email"]=> string(22) "r.ladd.bklyn@gmail.com" ["user_url"]=> string(46) "http://bstoner.wpengine.com/forums/users/rick/" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:11:46" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(4) "Rick" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(1470) ["caps"]=> array(2) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(2) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" [1]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(4) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
Okay – I would not try to take it down . I like what jcarch did, that should work.

pgfgyckqcjdvzrjd | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5128 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#4932 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "209486" ["user_login"]=> string(16) "pgfgyckqcjdvzrjd" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BwjVnUEuhoebWanhOJu0CJTZl.w0O./" ["user_nicename"]=> string(16) "pgfgyckqcjdvzrjd" ["user_email"]=> string(26) "ogilvie3brittney@gmail.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2024-07-01 19:51:29" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(16) "pgfgyckqcjdvzrjd" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(209486) ["caps"]=> array(1) { ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(1) { [0]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(1) { ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
Thanks all. Here’s a picture of the medallion, in case it’s helpful for ideas on how to preserve it. [190D4DE5-4022-4F62-ACA0-3F2BC24CF30D](//muut.com/u/brownstoner/s3/:brownstoner:qcp1:190d4de540224f62aca03f2bc24cf30d.jpeg.jpg)

Rick | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5137 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#4930 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(4) "1470" ["user_login"]=> string(4) "Rick" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BAu.JvH2s1Xx4WSWCj1RPGTP7/OK53/" ["user_nicename"]=> string(4) "rick" ["user_email"]=> string(22) "r.ladd.bklyn@gmail.com" ["user_url"]=> string(46) "http://bstoner.wpengine.com/forums/users/rick/" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:11:46" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(4) "Rick" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(1470) ["caps"]=> array(2) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(2) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" [1]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(4) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
I would not try to remove it. You are asking for trouble. Chances are it will break since it is set in plaster. It will not come off clean with a flat backing, making it difficult to reinstall too. Better to work at keeping it in place. I have had good results drilling pilot holes and adding screws in the thick flat areas of medallions . Screw heads can be countersunk and filled with plaster. It would help if you added a photo to this thread so we know what you’re working with. Good luck!

jcarch | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#4932 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5139 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(5) "23991" ["user_login"]=> string(6) "jcarch" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BS0hz8fYZfWVNwJxAdb5D7GSB6JTfb." ["user_nicename"]=> string(6) "jcarch" ["user_email"]=> string(22) "jpc@jcarchitecture.com" ["user_url"]=> string(21) "/forums/users/jcarch/" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:06:39" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(6) "jcarch" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(23991) ["caps"]=> array(2) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(2) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" [1]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(4) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
Here’s what we did a few years back when we were very worried that we would lose several medallions during a gut reno we’d designed:
1. Get 6″ thick upholstery foam (you can order it on line easily).
2. Use spray adhesive to pad out one side of a square of 3/4″ plywood. The square should be 6″-12″ longer than the medallion on each side. Drill 3/4″ holes at each corner of the plywood.
3. Hang 4 pieces of 12″ long, 3/8″ diam. threaded steel rod from the ceiling joists, located to that the rods will go through the holes in the plywood.
4. Push plywood up to ceiling (foam side up), w/ rods going through those holes.
5. Install washers and nuts at each threaded rod, and tighten them so that the foam compresses around the medallion.
After this went up, about 5 months later, after demo/framing/etc., we uncovered the medallions, and there was no damage. The materials cost about $200, and it took two men a day to cover all three medallions.

2345bcde | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#4930 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5128 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(6) "182176" ["user_login"]=> string(8) "2345bcde" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BT1GdemTDzk0aVkxaSI2TRjKMlqFUB1" ["user_nicename"]=> string(8) "2345bcde" ["user_email"]=> string(26) "Richardstaglieri@yahoo.com" ["user_url"]=> string(0) "" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 14:00:28" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(8) "2345bcde" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(182176) ["caps"]=> array(1) { ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(1) { [0]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(1) { ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
You can make a rubber mold of the existing medallion. The process is similar to the rubber mold they use to make a mold of a tooth for a crown. Smooth-On makes mold casting materials. Trying to remove a medallion usually results in it cracking.

slopegirl | 6 years and 3 months ago
string(1) "1" object(WP_User)#5137 (8) { ["data"]=> object(stdClass)#5129 (12) { ["ID"]=> string(5) "34682" ["user_login"]=> string(9) "slopegirl" ["user_pass"]=> string(34) "$P$BmPjvLLXxuJIHCzkqN9h9/FLl7akcD." ["user_nicename"]=> string(9) "slopegirl" ["user_email"]=> string(21) "sarah_11215@yahoo.com" ["user_url"]=> string(24) "/forums/users/slopegirl/" ["user_registered"]=> string(19) "2017-08-10 13:49:17" ["user_activation_key"]=> string(0) "" ["user_status"]=> string(1) "0" ["display_name"]=> string(9) "slopegirl" ["spam"]=> string(1) "0" ["deleted"]=> string(1) "0" } ["ID"]=> int(34682) ["caps"]=> array(2) { ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["cap_key"]=> string(15) "wp_capabilities" ["roles"]=> array(2) { [0]=> string(10) "subscriber" [1]=> string(15) "bbp_participant" } ["allcaps"]=> array(4) { ["read"]=> bool(true) ["level_0"]=> bool(true) ["subscriber"]=> bool(true) ["bbp_participant"]=> bool(true) } ["filter"]=> NULL ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=> int(1) }
Advice we got from plaster restoration specialist recently was repair the ceiling first. Many people may also tell you it’s cheaper to replace the old with something new that looks similar.