Building Restoration Update

by Dane Nelson

For those of you who have ventured into the sanctuary, you have been able to see much progress! The scaffolding has been removed, which has allowed the removal of much of the remaining debris throughout the sanctuary. The lights have now been re-connected and work well with new electric winches. The chancel floor has been replaced and is now being sanded in preparation of the staining and finishing that will follow. The railing around the chancel will be re-assembled, although putting all the pieces back together will be much like putting together a jigsaw puzzle! The pew restoration continues, with the baptismal font now completed (you may see this in the library).

I am close to ordering replacement glass for the lights and will soon receive a quote for the cleaning of all the pew cushions. The handrails leading to the chancel were damaged beyond repair, with matching new ones being created as we speak. Session has approved an agreement with a firm to inspect, repair and waterproof the bell tower, at a cost of $10,000. As a group of us cleaned debris from this area last weekend, it was obvious that water was entering from all sides and is in dire need of work. This work should begin in about 3 weeks and is expected to take about 2 weeks to complete.

The latest report on the carpet is that is has now been made and is in route to a warehouse in Georgia. My estimate is that it could be installed in late April or early May. I have heard some questions about the need for new carpet. The decision was reached when Krieghoff would not assure that it would not be damaged during construction, especially with the heavy scaffolding, metal work and other construction taking place. The insurance company agreed that it would need replacement, so that is how the decision was reached. In fact, there are some areas showing damage, including metal shavings being found imbedded in the carpet. So, while the carpet may “look” like it is still in great shape, such a “look” can be deceiving. Lastly, I have been in contact with our organ repair expert, who will only come to clean the organ once we are certain that the dirt and dust exposure will be minimal. As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions.