Background

The historic Pensacola Lighthouse was built in 1859. It overlooks Pensacola Bay in Florida and stands 150 feet tall. The double brick wall structure developed vertical cracks due to moisture (water) getting inside. There is a museum connected to the base of the lighthouse that is open year round.

Challenge

The challenge was to make a "structural" repair to the cracks without altering the historic appearance while also utilizing the original brick walls. Repairing the cracks and preventing further cracking was the overall goal of the project.

Solution

Custom made "biscuits" or specially designed carbon fiber plates and high-performance epoxy paste were inserted in the mortar joints, approximately 90 degrees across the cracks. The biscuits were spaced about 18" OC, giving the appearance of "stitches." The biscuits were cut to shape to mimic the curve of the wall of the lighthouse and were counter sunk to create a seamless appearance. A repair mortar was used and the lighthouse was then re-painted to match its original colors.

V2 Products Used

  • V2 CFRP Tee Biscuits
  • V2 100 Epoxy Paste

Engineer
Atlantic Engineering Services | Jacksonville, FL

Contractor
Exterior repair: International Chimney Corp. | Buffalo, NY
Interior repair: Masonry Arts, Inc. | Birmingham, AL

Pensacola Lighthouse Project Profile PDF

Pensacola Lighthouse Project Profile

Download PDF

The Process

North side cracks

North side cracks

South side cracks

South side cracks

West side crack

West side crack

Ground level view

Ground level view

International Chimney Corp. associates inserting V2 CFRP Biscuits and V2 100 Epoxy Paste

International Chimney Corp. associates inserting V2 CFRP Biscuits and V2 100 Epoxy Paste

Completed Lighthouse Repair

Completed