Asbury Park Convention Hall Water Tower

The Convention Hall, along with the adjacent Paramount Theatre and the Grand Arcade connecting the two, is one of the most majestic landmarks on the Jersey Shore. This entertainment venue has hosted performances by Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, Frank Sinatra, and the Rolling Stones, among many others.

Location

Asbury Park, New Jersey

Architect & Date

Warren & Wetmore, 1923

Client

Ford Farewell Mills & Gatsch Architects

Services Provided

Conditions survey, laboratory testing and the development of conservation repairs to the seawater damaged terra cotta.

• Preliminary conditions survey of terra cotta elements

• Laboratory testing of repairs and coatings

• Development of associated conservation repair methods and materials, including coating and patching materials

• Development of replication mortar for terra cotta and brick

• Identification of material sources

 ICR began with a visual survey of terra cotta elements on the Water Tower and extraction of cores for laboratory analysis. Microscopy of these cores revealed detachment of glaze from the tile substrate which led to a close-up investigation of terra cotta elements. The unusual glaze surface conditions identified were due to the proximity of the sea. ICR conducted water vapor transmission rate tests to inform testing and selection of appropriate patching and repair materials. Additional testing focused on development of compatible mortars and patching materials. Pigmented and clear masonry coatings were also tested to identify a coating for the terra cotta with compatible physical and aesthetic characteristics.