The roof above the Blue Loggia doors is supported by the mullions between the doors. Preliminary investigation indicates that the 2 x 4 framing enclosed in the mullions is severely deteriorated on their bottom ends where they bear on the stone paving of the Blue Loggia Terrace. Settlement, which has already begun, will worsen as this deterioration progresses, putting serious stress on the Blue Loggia doors. The waterproofing under the stone paving on the Blue Loggia Terrace has failed and the terrace is taking on water. In addition to the threat this poses to the terrace framing, once water enters the framing for the terrace it may be able to migrate into the Blue Loggia floor framing, threatening this area as well.
Epoxy consolidation utilizes a liquid polymer which is absorbed by the wood.
The liquid fills the small gaps in the deteriorated wood and hardens, consolidating the damaged wood. The more severe the deterioration, the more consolidant the wood will absorb. This process allows the retention of original building fabric that might otherwise have to be replaced. This project will be commencing in the summer of 1996 as the crew is freed from other previously scheduled commitments.