Facade Restoration in NYC
Doon Construction Corporation is a licensed NYC masonry and restoration contractor specializing in full-scope facade restoration across all five boroughs. From single brownstone facades to multi-story Local Law 11 repair scopes on pre-war co-ops, we deliver code-compliant, landmark-quality work — with permits, swing-stage setup, and a written workmanship warranty included.
A failing facade is more than a cosmetic problem. Open mortar joints, cracked lintels, loose parapet stones, and detaching cornice pieces threaten pedestrian safety and trigger DOB Unsafe classifications under FISP. We work directly with QEWIs (Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors) to plan and execute the repair scope filed with DOB, on the timeline DOB requires.
Facade Restoration Scope
- Brick repointing and tuckpointing
- Brick replacement (salvage and matching)
- Lintel repair and replacement
- Parapet rebuild and coping replacement
- Cornice and ornamental detail restoration
- Terra-cotta and limestone repair
- Cast-iron and decorative metalwork
- Caulking, sealants, and expansion joints
- Through-wall flashing and waterproofing
- Sidewalk shed and swing-stage setup
- Local Law 11 / FISP repair execution
- LPC-compliant landmark restoration
Landmark & Historic Restoration
Pre-1920 NYC buildings were built with soft, lime-based mortar. Using modern hard Portland-cement mortar on historic brick causes spalling and structural damage within a few winters. For brownstones, pre-war apartment buildings, and LPC-designated landmarks, we custom-mix Type N or Type O lime mortar, reproduce original joint profiles (concave, raked, beaded, weather-struck), salvage and match historic brick, and restore terra-cotta and limestone details to original specification. All landmark work is executed to LPC standards.
Local Law 11 / FISP Execution
When your building's QEWI files SWARMP or Unsafe conditions, we execute the repair scope and provide the documentation needed to reclassify the facade as Safe. We handle permits, sidewalk sheds, swing-stage rigging, progress photos, and final sign-off paperwork. Most LL11 repair scopes complete in 6 to 14 weeks depending on building size and condition.
Boroughs We Serve
Related Services
Facade Restoration NYC — FAQ
What does facade restoration include?
Facade restoration is the comprehensive repair and renewal of a building's exterior envelope. Scope typically includes brick repointing and replacement, lintel repair or replacement, parapet rebuilding, cornice and ornamental detail restoration, sealant and caulking renewal, waterproofing, and stone or terra-cotta repair. The goal is to restore the building envelope to safe, watertight condition.
How much does facade restoration cost in NYC?
NYC facade restoration ranges from $25,000 for a small brownstone scope to $250,000+ for a full multi-story restoration on a 6+ story building. Pricing is driven by building height, scaffolding or swing-stage requirements, scope of repair (cosmetic vs. structural), and landmark/historic constraints. Every project is quoted with an itemized written estimate after on-site inspection.
Is facade restoration required by law?
Yes — for NYC buildings taller than 6 stories, Local Law 11 / FISP requires facade inspections every 5 years by a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI). When inspections identify SWARMP or Unsafe conditions, the building owner is legally required to restore those conditions within DOB-specified timeframes. We handle the repair execution on FISP cycles regularly.
Do you work on landmark and historic buildings?
Yes. We restore landmark and historic buildings throughout NYC, working to Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) specifications. This includes color-matched lime mortar mixes, period-correct joint profiles, salvaged or matched brick, and traditional terra-cotta and stone restoration techniques.
Which NYC areas do you serve for facade work?
All five boroughs — Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. We work on brownstones, pre-war co-ops, multi-family walk-ups, commercial buildings, mixed-use properties, and townhouses.
How long does a facade restoration project take?
Typical timelines: small brownstone facade — 2 to 4 weeks. Mid-size 4-6 story multi-family — 6 to 12 weeks. Large FISP-driven multi-elevation projects — 3 to 6 months. We provide a written schedule before mobilizing and update weekly throughout the project.