Drexel University Van Rensselaer Hall
University City, Philadelphia

Project Description

Drexel University Van Rensselaer Hall, situated in University City, Philadelphia first opened its doors in 1931. Its construction was financially supported by its socialite and philanthropist namesake Sarah Drexel Van Rensselaer.

MPG was engaged to complete a masonry façade repair program addressing the deficiencies and deterioration of the brick and limestone exterior. MPG accessed the façade using suspended scaffolding platforms as well as complex fixed scaffolding systems constructed off of step-down roofs at the upper levels of the building. MPG utilized large cranes to hoist and reset large, heavy limestone blocks of the parapets and façade which were found to be in need of stabilization, reconstruction, re-anchoring and structural steel rehabilitation. MPG’s experienced, professional team developed a safe, solid and confident approach to this particularly precarious item of scope. In addition to this complicated, heavy structural work, the overall façade repair campaign included the addition of expansion joints into the masonry, steel lintel rehabilitation, through wall flashings installation, repointing, joint sealants replacement, limestone patching, stone dutchman, brick reconstruction, and masonry cleaning.