Washington National Cathedral: Exterior Repair
Project Details
- Washington National Cathedral
- Washington, D.C.
- Scaffolding, Restoration
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Featured In
We’re proud to have our work on the Washington National Cathedral featured in the Building Congress & Exchange newsletter. Explore the publication to learn more about the project highlights and recognition.
Project Narrative
Scaffold Resource is proud to support the exterior preservation efforts at the iconic Washington National Cathedral. Our team has designed, engineered, and installed a highly specialized scaffold access system to support the repair of the Cathedral’s flying buttresses along the North Elevation — necessary due to damage caused by the 2011 earthquake.
Key project challenges included maintaining public access, working within strict historical preservation guidelines, and avoiding any penetration of the Cathedral’s intricate stonework. Conventional fixed scaffold ties were prohibited, requiring a custom-designed, freestanding scaffold system to support access and repairs.
The solution incorporated:
- Stabilizing buttress towers
- Box ties using scaffold tube & clamp
- Pressure ties to distribute loads safely
- Tiered decking system for premium access to intricate masonry
- Drop-down ladder decks, stair towers, and material hoists
Most of the scaffold structure was built over an occupied sanctuary roof, requiring a custom grillage system to distribute leg loads and avoid interior re-shoring. This approach preserved roof integrity and minimized disruptions to ongoing cathedral activities.
All work complied with OSHA safety standards and historic preservation regulations, showcasing Scaffold Resource’s ability to deliver innovative access solutions for high-profile restoration projects.
📸 Photos Updated Nov 2025
Project Scope
- Freestanding Scaffolding System – Designed and engineered without wall ties to protect historic stonework and meet preservation requirements
- Custom Access for Flying Buttresses – Provided tiered deck access to intricate masonry including pinnacles, gargoyles, grotesques, and other carved elements
- Stabilization Strategy – Utilized box ties, pressure ties, and stabilizing buttress towers to ensure lateral and wind load resistance
- Grillage System on Sanctuary Roof – Distributed scaffold leg loads without damaging roof or requiring interior re-shoring
- Integrated Access Systems – Included interior drop-down ladder decks, stair towers, and material hoists for safe, efficient workflow
- Cantilevered & Suspended Sections – Maintained cathedral operations by avoiding ground-based supports in the laydown yard
- Overhead Protection System – Ensured safe public access at key entryways during restoration
- OSHA & Preservation Compliant – Executed under strict safety and historic building standards for one of D.C.’s most iconic landmarks
Need Expert Scaffolding Solutions for Your
Historic Restoration Project?
At Scaffold Resource, we specialize in designing and installing custom scaffolding solutions for complex and historic structures. Whether you need access for restoration, preservation, or construction, our team is ready to provide innovative and safety-focused solutions.
To learn how Scaffold Resource can support your next project, contact us today and explore how we can provide tailored solutions to fit your needs.
