William James Hall, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

Designed by architect Yamasaki, the exterior is comprised of precast concrete panels manufactured in Chicago and sent by barge to Boston. The panels are finished with a white marble chip exposed aggregate finish and were deteriorated in various places because of water infiltration to the interior rebar. All the sealants on the building exterior, between each precast panel were highly deteriorated and failing. This allowed moisture into the wall system.

We designed custom patching of the delaminated precast exposed aggregate finishes which required extensive mockups by the contractor, in advance, for approval. Research into the appropriate silicone sealant to be used, between panels with the correct modulus of elasticity, was critical for long-term success. We applied a clear sealer to the entire exterior to extend the life of the material.

Other renovations included Plaza leak repairs as well as landscaping redesign and handicap accessibility.