Case Study

Restoring a Landmark Graffiti Removal at The Bowery Savings Bank Building

Introduction

When a historic New York City landmark is defaced with graffiti, it requires a team with a unique blend of expertise, precision, and respect for the building’s heritage. This was the challenge presented at The Bowery Savings Bank Building, a magnificent structure at 130 Bowery Street that has graced the Lower Manhattan skyline since 1895.

With a crucial bank inspection looming, the building’s owner needed a fast, effective, and safe solution to restore the building to its original grandeur. AltitudeWash, with its 20 years of experience in the construction industry and its innovative approach to drone-assisted cleaning, was the perfect partner for the job

The Challenge:

A Race Against Time on a Historic Facade

The Bowery Savings Bank Building, a designated New York City landmark, is a masterpiece of Roman temple-inspired architecture. Its Indiana limestone facade, adorned with Corinthian columns and intricate carvings, is a testament to the city’s rich history. The challenge was significant: large, unsightly graffiti tags had been scrawled across the building’s prominent pediment, marring its beauty and threatening to create a negative impression during an upcoming inspection.

The delicate nature of the historic limestone, combined with the height and location of the graffiti, presented a complex problem. Traditional graffiti removal methods could risk damaging the porous stone, while accessing the affected area required specialized equipment and a team with a deep understanding of building structures and safety protocols.

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The Solution

Experience, Innovation, and a Gentle Touch

AltitudeWash’s unique background in both construction and cutting-edge drone technology made them the ideal choice for this sensitive project. Their team understood that this was not just a cleaning job; it was a restoration project that demanded the utmost care and precision.

Specialized Equipment

An aerial lift was used to provide safe and direct access to the high-up graffiti, allowing for a controlled and targeted removal process.

Customized Cleaning Application

Rather than relying on harsh, abrasive chemicals, AltitudeWash utilized a special, gentle application designed to break down the graffiti without harming the underlying limestone. This demonstrated their commitment to using the right tools for the job, especially on a historic building.

Experienced Team

With two decades of experience in the construction field, the AltitudeWash team possessed an innate understanding of building materials and structures. This knowledge was crucial in ensuring that the cleaning process was not only effective but also safe for the building and the surrounding environment.

The Result

A Flawless Restoration

The results speak for themselves. As the before and after photos vividly illustrate, the graffiti was completely removed, and the limestone facade of The Bowery Savings Bank Building was restored to its original, pristine condition. The project was completed efficiently and effectively, ensuring that the building was perfectly presentable for the bank inspection.

The successful removal of the graffiti from this iconic landmark is a testament to AltitudeWash’s expertise and innovative spirit. It showcases their ability to handle even the most challenging projects with professionalism and care, preserving the beauty and integrity of New York City’s architectural treasures.

Why AltitudeWash? A New Altitude of Clean

This project at The Bowery Savings Bank Building is a prime example of what sets AltitudeWash apart. With a solid foundation of 20 years in the construction business, they have a deep understanding of buildings and their needs. Recognizing a gap in the market for a safer and more efficient way to clean hard-to-reach areas, they launched their drone cleaning division. This case study, completed in their first year of drone operations, demonstrates their ability to leverage their extensive construction knowledge and apply it to the innovative field of drone cleaning. For historic and commercial properties in need of a cleaning solution that is both powerful and precise, AltitudeWash offers a new altitude of clean.

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