Waterbury City Hall Gilded Dome, Cupula, and Clock Faces
Understanding the costs related to an exterior gilding project requires a review of the specific factors related to the project at hand. However, we will attempt to explain the basic breakdown of what a typical gilding project entails and the costs. Quality is an important value when discussing gilding costs since cheap materials and workmanship will end up costing significantly in the long run. A successful exterior gilding project should remain in good condition for 10+ years, but poor craftsmanship could result in immediate deterioration. Therefore, the upfront cost of materials and labor meeting the proper quality requirements will be more expensive on paper but it will last in glimmering splendor much longer. Hiring a quality and experienced contractor to complete the work is the most obvious necessity. Reputation and trust are important on any construction project, gilding is not any different. The company should have an understanding of the integrity of the building and a strong practiced understanding of exterior gilding. Each step in the gilding process, from preparing the substrate to selecting the proper gold leaf, to application of the gold will determine the longevity of the work. A firm must have a diverse knowledge of historic materials as well as modern methods in order to properly assess the area and repair substrate damages if necessary.
Gilding of the cross on top of St.Thomas More Church
A quality restoration contractor can provide the cost of the work, including labor and materials, to complete the project. The typical exterior gilding project includes material selection based on the area to be gilded, preparation of the substrate, repairs as necessary, priming, sizing, application of gold leaf, and burnishing. To read about the specifics of the gilding process, check out The Art and Process of Gilding. Unexpected costs may arise upon careful inspection of the substrate, previously hidden under the old gold leaf and often too far away to carefully assess.
San Francisco City Hall Exterior Gilding
When gilding, purity and careful attention to detail are crucial to material selection as well as the process. Anything less than 23-karat gold leaf risks early deterioration for exterior projects. Gold is sold in leaf packets at the market price. Exposure to the elements requires a high level of gold purity for long lasting results. As briefly mentioned, the process of preparing the surface for the gold is essential for a successful project. Any impurities beneath the applied gold also risk deterioration of the material. Lastly, depending on the location of the area to be gilded, access may be required. Whether it’s a dome or decorative motif, if scaffolding or a lift is necessary, that will be one of the most significant costs. Getting an estimate for access is relatively simple, local representatives are readily available to visit the job site and provide a quote. While pricing the scaffolding or lift, it is important to remember that exterior gilding can only be completed during warmer months, late spring through early fall.
Connecticut Old State House Gilded Lady of Justice Statue and Charles Bulfinch Dome.
When approaching a gilding project, the costs may seem daunting at first. After all, it is gold! Throughout the budgeting process it is important to remember that value and quality will deliver an enduring and beautiful result. Whether restoring historic gold leaf or introducing new exterior leaf, gilding can truly transform the architectural details in the construction and bring a building or monument to life
Before and after the West Virginia State Capitol Dome Gilding project.
The Canning Studio would be happy to answer any specific questions you may have regarding the costs and process related to exterior gilding.
