GETTING CREATIVE
Restoring a Century-Old Building
Benledi House was built in the late 1880s with a quintessential Italianate style. Murphy’s was called in for our expertise in heritage building restoration. We redecorated many of the original features, such as intricate railings, ornamental embellishments and classic window frames. With Benledi House being a significant part of Sydney’s history that is now used as a community centre, we successfully attained council approval for all restoration work to ensure the original structure was preserved.
Central to the project was the restoration of the roof, which was done in stages to keep the building watertight during the process. Our experienced remedial building tilers removed the old roof tiles, laid down a 6mm thick cement sheeting and completed the roof with elegant slate-look terracotta tiles. We waterproofed the building’s five chimneys, upgraded the gutters and added an anchor point and ladder access, which the client requested.
Prior to the ceiling insulation and reroofing, we were able to identify the possibility of a hazardous substance, which was confirmed to be lead dust. Murphy’s safely removed this with HEPA vacuuming and thoroughly wet-wiping the floor and other surfaces within the ceiling space. An independent hygienist issued the clearance certificate for work to proceed without any health risks.
- Project summary:
- Reroofing and renewing of roof tiles
- Stormwater system upgrade
- Non-friable asbestos sheet removal
- Ceiling lead dust decontamination
- Repainting of original railings and window frames
Benefits offered to the client:
- All building restoration was compelled to the specifications of the heritage architect.
- Samples of finishes were provided to the City of Sydney Council for approval.
- The roof was replaced in stages so the building remained watertight during the project.
- Hazardous lead dust removed before reroofing could begin.
- Old roof tiles removed and sent to the site recycling bin.
