Repairs to the Fresnel lenses, windows, roof, and masonry are on time for Tybee Island’s 1773 historic lighthouse. There’s a minor glitch.
Sarah Jones, executive director of Tybee Historical Society said that they discovered some copper seams on the roof of lens room were in need of replacement.
Jones stated, “That’s an extra expense we weren’t expecting and they couldn’t really tell until the paint was removed.” We’ve ordered that and they will repair it.
They will have to pay an additional $83,000 in addition to the $5000 each phase requires. The three phases cost about $1.6million, including $600,000.
A routine inspection last winter revealed that there were many repairs needed to be made on the lighthouse’s window, roof, and Fresnel lenses.
If the damage around the lens area is not repaired, the moisture, rain, and condensation will seep into the structure due to corrosion, further damaging the bricks and mortar.
This project involves the replacement of the cast iron and the coatings and repair to the curtain wall.
Jones announced that after the holiday season, the lighthouse will be closed to climbing until St. Patrick’s Day. The team of repair workers will work on the drum and the area beneath the lens room. They’ll also repair bricks-and-mortar. They will paint and stucco the building after St. Patrick’s Day.
Jones stated that they were still fundraising for the cause. North Beach Grill is doing a fantastic thing where four non-profits decorate trees and the residents pick their favorite. We’re going to do it. The winner will get $2,500.
Donations can be made through GoFundMe or by purchasing license plates from the Tybee Island Historical Society.
Jones stated, “We had hoped to raise $5000, but we have only raised a little under $700. We still have a long way to go and any amount helps.”
If all goes according to plan, repairs will be completed the first week in June. The lighthouse, however, will open for climbers again in March. Tickets will be reduced when the towers close, however, the rest of the site, including the museum, will remain open.
Jones explained that they were working on an exhibit for the Black History Month, a surfing exhibit. They also plan to exhibit the Gilliard Cottage, which will hopefully be ready in time. It will then be part of the Black History Trail. We’re working on that and have a new archive library which we are excited about. So we can get these new exhibits finished.”
Jones stated that the lighthouse is Tybee’s symbol and it’s vital that it be maintained because it still serves as a navigational aid to safely bring ships into the Savannah River.
Jones added, “It is also important to save some history.” This lighthouse was built in 1773 and it is important that we keep it running and ensure that it will be here for at least another 200 years.
Roof services are vital for the longevity and integrity of your home’s structure. If you want to learn more or keep an eye on the latest news, you can enter here and see the multiple options The Roof Technician roof restoration in Toronto. Roofs will wear out over time due to weather, structural problems, and leaks. The comprehensive roofing solutions provided by professional roofing services include thorough inspections and repairs as well as replacement of damaged roofing materials. Complete residential skylight installations ensure that your home or business is protected, by preventing leaks and maintaining maximum insulation. Expert roofing services are essential to protect your business or home and extend the lifespan of your roof.
