Iron Arch Restoration

Posted: March 31, 2026

Restoration of a 130-year-old historical building can be a daunting task, but the crew working in the John F. Wolfe Palm House and Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse have the knowledge and expertise for the challenge.  

In the last construction update, there was mention of restoring the iron arches in the Palm House and Showhouse. Here’s a little more on this process.  

The existing wrought iron arches throughout the Palm House and Showhouse are undergoing structural rehabilitation by inspecting, cleaning, repairing, coating, and if necessary, replacing corroded elements. 

The process includes removing existing paint through paint stripping and removing corrosion through abrasive blasting to expose the bare metal for inspection, installing reinforcement plates where required, and then priming and repainting the structural iron to provide long term protection. 

Although this process can appear tedious and time consuming, it’s well worth the effort and care given to restore this architectural jewel for future generations.  

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