Historic Bluestone Stair Restoration in Cinnaminson, NJ
At Becker Enterprise Group, we pride ourselves on combining craftsmanship, structural integrity, and respect for historical character in every project we take on. One of our most rewarding recent undertakings took place in the heart of Cinnaminson, New Jersey, a commercial restoration that beautifully bridged the gap between the 19th century and the 21st.
This featured project involved the full demolition and restoration of the front steps of a commercial building dating back to the late 1800s. These original steps, while historically significant, had deteriorated beyond repair after more than a century of use and exposure. The challenge? Replace the failing structure with a safe, code-compliant solution—without losing the charm and authenticity of the original design.
A Careful Demolition with Respect for History
The first step in this process was to carefully dismantle the original steps. Over time, the foundational support had weakened significantly, posing a safety risk. Our team took great care in this delicate demolition process, documenting each element to ensure the restored steps would match the original aesthetic as closely as possible.
It’s always a privilege to work on projects where history is literally embedded in the materials. As we removed the original stone treads, we were able to salvage many of the Bluestone pieces, some of which had been in place for nearly 150 years. Our commitment to preserving the past meant these stones wouldn’t be discarded but rather restored and re-integrated into the final design.
Strengthening the Foundation
With the old structure removed, we turned our attention to creating a long-lasting and safe new base. We poured new structural concrete footings to bring the entrance up to modern standards. These footings ensure the stairs will remain strong and stable for generations to come, without compromising the building’s original style.
Using advanced techniques and high-grade materials, we reinforced the substructure to withstand both time and the elements, making sure this historic entryway wouldn’t just look great, but it would also perform reliably for years into the future.
Restoring and Enhancing the Bluestone Aesthetic
Once the concrete base was complete, we turned our focus to the finishing touches that would give the stairs their timeless appeal. The original Bluestone treads where salvageable, and were fully refurbished by our team. This included careful cleaning, honing, and repairing minor imperfections while maintaining the patina that gives historic materials their unique character.
To give these refurbished treads an elegant, timeworn look, we applied an antiquing gloss finish. This not only highlights the natural beauty of the Bluestone but also provides added protection from moisture and wear. The gloss brings out the subtle veining and texture of the stone, allowing it to truly shine, especially when hit by natural light.
For areas where the original stone was too damaged to reuse, we sourced new Bluestone to match the historical material as closely as possible. The result is a seamless blend of old and new, where even the most discerning eye would be challenged to spot the difference.
Blending Past and Present
At Becker Enterprise Group, projects like this exemplify our dedication to honoring historical craftsmanship while ensuring modern performance. The restored stairs in Cinnaminson now offer a visually striking, safe, and enduring entrance to this historic commercial building, one that respects its 19th-century roots while standing strong for the future.
If you’re considering a historical restoration, structural renovation, or custom masonry project, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn how Becker Enterprise Group can tr
