Infographic: West Block Masonry
This infographic provides information on the West Block masonry project. This four-year complex, meticulous project was completed in February 2017.
Image description
West Block Masonry
- Construction Manager – PCL
- Masonry Trade – RJW / Gem Campbell
Interesting facts
At the peak of the masonry rehabilitation, over 200 masons were working on site each day.
RJW / Gem Campbell used 62 apprentices, including 18 women. This is the highest ever recorded in North America (IUBAC masonry union).
Facts about the Masonry
- 140,000 masonry stones make up the West Block
- 14% of the masonry had to be replaced
- 45% of the masonry was dismantled and rebuilt
- 3,000 tons of sand were used
- 108,000 buckets of mortar
- 28 chimneys and 2 spires were dismantled and rebuilt
3 types of stone make up the West Block’s exterior
Nepean sandstone:
- Facades – background
- Original – Nepean, Ontario
- Current – St. Canut, Quebec
Berea sandstone:
- Dressed/sculptural elements
- Location – near Cleveland, Ohio (Berea formation)
Potsdam sandstone:
- Red – arches above windows
- Location – near Malone, northern New York State (Potsdam formation)