Architectural Terra Cotta

Few materials surpass terra cotta in its inherent longevity, sustainability, malleability, UV resistance, and ability to withstand severe climates. When coupled with myriad possibilities in texture and finish, terra cotta continues to be the cladding material of choice for many designers, to create a façade that will last for years to come.

Boston Valley has over 40 years of proven experience manufacturing architectural terra cotta for restoration, renovation, and new construction projects. Our fabricators take every opportunity to introduce advanced technologies into our facility processes for more efficient, high-quality production, resulting in a material with applications for historic architecture as well as the buildings of today and tomorrow.

Contact us to learn more about architectural terra cotta.

View Projects Product Specifications

Architectural Terra Cotta for Façade Restoration

When working with terra cotta for a FISP-designated repair or other restoration, the benefits of in-kind replacement can be achieved in a timely manner.

Corbin Building, NYC, Terra Cotta Masonry, architectural restoration

Performance

When properly installed and maintained, architectural terra cotta can last centuries with little to no UV fading. The NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission often insists that only terra cotta can replace itself because of its unique natural qualities, and advises against using alternate materials for in-kind replacement.

BENEFITS

Meet or exceed the performance of the original material.
Replicate the building’s physical and aesthetic properties.
Maintain the structural integrity of buildings made with terra cotta, as the same material will perform best with the existing construction system.

Boston Valley’s clay mix has been specifically developed for high performance under a wide range of climate conditions, including frequent freeze-thaw cycles.

Value & Efficiency

When combined with our efficient, multi-process fabrication approach, the value of using architectural terra cotta cannot be matched by other materials such as concrete or GRG.

BENEFITS

Avoid subsequent repairs as a result of using alternate materials.
Maintain a higher resale value and generate revenue from rent.
Reduce global impact on the environment by using a natural, sustainable material.

Boston Valley has specific equipment dedicated to fabricating replacement units for small restoration projects that require a low quantity of units.

FISP, Local Law 11/98, SWARMP, Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector, facades buildings nyc, NYC Department of Buildings, Façade Technical Review, sustainable material, Facade construction, Facade masonry replacement, Terra cotta façade compliance, Terra cotta inspection, Terra cotta Façades Compliance, buildings greater than 6 stories

Safety

Façade restoration efforts help ensure that aging buildings are properly and regularly maintained, reducing the risk of dangerous falling debris hazards to the public. Buildings greater than six stories should have their exterior façades periodically inspected by a licensed architect or engineer.

BENEFITS OF FAÇADE INSPECTION & MAINTENANCE

Restore and preserve our historic urban architecture.
Identity façade damage: missing or broken units, loss of glaze, surface crazing, directional fine cracking, spalling, etc.
In New York City, follow the Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP).

Once a building façade has been classified in need of maintenance, Boston Valley can use our advanced facilities to evaluate drawings and original samples from the site to determine a cost estimate for highly accurate replacement units.

Technical Data / Product Testing

ASTM C99
Standard Test Method for Modulus of Rupture of Dimensional Stone

ASTM C126
Standard Specification for Ceramic Glazed Structural Clay Facing Tile, Facing Brick and Solid Masonry Units

ASTM C880
Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of Dimensional Stone

ASTM C1167-03 & ASTM C67
Standard Specification for Clay Roof Tiles (with modifications as required to ASTM C 67 – Standard Test Method for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tiles)