Veranda Roof Repair

Original drawing of the soffit design by the CCC

NPS Photo

The Plan

The vertical and horizontal steel I-beams that span the entrance to Fort Pulaski were found to be in an excessive state of deterioration. These steel components date from the 1930’s restoration efforts. In order to replace the beams, the wooden soffit for the roof was removed. The beams were then replaced and the brick columns rebuilt by specialty stone masons. To finish the project the wooden soffit will be replaced by park staff using the original Civilian Conservation Corps plans used when the roof was restored in the 1930’s.

Veranda roof structural support I-beams prior to replacement.

NPS Photo

The Work

In 2017 an inspection of the veranda roof was completed as part of a larger effort to repair the roof and to investigate the condition of the flagpole and base that sits directly above the veranda roof. It was determined at that time by an engineer that the beans required replacing in order to continue to support the veranda roof and to support a new flagpole. Wood from the soffit that was removed was found to be rotted and in need of replacement. All materials are being replaced ‘in kind,’ meaning that they will match what was there historically. This is done in order to continue to maintain the historic integrity of the fort.