Where Craftsmanship Meets Conservation

Old Whalers Church, Sag Harbor, Long Island

Historic Ceiling Repair at Old Whalers Church in Sag Harbor

Innovative Plaster Conservation Technique Used for Ceiling Restoration

Building Overview

SAG HARBOR, NEW YORK

Old Whalers Church, located in Sag Harbor on Long Island, New Jersey is one of the most striking examples of Egyptian Revival architecture, designed by Minard LaFever, in the United States. Its unique design and historical importance have made it a standout landmark since the 1840s.

LaFever began his career as a carpenter around 1820. At the time, the United States had no formal architecture schools, and few used the title “architect.” Most buildings were designed and constructed by builders trained through apprenticeships with master builders. This hands-on training ensured architects deeply understood how structures were built from the ground up.

Renovation Focus

Emergency ceiling stabilization following plaster failure

Renovation Focus

Plaster Magic® Solution

After pieces of plaster unexpectedly fell during a service, the congregation took swift action to address the safety and preservation of their historic ceiling. The issue stemmed in part from long-term water damage caused by roof leaks.

To ensure a durable repair and prevent future incidents, the following steps were taken:
1.

The roof was repaired and sealed to stop further moisture intrusion

2.

A catwalk and lighting system were installed above the ceiling to allow for routine inspection and monitoring

3.

Plaster Magic® adhesive was used to reattach and stabilize loose historic ceiling plaster, securing and maintaining the building’s original aesthetic

Securing Safety While Preserving Architectural Character

This project is a model of how modern intervention can support historic preservation. Through a combination of technical care, long-term monitoring solutions, and the precise use of our patented plaster repair system, Plaster Magic® helped protect both the structural integrity and the visual legacy of this iconic church.

Two workers applying a white substance to wooden panels in a controlled environment.
Ceiling with wooden beams and insulation material
Wooden lattice structure with a focus on the intricate details of the wooden beams.
Person using a power tool on a wooden surface
Wooden beams and construction equipment in a building under construction
Person working on a roof with protective gear
Attic with wooden beams and a fire extinguisher mounted on one of them.
Person wearing a hard hat and protective gear on a construction site
Close-up of a textured wall with decorative molding.
Two workers applying a white substance to wooden panels in a controlled environment.
Ceiling with wooden beams and insulation material
Wooden lattice structure with a focus on the intricate details of the wooden beams.
Person using a power tool on a wooden surface
Wooden beams and construction equipment in a building under construction
Person working on a roof with protective gear
Attic with wooden beams and a fire extinguisher mounted on one of them.
Person wearing a hard hat and protective gear on a construction site
Close-up of a textured wall with decorative molding.
Two workers applying a white substance to wooden panels in a controlled environment.
Ceiling with wooden beams and insulation material
Wooden lattice structure with a focus on the intricate details of the wooden beams.
Person using a power tool on a wooden surface
Wooden beams and construction equipment in a building under construction
Person working on a roof with protective gear
Attic with wooden beams and a fire extinguisher mounted on one of them.
Person wearing a hard hat and protective gear on a construction site
Close-up of a textured wall with decorative molding.

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