About Us

It All Started When…

Rob Wozniak moved into a c. 1850 commercial building in downtown Easton, PA, in 1999. The facade of the building had been “shell pointed” with a hard Portland cement mortar, causing extensive damage to the bricks. Unaware of the differences between lime mortar and cement mortar, Rob discovered most brick & stone buildings built prior to the end of WWII were constructed with lime-based mortar that’s compatible with old softer bricks, allowing them to “breathe” (expand and contract with temperature and humidity) – but those older bricks are incompatible with cement-based mortars, which would hold water in the wall and eventually cause extensive efflorescence and spalling damage to the bricks.

In April 2007, Rob founded Preservation Works Ltd. and began restoring historic masonry buildings & eventually selling materials & consulting on the preservation and restoration of old masonry buildings using sympathetic materials. The name Preservation Works suggests preservation does in fact work as a system of principles by which buildings can be restored to prolong their useful life for many centuries.

Over the last 17 years in the trade of historic masonry restoration, we have grown the business in organic ways. We still focus exclusively on traditional, natural, durable & sustainable materials, but we have learned to use them in a variety of other ways in both new & old construction. We have expanded the business to offer decorative plaster finishes integrated with color and ornamental plaster molding in the classical tradition. We regularly work with experienced ornamental plasterers, architects & designers to create something new but timeless.

We will have training workshops starting soon. So, stay tuned and feel free to inquire so you can be the first to know when they are scheduled.

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Testimonials

  • “Preservation Works displayed extensive knowledge in his area of expertise, completed the work in a timely and efficient manner, and was a pleasure to work with. He also displayed patience and understanding in working with the billing for the project, which was somewhat extended due to the layers between our non-profit organization, the general contractor, and the subcontractors.”

    Jared Mast
    Executive Director, GEDP
  • “Preservation Works is not only exceptionally skilled, he is also very thoughtful and creative about how to best approach challenging issues in masonry and historic preservation. As to Mr. Wozniak’s character, we have only good things to say about him. He has been very easy to work with and is moderate in his approach. He never seeks advantage in any way. You can put complete trust in this person’s integrity.”

    Jane K. Stanley, Esq.
    VP of Nurture Nature Foundation
  • “I used Preservation Works Ltd, for a small job a few years ago and more recently a larger job which they just finished. I am thrilled with their work and professionalism. Rob, the owner, truly cares about the work he is doing and really goes above and beyond.”

    Shelby Ek
    Real Estate Agent
  • “Rob is devoted to doing good work in his community – whether to provide a client expert restoration services or a serene urban yoga studio! He’s a most personable fellow and if you should find yourself in need his restoration expertise, you will find a comfortable working relationship with Rob.”

    Theresa Hogan
    Attorney-at-Law
  • “The masons working on our project were courteous & thoughtful toward the people working in the office. One chimney required more repair than expected, but the extra work was done without delay. I have no hesitation in recommending Preservation Works, Ltd. for licensing in your state.”

    Catherine Suttle
    Director of Cultural Resources, Hunterdon Land Trust
  • “Rob & his crew are awesome. Clearly passionate about their work & willing to let DIY homeowners work with them as a team. Rob will explain his work if you’re curious, including the history of mortar & pointing & why old homes need special care.”

    Timothy Reynolds Palumbo
  • “Mr. Wozniak is a wonderful person, very smart & a true craftsman in his trade. He keeps the old alive by his work, as this trade is a dying art. You can’t appreciate his work unless you see it firsthand. It is a true pleasure knowing you, Rob.”

    George Borowski