During Adrian’s downtown boom in the 1860-1890s, most of the buildings were built with soft clay bricks made in town on the banks of the Raisin River. They are incredibly soft and delicate. The problem with painting soft brick is that moisture can get trapped in the brick, and the paint prevents it from properly evaporating. When this water inevitably freezes, it starts to cause the face of the brick to spall, permanently damaging it. Once the underlying unprotected and porous internal brick surfaces are exposed, it continues to deteriorate.
Historical Information and Restoration Progress of 120 & 124 South Winter St – Downtown Adrian, Michigan
