Everett Archives: Downtown Everett Historic Masonry Walking Tour
The Downtown Everett Association hosted a historic masonry walking tour guided by architect Steve Waite. We tagged along to soak up Steve Waite’s wisdom. Here are some things we learned along the way.
COLOR
The tour began at Catholic Community Services at 1918 Everett Avenue. A historic brick building, of course. As we arrived, Steve explained how the color of brick is determined by the amount of clay, oxygen, and additives. The possibilities of color variations in brick are endless.
STYLE & TEXTURE
The next stop on tour was the VFW Hall at 2711 Oakes Ave, built in approximately 1962. There are many different styles of bricks. Steve noted these types of bricks are known as contemporary bricks or roman bricks. These bricks appeared to be structural, whereas “most bricks these days are just a veneer,” Steve shared.
As we continued down the street, Steve used 2727 Oakes as an example of bricks with a rough texture to their appearance. The surface is merely how the bricks were sliced and done only for aesthetics. It was a trendy style in the 1920s.
PROJECTING A STATEMENT
The Everett Fire Department at 2801 Oakes is constructed of beautiful, good-quality bricks. Steve remarked how well the bricks had held up after 100 years and that they would likely last another 100-200 years.
The Everett Fire Department at 2801 Oakes Ave.
Bricks tell a story by projecting a particular image, Steve shared. Is the brick aesthetic flamboyant and intricate? They might be showing off their money and status. Is the brickwork simple and therefore symbolizing a value of simplicity, or perhaps a heritage that values simplicity? They might be showing off their money and status.
PRESERVATION
One thing Steve recommended to avoid with bricks is you do not want to paint them. A coating over the bricks can trap moisture inside and make it difficult for the bricks to breathe.
Moisture can cause significant problems with brickwork when water isn’t appropriately mitigated. We visited a building on Hewitt Ave that served as an example. A 2nd story stone ledge running the length of the building appeared to have no flashing. Water had been draining over the edge of the lip for years, causing organic growth and increased wear and deterioration in the stone. The once beautiful finish had turned unsightly and dangerous.
With proper practices, brickwork can last a very long time. Just take a look at the historic brick buildings around downtown Everett. As Steve shared, “The good thing with historic buildings is we have the best examples because the bad ones fall down.”
Thanks to Steve Waite and the Downtown Everett Association for the great event. You can keep up with the Downtown Everett Association and their upcoming events by following them on Facebook.
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