Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Historic Masonry Restoration Services
Gruber-Latimer Restoration has been a leader in historic masonry restoration for over 50 years, specializing in 18th and 19th-century brick and stone structures. Founded in 1968, our expertise spans residential, commercial, and public sector projects, including iconic sites like Antietam National Battlefield and the C&O Canal. Under current owner Brien Poffenberger, a preservation advocate with a master's degree in architectural history, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. Our team, including master masons with decades of experience, has restored countless historic homes, stone bridges, and public buildings. We prioritize preserving historical integrity while ensuring structural longevity for future generations.Clients trust us for our deep knowledge of period-specific methods and materials. Our work extends across Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., with a focus on the mid-Atlantic region's unique architectural heritage. We collaborate closely with property owners, historians, and government agencies to maintain historical accuracy. Our commitment to excellence has made us the go-to firm for complex restoration projects requiring specialized expertise. This legacy of craftsmanship and dedication to preserving history defines our approach to every project.
Services
Historic Home Restoration
Stone Bridge Repair
Public Building Preservation
Commercial Masonry Restoration
Brick Repointing
Stone Foundation Repair
Window Casing Restoration
Doorway Reconstruction
Heritage Structure Maintenance
Educational Site Restoration
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of experience in historic masonry restoration.
- Our team specializes in 18th and 19th-century construction techniques.
- We've completed landmark projects at Antietam National Battlefield and C&O Canal.
- Leadership includes architectural history experts with advanced degrees.
- We serve four states and Washington, D.C. with regional expertise.
Services
Historic Home Restoration
Specializing in restoring 18th and 19th-century homes, we repair brickwork, stone foundations, and architectural details using period-appropriate techniques. Our craftsmen preserve historical integrity while ensuring structural stability for modern use. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of traditional materials and methods.
Stone Bridge Reconstruction
We restore historic stone bridges using traditional masonry skills to maintain structural integrity and historical accuracy. Our work ensures these engineering landmarks continue serving modern traffic safely. Expertise includes replicating original construction techniques for authentic results.
Public Building Preservation
Preserving government and institutional buildings, we handle projects like courthouse restorations and national park site work. Our team follows strict preservation guidelines while addressing modern functionality needs. This includes repairing intricate architectural elements and historical facades.
Commercial Masonry Repair
Restoring historic commercial structures like the Ox Fibre industrial site conversion, we rebuild walls and architectural features. Our work maintains historical character while adapting buildings for contemporary use. Services include window/doorway reconstruction and structural reinforcement.
Brick Repointing
We perform precise repointing of historic brickwork using matching mortar compositions. This preserves structural integrity and prevents water damage while maintaining original aesthetics. The process extends building lifespan through targeted preservation techniques.
People
Brien Poffenberger
President
Owner and President with a master's in architectural history, Brien combines preservation advocacy with leadership experience. He teaches architectural history and serves on historic trust boards, bringing academic expertise to restoration projects.
Scott Stottlemyer
Superintendent
Master mason with decades of experience, Scott oversees project execution. He trained at Washington County Technical High School and returned to the company after industry experience, ensuring quality craftsmanship on every restoration project.
Robert Wilson
Senior Mason
Specializing in restoration masonry, Robert brings specialized skills developed over 30+ years. He transitioned from traditional block laying to historic techniques, applying advanced craftsmanship to complex stone and brickwork repairs.
Austin Bowers
Mason
Entry-level mason learning restoration trade fundamentals. Austin represents our commitment to training new craftsmen in historic techniques, ensuring continuation of specialized skills for future preservation projects.
Questions
What types of restoration projects do you specialize in?
We specialize in historic brick and stone restoration for homes, bridges, public buildings, and commercial structures from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Which areas do you serve?
We operate across Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., focusing on mid-Atlantic region historic preservation needs.
How experienced is your team?
Our craftsmen have decades of combined experience, with some projects dating back to the company's founding in 1968.
Can you restore unique architectural features?
Yes, we specialize in replicating period-specific elements like window casings, doorways, and decorative masonry details.
How do you maintain historical accuracy?
We use traditional techniques and materials matching original construction methods, guided by historical research and preservation standards.
