Fisher Mansion Earthquake Repairs and Stabilization
Project updates
April 2026:
The project advanced significantly with exterior and interior restoration work during March.
Half of the roof has been demolished; the exposed sections were cleaned and covered with plastic sheeting for temporary weather protection.
The porch awning was demolished and existing sheathing removed.
Exterior foundation stabilization continued with completion of excavation under the porch, forming and pouring of concrete walls beneath the porch area, concrete wall patching, and the start of exterior foundation wall waterproofing.
Interior plaster repair work progressed on the first and second floors, with ongoing preparation, protection of historic wood trim, wallpaper removal, crack identification, and the beginning of new plaster application and stabilization.
Manpower remained consistent, with a peak of 15 workers on site and substantial contributions from roofing, plaster, excavation, and concrete subcontractors.
March 2026 Update
March 2026:
Interior plaster repair work started, including protection of historic wood trim and panels, wallpaper removal, sounding of walls and ceilings for delamination, and detailed identification of plaster cracks (the project team is reviewing each new crack to determine whether it resulted from age/settlement or the 2020 seismic event).
The seismic stabilization phase reached a major milestone in February with the completion of all center-core drilling, grouting, and exterior wall reinforcement work!
All four chimney tops have been fully reconstructed and reinforced.
Contractor began removal of perimeter scaffolding, with only the north section remaining in place to support the upcoming wood facade replacement.
Scaffolding removed from the east, south, and west elevations
Exterior foundation stabilization work started: stone sidewalk pavers were relocated and excavation around the perimeter foundation walls began in preparation for rebar installation and concrete reinforcement.
Temporary window protection was fully installed and painted across the building, providing weather protection and safeguarding existing windows for future restoration.
Project overview
The project will repair and stabilize the interior and exterior of historic Fisher Mansion. The building has damage from age, water leaks, and the 2020 earthquake in Salt Lake City.
The goal is to strengthen the structure, protect it from further damage, and make sure it remains safe and functional while preserving its historic character.
Work will include:
- Upgrading the heating and cooling system
- Strengthening the exterior brick walls
- Tying the floors and roof into the reinforced walls
- Reinforcing the foundation and repouring the basement slab
- Rebuilding earthquake-damaged chimneys
- Installing a new roof
- Pointing and repairing the brick exterior
- Fixing interior wall and ceiling cracks, then repainting
- Installing a new sewer line
Project background
In August 2025, GSBS and Salt Lake City’s Architecture and Construction Management presented the project to Friends of Fisher Mansion – a community organization supporting the historic structure and grounds.
Contact us
Contact the Architecture and Construction Management Division by:
Phone: 801-535-7116
Project team:
Contractor: Cal Wadsworth Construction
Construction Manager: Derek Rawle
Project Management Consultant: Robert Czubak – MOCA