Marlborough Building Restoration Project

Marlborough Building Restoration Project in Portland, ME

The CertaPro Painters® of Maine team was honored to refresh the historic Marlborough Building on State Street in Portland. Over the years, weather and urban activity took a toll on its grand front entrance, leaving it in need of restoration. The entrance had accumulated dirt, grime, and water damage, with wood tones faded from exposure. Our goal was to carefully clean, restore, and protect the woodwork—while preserving the building’s historical integrity.

The team began by thoroughly hand-cleaning the surface using a solution of TSP (trisodium phosphate) and bleach to remove built-up grime and contaminants. Once cleaned, the wood was sanded with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface, improve adhesion, and ensure a consistent finish. To revive the faded wood and address areas affected by water damage, we spot-applied Benjamin Moore Semi-Transparent stain. This brought out the wood’s natural tones while maintaining its original character. For long-term protection, we applied two coats of Helmsman Spar Urethane—a durable finish designed to defend against moisture, UV rays, and temperature changes.

The result is a beautifully revitalized entrance that now showcases rich wood grain and a polished, well-maintained appearance. The urethane finish not only enhances visual appeal but also safeguards the wood for years to come.

This project highlights the importance of maintaining historic structures as a link to our past. By combining traditional methods with advanced materials, the CertaPro Painters® of Maine helped ensure the Marlborough Building continues to inspire pride in Portland’s architectural legacy.