The dome atop Jesse Hall is one of Columbia’s most recognizable landmarks. Visible from across the University of Missouri campus, the structure required specialized restoration work to preserve its historic character while addressing decades of weathering and lead-based paint.
Prost Builders completed the exterior renovation and restoration of the Jesse Hall dome, tackling the technical challenges that come with working on a highly visible historic structure.
The Challenge of Lead Paint Removal
Historic buildings often contain lead-based paint — sometimes multiple layers applied over decades. Modern safety regulations require careful removal and disposal procedures that protect workers, the surrounding environment, and building occupants.
For the Jesse Hall dome project, our team stripped all lead-based paint from the structure before repainting. This work required specialized equipment, trained personnel, and containment systems to prevent lead contamination during removal.
Working at Height on Historic Structures
Dome restoration presents unique access challenges. The work takes place at significant height, on curved surfaces, with limited attachment points for scaffolding or lifts. Weather exposure is constant, and the structure itself may have deterioration that affects how equipment can be secured.
The Jesse Hall project required careful planning for safe access, material handling at height, and work scheduling around weather conditions and campus activities.
Window and Structural Restoration
Beyond the paint removal and repainting, the project included window renovation and structural work on galvanized steel components. Historic windows often have deteriorated glazing, damaged frames, and outdated hardware that needs repair or replacement while maintaining the building’s historic appearance.
Galvanized steel restoration requires assessment of corrosion levels, removal of failed coatings, and reapplication of protective finishes — all while preserving the structural integrity of load-bearing components.
Why Historic Expertise Matters
Restoration work on landmark buildings like Jesse Hall requires contractors who understand historic preservation standards, specialized restoration techniques, and how to work on occupied campus buildings with minimal disruption.
Standard commercial renovation experience doesn’t prepare a contractor for the unique challenges of historic preservation — from matching original materials to meeting preservation guidelines to working with state historic preservation offices.
The University of Missouri Partnership
Prost Builders has completed numerous projects for MU over the years, including the Jesse Hall dome restoration, power plant expansion, and various campus facilities. This ongoing relationship reflects our ability to deliver quality work on complex institutional projects.
If you’re planning renovation or restoration work on a historic building — whether a campus landmark, government facility, or commercial property — the contractor you choose needs demonstrated experience with preservation projects.
Prost Builders has been preserving Missouri’s historic structures for over 75 years. We understand the specialized requirements these projects demand and have the craftsmen and expertise to deliver quality restoration work.
Planning a historic preservation project? Contact us to discuss your building’s restoration needs.