Historic paint job: See this iconic SWFL structure like you've never seen it before
No one would argue that the majestic Sanibel Island lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in Southwest Florida.
But what about when the famous lighthouse is wearing a dress?
That's how one person on Facebook described it last week, posting a photo of the lighthouse wrapped in a giant piece of cloth. Every since the destructive Hurricane Ian slammed Sanibel and other part of Southwest Florida on Sept. 28, 2022, the lighthouse has been getting some TLC.
First, one of the structure's four legs, ripped away by the unprecedented storm surge from Ian, had to be replaced. Now, the restoration has hit a new phase: paint job.
Razorback LLC out of Tarpon Springs has mobilized and is focusing on corrosion remediation and coating application to all interior and exterior painted surfaces. In short, the lighthouse is getting "a high-performance industrial coating with an epoxy primer and polyurethane finish," said Crystal Mansell, Sanibel's director of administrative services in this story from Dec. 27.
Sanibel lighthouse restoration: What to know
We spoke to Eric Jackson, the public information officer for the City of Sanibel to find out more about the restoration:
Question: How long will the scaffolding be up?
Answer: The exterior coating should be completed within two months. That includes sandblasting, repair of any damaged or corroded pieces/sections of the exterior, and painting.
What kind or official color of paint is being used?
The color is called "Pencil," which is a dark brown that was approved by the state of Florida to maintain historical integrity.
Any other special tools needed beyond basic paint brushes, or is this a spray job?
The exterior painting will be completed by both methods of spraying and brushing.
Are there any special procedures that have to be followed for the environment?
Tarps will be used for containment as crews begin the sandblasting process. Safety audits are conducted daily, with harnesses and safety gear checked prior to work commencing.
Who (which company) is contracted to pain the lighthouse?
The project is being managed by Synergy, and the restoration contractor is Razorback LLC from Tarpon Springs, Florida.
Anything else interesting about this phase of the restoration we should know about?
Once the exterior coating is completed, crews will begin working on the interior. A permanent fence will be installed around the perimeter.
After this phase, is the restoration finished, or is there more to come?This will complete the work on the lighthouse.
More Sanibel lighthouse coverage: Restoration photo gallery
PHOTOS: Lighthouse Park Beach reopens
VIDEO: New leg attached to landmark
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Why is the Sanibel lighthouse covered in tarps
