Working in conjunction with SDRP, the Friends of Sikes Adobe (FOS) have funded two large-scale restoration and repair projects at the historic 154-year-old Sikes farmhouse. Large cracks and severe peeling of the exterior adobe walls on the front porch and north wall had allowed moisture to seep into the structure, causing deterioration both inside and outside.
Chris Geertsen Plastering performed the repairs over the last 6 months. The outer walls of the house were scraped and sanded which completely removed the existing paint layers. A layer of bonder was then applied, followed by a fiberglass mesh. A second layer of bonder was then applied over the mesh. Finally, two coats of whitewash were applied using a brush coat finishing to mimic the historic adobe whitewash appearance.
To repair cracks and moisture-damage blistering inside the adobe, the affected areas were first scraped, then repaired using historically accurate adobe wall-patching and painting methods. Thin layers of a plaster slurry were applied to the walls. Once dry, layers of lime whitewash were applied. The process took several days as each layer of lime whitewash had to dry completely before additional coats could be applied.
All repairs were completed on time and without any disruption to the normal operation of the farmhouse. SDRP and FOS wish to thank Chris Geertsen Plastering for the excellent work and care taken to repair this unique building.
FOS was able to provide funds to the San Dieguito River Park for these repairs through its ongoing fundraisers and the generous donations from visitors during our Sunday open house tours. Please stop by the Sikes Historic Farmstead (12655 Sunset Dr., Escondido) between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm on any Sunday to enjoy a house tour hosted by the friendly, knowledgeable FOS docents. No reservations are required.
Written by: Anita Hissem, Friends of Sikes Adobe Member
The Friends of Sikes Adobe is a Section 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established for the general purpose of interpreting for public education the history of the Sikes Family, their farmstead, and the cultural history of north San Diego County in the late 1800’s. If you are interested in joining our group, please contact Senior Interpretive Ranger Leana Bulay at leana@sdrp.org.