In 2014 and 2015, Robert A. Aird, Inc. was honored to be part of the multi-phase renovation and expansion of the Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, D.C.—a sacred site visited by pilgrims from across the world. This monumental project, led by Whiting-Turner, demanded not just technical skill but extreme precision, sensitivity to religious and architectural significance, and close collaboration with top-tier trades and materials suppliers.

Aird was contracted to perform multiple scopes of work on the project, including interior plaster, exterior sealant/caulking, and thermal insulation using closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF). Our work on this project was later featured by Pecora Corporation as an example of best-in-class building envelope detailing and sealant application.

The Shrine’s interior design called for a clean, smooth, and seamless finish that reflected the solemnity and spiritual gravity of the space—while also offering durability and acoustic performance. Aird installed multiple types of gypsum plaster systems, including:

- Hard-troweled smooth finish coats over lath or board substrates
- Radius and curve work along dome ceilings and arched transitions
- Decorative elements integrated into chapel areas and gallery spaces

Our skilled plasterers ensured precise edge alignment, surface uniformity, and crack-resistant execution throughout. Special attention was given to substrate preparation and transition areas—so that lighting, frescoes, and other architectural features would shine against a flawless plaster backdrop.

On the exterior, Aird handled the installation of high-performance silicone sealants at all key transitions—including window perimeters, control joints, stone-to-metal interfaces, and expansion points. Products from Pecora Corporation, including Pecora 890NST, were selected for their durability, non-staining performance, and ability to accommodate wide joint movement.

Our trained sealant crews applied:

- Silicone caulking at windows, doors, cast stone, and EIFS transitions
- Joint backing and tooling for consistent bond line and joint depth
- Clean, professional finishes with minimal mess or over-application

Because of the project’s profile and the complexity of its materials palette, Pecora featured our work on their website as an example of expert application and joint detailing on a high-profile religious institution.

In select wall and ceiling cavities, Aird also applied closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF) to increase thermal performance and air sealing. SPF was the preferred material due to its:

- Superior R-value per inch
- Built-in air barrier properties
- Moisture resistance and long-term durability

This work contributed significantly to the building’s energy performance, minimizing infiltration in a structure that combined historic architectural styles with modern performance expectations.

The Saint John Paul II National Shrine was a one-of-a-kind project that demanded nothing short of excellence across every trade. Aird’s ability to provide multiple scopes with in-house expertise helped streamline the building process, minimize coordination issues, and ensure a consistent, high-quality finish from substrate to sealant.

We’re proud to have played a key role in helping bring this important institution to life—a place of pilgrimage, prayer, and global significance.