The ice cream cone sculpture at King Cones Castle had been a local landmark for years, drawing customers from across Butler and beyond. Standing tall and proud in front of the shop, it was impossible to miss and served as the perfect advertisement for the delicious treats inside.

But Mother Nature had other plans. During a storm, strong winds knocked the sculpture over, causing significant damage to the ice cream portion. A large crack ran through the fiberglass structure, threatening not only the sculpture's appearance but also its structural integrity.

For many business owners, this type of damage might have meant the end of their beloved landmark. However, Eric wasn't ready to give up on the sculpture that had become synonymous with his business.

The Repair Challenge

Repairing a large fiberglass sculpture presents unique challenges. Unlike small cracks or minor damage, this repair required extensive work to restore both the structural integrity and visual appeal of the ice cream cone.

The crack extended through a significant portion of the ice cream section, affecting multiple layers of the fiberglass construction. This wasn't a simple surface repair.

Essential Repair Materials

Chopped Strand Mat: This formed the backbone of the structural repair. Chopped strand mat provides excellent thickness and is ideal for building up damaged areas in fiberglass structures.

White Gel Coat: Used to create a smooth, durable surface that would serve as the foundation for the final appearance.

Ortho Polyester Resin: This resin system provided the chemical bonding necessary to integrate the new repair materials with the existing structure.

Fiberglass Rollers: Proper application tools ensured that air bubbles were eliminated and the materials were properly consolidated.

Surface Seal: This finishing material provided a smooth, tack-free surface for the final coating.

Custom Colored Gelcoat: Perhaps the most crucial element for the visual restoration, this custom-matched coating ensured the repaired area would blend seamlessly with the original sculpture.

The Results: A Landmark Restored

The results of Eric's work speak for themselves. The ice cream cone sculpture now stands proudly once again in front of King Cones Castle, looking as good as new.

If you find yourself in the Butler, Pennsylvania area, make sure to stop by King Cones Castle. Not only will you be treated to excellent ice cream, but you'll also see firsthand the results of Eric's impressive repair work. The large ice cream cone sculpture standing proudly out front is impossible to miss and serves as a testament to the power of skilled restoration.