RestoreWorks has grown from strength to strength over the past 36 years, evolving from a small pressure washing company into a leader in masonry restoration and restorative cleaning. Founded in 1988 by Don Zuidema, RestoreWorks began as Midwest Pressure Washing, with Don pulling a trailer equipped with two pressure washers to clean sidewalks, trucks, and homes. Initially, it was all about residential pressure washing, but it wasn’t long before Don noticed a match between his love of history and a growing need for masonry restoration on older buildings.
As the company worked on cleaning historical properties, Don realized that there was an opportunity to expand their services into masonry restoration. They began offering repairs such as tuckpointing, brick replacement, and parapet rebuilds, which allowed the company to shift its focus from power washing to full-scale masonry restoration. This new direction led to the company joining the union, which allowed them to hire skilled field workers capable of handling complex masonry repairs. This was the beginning of a transition that would solidify RestoreWorks’ place in the industry
In 2014, as the company began to specialize in more than just cleaning, Don decided it was time for a rebrand. Midwest Pressure Washing became RestoreWorks Masonry Restoration, a name that better reflected the company’s expanded scope of services. With this rebranding came the opportunity to take on larger projects, including some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings. One of the first milestones for the company was working on the Art Institute of Chicago, followed by a major project on the Wrigley Building. These projects marked a turning point for RestoreWorks, helping to solidify its reputation for high-quality restoration work.
For Don, the secret to the company’s success isn’t just about the impressive buildings they work on—it’s about the people. From the skilled mechanics in the field to the office staff, everyone at RestoreWorks takes pride in their work. Don believes that the company’s best marketing comes from the quality of the job they do and the relationships they build with their clients. Every project is an opportunity to showcase their expertise and earn repeat business. Don explains that the team understands that each job is not just a one-off task; it’s a chance to impress the client, leading to future opportunities.
One of the standout features of RestoreWorks is their approach to restorative cleaning. Don’s team has developed a reputation for being able to clean buildings that have been covered in decades of dirt, soot, and other contaminants. “Being able to clean a building that’s been covered with 100 years of dirt and not damage the surface is something we take a lot of pride in,” Don says. The company uses specialized techniques that ensure the building’s surface remains intact while restoring its original appearance. This expertise in restorative cleaning is a key part of their overall offering, alongside their masonry repair services like tuckpointing, stonework, concrete repairs, and leak troubleshooting.
RestoreWorks is also known for providing detailed mock-ups for clients before beginning a project. This gives clients an idea of what the full restoration will look like, helping them make informed decisions and budget accordingly. For Don, it’s all about giving clients confidence in the process, ensuring that they know exactly what to expect from the work. This service has proven valuable in building long-term relationships and ensuring that RestoreWorks stands out from other companies in the industry.
Over the years, RestoreWorks has worked on a range of high-profile projects, including the Merchandise Mart, the Civic Opera House, and Navy Pier. But Don is quick to point out that their portfolio isn’t limited to famous landmarks. The company also works on multifamily buildings, government buildings, schools, and hospitals, demonstrating their versatility and ability to take on projects of all sizes and scopes.
Looking ahead to 2025, Don is optimistic about the company’s future. With a solid backlog of work and several projects in the pipeline, RestoreWorks is poised for continued growth. Don believes that the key to this success is building relationships with clients and maintaining a high level of service. “Every time we finish a project, it’s an opportunity,” Don explains. “If we do our job right, we build relationships and open the door for more work down the line.” This mindset has allowed the company to sustain its growth and continually expand its client base.
While RestoreWorks has established a strong presence in the Midwest, Don is excited about expanding the company’s reach to new regions. “We’re growing geographically outside of the Midwest, and we’re always looking for more complex projects where we can apply our expertise,” he says. The company has already begun taking on more challenging projects outside its traditional market, and with a strong foundation of skilled field staff and solid management, Don is confident that RestoreWorks can continue to meet the demands of an ever-changing industry.
“We’re growing geographically outside of the Midwest, and we’re always looking for more complex projects where we can apply our expertise.”
One of the most exciting developments for RestoreWorks is the upcoming addition of Don’s son, Nathan, to the company. Having worked in the construction industry for five years, Don’s son is set to join the company in a project management role. Don is looking forward to seeing how his son will grow in the business and the new perspectives he will bring to the team. “I’m excited to see his growth and to watch him take on a leadership role,” Don says, reflecting on the transition from one generation to the next.
As the company moves forward into 2025, Don is focused on building on the solid foundation that RestoreWorks has established. With a skilled team, a growing reputation for high-quality work, and a strong client base, the company is well-positioned for continued success. “We just want to grow —both corporately and individually,” Don says, highlighting the company’s ongoing ambition. “We’ve got a good foundation in place, and we’re excited about the future.” As RestoreWorks continues to expand its capabilities and take on more complex projects, it’s clear that their focus on quality, relationships, and expertise will keep them at the forefront of the masonry restoration industry.
