Case Study: Insulating a Historic Courthouse—Built to Move, Foamed to Last


  • Client: Wehr Constructors
  • Project: Oldham County Justice Center – Historic Courthouse Renovation
  • Location: La Grange, KY
  • Service Provided: Spray Foam Insulation
  • Scope: Fiberglass Removal, Air Sealing, Spray Foam Installation

A Historic Move and A Modern Upgrade

The original Oldham County Courthouse is more than just a building—it’s a preserved piece of Kentucky history. When Wehr Constructors took on the ambitious task of renovating the site and saving the courthouse from demolition, they didn’t just restore it—they moved it.

Yes, moved it.

In a feat of engineering and community willpower, the original structure was lifted from its foundation, the non-historic additions were removed, and the building was carefully relocated on-site to make way for a new foundation. Once repositioned, new East and West wings were constructed around it.

By the time Louisville Insulation was brought in, the courthouse was back on solid ground, but the insulation situation was not. With poorly installed fiberglass insulation and a project schedule running tight, Wehr turned to a trusted local partner for help. 

Spray Foam Retrofits on a Timeline

Our “Foam Gnomes” were tasked with removing outdated fiberglass insulation and replacing it with high-performance spray foam. The construction team had already drilled necessary access points, allowing our team to work efficiently and precisely.

Despite a compressed timeline, our building science-first approach allowed us to deliver:

  • Fast and clean fiberglass removal
  • Precise spray foam application using Huntsman closed-cell spray foam
  • Improved air sealing for long-term energy performance and moisture control

Because this was a historic structure with new additions, attention to detail was critical. Our team coordinated with Wehr Constructors and returned multiple times as construction milestones were met, providing flexibility without compromising on quality.

Building Science You Can Build On

Whether it’s a courthouse that’s been moved or a commercial structure mid-construction, our team brings the expertise, flexibility, and local know-how to get the job done right. For construction firms and architects taking on high-profile or high-stakes projects—especially those involving historic preservation—Louisville Insulation is more than a subcontractor. We’re a strategic partner who understands both the science and the stakes. Let’s build better together.

Contact Louisville Insulation to learn how our building science approach and flexible scheduling can help keep your project airtight, on time, and on budget.

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Building Association Of Southern Indiana
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