The renovations of this historic structure not only required Tyler Lane to tuckpoint mortar joints and clean the exterior walls, but also involved the repair of several unique masonry features. The building has a series of medieval merlons and crenels adorning the top of its walls. In medieval times these were battlements, used to protect the top of castles. In modern times, they pose a different challenge — restoration. Each of these distinct stone pieces needed to be carefully restored. Several missing gargoyles were replaced and all the walls were cleaned and re-pointed. Altgeld Hall now stands tall once again as an architectural jewel for the Dekalb area.