Rendering of scaffold system which will surround Dome during restoration. Courtesy Architect of the Capitol.

In a short while, another D.C. landmark will be covered in scaffolding: The U.S. Capitol dome.

A two-year restoration project will begin in early November, according to the Architect of the Capitol. (Visible signs of the restoration may come later than that, according to an AOC spokesperson.) “Postponing the restoration would perpetuate the deterioration of the dome,” AOC says in an FAQ. “The flaking and peeling of paint will substantially increase resulting in an unsightly appearance.”

Architect of the Capitol Stephen T. Ayers said in a release, “From a distance the dome looks magnificent, thanks to the hard-work of our employees. On closer look, under the paint, age and weather have taken its toll and the AOC needs to make repairs to preserve the dome.”

While most of the work will take place during nights and weekends, the dome will be closed to tours during the work. In addition to the scaffolding, which will be illuminated at night, netting in the shape of a doughnut will be installed inside to protect the public below. The work will cost about $60 million to complete.