In July 2007 the Statue of Freedom atop the Capitol dome underwent major maintenance, including a washing, inspection, and some caulking. Working from a scaffold, conservators also renewed the statue's coating to protect it from the elements. The conservation work took about two weeks.

This work was follow-up maintenance to the major conservation performed in 1993. Since then the statue has been washed and waxed in 1995, 1997, 2000, and 2002. The specially designed scaffolding is stored at the top of the dome when not in use. The bronze is protected from corrosion with a coating of a special lacquer, which needs to be renewed periodically. Following a thorough cleaning with water and a mild detergent, the entire surface is inspected outside and inside. The caulk between the sections of the bronze is replaced and the statue is checked to make sure water cannot get in. The lightning points, several of which are usually found to be dulled by lightning strikes, are removed and sharpened as needed. The cast-iron pedestal is also inspected and the coating touched up where needed.

Further information about the Statue of Freedom is available.