Roofing a Historical Home

You’ll need to learn the home’s history before beginning the restoration process.

Historic homes hold significant sentimental value. However, unlike modern houses, restoring and maintaining their integrity takes careful planning. One of the most important aspects of a historic home is its roof. It imparts its architectural style and protects everything inside it from water damage and rot.

Here are the essential steps in restoring a historical home roof:

Temporary patching

Research is an essential part of this project. However, it can take a while, especially for homeowners who need approval from a historical authority. A home whose roof needs urgent attention will need some form of temporary patch-up to help protect the house’s structural integrity. This isn’t a DIY project; property owners should work with experts to ensure it does not impact the home’s historical integrity.

Study the roof history

You’ll need to learn the home’s history before beginning the restoration process. Property owners can do this by reviewing the physical evidence with the help of a roofing expert, consulting historical organizations, and checking the National Register of Historic Places. Remember to take copies of all documents during this process.

Research on the historic roof types

If information on the historic roof is scarce, studying the current ceiling can help you determine its original design. Checking the construction period can also help give clues about the original design.

Historic roofing materials

Historic home roofs used different construction materials. Wood and clay tiles were some of the most utilized materials in the past, with the tiles signifying Spanish influence. Slate was a rare roofing material adopted in the 18th century, while metal became common in the 19th century in Canada and the U.S.

Asphalt shingles were introduced in the 20th century. Spotting these materials in a historic home’s roof can help guide experts on the best restoration process.

Determine possible substitute materials

Even though substitute materials aren’t ideal for restoring historic homes, it is at times necessary to do so to protect the whole house. Modern materials are durable and more powerful. They can support the structure and historic valuables inside the home easily. Substitute materials also cost less and are simple to adopt, encouraging more people to restore and maintain these houses. Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular alternatives available.

Restore the crown jewel of a historic home

The process of restoring a historic roof is time-consuming and expensive. Historic property owners should consult skilled roofers and restoration experts to complete this project. In extreme cases, the property owner may need to also speak to a historian. Even though it can be taxing, the entire process is fulfilling as it will increase the home’s value.

Roof X Inc. offers commercial and residential roofing for customers in Brandon, Pensacola, Tampa, and surrounding areas. We install and repair metal, tile, shingle, TPO, and more. Gutters, ventilation, and insulation are also available. Family-owned-and-operated