Top Considerations for Installing a Roof on a Historic Building

May 12

Preserving the charm of a historic building starts from the top down. The roof helps define its overall look, protects the structure from weather and wear, and plays a part in maintaining both its value and original design.

Restoring or replacing a historic roof requires decisions that respect how the building was built while still meeting current standards. This includes selecting materials and installation methods that stay true to the original architecture.

Working with a contractor who understands historic roofing helps ensure the finished result supports the structure and stays consistent with its design.

At Huber & Associates, we use patented techniques and custom designs to ensure that a historic roof restoration project maintains the original look, right down to the most intricate details. We have completed restoration projects for many National Historic Landmarks, including the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina and The Bryce Canyon Lodge in Utah.

Historic Roof Restoration: Factors to Consider

Before we begin any project, we take time to understand what will go into the successful historic roof restoration for that specific property. Many factors impact this, from historical accuracy to code compliance.

Understanding the Building’s History and Architecture

It is crucial to thoroughly research how and when the building was initially constructed so you can more accurately match the roofing design and material to its architectural style. This includes identifying the original roofing system, understanding how it contributed to the overall structure, and noting any details unique to the era or region.

Many resources are available to help you determine your home's architectural style, approximate year of construction, and other important details. Some examples are:

Local preservation groups or historical societies
Local libraries and archives
Architectural style guides and drawings online, like those available on the Library of Congress website

Keeping the roof consistent with the building’s historical context supports its appearance and can also be essential for maintaining its designation or meeting preservation standards.

Choosing the Right Materials

The roof is often one of the most defining features of a historic building. For instance, Dutch Colonial homes have gambrel roofs, Gothic Revival properties are characterized by steeply pitched roofs and decorated cross gables, while saltbox homes typically have asymmetrical roofing, with one side much longer and slopes down closer to the ground than the other.

Selecting materials that reflect the roof's original appearance is as important as matching its architectural style. Traditional options include slate, clay tile, wood shake, and metal.

Modern alternatives are sometimes used to replicate the look of historic materials. Here are some examples of the materials used in historic roof replacement:

Synthetic Slate: Made from rubber or polymer, it offers the appearance of slate with less weight and fewer maintenance concerns.
Composite Shakes: Engineered to mimic wood while offering improved fire resistance and longer life, composite shakes may be a good option for Colonial and Craftsman homes.
Composite Tiles: Clay times were common in Spanish Colonial, Mission, and Mediterranean architecture. While they’re durable, they’re also heavy and brittle. Concrete or composite tiles replicate the look of clay while being more resilient and lighter.
Metal (Standing Seam): Standing seam was popular in early American farmhouses and later Victorian styles. It is now available as coated steel and aluminum panels. These are designed to mimic the look of older metals like aged copper and tin.

Pro Tip: While some modern materials offer the appearance of traditional ones, authentic materials can exceed the lifespan of synthetic options when correctly installed and maintained.

At Huber & Associates, we recommend roofing materials that honor a building’s structural integrity and architectural heritage. Whenever possible, we advocate for authentic materials to maintain historical accuracy. Our team combines expertise with craftsmanship to prolong a roof’s lifespan without compromising its original aesthetic.

Though heavier than some modern alternatives, slate and clay tiles were often used in historic structures that were originally engineered to support their weight. Today, advanced underlayments and installation methods have made it possible to enhance the performance and longevity of traditional roofing systems.

Other advantages of using real, historically accurate materials include:

Durability: Slate and clay tile roofs can last 50-100 years or more of constant exposure to the elements when properly installed and maintained. This means you likely won’t need to replace one within your lifetime, resulting in long-term cost savings.
Natural Weathering: Authentic roofing materials develop a natural patina and weathering over time in a way synthetic products can’t replicate. This adds to the aesthetic appeal and character of a historic building.
Sustainability: Slate and clay tile are environmentally friendly materials that can often be salvaged, reused, or recycled at the end of their lifespan.
Increased Property Value: Maintaining original materials can increase a historic building’s value and appeal, especially for preservation-minded buyers.

Navigating Local Regulations and Preservation Guidelines

Historic neighborhoods often have permitting requirements. Before any historical roofing work begins, check with the local historic preservation board. You may need to submit documentation such as material samples, photos, and a written project plan for approval. Skipping this step can lead to compliance issues and costly rework.

Working with a contractor with experience navigating historic roof restoration guidelines helps avoid unnecessary delays. The review process varies from city to city, so having someone who understands how to prepare the proper paperwork is a significant advantage.

At Huber & Associates, we are well-versed in navigating the approval process for historic properties and can provide you with expert guidance every step of the way.

Structural Considerations

Some older roof structures cannot support the weight of certain modern materials, and others may have hidden problems that only appear once the old roofing is removed.

Before historic roof replacement, the structure should be inspected for signs of rot, outdated framing, and past water damage. Often, the roof deck or rafters may need to be repaired or reinforced before the new roof is installed. Planning for this early can help keep the project on track and prevent surprises during construction.

Ventilation and Insulation Challenges

Proper airflow helps prevent moisture from building up in the attic and shortening the life of your roof. However, historic buildings were constructed long before today’s ventilation standards. Adjustments must be made carefully to avoid altering the structure’s appearance or interfering with original materials.

Modern solutions like ridge vents, soffit vents, and hidden intake systems can often be added without compromising the exterior. Insulation upgrades may also be possible during re-roofing, especially in attics or between rafters, but should be approached with caution to avoid creating trapped moisture or damaging historic finishes.

The right ventilation and insulation plan helps stabilize indoor temperatures, reduce energy costs, and extend the roof’s lifespan, all while keeping the integrity of the building intact.

Working with a Contractor Experienced in Historic Roofing

Not all roofing contractors are familiar with the complexities of historic buildings. The wrong team can overlook small but important details that affect compliance with preservation guidelines and the longevity of your property.

Additionally, historical roofing work often requires specialized tools as well as knowledge of both traditional and modern materials. Matching finishes, aligning flashing, and replicating period-specific design elements takes expertise, time, and attention to detail. Partnering with a contractor who understands and can manage the demands of historical roof replacement helps protect the property and preserve its value.

At Huber & Associates, we’ve worked with clients worldwide on various historical roofing projects. Our portfolio highlights our approach to honoring historic design while ensuring structural integrity and compliance with preservation guidelines.

Trust Huber & Associates for sensitive, skilled craftsmanship that protects your property’s value and history.

Period-accurate Historic Roofing Installed by Experienced Professionals

Replacing the roof on a historic building calls for more than just new materials. It requires a thoughtful approach that respects the building’s design, structure, and place in history. That includes:

Understanding how the original roof was built
Choosing materials that match the aesthetic without sacrificing performance
Complying with preservation board rules and guidelines
Evaluating the building’s structure and ventilation needs
Hiring a contractor with experience in historic restoration

These projects often take longer than standard roofing jobs, but the result is worth it. When done right, historic roof replacement can extend the life of the building while keeping its architectural character intact.

Have a historic home or building in need of a new roof? Let Huber & Associates help you preserve its story with roofing that honors its history and protects it for the future.

Elizabeth Cady