Knowing how to choose the right roof for your historic home can be a complicated process. Only a select few roofing contractors have the experience with the architecture, unique exterior designs, and nuanced structures to replicate the unique beauty of historic homes. If you own a historic home in Southwestern Ontario that may need roof replacement, these are things to consider.
What Constitutes a Historic Home in Canada?
Sometimes called “heritage homes,” historical houses receive a designation from Canada’s municipal, federal, or provincial government that protects them from demolition or unauthorized alterations. The buildings are not necessarily listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places based on age. Rather, they are tied to a significant event, person, or period in Canada’s rich history. In terms of roof replacement, the materials and procedures used must maintain the home’s historical integrity.
Factors to Consider When Replacing Your Historic Home’s Roof
Historic homeowners usually prefer to have the roof replaced using period-specific materials. The desire to have every shingle, rafter, and caulking material from the time period cannot always be accommodated. Over the decades, manufacturers have streamlined their processes and now use modern materials to craft roofing products. But the good news is the advanced technology embraced by roofing material makers allows contractors to mirror yesteryear styles, colours, and exterior designs. That being said, these are things to consider when replacing a failing heritage home roof.
1. Consult with Historical Organizations
When a structure is placed on the Canadian Registry, an official file identifies its unique and period-specific features. This information speaks to its “character-defining” aspects, and the roof remains integral to its historic appearance. Before moving forward with a replacement, organizations tasked with historic oversight usually need to approve the design, colour, and materials.
2. Consider the Architectural Style of the Home
When removing a leaking or sagging roof on a historic building and replacing it with contemporary materials, homeowners need to keep a keen eye on the architectural style. Canada’s awe-inspiring Victorian, Georgian, and Old Ontario homes may require custom-designed materials that mirror once-heavy clay and slate, among others.
3. Consider the Maintenance and Longevity of Roofing Materials
The importance of roofing materials that can withstand harsh weather cannot be understated. Heritage homes often have sturdy hardwood beams, flooring and intricate design elements. The single greatest threat to any home is water penetrating the roof, causing rot and mould growth. Along with utilizing only the most durable, custom materials, having the gutters cleaned, roof inspected, and minor repairs made seasonally is essential.
4. Always Choose a Professional Roofer Experienced in Historic Homes
It’s not uncommon for heritage homeowners to put roof replacements out to bid. The idea that property owners would save money by hiring a cheap contractor doesn’t usually work out. To properly replace a historic home’s roof, the roofing contractor must have personnel who understand the nuances of older homes. Maintaining the rare qualities of a heritage house calls for a professional roofing contractor with vast historic home experience.
Choose Davidoff Roofing for Your Historic Home’s Roof Installation
At Davidoff Roofing, we have the knowledge and experience to maintain the historic integrity of your heritage house. If you have an ageing or damaged roof, we perform historic residential roof replacements in Southwestern Ontario. Contact us today for more information, and let’s get the process started.