Historic Roof Repair: What Homeowners Need to Know
Historic homes are the time capsules of our modern society, hidden gems from the past, carefully preserved for future generations to appreciate. But just like any home, historic homes experience roofing problems from minor leaks to major damage.
Unfortunately, historic roof repair and restoration is not always a straightforward process. As an experienced historic roofing contractor, Mid-Shore Exteriors understands the many pitfalls you may face when embarking on an historic roof restoration project. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to historic roof repair where we reveal the common obstacles to expect, along with steps you can take to find the right historic roofing contractor for your project.
Keep reading to learn more or contact Mid-Shore Exteriors now for a free estimate!
Historic Roof Restoration Pitfalls
When it comes to historic roof restoration, the process isn’t as simple as finding a roofing contractor and getting the job done. There are many unexpected pitfalls that can derail the process, create delays, and add expense to the job. Here are some things to be aware of before you embark on any historic roofing project…
Historic Preservation Areas
If your home is in an historic preservation area, historic roof repair and restoration can become more difficult. You may need a special permit to proceed and depending on the location of your home, there may be regulations that dictate how your roof can be restored or repaired. In some cases, your roofing contractor may be required to repair or replace the roof using the same materials used in original construction. This adds complexity and expense since some roofing materials may be difficult to find or completely unavailable. In other cases, the use of in-kind materials that match the roof may be required.
Based in Maryland, Mid-Shore Exteriors has experience with roofing projects in historic preservation areas. We can help you obtain the necessary permits and find the materials necessary to complete your project.
Bad Sheathing Can Be a Concern
Historic roof repairs are rarely simple. Often there will be damage to the sheathing or roof decking beneath the roof covering. Bad roof sheathing is a common issue that often isn’t revealed until repair work has begun, but repairing this damage is important to ensure any repairs are long-lasting and watertight.
Repairing roof sheathing on an historic roof is a delicate process that requires the skills of an experienced roofing contractor.
Your Roof Might Have Multiple Layers
Historic homes often have multiple layers of shingles or other roofing materials from previous roof replacements. These layers will need to be removed in order to properly repair or restore the roof and to meet current code regulations. This can add significant labor costs to your historic roof repair or restoration project.
How Close Is Your Home to Your Neighbors?
Historic homes are often located in towns where houses were constructed very close to one another. That means your roofing contractor will need to take extra precautions to protect adjacent properties from damage while repairs proceed. These precautions will add extra time to your roof repair project.
Older Homes Hide Secrets
Older homes often present unforeseen challenges that can pop up during an historic roof repair project. That means you’ll need to work with a contractor who is able to adjust and alter their plans as they go. You’ll also want to work with someone who understands how to combine today’s technology with the intricacies of historic construction.
The Keys to Finding the Right Historic Roofing Contractor
Now that you know more about the potential issues and unique challenges of historic roof restoration projects, here are some tips to find the right contractor for your project.
- 1. Experience Counts: Successful historic roof repair and restoration requires specialized skills that are unfamiliar to many regular roofing contractors. Be sure that any roofing contractor you hire has experience working on historic homes and ask for references to confirm their expertise.
- 2. Ask About Their Preservation Techniques: Ask any historic roofing contractor you’re considering about the preservation techniques they use to ensure they are using the appropriate methods to preserve the original character of your roof.
- 3. Consider the Materials Used: The materials used in restoring or repairing an historic roof can make a significant impact on the final result. Ensure that your contractor is knowledgeable about the materials used in your roof’s construction and understands how to preserve its original appearance.
Your Historic Roofing Contractor in Maryland
Have an historic home on the Eastern Shore of Maryland in need of roofing repair or restoration? Trust the historic roof repair experts at Mid-Shore Exteriors! We have the skills, knowledge, and experience to restore your historic roof to its original beauty for generations to come.
Take the first step toward preserving your home’s historical significance and your investment. Contact Mid-Shore Exteriors for a free consultation today!
