Charlotte’s roof installer explains how to choose a new roof for a historic home

Charlotte’s roof installer helps historic homeowners select the right roof
Charlotte’s roof installer insists that the roofing material you select shouldn’t just be historically accurate but also safe and reliable. The commonly used materials below can guide you to the best choice.

1. Wood shingles
Despite being America’s oldest natural roofing material, wood shingles are widely utilized today and typically sawn smooth or cut and dressed. Note that rustic split shakes have a great appearance but shouldn’t be used on historic homes.

Wood shingles were traditionally made of cedar, oak, and pine, with cedar being the most popular choice today. They not only look appealing in various home styles but also have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. The bottom line is this material is a natural, rustic-looking product ideal for many historic home types. However, fire codes in certain states may prohibit them. They can also split, rot, and develop mold in wetter zones.

2. Metal
Metal roofing is ideal for cottages, cabins, and bungalow-style historic homes. Their lifespan of 40 to 75 years is an added advantage. One of the most historically popular metals for roofs is copper. Copper rolls and sheets were used in the late 1700s. Today copper roofs can be expensive, but are worth it since they last over 100 years. They are common in monumental buildings, churches, and mansions.

Sheet-metal roofs were widely used on simple homes in the 1800s and have become popular again in recent years. Metal roofs are available in various colors, including dark green and dark red, and can include aluminum, zinc, tin alloys, and, sometimes, stainless steel. The takeaway is metal is more long-lasting than wood or asphalt and is ideal for reflecting the sun. But certain metal options like copper can be very expensive.

3. Slate
This roofing material dates back to the 1700s when it would likely be imported from Wales. When the civil war ended, Americans started getting their slate from quarries. This varied widely in quality and durability.

Slate is still a common option today and suits European, French chateau, and Colonial homes. It can be pricey but cost-effective due to its 100-year lifespan. Varying colors and shapes were used in Victorian homes to evoke beautiful, intricate patterns.

Synthetic slate is the most popular choice. It is lighter and cheaper than authentic stone but less durable. The slate advantage is that it is exceptionally durable and fire resistant. It is also sustainable since it can be recycled. Still, it is heavy and needs professional roof installers and more framing. It could also be costly, and imported slate can vary in quality.

4. Clay tiles
They are usually made from terra cotta, the ancient invention widely used in the 1700s in some parts of the United States with Spanish influence. Tiles are getting increasingly popular today with their fireproof qualities making them an excellent choice for places that experience wildfires. Their advantage is they feature a lifespan of 40 to 50 years and are non-combustible. However, they are heavy and may need additional framing.

Work with Charlotte’s best roof installer
​Involving a roof installer who specializes in preserving and restoring roofs and has historic home roofing expertise is advisable. It makes sure that everything is done right from the start for excellent results. Advanced Roofing and Exteriors offers commercial roofing and residential roofing services to Charlotte, NC, and surrounding areas.

---