Historic Homes: Things To Consider Before Roof Installation
When it comes to choosing the right roof for a historic home, there are a few things to keep in mind. Historic homes are often made with unique materials that require special care, so it's important to choose a roofing material that will complement the existing structure.
For example, many historic homes feature wood shingles, so opting for a new roof made from synthetic materials could adversely affect the home's value. Similarly, an inspection of the existing roof is essential to determine whether it can be repaired or if a new roof is needed.
The experts at ASI Construction shared a detailed guide on how you can make sure your home's roof is up to par. With careful planning and execution, choosing the right roof for a historic home can be a seamless process.
Historic Roof Research
The procedure for replacing a historic home's roof is similar to that of a contemporary one, with the exception that there is a research phase. A formal assessment of a property may include market research. This is generally the job of the homeowner to figure out what essential needs a home has, but it can also be completed during the evaluation process with a professional.
This ensures that both the roofing crew and the homeowner are aware of all significant issues, current damage, and possible problem areas before starting work on the historic building. If you're not sure where to start, experienced roofing contractors can help you determine the best course of action.
They can also put you in touch with local preservation societies or historical organizations that can provide additional resources and guidelines. In some cases, it may be necessary to obtain a permit before proceeding with roof installation.
Historic Roofing Materials Used
Finding out which time period your historic home was built during will help you figure out what materials the roof was constructed with. Knowing this will help determine which materials you should be looking to use for the roof replacement.
Many materials can be found that approximate the look of the original roof while providing better protection and durability. After all, you don't want your new roof to start falling apart after a few years! Consulting with a professional can help you decide which roofing materials will be the best option.
Roof Inspection
Historic roof restoration is a great idea, but it's not always possible. If the existing roof is too damaged or deteriorated, a new roof may be the only option. In this case, it's essential to have a professional contractor inspect the roof to determine the extent of the damage.
They will also be able to assess whether the roof can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. Keep in mind that even if the roof can be repaired, it may not be able to support the weight of a new roof. In this instance, a partial or complete roof replacement may be necessary.
Selecting a Roofing Contractor
Not all roofing contractors have experience working on historic homes. As such, it's important to select a contractor that has experience with this type of work. Furthermore, they should be familiar with the local building codes and regulations regarding historic homes.
Professionals can help you choose the right roof for your historic home while ensuring that the installation process goes smoothly. They would have expertise in working with different materials, including slate roofs, asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or any metal roofing materials. You can rest assured that your home is in good hands when you work with a reputable roofing contractor.
When it comes to finding a reputable contractor, ask for referrals from friends or family members who have had work done on their own historic homes. You can also check out online reviews to get an idea of what others have thought about a particular contractor.
Get an Estimate
After choosing your preferred roofing contractor, the next step is to get an estimate. This will give you a good idea of how much the project will cost as well as the timeline for completion. Be sure to discuss all aspects of the project with your contractor before proceeding. This includes the type of roofing material to be used, the scope of work, and the expected timeline. Once you have a good understanding of what needs to be done, you can move forward with confidence, knowing that your new roof will protect your home for years to come!
ASI Construction Can Help With Historic Home Roofs
A historic home roof has a lot of importance apart from just being a cover over your head. It is one of the most important features that give character to your home. So, if you are considering roof replacement or repair for your historic home, it is important to choose a contractor that has experience and expertise in this area.
ASI Construction is a roofing contractor with extensive experience in working on historic roofs. Whether you need metal roofs, asphalt shingles, or clay tiles, they can help you choose the right roofing material for your home. Get in touch with ASI Construction in Burr Ridge, IL today at (800) 509-4274 to get started on your historic home roofing project!
