What is historic roofing?
How do I begin the process of choosing the roofing material I want?
How do I maintain the original beauty and finish of my natural roof?
How do I get references?
What is "historic" roofing?
"Historic" or natural roofing typically refers to the installation of materials found in a natural setting, such as stone or clay. This may be viewed in contrast to products that might be considered as refined (such as composition shingles) or processed. However, it's important to note that while this label is typically applied to slate or clay roofing materials, wood roofing products including cedar shakes or shingles are, by and large, considered a "natural" product and aren't "refined" as much as they are "milled". Accordingly, slurry or clay that composes a traditional clay tile roof is refined in order to remove impurities and arrive at a pleasing finish prior to being cast or "thrown" and then baked or fired, depending on the material. Slate is mined directly from slate mines and very little processing goes into the completed project. Slates are sawn or cut to appropriate dimensions, placed on wooden pallets and shipped to distributors in what is, essentially, their natural state.
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How do I begin the process of choosing the roofing material I want?
There are, literally, thousands of different textures, colors and products to choose from when considering a historic roof. For example, slate comes from all over the world, has endless color variations, thicknesses and finishes. Clay, due to it's inherent source properties can vary in color from casting to casting and can also be finished in glaze or left unfinished. We won't even attempt to touch on the myriad composition or wood roof configurations due to the sheer number of manufacturers and varying products that each offer. Research is key in determining what look and aesthetic you want to acheive in your historic roof. We suggest you begin the process by either attending your local library or conducting a thorough search via the internet to gain a starting point for color and texture. From there you may contact us for direction regarding different miners and manufacturers.
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How do I maintain the original beauty and finish of my natural roof?
The most appealing aspect of a historic roof may lie in the lack of maintenance that these roofs require. Certainly, any roof should be checked periodically for wind or hail damage. But rarely is it necessary to "maintain" a historic roof. Part of the beauty of these products lies in their natural aging process. Very little color variation will occur even after hundreds of years of service. And, frankly, the patina of these products will continue to evolve over the course of several decades. Extreme care should be exercised regarding any activity that requires significant foot traffic on roofs of this nature due primarily to their cost. However, these roofs are the most durable on earth and require only the periodic post-storm inspection that you would afford any other part of your home or business.
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How do I get references?
To get references, simply visit our contact us page. You may use any contact method you prefer to inform us of your request. We'll be quite pleased to offer you several businesses and individuals to call on who will be happy to attest to our abilities and professionalism.
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