Site icon MY Pittsburgh Roofing

How to Pick a Roof for My Historic Home

how to pick a roof for my historic home and old spanish tile roof
There is a lot that goes into historical roofs. And it’s a real challenge because roofing materials have obviously changed over the years. This leads to the question:  How to Pick a Roof for My Historic Home?

How to Pick a Roof for My Historic Home and Common Materials Used

Learning how to pick a roof for my historic home can feel daunting. The following are commonly used materials that make up a historical roof:

Asphalt

Most wouldn’t think of asphalt shingles being historical. Nonetheless, asphalt was a popular roofing material dated all the way back in 1901.

Shingles Made of Wood (aka, Wood Shingles)

Many different types of wood make various types of shingles:
  • Cedar (Most Popular)
  • Oak
  • Pine
Wood shingles are great because they all go well with historical homes. However, fire codes cause issues depending on the place you live in. They also attract mold and are known to rot.

Clay Tiles

Clay Tiles are a great alternative to Wood shakes and shingles, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Terra Cotta makes up the clay in a “clay” tile. Clay tiles were used back in the 1700s and represent a Spanish style. Clay tiles can last up to 50 years. Not only that, but they are non-combustible. The downside is that they are very heavy and could require extra framework.

Metal Roofs

Most nature lovers enjoy hearing the sound of rain on a metal roof. In fact, sheet-metal made it’s debut back in the Federal period and is often mistaken as a “tin” roof. You can find tin shingles with stamped patterns that became popular back in the 1800s. There are several types of roofs made of metal:
  • Copper originated from the tail end of the 1700s and can be found in churches, mansions, and monumental buildings.
  • Aluminum and zinc materials, as well as tin alloys and stainless steel, are used most today – even in regular homes. You can find these roofs in dark red and green colors.
  • Beware of common troubles with metal roofing.
Exit mobile version