Historic structures are more than just a place to sleep, eat, live, or conduct business — they’re a physical piece of history that needs to be cared for and preserved. The unique architecture and intricate craftsmanship can be difficult to replicate, particularly when it comes to the materials and techniques used in the construction of original historic roof systems.
The roof is the lifeblood of any historic property, and this is why maintaining the structural integrity of your historic roof is so important in ensuring that the rest of your property lasts for generations to come.
Here are the steps you should take to maintain the roof system — and unique character — of your historic property, and how these actions can help you avoid larger, more costly roof complications down the road.
conduct regular inspections
It’s important to conduct a full inspection of the roof at least twice a year — ideally spring and fall — and after any impactful weather events that might have caused additional wear and tear that can diminish the roof’s protective function on your home.
Look for any signs of damaged or missing shingles or tiles, as that can expose your roof to leaks, mold, and structural damage if not immediately addressed. Also inspect the flashing around chimneys, skylights, and valleys for signs of wear or gaps, and replace or repair damaged flashing to prevent leaks. If you find any damage anywhere on your historic roof, reach out to contractors experienced in historic roofing systems to perform the necessary repairs and replacements.
clean gutters and downspouts
Gutters and downspouts play a critical role in everything from your historic home’s foundation and landscaping to helping prevent both interior and exterior damage. It’s important to regularly clear gutters and downspouts of debris to ensure proper drainage, as clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water overflow and standing water that damages your roof, walls, and foundation.
Carefully remove any leaves, twigs, and other debris, and flush the gutters with a hose to confirm there are no blockages and that water can properly flow through the downspouts.
monitor for water damage
Water can cause immense damage to your home’s roof, and identifying potential leaks and damage is critical to prolonging its lifespan. Regularly look for any discoloration, peeling paint, and damp spots and insulation, as these are signs that water is leaking through your roof and into your home.
If you notice any of those signs, check the exterior for any missing or damaged shingles, clogged gutters and downspouts, and the areas around your chimney and vents for cracks and gaps that may be letting the water in, and address the issues immediately to prevent any further damage.
trim overhanging tree branches
Overgrown tree branches aren’t just unsightly, they can also be dangerous to your historic home. Regularly inspect and trim any overhanging tree branches to protect your roof from potential damage from falling limbs — especially during ice, storms, and wind — and help keep excess leaves and debris out of your gutters and downspouts. Those branches can also cause wear and tear on your shingles, potentially weakening their protective properties over time.
A good rule of thumb is to keep any branches six feet away from your historic roof, and it’s advisable to hire a professional for any trees that you can’t safely reach on your own. Keeping those tree branches trimmed can both protect your roof and help maintain a clean appearance of historic property.
use qualified professionals
When it comes to maintaining your historic home’s roof, it’s important to work with contractors who specialize in restoring and maintaining historic properties. These experts understand the materials and methods needed to preserve the roof’s historical and architectural value, and by
being proactive and addressing any problems you might have, you can prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the line. At Renaissance Historic Exteriors, our experts have decades of experience and are uniquely qualified to perform necessary inspections, and then recommend and perform the required repairs and repairs and replacements. Reach out to us today to learn how we can help you maintain your historic property for decades to come.
