Don’t Do This! They came SO close to getting this right! This Mansard roof recently had common three-tab asphalt shingles replaced by a visually realistic imitation slate roofing. This was a substantial improvement that returned the most important character-defining feature on a Second Empire style house nearly to its original appearance…
But, then they wrapped the fake “slates” around the corners in a way that real slate could not be used. Slate is stone, it does not bend. Anyone who looks closely at the roof will know immediately that the “slate” is fake. Historically, the corners were capped with painted wood trim, as shown in the inset photo of the same house in 1924.
When using substitute modern materials in place of historic materials it is important to avoid highlighting the fact that the material is not the real thing. Getting the details right is critical for a good result.
Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners discusses the use of substitute materials, including the five questions that should be asked when considering the use of any substitute material.
The 720-page award-winning hardcover book now available in bookstores and from online retailers (it is currently 34% off on Amazon! http://ow.ly/N7ba50y4PSL).
Signed and personalized copies are available directly from the author on this site.
Your local bookstore can order copies from W.W. Norton.
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