Working on historic homes across Essex County is both a privilege and a technical challenge. Our experience with preservation commissions, period-appropriate materials, and century-old building systems informs practical recommendations.
What We Find Under Historic Roofs
When we remove old roofing from Essex County historic homes, we typically find original wood plank decking (not plywood), hand-forged or early machine-cut nails, and construction details that reveal the original builder craftsmanship. These findings often require preservation-sensitive repair approaches rather than modern replacement.
We also frequently find that previous renovations have introduced incompatible materials or removed original features. Our approach is to restore original detailing wherever possible while ensuring the new roofing system meets current NJ building performance requirements.
Practical Recommendations by Style
For Victorian homes in Montclair and Glen Ridge: natural Vermont or Pennsylvania slate in unfading colors to match the original installation. For Tudor homes in Maplewood and South Orange: high-profile cedar shakes for the steeply pitched roof sections with slate on dormer cheeks. For Colonial Revival homes in Livingston and Caldwell: architectural asphalt shingles in slate-gray tones or synthetic slate for homes that cannot support natural slate weight.
For Federal and Greek Revival homes in Newark and Orange: standing seam metal in terne-coated steel or copper finish that develops an authentic patina. These metal roofs were original to the architectural period and are both historically accurate and functionally superior.
Working with Preservation Commissions
We maintain positive relationships with preservation commissions throughout Essex County and understand each commission preferences and requirements. Glen Ridge is the most stringent, requiring exact material matching. Montclair is thoughtful but allows quality alternatives when original materials are impractical. South Orange falls between the two.
Our advice: approach the commission as a partner, not an obstacle. Present a well-researched proposal with material samples and historical documentation. Commissioners appreciate contractors who understand and respect the architectural heritage they protect.
Historic roofing requires specialized expertise and genuine appreciation for architectural heritage. We approach every Essex County historic project as an opportunity to preserve irreplaceable architectural character.