Historic Home Roofing in Asheville: Preserving Heritage with Expert Solutions

Your complete guide to preserving Asheville’s historic homes with authentic yet durable roofing solutions. Learn about materials, regulations, and expert restoration techniques.
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Historic Home Roofing in Asheville: Preserving Heritage with Expert Solutions

Owning a historic home in Asheville comes with unique responsibilities, particularly when it comes to your roof. The distinctive architectural styles that make our mountain city special require specialized roofing knowledge to maintain both authenticity and protection. Many homeowners struggle to find the right balance between preserving historical character and ensuring modern durability against Western North Carolina’s challenging weather patterns.

At Lane Roofing and Restoration, we’ve helped countless Asheville homeowners navigate the complexities of historic roof repair and replacement. This guide shares our expertise on material selection, local regulations, and techniques that honor your home’s heritage while providing reliable protection for decades to come.

Table of Contents

Understanding Historic Roofing in Asheville

Asheville’s architectural landscape tells the story of our city’s rich history, from Victorian mansions in Montford to Craftsman bungalows in Kenilworth. Each architectural style featured distinct roofing materials and techniques that contributed to their overall character and charm.

Common Historic Architectural Styles in Asheville

Asheville’s historic districts showcase several predominant architectural styles, each with unique roofing characteristics:

Victorian (1880s-1910s): These homes typically featured complex, steep-pitched roofs with multiple gables and decorative elements. Original roofing materials included slate tiles in geometric patterns, cedar shingles, and occasionally metal in standing seam applications.

Craftsman/Arts & Crafts (1900s-1930s): With their signature low-pitched roofs and wide eaves, these homes commonly used cedar shakes, clay tiles, or composite materials with earth-tone coloration that complemented their natural aesthetic.

Colonial Revival (1880s-1960s): These classically inspired homes often featured moderate to steep-pitched roofs with side gables and minimal overhangs. Slate, wood shingles, and later, asphalt shingles were common roofing choices.

Tudor Revival (1920s-1940s): Known for steeply pitched roofs with prominent cross gables, these homes often used slate or clay tiles, sometimes in patterns designed to mimic traditional English thatched roofs.

Original Roofing Materials and Methods

Understanding what originally topped Asheville’s historic homes helps inform appropriate restoration choices:

Slate: Prized for its beauty and longevity, natural slate was commonly used on higher-end homes. When properly installed, these roofs could last 75-100+ years. Different regions produced slates with varying colors and properties.

Clay Tile: Particularly on homes with Mediterranean influences, clay tiles provided distinctive character along with excellent durability and fire resistance. These tiles were often barrel-shaped or flat in various natural earth tones.

Wood Shingles and Shakes: Cedar was the predominant choice, offering natural beauty and excellent insulation properties. These were hand-split until the early 20th century when machine-cutting became more common.

Metal: Typically copper, terne metal (steel coated with a lead-tin alloy), or galvanized steel in standing seam applications. These materials developed distinctive patinas over time and offered excellent longevity.

Recognizing these original elements is crucial because inappropriate modernization can significantly diminish both the historical value and architectural integrity of these treasured homes. Next, we’ll explore how to select appropriate materials for restoration or replacement that honor these traditional methods.

Material Selection for Historic Homes

Choosing the right roofing material for your historic Asheville home requires balancing historical authenticity with practical considerations like durability, maintenance requirements, and cost. Here’s what you need to know about both traditional and modern options.

Authentic Materials for True Restoration

When historical accuracy is the priority, these traditional materials offer the most authentic appearance:

Natural Slate: The gold standard for historic restoration, natural slate provides unmatched authenticity and longevity (75-100+ years). While expensive ($1,500-$3,000 per square), its lifetime value often justifies the investment for historically significant properties. Vermont, Virginia, and Pennsylvania slates each offer distinct characteristics and colors that might match your home’s original materials.

Clay Tiles: For homes that originally featured clay tile roofing, modern clay tiles are still manufactured using traditional methods. These tiles are extremely durable (75+ years) and maintain historical accuracy. The weight requires ensuring your roof structure can support the load.

Cedar Shakes and Shingles: Hand-split cedar shakes provide the rustic, textured appearance found on many historic Craftsman homes. Modern treatments can improve fire resistance while maintaining the traditional look. Expect 25-30 years of service with proper maintenance.

Copper and Terne Metal: These traditional metals develop distinctive patinas that contribute to historic character. Copper’s green patina and terne’s matte gray finish are difficult to replicate with other materials. With 50+ years of service life, they represent an investment in authenticity.

Modern Alternatives That Honor Tradition

For homeowners seeking a balance of historical appearance and modern performance:

Synthetic Slate: Made from recycled rubber and polymers, these products mimic the appearance of natural slate while offering reduced weight and cost ($800-$1,500 per square). Quality varies significantly between manufacturers, but the best products can provide 40-50 years of service.

Concrete or Composite Tiles: These can replicate the appearance of clay tiles while reducing weight concerns. Modern manufacturing techniques have greatly improved their aesthetic qualities. They typically last 30-50 years.

Architectural Asphalt Shingles: For projects where budget constraints are significant, premium architectural shingles can be selected in colors and patterns that complement historic aesthetics. Some historic districts may approve these for less prominent roof planes. Expect 25-30 years of service.

Standing Seam Metal: Modern standing seam systems can approximate the appearance of traditional metal roofing while offering improved weather resistance. Available in finishes that mimic aged copper or terne metal. These systems typically last 40-60 years.

Factors to Consider Beyond Appearance

Several practical considerations should inform your material selection:

Local Historic District Requirements: If your home falls within one of Asheville’s historic districts, material choices may be subject to review. The Historic Resources Commission often provides guidelines specific to your neighborhood.

Structural Capacity: Historic homes weren’t always built to support the weight of materials like slate or clay tile. A structural assessment is essential before committing to these heavier options.

Climate Considerations: Asheville’s mountain climate includes significant temperature fluctuations, occasional heavy snow, and periods of high humidity. These factors affect material performance and longevity.

Maintenance Requirements: Some traditional materials require more regular maintenance. Consider your willingness to perform or pay for this ongoing care when selecting materials.

The most successful historic roof restorations honor the original character while incorporating appropriate improvements for longevity. Working with a roofing contractor experienced in historic preservation ensures this delicate balance is achieved.

Slate and Clay Tile Restoration

Slate and clay tile roofs represent some of Asheville’s most historically significant roofing systems. Properly maintained, these materials can last a century or more. However, they require specialized knowledge for both repairs and restoration. Here’s what homeowners should understand about preserving these premium roofing materials.

Assessing Salvageability

Before undertaking a full replacement, it’s essential to determine whether your existing slate or clay tiles can be restored:

Individual Tile Assessment: Experienced roofers evaluate each tile for cracks, delamination (in slate), or porosity issues (in clay). Many slates and tiles remain serviceable even on century-old roofs.

Fastener Condition: Historic roofs often used copper nails or hooks that may outlast the slate itself. However, if steel fasteners were used, they might have corroded, compromising otherwise good tiles.

Underlayment Integrity: Even with sound tiles, the underlayment materials (typically felt or other membranes) deteriorate over time. Sometimes a roof can be carefully disassembled, the underlayment replaced, and the original tiles reinstalled.

Percentage of Damaged Tiles: As a general rule, if less than 20-30% of the tiles are damaged, selective replacement is more appropriate than full replacement. This approach preserves the weathered patina and character of the original roof.

Specialized Repair Techniques

Repairing slate and clay tile roofs requires methods that differ significantly from conventional roofing:

Slate Replacement: Individual damaged slates can be removed using a slate ripper to extract the nails, then a new or salvaged slate is inserted and secured with copper or stainless steel nails and slate hooks. The replacement slate is often slightly larger than the opening to ensure proper fit.

Clay Tile Technique: Clay tiles interlock in complex ways, requiring careful removal to avoid damaging adjacent tiles. Replacement tiles must match the profile and dimensions of the originals to maintain waterproofing integrity.

Flashing Restoration: The metal flashings around chimneys, valleys, and other transitions are often crafted from copper or terne metal in historic applications. These components typically need attention during restoration, requiring custom fabrication to match original profiles.

Ridge and Hip Work: Special attention to ridges and hips is crucial in slate and tile work. These areas often featured decorative treatments that contribute significantly to the roof’s historical character.

Sourcing Authentic Replacement Materials

Finding materials that match your original roof presents a unique challenge:

Salvaged Materials: For the most authentic repairs, salvaged slate or clay tiles of the same vintage provide the best match in terms of color, texture, and weathering. Specialized architectural salvage companies source these materials from demolition projects.

New Production Slate: If salvaged materials aren’t available, new slate from the same quarry region (Vermont, Virginia, Pennsylvania, etc.) offers the closest match. The color and texture will differ initially but will weather to complement the existing roof.

Custom Clay Tile Production: For distinctive clay tiles, some manufacturers offer custom production runs to match historical profiles and colors. This option typically requires ordering a minimum quantity.

Color Matching: In some cases, new slate can be artificially weathered or clay tiles can be glazed to more closely match the patina of the existing roof. These techniques require specialized knowledge to execute convincingly.

Preventative Maintenance for Longevity

Proper maintenance significantly extends the life of slate and clay tile roofs:

Annual Inspections: Having your roof professionally inspected annually helps identify individual damaged tiles before they lead to underlayment damage and leaks.

Gutter Maintenance: Keeping gutters clean is particularly important for these roof types, as water backup can work under tiles and damage the underlayment.

Copper Treatment: For slate roofs, some restoration specialists recommend copper sulfate treatments to inhibit moss and lichen growth that can damage slate over time.

Snow Removal Considerations: Heavy snow loads can damage slate and clay tile. Proper snow removal techniques (avoiding metal tools) help prevent breakage during Asheville’s winter months.

With proper care and timely repairs, slate and clay tile roofs can continue protecting and beautifying Asheville’s historic homes for generations to come. The investment in specialized maintenance pays dividends in both longevity and historical value.

Metal Roofing for Historic Properties

Metal roofing has a rich history in Western North Carolina architecture, dating back to the 19th century. From the standing seam copper roofs of Victorian homes to the terne metal coverings on early 20th century buildings, metal has proven its durability in our mountain climate. Today’s metal roofing options offer ways to honor this tradition while incorporating modern performance benefits.

Historical Metal Roofing Traditions in Asheville

Understanding the historical use of metal roofing helps inform appropriate choices for restoration:

Standing Seam Copper: Found on many high-end Victorian and early 20th century homes, copper develops a distinctive green patina over decades that serves as both protection and visual character. These roofs were hand-crafted with raised seams crimped together to create waterproof joints.

Terne Metal: A steel sheet coated with an alloy of lead and tin, terne metal was widely used from the 1830s through the 1990s. These roofs typically received paint protection and developed a soft, matte gray appearance that complemented many architectural styles.

Decorative Metal Elements: Beyond the main roof surface, metal was often used for decorative features like finials, cresting, and ornamental ridge caps, particularly on Victorian homes. These elements contributed significantly to the architectural character.

Regional Patterns: In the Appalachian region, including Asheville, distinctive installation patterns sometimes emerged, such as the rectangular “shingle” pattern where small metal panels were overlapped in ways that mimicked slate or wood shingle installations.

Modern Metal Options for Historic Homes

Today’s metal roofing can satisfy both historical authenticity and modern performance requirements:

Traditional Copper: Still available and installed using both historical and contemporary methods, copper remains the premium choice for authentic restoration. While initially bright, it darkens to brown within a year and eventually develops the characteristic green patina over decades.

Terne-Coated Stainless: As traditional terne metal contained lead, modern alternatives use zinc and tin alloys over stainless steel to create a similar appearance without environmental concerns. These products weather to a soft gray patina reminiscent of historic terne installations.

Zinc Roofing: With a history in European architecture dating back 200 years, zinc is gaining popularity for historic restoration in the US. It develops a beautiful blue-gray patina and offers exceptional longevity (80+ years) with minimal maintenance.

Aluminum Standing Seam: For projects where budget considerations are important, aluminum systems with appropriate profiles and finishes can approximate the appearance of traditional metal roofing. These systems are significantly lighter than steel or copper.

Steel Systems: Modern Galvalume or Kynar-finished steel panels offer excellent durability at a lower price point than copper or zinc. Available in finishes that can complement historic color palettes, these systems typically carry 30-50 year warranties.

Balancing Authenticity with Performance

Several factors help determine the right approach for your historic metal roof:

Visual Impact: Consider the roof’s visibility from street level. Highly visible roof planes may warrant more investment in authentic materials, while less visible sections might use more economical alternatives.

Detail Replication: The distinctive character of historic metal roofs often comes from the details—the width of standing seams, the pattern of panels, and decorative elements. Replicating these details, even with modern materials, maintains architectural integrity.

Weathering Characteristics: Natural metals change appearance over time in ways that contribute to historic character. Some modern finishes can approximate these effects while offering improved performance.

Installation Technique: Traditional methods like hand-crimped seams or flat-lock soldered panels contribute significantly to historical appearance. Discuss these options with contractors experienced in historic methods.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Historic metal roof restoration presents unique challenges:

Matching Existing Sections: When repairing or partially replacing a metal roof, matching the weathered appearance of existing sections requires specialized techniques or careful sourcing of aged materials.

Improving Insulation: Historic metal roofs often lack modern insulation values. Today’s installations can incorporate concealed insulation systems that maintain historical appearance while improving energy efficiency.

Addressing Noise Concerns: Metal roofing has a reputation for being noisy during rain. Modern installation techniques with proper underlayment and decking can significantly reduce this issue while maintaining historical aesthetics.

Snow Retention: Asheville’s occasional heavy snowfalls can slide dangerously from metal roofs. Historic-appropriate snow retention systems can be incorporated that match the period aesthetic of the home.

Metal roofing offers an excellent option for historic homes in Asheville, providing exceptional longevity while maintaining period-appropriate aesthetics. Working with specialists who understand both traditional metalworking techniques and modern performance requirements ensures the best results for these distinctive roofing systems.

Navigating Historic District Regulations

Owning a home in one of Asheville’s historic districts brings both privilege and responsibility. These neighborhoods are protected by regulations designed to preserve their architectural character for future generations. Understanding these requirements before beginning a roofing project saves time, prevents costly mistakes, and ensures your home continues to contribute to Asheville’s historical landscape.

Understanding Asheville’s Historic Districts

Asheville has several designated historic districts, each with distinct architectural characteristics and specific guidelines:

Montford Historic District: Established in 1981, this neighborhood features a mix of Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman homes. Roofing guidelines typically emphasize maintaining original material types and profiles where visible from public rights-of-way.

Biltmore Village Historic District: Originally designed as a model village by Richard Morris Hunt, this district features distinctive architectural elements including patterned slate roofs, decorative clay tiles, and specific metal details that must be preserved.

Downtown Asheville Historic District: Includes commercial and residential structures with distinctive rooflines and materials that contribute to the historic skyline. Preservation of these visible elements is typically prioritized in the guidelines.

Albemarle Park Historic District: Known for its rustic Arts and Crafts influenced architecture, guidelines here often address the distinctive wood shake and natural material roofing that characterized the original development.

The Historic Resources Commission Process

Asheville’s Historic Resources Commission (HRC) oversees exterior changes to properties within historic districts:

Minor Works vs. Major Works: Some roofing projects may qualify as “Minor Works” that can be approved administratively by staff. These typically include in-kind repairs using identical materials. More substantial changes or material substitutions generally require full HRC review as “Major Works.”

Application Process: For projects requiring full HRC review, you’ll need to submit an application with detailed plans, material specifications, and often, photographs of existing conditions. The commission meets monthly, so timing your application submission is important for project scheduling.

Public Hearing: Major Works applications are reviewed in a public hearing where commissioners evaluate the proposal against established guidelines. You or your contractor may need to present the project and answer questions about materials and methods.

Certificate of Appropriateness: If approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) that must be posted during the work. This document confirms your project complies with historic guidelines and serves as authorization to proceed.

Common Roofing Considerations in Historic Reviews

The HRC typically focuses on several key aspects of roofing projects:

Material Authenticity: Original materials are strongly preferred, particularly on prominent roof planes visible from public streets. Where original materials are prohibitively expensive or unavailable, the commission evaluates alternative materials based on visual compatibility.

Pattern and Color: Historic roofs often featured distinctive patterns in slate laying, decorative ridge treatments, or color variations. Preserving or recreating these elements is typically required where documented.

Roof Profile and Form: Changes to the basic form of the roof (pitch, dormers, etc.) are generally scrutinized carefully, as these elements contribute significantly to architectural character.

Visible Modern Elements: Additions like skylights, solar panels, or mechanical equipment require thoughtful placement to minimize visibility from public rights-of-way. When approved, these elements typically need to be designed for minimal visual impact.

Strategies for Successful Application

Increase your chances of approval with these approaches:

Early Consultation: Before finalizing plans, schedule a preliminary meeting with Historic Resources staff. Their feedback can help shape your proposal for better alignment with guidelines.

Documentation: Provide thorough documentation of existing conditions, including detailed photographs of deterioration that necessitates replacement rather than repair. Historical photographs of your home, if available, can support authenticity in restoration.

Material Samples: Physical samples of proposed materials help commissioners evaluate visual compatibility. For alternative materials, having samples of both the original and proposed replacement aids comparison.

Professional Expertise: Working with contractors and consultants experienced in historic preservation demonstrates commitment to quality outcomes. Their knowledge of appropriate techniques often strengthens applications.

Phased Approach: If budget constraints prevent using authentic materials throughout, consider proposing a phased approach where the most visible sections use premium materials while less visible areas use approved alternatives.

Navigating historic district regulations requires patience and attention to detail, but the resulting projects contribute to the preservation of Asheville’s architectural heritage. Most homeowners find that the additional effort results in roofing solutions that enhance both the historical value and aesthetic appeal of their properties.

Structural Considerations for Aging Roofs

Historic homes in Asheville often present unique structural challenges when roofing work is needed. Buildings constructed 80-120 years ago used different engineering approaches and material standards than modern construction. Understanding and addressing these structural considerations is crucial for successful historic roof restoration that provides both authenticity and long-term protection.

Common Structural Issues in Historic Roofs

Several structural concerns frequently appear during historic roof assessments:

Rafter Deterioration: Moisture infiltration over decades can cause decay in wooden rafters, particularly at the eaves where water tends to penetrate first. This weakening compromises the roof’s load-bearing capacity.

Undersized Framing Members: Historic homes were often built with smaller dimensional lumber for rafters and supports than modern building codes would require. These may be inadequate for heavy roofing materials like slate or clay tile.

Sagging Ridge Lines: As structural members age and settle, ridge lines may sag, creating both aesthetic issues and functional problems with water drainage. This sagging can stress roofing materials and lead to premature failure.

Inadequate Collar Ties or Bracing: Many historic roofing systems lack the structural connections that modern engineering would require for wind and snow loads common in the Asheville area.

Chimney and Wall Support Issues: Masonry elements like chimneys may have settled differently than the surrounding roof structure, creating stress points and potential leak areas where the two meet.

Assessment and Documentation

Before beginning roof work, thorough structural assessment is essential:

Interior Attic Inspection: Examining the underside of the roof deck and structural members reveals issues that aren’t visible from the exterior. Signs of water staining, wood rot, or previous repairs indicate potential problem areas.

Load Capacity Calculation: Professional engineers can calculate whether existing framing can support the desired roofing material, particularly when considering heavy options like slate or clay tile.

Deflection Measurement: Measuring the straightness of ridge lines and rafters helps quantify structural movement and determines whether correction is needed before roofing installation.

Moisture Content Testing: Using moisture meters on wooden structural components helps identify areas where decay may be active but not yet visibly apparent.

Documentation of Historical Elements: Before reinforcement work begins, documenting original construction methods and materials helps ensure that necessary structural improvements respect the building’s historical integrity.

Reinforcement Techniques

Several approaches can address structural deficiencies while respecting historical character:

Sister Rafters: Adding supplemental rafters alongside original members provides additional support while preserving original materials. This approach is particularly useful when original rafters show partial deterioration or inadequate sizing.

Ridge Beam Reinforcement: Installing or reinforcing ridge beams helps correct sagging and provides improved structural integrity, particularly for roofs that will carry heavy materials.

Tie Rod Systems: In cases where roof structures are spreading (pushing outward on walls), concealed tie rod systems can provide tension reinforcement without visibly altering historical appearances.

Flitch Plate Reinforcement: Steel plates sandwiched between wooden members create composite structural elements with greater strength while maintaining original dimensions and appearances.

Targeted Replacement: When deterioration is severe, selective replacement of structural elements may be necessary. Using traditional joinery methods and matching wood species maintains historical authenticity in these repairs.

Balancing Historical Integrity with Modern Requirements

Finding the right approach requires balancing several considerations:

Building Code Compliance: While historic structures may have some exemptions from modern building codes, structural safety requirements typically must be met. Working with code officials who understand historic preservation helps develop acceptable solutions.

Material Weight Considerations: If original roofing materials are being restored (like slate or clay tile), structural improvements may be necessary to support their weight, particularly if temporary lighter materials have been in place.

Visibility of Interventions: Structural reinforcement should ideally be concealed or minimally visible to maintain historical character. Techniques that work within existing attic spaces or roof cavities are preferable to those that alter exterior appearances.

Reversibility: Following best preservation practices, structural interventions should be designed to be reversible when possible, allowing future generations to implement improved approaches as techniques evolve.

Documentation: Thoroughly documenting all structural interventions creates an important record for future owners and preservationists, explaining what was original and what was modified.

Addressing structural considerations in historic roofing projects requires specialized knowledge and often the collaboration of preservation-minded structural engineers, architects, and roofing contractors. While these additional steps add complexity to roofing projects, they ensure that Asheville’s historic homes maintain both their distinctive character and structural integrity for generations to come.

The Lane Roofing Approach to Historic Preservation

At Lane Roofing and Restoration, our approach to historic roofing projects combines respect for Asheville’s architectural heritage with practical solutions that ensure long-term protection. We’ve developed specialized processes and relationships that allow us to deliver exceptional results for historic homeowners throughout Western North Carolina.

Our Historic Preservation Philosophy

Our work on historic properties is guided by several core principles:

Preservation First: Whenever possible, we prioritize preserving and repairing original materials rather than replacing them. This approach maintains the authentic character and patina that gives historic homes their unique appeal.

Research-Based Decisions: Before recommending solutions, we research the architectural history of your home to understand original materials, techniques, and design intent. This research informs every aspect of our approach.

Balancing Authenticity and Performance: We recognize that historic homes must still provide reliable protection against Asheville’s mountain weather. Our solutions honor original aesthetics while incorporating appropriate improvements in weather resistance and durability.

Craftsmanship Focus: Historic roofing requires attention to detail and specialized skills that aren’t needed in conventional roofing. Our team includes craftspeople trained in traditional techniques like hand-seaming copper, custom flashing fabrication, and slate cutting.

Our Historic Roofing Process

Working with Lane Roofing on your historic home involves a specialized process:

1. Comprehensive Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your roof’s condition, including both exterior examination and interior structural assessment. This process documents existing materials, identifies historical elements worth preserving, and pinpoints areas requiring attention.

2. Historical Research: For homes where original roofing has been previously replaced, we research historical records, old photographs, and similar properties in your neighborhood to determine appropriate restoration approaches. This may include consulting with local historical societies or preservation specialists.

3. Material Sourcing: Based on our assessment, we identify and source appropriate materials—whether that means finding salvaged slate that matches your home’s original roof, locating specialty clay tiles, or selecting the most historically appropriate modern alternatives.

4. Regulatory Navigation: We assist with Historic Resources Commission applications when required, preparing documentation, material samples, and presentation materials needed for approval. Our experience with Asheville’s historic districts helps streamline this process.

5. Detailed Planning: Before work begins, we develop comprehensive project plans that address everything from structural reinforcement needs to weather protection during the project. This planning minimizes surprises and ensures efficient execution.

6. Careful Execution: Our installation crews are specifically trained in historic roofing techniques and understand the special care these projects require. From proper handling of fragile materials to replicating traditional installation patterns, attention to detail guides every step.

7. Documentation: Upon completion, we provide detailed documentation of the work performed, materials used, and maintenance recommendations—creating a valuable record for future homeowners and preservation efforts.

Specialized Expertise and Capabilities

Our team brings specialized knowledge to historic roofing projects:

Traditional Metalworking: In-house capabilities for custom fabrication of copper, zinc, and terne-coated stainless steel elements, including decorative ridges, custom flashings, and built-in gutter systems that match historical profiles.

Slate and Tile Expertise: Specialized knowledge of different slate types (Vermont, Virginia, Pennsylvania) and their distinct characteristics, along with techniques for salvaging and reinstalling original slate when possible.

Decorative Element Restoration: Ability to preserve or recreate distinctive roofing elements like finials, cresting, ornamental ridge caps, and patterned layouts that contribute to architectural character.

Structural Solutions: Partnerships with structural engineers and timber frame specialists who understand historic building techniques and can design appropriate reinforcement when needed.

Material Matching: Resources for locating difficult-to-find materials through our network of architectural salvage specialists, historical material suppliers, and custom fabricators.

The Lane Roofing Difference for Historic Homes

What sets our approach apart for historic homeowners:

Education-First Consultations: We believe informed homeowners make better decisions about their historic properties. Our consultations explain options, trade-offs, and long-term implications in clear, non-technical language.

Transparent Communication: Historic projects often reveal unexpected conditions once work begins. Our communication process ensures you’re promptly informed about any discoveries and involved in decisions about how to address them.

Community Commitment: As a local, family-owned company, we’re personally invested in preserving Asheville’s architectural heritage. Our team lives and works in the communities we serve, giving us a stake in maintaining the character that makes our region special.

Long-Term Relationship: Our 10-year workmanship warranty is just the beginning of our commitment. We provide ongoing maintenance recommendations and inspections to help protect your investment in authentic historic roofing.

By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern materials knowledge and installation techniques, Lane Roofing helps Asheville’s historic homeowners protect their properties while honoring the architectural legacy that makes our city unique. Our hands-on, education-focused approach ensures you’ll understand not just what we’re doing, but why it matters for your home’s long-term preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Historic Roofing FAQs

How do I know if my home qualifies as “historic” for roofing purposes?

Homes are typically considered historic if they’re 50+ years old and retain original architectural character, especially if located in designated historic districts. However, even if your home isn’t in an official historic district, preserving original architectural features often adds value and character. Our assessment can help determine whether historical roofing approaches would benefit your property.

Can I use modern materials on my historic home and still maintain its character?

Yes, with careful selection. Today’s manufacturing techniques can create convincing replicas of historic materials that offer improved performance. The key is choosing products specifically designed to mimic historical appearances in texture, dimension, and color variation. These alternatives are most appropriate on less visible roof planes or when structural limitations prevent using original materials. Our approach balances authenticity with practical considerations for each unique home.

What’s the process if I need Historic Resources Commission approval for my roof?

We handle this process for our customers, beginning with preliminary consultation with HRC staff to understand specific requirements for your property. We then prepare necessary documentation, including existing condition photos, material specifications, and installation details. After submitting your application, we attend the HRC meeting with you to present the project and answer technical questions. Once approved, we obtain the Certificate of Appropriateness required before work begins.

How much more expensive is historical roof restoration compared to standard roofing?

Historic roofing typically costs 25-100% more than standard roofing, depending on materials and complexity. This reflects the specialized materials, increased labor intensity, and craftsmanship required. However, many historic materials offer significantly longer lifespans—slate roofs can last 100+ years compared to 25-30 years for standard asphalt shingles—making them economical when considered over their full lifespan. We provide detailed cost comparisons that include long-term value considerations to help you make informed decisions.

Testimonials

We’re working to gather testimonials from our historic home customers. If you’ve had a positive experience with our historic roofing services, we’d appreciate you sharing your thoughts to help other homeowners.

Preserve Your Historic Home’s Character with Expert Roofing Solutions

Your historic Asheville home represents both a personal investment and a piece of our community’s architectural heritage. The right roofing approach preserves its distinctive character while providing reliable protection against Western North Carolina’s diverse weather patterns.

At Lane Roofing and Restoration, we bring specialized knowledge, traditional craftsmanship, and local understanding to every historic roofing project. Our process balances authenticity with practicality, ensuring solutions that honor your home’s past while securing its future.

Whether you’re facing immediate roofing concerns or planning for future preservation, we’re here to provide the expertise and guidance you need. Our education-first approach ensures you understand your options and can make confident decisions about your historic property.

Contact Lane Roofing today at (828) 490-1830 for a comprehensive assessment of your historic home’s roofing needs. We’ll help you develop a restoration or maintenance plan that protects both your investment and Asheville’s architectural legacy for generations to come.