Historic Rowhomes
Historic Rowhomes | Gutter Replacements | Roofing | Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s iconic rowhomes deserve more than a quick patch-up; they merit the same thoughtful care that first gave them their timeless curb appeal. At HEP, we specialize in meticulous gutter replacements that honor a building’s vintage character while shielding brick facades, cornices, and foundations from today’s torrential downpours. From hand-crafting custom-fit K-style or half-round profiles to matching period-correct metals and patinas, our team treats every downspout and leader head as architectural jewelry—because on these narrow streets, details matter.
Our craftsmen combine decades of slate and membrane roofing expertise with cutting-edge water-management technology, ensuring each historic home stays dry without sacrificing its story. Whether you need a seamless integration with original box gutters or a full roofing refresh, HEP delivers transparent estimates, tidy work sites, and warranties strong enough to weather the next century of Philly storms. Protect your legacy; let us keep the rain where it belongs—safely off your stoop and out of your basement.
FAQs
Why should I hire a roofer who specializes in historic Philadelphia rowhomes for gutter replacement?
Unlike standard tract houses, 19th- and early-20th-century Philadelphia rowhomes have narrow cornices, shared party walls, and often brick or brownstone facades that can be easily damaged. A contractor experienced with historic properties understands how to work around these features, match original profiles, and comply with local preservation guidelines. This ensures your new gutters protect the roof without compromising the building’s architectural integrity or violating Philadelphia Historical Commission rules.
What gutter materials work best on historic rowhouses?
K-style aluminum is common city-wide, but for historic homes we usually recommend half-round aluminium or copper. Half-rounds replicate the look of the original 4"–5" galvanized steel gutters found on many 19th-century houses while offering improved flow. Copper costs more up front but can last 50–75 years and develops a patina that blends well with older brick and stone. For owners on a tighter budget, factory-painted aluminum in a historically appropriate color is the next best option.
Will I need a permit or approval to replace gutters on my historic property in Philadelphia?
If your home is individually listed on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, or if it lies within a local historic district, exterior work that changes appearance requires review by the Philadelphia Historical Commission (PHC). In most cases, gutter replacement that matches the existing profile, material, and color qualifies as ‘in-kind’ work and receives staff approval in a few days. If you plan to change material or alter the cornice, a full Commission review may be required. Non-designated rowhomes outside historic districts usually only need a standard Streets Department permit for ladder placement or dumpster parking.
How long does a gutter replacement project usually take on a Philadelphia rowhome?
For a typical two- or three-story rowhome with 35–45 linear feet of gutter, the on-site installation usually takes one working day: a morning to remove the old gutters and check the fascia, and an afternoon to install new hangers, gutters, and downspouts. If fascia repairs, cornice restoration, or custom copper soldering are needed, add one to two extra days. Permit approvals, if required, should be handled prior to scheduling and rarely delay the job once on site.
Can new gutters be installed without damaging my historic brick façade or decorative cornice?
Yes. We use hidden brackets screwed into the roof rafters or existing wooden fascia rather than drilling directly into brick. When masonry fastening is unavoidable, we use non-corrosive masonry anchors set in mortar joints—not in the brick face—to prevent spalling. Decorative wooden or metal cornices are protected by removing only the old gutter spikes, repairing any rot, and installing the new gutter slightly below the cornice edge to maintain drip-line alignment and historic sight-lines.
How should I maintain my new gutters to protect my historic roof?
Even premium gutters can fail prematurely if clogged. For rowhomes under mature street trees, we suggest cleaning at least twice a year—once after spring seed drop and again after fall leaf fall. Installing small-profile, screw-on leaf guards keeps debris out without altering the historic look. Check that downspouts discharge 3–4 ft from the foundation or tie into the city’s combined sewer to prevent basement moisture. Finally, inspect joints and brackets every 2–3 years; tightening a loose bracket early prevents fascia damage and preserves both the gutter system and your historic roofing structure.