Historic Facades
Historic Facades | Roof Repair | Roofing | Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s iconic neighborhoods are stitched together by slate steeples, copper cornices, and ornamental parapets that deserve the same reverence today as the day they were built. At HEP’s Historic Facades Roofing, we blend old-world craftsmanship with modern protective technologies, delivering meticulous roof repair that keeps every vintage shingle and flashing true to its original character while fortifying it against the city’s four-season climate.
From emergency patch-ups after a nor’easter to comprehensive restorations of century-old mansard roofs, our artisans source period-appropriate materials, document each detail, and collaborate with local preservation boards to ensure authenticity. Homeowners, architects, and property managers trust us because we respect history, communicate clearly, and back our work with warranties that stand as strong as our reputation. When safeguarding Philadelphia’s past is your present priority, count on HEP to make roof repair an art form.
FAQs
Why do I need a contractor experienced with historic facades and roofs in Philadelphia?
Historic properties in Philadelphia are often protected by local ordinances and overseen by the Philadelphia Historical Commission. Roofs on these buildings can include slate, clay tile, copper, or terne metal that require specialized techniques and materials to preserve the structure’s integrity and meet preservation standards. An experienced historic‐roof contractor understands these regulations, knows how to source period‐appropriate materials, and can perform delicate repairs without damaging masonry cornices, parapets, or ornamental details that define the façade.
Which roofing materials are approved for historic buildings, and can they be matched exactly?
Acceptable materials depend on your building’s original construction, the neighborhood’s historic district guidelines, and the Historical Commission’s rulings. Commonly approved materials include natural slate, hand‐formed copper, standing‐seam terne-coated stainless steel, and custom clay tiles. In many cases we can salvage, clean, and relay original pieces. When replacement is unavoidable, we source quarried slate from the same color range, custom fabricate copper, or commission tile runs from specialty kilns to match size, profile, and color. All proposed materials are documented and submitted for Commission review before installation.
What is the permitting and approval process for repairing a historic roof in Philadelphia?
1. Site Evaluation – We inspect the roof, photograph conditions, and review archival drawings or past permits. 2. Proposal & Documentation – We prepare drawings, material samples, and a scope of work that shows how the repair preserves historic fabric. 3. Historical Commission Submission – For buildings on the local register or in a historic district, an application (with the above documents) is filed. Minor in-kind repairs may be handled by staff; major alterations require a public hearing. 4. Building Permit – Once Commission approval is granted, we obtain a Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) permit. 5. Construction & Final Inspection – Work proceeds under permit; the Commission or L&I may conduct a final inspection to ensure compliance.
Can modern waterproofing and insulation be added without changing the appearance of my historic roof?
Yes. We frequently install self-adhering, vapor-permeable underlayments beneath slate or metal to improve waterproofing while remaining invisible from the street. Rigid or spray-foam insulation is placed between rafters from the interior, keeping rooflines unchanged. For flat or low-slope sections behind parapets, we incorporate concealed single-ply membranes under traditional copper coverings. All upgrades are detailed so that exterior profiles, drip edges, and cornice lines remain authentic, complying with preservation guidelines.
What signs indicate my historic roof needs repair instead of full replacement?
Replacement is not always necessary. You may only need targeted repairs if: • Less than 20-25% of slate or tile pieces are broken or missing. • Flashings at chimneys, dormers, or valleys are the primary leak source. • Underlayment deterioration is localized. • The roof structure (rafters, decking) is sound with no widespread rot. A full replacement is recommended when: • Shingles or tiles have reached the end of their material lifespan (e.g., slate delaminating, clay tiles spalling). • Multiple leaks persist across large areas. • Previous inappropriate repairs (asphalt shingles over slate, tar coatings) have compromised the roof. Our assessment includes moisture readings, interior attic checks, and drone imaging to give you an accurate repair vs. replacement recommendation.
How long will a historic roof repair take and what should I expect during the project?
Small, in-kind slate or copper repairs may take 2-5 days once permits are secured. More extensive projects involving partial replacement, structural carpentry, or ornate cornice restoration can last 3-6 weeks. Expect the following: • Mobilization – Scaffold or lift installation to protect façades and pedestrian walkways. • Material Procurement – Custom slate or copper orders may add 2-3 weeks lead time. • Controlled Demolition – Damaged elements are carefully removed and cataloged for salvage. • Repair & Installation – New or restored materials are installed, flashings are soldered, and seams are checked for water tightness. • Clean-Up & Inspection – Debris is removed daily; final inspections are scheduled with L&I and the Historical Commission if required. We provide a daily progress log, maintain dust and vibration controls to protect fragile interiors, and ensure all work conforms to preservation best practices.