Repair first on older roofs
An old roof is not always a bad roof. Natural slate can last a very long time. Many slate roofs only need a few slates swapped and new flashing.
Before you plan a full new roof, get an honest look at what can be saved. Keeping good original material is often better for the home and its look.
Matching slate, cedar, and metal
When a slate is replaced, it should match the old ones in color, size, and thickness as close as we can find. It should be held with a slate hook or a hidden fastener, not a nail through the face.
Cedar should be replaced with cedar of the same style. Metal roofs should be repaired with a compatible metal, so the metals do not wear each other out.
When a new roof is the right choice
Sometimes a roof is past saving. Slate may be soft and flaking, cedar may be rotted through, or metal may be rusted and patched all over.
If your home is in the Historic District, new work needs a Certificate of Appropriateness first. We can give you photos, a written scope, and material details to bring to the borough. We will not tell you the review will be approved. That is the borough's decision.
Chimneys, dormers, and flashing
Each chimney and dormer is a joint where water can get in. Copper flashing is a classic choice on slate roofs.
If a leak shows up near a chimney or a dormer, the flashing is a likely cause. See our chimney flashing repair guide to learn more.