[MassHistPres] water and slate roofs

[Vitek Kruta]

Is there possibility of well ventilated attic space?
Vitek Kruta
VK Retsoration, www.vkrestoration.com

On Thu, Jan 16, 2014 at 3:24 PM, Judy Markland
<jmarkland at lmstrategies.com> wrote:
> Greetings:
> Whately has an 1841 Greek Revival town hall that it is hoping to
> rehabilitate with both town and CPA funds.  The roof on the two story
> building is slate and generally in good repair.  Although it has not had a
> complete inspection, the architects estimate that less than 15% needs
> repair.  There are no obvious signs of flaking or delamination.  The slate
> was installed directly over an earlier wood shingle roof, probably in 1871
> when the existing 1-story building was lifted to become the second story.
>
> The consensus is that the roof should be retained and repaired.  However,
> the renovation will make the building very air tight.  A local builder has
> expressed concern that there is no water barrier below the slate, and that
> any water infiltrating will not be able to evaporate as it most likely does
> now, causing timbers and supports to rot.  He suggests removing the slate,
> adding a water barrier, and replacing the slates in good condition.
>
> This will obviously be expensive.  Has anyone had experience with slate
> roofs in tight, energy efficient buildings and, if so, can you recommend a
> course of action?
>
> Judy Markland
> Whately Historical Commission
>
>
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