The shape, texture and color of the roof are important design features of any building. Gable and hipped roofs are most common for residential construction, while flat roofs are found on some commercial buildings. Many of the early houses of the city were roofed in cedar shingles and later reroofed with asphalt shingles. Properly selected, modern asphalt roofing materials are compatible with the appearance of historic buildings.
(A) Roofing materials. New roofing material should be appropriate to the character of the building in composition, size, shape and texture. Dark brown, dark gray and “weathered wood” are among usually acceptable colors. Rolled roofing may be used only on flat or slightly sloped roofs which are not visible from the public way.
(B) Alterations to roof shape; front. The original roof type, slope and overhangs should be preserved. The roof shape at the front should not be altered except to restore it to the original documented appearance or to add architecturally compatible dormers. Documentation includes evidence of the former appearance of the building, or, in the case of pattern book houses, those of similar period and style. The shape of existing dormers should not be altered unless compatible with the original design.
(C) Alterations to roof shape; rear. Alterations to the roof shape at the sides or rear should be compatible with the architectural character of the building.
(D) Skylights. Wherever possible, skylights should not be installed on the front roof plane. They should be flat and as close to the roof plane as possible.
(E) Rebuilt chimneys. If rebuilding is necessary, original brick details such as decorative panels and coffers should be replicated. In the absence of evidence of the original appearance of the chimney, repair or rebuilding should be compatible with the building style or type.
(F) Chimneys and stovepipes. Wherever possible, new chimneys and stovepipes should not be installed on the front roof plane.
(Prior Code, § 12-1668)