Bestagram 1 - Old Tin Roofs

Many older historic homes still have their original tin roofs. Actually, they are not made completely out of tin. They are made of a composite of metals called "terne". Metal roofs are known to have an extremely long lifespan, especially if they have been maintained throughout the years. Basically, that means that they have been kept coated with paint on a regular schedule.

When a metal roof is leaking, it doesn't mean that the roof is due for replacement. Most of the time the cause of the leak is something like loose flashing that needs to be caulked, a popped nailhead, an open seam, or some minor flaw in the metal. A simple membrane patch and some roofing cement is usually all that is needed to repair most leaks on tin roofs. This is an easy and relatively inexpensive job for most experienced roofing contractors to do. As long as there is no extensive rusting, roof replacement is not necessary. Even if a portion of the roof is rusted through, replacing the rusted section with a piece of new terne is all that is usually needed.

If a metal roof has been tarred over, which unfortunately happens from time to time, it is impossible to see how much of the metal roof underneath has rusted through. If a tarred over metal roof is leaking extensively, total roof replacement is usually the best option.

The main issue with metal roofs is maintenance. They must be coated with paint every two years to stay in good shape. Historically, barn red is the color of choice. This also pertains to any exposed metal flashing on slate roofs and metal built in gutters. All historic metal roofing will last a long time, as long as the roofs are coated on a regular schedule. There is also an aluminum-fiberglass coating which can be used that is very easy to find in most hardware stores.

This product lasts at least three years or so and is very good for filling in the imperfections in the metal roofing. If a silver roof isn't exactly your cup of tea, wait for the aluminum fiber-glass coating to cure for a month or so, and then paint it any color you want. Over the years, even more high-tech coatings have come on the market which boast better coverage and longer, maintenance free lifespans. Check with your local hardware store and see what they have to offer.

I can't stress enough how important it is to maintain the original fabric of a historic home. A tin roof adds historical significance to a structure. Properly maintained, it may never have to be replaced. Once it's gone, it's gone for good. Hold on to the history of your home, take good care of that old tin roof!

BESTAGRAM ONE / AUGUST 2000.