The roof's appearance was critical, because property owners in the historical district must apply to the city historical commission for permission to undertake external renovations. The aim of the commission, explained Lori Sylvester of the city planning office, is to preserve the historical character of the neighborhood. Roof replacement normally is considered a maintenance item, rather than a renovation, but due to the prominence of the roof, the Hughes project was different, she said. It's a magnificent roof. Concrete tiles offered the durability to withstand the wide temperature ranges of the midwestern climate.
Concrete tile has a high cement content and is manufactured under high pressure.
The result is a material with very low moisture absorption and the ability to endure repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Their long life, with a warranty of 50 years, gives concrete roof tile favorable life-cycle costs in comparison with other materials. What's more, concrete roof tile has an Underwriter's Laboratory Class A fire rating. The new roof was installed by David Mench of All Around Improvements during the winter of 1999. The resulting air space between the roof sheathing and tile prevents direct heat transmission, which will keep the home cooler in summer and reduce ice damming in winter.