roof assessment.pdf
3 Converse Street Suite 201 Palmer, MA 01069 PH 413-283-2553 FX 413-289-8993
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Roof and Related Detail Elements
General Assessment:
The current roof is of an asphalt shingle material and at nearly a decade ago the prior owners noted some issues that
were undisclosed but under review. During the brief ownership of the property the current owners can attest that
significant leaks are present and have caused failures to become apparent with cracks and failures in the interior
plaster of both the vaulted ceiling, structural arches, and exterior wall assemblies. A new roof is badly needed and
all flashings should be replaced.
The oldest sketch of the proposed structure generated by the architect indicated a graphic technique implying a sheet
form of roofing and coloration of an oxidized metal but was annotated as shingled. This could be the result of
budgetary concerns versus aesthetic intent. It should be noted that the dormers requested to be retained are in fact
roofed with metal. Regardless the execution of the original construction had a wood shingled roof and an architect’s
reference to a church suitable for a rural setting. The wood shingles would be installed on strapping and when
replaced a budget driven response would be to follow suit with asphalt shingles but these require continuous
substrate for installation and it can only be assumed that a dimensional board sheathing was implemented. Today
the use of plywood or like products would be used as a more efficient use or materials and favorable end product. It
is unknown at this time what substrate exists on the building and its condition.
The commission has indicated the importance to retain the dormer elements on the roof and the current owners have
accepted this request. The dormers currently consist of very simple triangulated forms with a gable face that has
decorative trim and stained glass inserts. The entire gable face is covered with a single glazed storm panel. Visible
deterioration of the storm panel frame and trim behind can be seen from the ground. Compromises in the condition
of the stained glass can not be assessed from this distance but it is assumed that less attention was applied to these
elements than the other fenestration due to difficulty in accessing them. The owners propose the removal of the
current storm panel and refurbishment of the gable materials (trim and stained-glass) before reinstallation in the
repaired and reflashed dormer structures.
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The proposed roofing material is a metal with a dull finish, not dissimilar to the current dormer roofs. The premium
material is being considered as a congregate’ s donation to the reclamation of the church into active service to the
community. The life cycle characteristics of this material is measurably greater than the alternative asphalt shingle
and its installation can more easily address the unknown substrate conditions and will have fewer joints and seams
for potential leaks over the asphalt units as well as require less labor and time on the roof surface for unit
installations and lastly as this individual installs this material for a living the proper execution and detailing can be
assured for a structure in which he will continue to be involved. This is a substantial investment being proposed by
the church to extend maintenance and stability to the continuation of the building and halt the undetermined issues
that were not addressed by the prior owners.
Sincerely,
Lawrence Tuttle, AIA