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EXTERIORS -  ROOF FEATURES


Shingles

Originally, most homes would have been roofed with cedar shingles. As these have become prohibitively expensive and the quality of available cedar has deteriorated, asphalt or fibreglass shakes, which are available in many styles, are the preferred roofing material for historic cottages. Try to choose laminated shingles, which most resemble the texture of the cedar originals. Metal roofs are not recommended because they will greatly alter the character and appearance of the building

Chimneys

 

An original brick chimney with its attractive silhouette.

Brick chimneys were once a common feature. They often had one or more projecting rows of brick at or near the top that provided a more interesting silhouette. Inside, these chimneys often had two openings: one to connect to a wood stove in the kitchen, and another on the other side, that was connected to a wood or coal furnace in the basement, and in some cases to a fireplace.
When using an original brick chimney, care should be taken to ensure that it is in good working order and that it meets current fire codes. Insurance and fire regulations have changed for the historic wood stoves that are still in use in some buildings. Please contact jnhmunicipality and your insurer for more information about their use.

 

Most homes had two chimneys, but few remain in Hartney today.
 
Chimneys are particularly vulnerable to the weather, and many have now been removed or replaced. If you still have your chimney and wish to warm your space with an efficient, modern woodstove, a professional can install a stainless steel liner that will render your chimney safe and fireproof. 

Even in homes where chimneys are no longer in use, their presence lend character and provides a visual reference to the original design and function of a building. These seemingly minor details, if preserved intact, contribute greatly to the heritage character of the community as a whole.
 


Eaves, Brackets & Trim

Decorative Wood trim such as the brackets on eaves, “gingerbread” trim on gable ends can be preserved with a bit of care. Replacing them with custom milled pieces is also an option when necessary.






 
  
Dormers

Dormers add character to a roofline. Some of the more decorative styles require additional of care when re-painting, and when re-shingling.

 

Rounded roof      



Gable roofed wall dormer – window flush to wall, not set into the angle of the roof.


     

Hip roofed Dormer


 
A well-crafted dormer