2711-2713 Burgundy St.

District: Faubourg Marigny - Full Control

Owner: Mary Ann Ruth

HDLC Staff: Dennis Murphy

Rating: Contributing

Applicant: Joyce Ruth-Boutte

Permit #: 23-11283-HDLC 

HDLC Design Guidelines: 

Section 5, Page 4 of the Guidelines for Roofing state that a slate roof can last 60 to 125 years depending on the roof slope, stone properties, formation, installation quality and regularity of maintenance. A failing slate often slowly delaminates, chips and absorbs moisture, causing the deterioration process to accelerate over time. Problems with slate roofs are typically the result of localized failure since many of the roof accessories and fasteners do not have the same 100- year life span as the slate itself. To extend the serviceable life of a roof, property owners are encouraged to address localized problems as they become apparent, using a qualified slate roofer. If over 20% of the roof slates are damaged or missing, replacement of the roofing might be warranted, although property owners are strongly encouraged to make every attempt to match decorative patterns and colors with replacement materials. Dimensional or architectural fiberglass asphalt shingles are manufactured by several companies, simulating the shapes, color and variegated color appearance of slate.

Staff Recommendation:

• Remove slate roof: No Objection

Staff Recommendations: 

An exterior visual inspection of the roof was conducted from the public right of way on February 15, 2024 and determined the slate to be in poor to very poor condition. Overall, the current slate roof does appear to be substantially deteriorated with many missing, damaged, or loose slate tiles at all visible roof slopes. A large number of the tiles also appear to show evidence of chipping, delamination, and scaling. The HDLC previously approved the removal of this slate roof in 2001, but this work was never completed. It is possible the current slate roof is original or historic to the building, and may simply be at the end of its intended lifespan. The HDLC Guidelines note that if over 20% of the roof slates are damaged or missing, replacement of the roofing may be appropriate. Based on the current condition of the roof, and because the applicant intends to replace the slate with new architectural grade asphalt/fiberglass shingles  to mimic the appearance of slate, and the existing roof ridge tiles will be retained, Staff has no objection to the request for slate roof removal.