1425-1427 Bourbon St.

Staff Recommendations: 

The applicant originally applied to remove the previous deteriorated shingle roof for replacement with new asphalt shingle roof, and a CofA was issued on April 5, 2024. Prior to the issuance, Staff and the applicant had several discussions about new TPO roofing proposed at some low-slope lean-to roof areas at the rear which are visible from Kerlerec Street. While the repair and resurfacing of the rear parapet wall was not specifically noted in the proposed scope of work, the approved documents did indicate that all repair and replacement work must match the existing in type, material, and detail. The applicant noted that once the work began, they determined the condition of the rear parapet wall to be too unlevel and uneven to adequately replace the covering and flashing in-kind. Unfortunately, they did not contact HDLC in advance and opted to install inappropriate new asphalt shingles on this vertical surface. 

While asphalt roof shingles are considered an appropriate roof covering material, they are not intended for predominantly vertical applications such as at parapet walls or dormer cheek walls. While it is understandable that the original historic condition (or subsequent inappropriate repairs) may have presented a unique challenge for waterproofing, the use of asphalt shingles is not considered an appropriate alternative, and "smoother" finish options (such as sheet metal or similar) should have been utilized. While the shingle installation is only visible at the left-side of the parapet, it is prominently visible from Kerlerec Street. Based on these factors, and the Significant rating of the building, Staff recommends denial of the request for retention and recommends the applicant replace the shingles at this area with a more appropriate parapet material.