1808 N Rampart St.

District: Faubourg Marigny - Full Control

Owner: Gerald M Birnbach

HDLC Staff: Dennis Murphy

Rating: Contributing

Applicant: Lone Wolf Renovations

Permit #: 23-22829-HDLC 

HDLC 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 Recommendations: 

The applicant noted the condition of the roof is deteriorating, which is causing increased incidences of moisture and water intrusion at the interior. Their insurance provider is also requiring them to repair the roof or face increased rates, and the expense of full repair/replacement with slate is cost prohibitive. 

An exterior visual inspection of the roof was conducted by Staff on August 30, 2023 and determined the roof to be in good to fair condition from the public right of way. Some localized areas of slate appear to have been replaced previously and there are some limited areas of delamination and discoloration. However, it does not appear that more than 20% of the slate is damaged or missing to warrant removal and replacement with an alternative material, as required by the HDLC Guidelines. The applicant has provided some photos demonstrating the interior moisture issues, but has not provided additional documentation on the current condition of the slate roof at the exterior. 

While the condition of the roof from the street does not appear to be deteriorated to warrant full replacement, it does appear to have water intrusion issues at the interior, and it is likely that most or all of the slate will need to be carefully removed temporarily to repair the roof sheathing and flashing to address these issues. Based on this, and because the proposed new asphalt roof shingles will mimic the appearance of slate and allow for the retention of the existing roof ridge tiles and ridge vents, Staff has no objection to the request for replacement.

• Recommendations: No objection