2624 Burgundy St.

District: Faubourg Marigny - Full Control

Owner: Lutheran Evangelical

HDLC Staff: Dennis Murphy

Rating: Contributing & Non-Contributing

Applicant: Lutheran Evangelical

Permit #: 23-22396-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.

Section 5, Page 5 of the Guidelines for Roofing state that metal was popularized for roofing after sheet metal production was expanded following the mid 19th century, and can be found on commercial and industrial buildings, as well as residences and outbuildings. Traditional sheet roofing metals include lead, copper, zinc, tin plate, tern plate and galvanized iron. Not all types of metal roofing are appropriate at all building types and styles. In addition, the installation should not negatively impact a building’s style or detailing. Metal roofs are typically not appropriate for highly visible roof slopes or where the historic roofing material would have been slate, especially on high-style buildings. Metal roofs may be considered for installation where minimally visible.

Staff Recommendations: 

The applicant noted the existing slate roofs at the primary church building and rear office building are becoming increasingly deteriorated and were severely damaged during Hurricane Ida. As a result, they would like to replace the current roofing. At the Contributing rated primary church (Building A) they propose to remove the existing slate roof and ridge tiles for replacement with new standing seam metal roofing. At the Non-Contributing rated rear office (Building B) they propose to remove the existing slate roof for replacement with new asphalt roof shingles with the existing ridge tiles reinstalled. While the current condition of the roof cannot be determined visually due to the installation of a white protective tarp, photo documentation provided by the applicant demonstrates that there is general deterioration and discoloration of the slate, suggesting that repair or replacement may be warranted. 

At the primary church (Building A) the request to install new standing seam metal roofing may not be considered appropriate due to the high visibility of the roof from points along Burgundy Street and Franklin Avenue, and due to the fact that the original roof material was likely slate. Additionally, the new metal roofing would preclude the reinstallation of the ridge tiles and cap vents, which are important historic roof features the HDLC Guidelines note should be retained. Based on this, Staff recommends denial of the request for standing seam metal roofing and recommends the applicant consider installing asphalt shingles which mimic the appearance of slate and would allow for the reinstallation of the ridge tiles and vents. If the Commission does vote to approve standing seam metal roofing, Staff recommends it be in a darker color and less reflective finish.

At the rear office (Building B), because the slate roof appears to be in deteriorated condition and because the installation of new asphalt roof shingle roofing will mimic the appearance of slate and allow for the reinstallation of the ridge tiles and vents, Staff has no objection to request.

• Recommendation:

  • Building A - Denial of standing seam metal roofing and recommendation for installation of asphalt shingles with ridge tiles reinstalled

  • Building B - No objection to asphalt shingles with ridge tiles reinstalled