2425-27 Chartres St.

District: Faubourg Marigny - Full Control

Owner: Chad P Lusco

HDLC Staff: Dennis Murphy

Rating: Contributing

Applicant: 2425 Chartres, LLC

Permit #: 23-31737-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: 

This work is being applied for because the current condition of the slate roof is deteriorating, which is causing increased incidences of moisture and water intrusion at the interior. The applicant has investigated repairing and/or replacing the roof with new true slate and found the cost to be prohibitive. Because of this, they are requesting the slate roof be removed for replacement with an architectural grade asphalt/fiberglass roof shingle and for the existing roof ridge tiles to remain. 

An exterior visual inspection of the roof was conducted by Staff on November 30, 2023 and determined the slate to be in fair to poor condition from the public right of way. Overall, the current roof does appear to be deteriorated and a majority of the slate tiles appear to show evidence of chipping, delamination, and scaling. Some slate tiles are visibly loose or missing and there appear to have been some inappropriate ad-hoc repairs and algae growth, particularly at the rear non-visible roof slope. It is also possible that the current slate roof is original or historic to the building, and may simply be at the end of its intended lifespan.

Based on the current condition of the roof and the associated cost for repairing or replacing it with new slate material, replacement with asphalt shingles  is likely an appropriate option in this case. Additionally, because the proposed new asphalt roof shingles will mimic the appearance of slate and allow for the retention of the existing roof ridge tiles, Staff has no objection to the request for replacement.

• Staff Recommendation: No Objection