Best Roofing Materials for Ann Arbor's Historic Homes

Ann Arbor is full of beautiful historic homes — craftsman bungalows in Burns Park, tudors in the Old West Side, victorians near downtown, and colonials throughout the older neighborhoods. When it's time to replace the roof on one of these homes, material selection matters.

Here's what Ann Arbor homeowners with historic properties need to know.

The Challenge with Historic Homes

Older homes weren't built for modern roofing materials. Many Ann Arbor homes from the early 1900s originally had wood shake, slate, or clay tile roofs. These materials are beautiful but expensive to maintain and replace.

Additionally, many historic homes have:

Steep roof pitches that require specialized installation techniques
Multiple dormers and complex rooflines that create more seams and potential leak points
Narrow lot access that makes material delivery challenging
Original architectural details that need to be preserved or matched

The goal is finding a material that respects the home's character while providing modern durability and weather protection.

Material Options for Ann Arbor Historic Homes

Architectural Shingles (Most Common)

Architectural shingles — also called dimensional or laminate shingles — are the most popular choice for historic home roof replacements. They offer:

Dimensional appearance that mimics wood shake or slate
30-50 year warranties depending on the product line
Wide range of colors to match historic aesthetics
Cost-effective compared to premium materials
Proven performance in Michigan weather

For most Ann Arbor historic homes, a high-quality architectural shingle in a period-appropriate color is the best balance of appearance, performance, and value.

Synthetic Slate

If your home originally had a slate roof — or you want that look — synthetic slate is worth considering. These composite materials:

Replicate the appearance of natural slate
Weigh significantly less (important for older roof structures)
Cost 30-50% less than natural slate
Last 40-50+ years
Are approved by most historic commissions

The best synthetic slate products are nearly indistinguishable from real slate at street level.

Standing Seam Metal

Metal roofing isn't just for modern homes. Many historic properties — particularly farmhouses and commercial buildings — originally had metal roofs. Standing seam metal offers:

40-50+ year lifespan
Excellent performance in snow and ice
Period-appropriate look for certain architectural styles
Low maintenance
Energy efficiency

Metal costs more upfront but often pays for itself over time through longevity and energy savings.

Natural Slate (Premium)

For homeowners committed to historical authenticity and willing to invest accordingly, natural slate remains an option. Slate roofs can last 100+ years and offer unmatched beauty. However:

Costs are 3-5x higher than architectural shingles
Requires specialized installation skills
Adds significant weight (structural evaluation recommended)
Repairs require matching materials

We install natural slate but recommend it only for homeowners who understand the investment involved.

Working with Ann Arbor's Historic District Commission

If your home is in a designated historic district, the Historic District Commission (HDC) must approve exterior changes including roofing. Here's what to expect:

Application required before starting work
Material and color review to ensure compatibility
Staff review for most straightforward roofing projects (no full commission hearing required)
Approval timeline of 1-2 weeks typically

We've worked with the Ann Arbor HDC on numerous projects and can guide you through the process. In most cases, architectural shingles in appropriate colors are approved without issue.

Our Approach to Historic Home Roofing

When we roof a historic home in Ann Arbor, we:

Evaluate the existing structure — checking for any damage or concerns before adding new materials
Discuss material options — explaining the trade-offs for your specific home
Match existing details — preserving or replicating original trim, flashing, and architectural elements
Protect the property — using extra care with landscaping, porches, and historic features
Handle permitting — including HDC applications if required

We treat historic homes with the respect they deserve.

Ready for an Estimate?

If you have a historic home in Burns Park, Old West Side, Water Hill, or any Ann Arbor neighborhood, contact us for a free roofing consultation. We'll help you find the right material for your home's character and your budget.

Call our Ann Arbor office: (734) 882-2137