In the past, roofs were mostly made with natural materials like wood, stone and earth. Man-made materials like asphalt and felt only became available in the twentieth century. When it comes to choosing a new roof for a historic home, you’ll have to consider how you can preserve its key features. It’s also essential that you hire the right contractor for the job. ——————————————– CONTINUE READING ——————————————–Here are the best roofing options for historic homes. Wood ShinglesThese are the oldest natural roofing material in the U.S. and still widely used today. They’ve been used in homes since the seventeenth century for roofing and exterior walls. This material is usually cut and dressed, or sawn smooth. Traditional shingle materials include pine, oak and cedar. Metal Standing seam is the most common type of metal roof today. Copper is a popular option due to its long lifespan. When properly installed, a copper roof can last for more than a century. Before hiring a contractor, make sure they have a valid license and insurance. Slate In the eighteenth century, slate was imported from Wales into the U.S. The long lifespan of this material makes up for its cost. It can often last for at least a century. Today, man-made options are available, which are lighter and don’t cost as much. Tile Terra cotta tiles were widely used in the Spanish parts of the U.S. in the eighteenth century. Tile roofs emerged in the twentieth century with the spread of the Spanish Colonial and Mission styles. This roofing material is ideal for areas prone to wildfires because of its fire resistance. When it’s time for a new roof, turn to Innovative Roofing & Siding, Inc. We are a roofing contractor that’s committed to quality workmanship and excellent customer service. Call us at (865) 688-2888, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate. We serve clients in Knoxville and the surrounding areas.