When working on the roof of a heritage building it’s important to consider the type of roof that’s currently used in its construction, as well as any other original parts it may have. Determining what the significant original roof is, or was, helps to understand later non-original changes and additions.
For heritage buildings the goal is to maintain the historical integrity of the building wherever possible. This means using construction methods that help create the original designs, and using materials that replicate the original construction. For example, many heritage buildings are clad in galvanised corrugating roofing which originally came in 6ft lengths. These materials can be modernised, restored and painted to lengthen their life, whilst still using the original design. Maintaining historical accuracy.
Other important considerations to make might be the types of guttering that was used, or if it is available, restoring the original to a usable state.