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weedyacres

Re-roofing 1900 built house

weedyacres
2 years ago

So this house we just acquired needs a new roof. I need advice on the best scope of the re-roof that will balance the latest "technology" of protection from water with honoring the roots of the 100-year-old house and preserving its character. Also, it's a flip, so cost-consciousness comes into this.


The two main questions are:

1. Fascia and soffits or no?

2. How to vent the attic?



The porch roof was damaged by a tree several years ago that fell through on the right side, and it was never fixed. There's enough rot of the rafters and sheathing that we will be rebuilding that portion of the structure from scratch.


In addition, the eaves are sagging. The gusset posts are trying unsuccessfully to hold them up. One of the roofers that I asked out for a quote suggested he support the eaves with some 2x4s connected the rafters to pull them back up, and then cover that propping with aluminum fascia and soffits. Does that violate any rules of old house preservation?


Finally, the attic currently has no venting. Unless you count the leaky dormer windows. We will be finishing the livable portion of the attic, which has windows on the side gables. So do we attempt to put tiny gable vents above the windows on the sides? Or do we vent the soffits and add a ridge vent with the re-roof?


All advice appreciated.

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