Patina shingle roof: how to combine old and new

In Herndon, VA, a retired home inspector created a unique way to save his historical roof, and save money.

In Herndon, the local historical society is quite protective of the historical heritage that the town richly inherited. Not only roof style is scrutinized carefully, but also color changes require approval.

In this case the owner’s front shingles were in poor shape, both in appearance and performance. He contacted Berridge Company from Texas, arranging with them to replace the front side of his home.

The first two photos show the font and back sides of their home on Elden Street.

The Berridge Company markets a modern version of the popular design of the height of the embossed tin shingle era. These modern “tin” shingles are close to the traditional, just a different metal, a different size and a different finish. But other than those details, Berridge shingles enjoy a good reputation.

Then he contacted us about cleaning, priming and coating the back side shingles with a “patina” version of acrylic. The crew flashed the new to old shingles at the ridge of the roof.

A word about “patina”: This tint is one of those colors that exists in the eye of the viewer.

I must have five different versions of patina, each labeled as such.

The photo to the right illustrates a selection of a standard tint, translated to the acrylic formula. Technically, the green color is tricky to make–not only matching the eye, but an additive that will last for more than a short time.

This closeup photo below illustrates several interesting details that undoubtedly escape most observers.

Snow birds: There are basically two types: Install with fasteners that creates a break in the metal or the clip on version. If possible, try to use the clip on version because that style is less likely to leak.

Gutters: The owner inherited this gutter when they purchased the place. Gutters that use straps that cut holes in the shingles are frowned upon.

Old antenna: As a general rule, the crew offers to remove any old “stuff” on a roof, like an old tv antenna. The owners like outdated clutter removed; the crew prefers to work around less clutter. After all these years, I have no recollection of any conversation about the antenna