Natural Slate
Timeless elegance and unmatched longevity.
Brava Synthetic Shake Roof & Copper Detailing in Winnetka
A cottage-inspired transformation blending timeless design, advanced materials, and expert craftsmanship.
Client
Winnetka
Location
Winnetka, IL
Duration
9 weeks
Date
April 2025
The Challenge: Preserving Character While Enhancing Durability
This Winnetka home’s original slate roof had surpassed its service life and was showing clear signs of deterioration. While slate offered timeless beauty, the homeowner wanted to reimagine the property with a softer, cottage-style aesthetic—without sacrificing durability or performance.
As a Winnetka roofing company specializing in high-end architectural systems, Wolf Development worked closely with the remodeling team to recommend a solution that balanced charm, longevity, and low maintenance. The goal was to transform the home’s appearance while ensuring the new roof could withstand decades of Midwest weather.
About The Materials: The Perfect Blend of Beauty & Performance
Brava synthetic shake captures the natural texture and depth of hand-split cedar while eliminating the drawbacks of wood roofing. Engineered from recycled composite materials, Brava tiles are designed to resist cracking, fading, rot, and moisture—making them ideal for Illinois’ freeze-thaw climate. When paired with handcrafted copper details, the result is a roofing system that is both warm and enduring.
Key Benefits of Synthetic Shake
50-Year Warranty
Long-term protection with minimal upkeep
Cedar Shake Appearance
Authentic texture without splitting or warping.
Lightweight Design
Suitable for older structures and remodels.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Manufactured from recycled, sustainable composites.
Copper Accents
Timeless detailing that improves durability and aesthetics.
Handcrafted Details Meet Modern Technology
Our team began by carefully removing the original slate roof and inspecting the roof deck for structural integrity and ventilation performance. A modern underlayment system was installed to improve moisture resistance and breathability across the entire roof assembly.
The Brava synthetic shake tiles were installed in staggered courses to achieve natural shadow lines and depth, enhancing the home’s cottage-style character. To complete the system, we fabricated and installed copper half-round gutters, round downspouts, and custom flashing details—all crafted in-house for precision and longevity.
Snow guards were added across the roofline to manage snow load during winter months, protecting gutters, walkways, and landscaping.
How the Synthetic Shake Roof Solution Came Together
How the Synthetic Shake Roof Solution Came Together
1
Roof Removal & Inspection: Original slate removed and deck evaluated for ventilation and structure.
2
Underlayment Upgrade: Modern moisture-resistant system installed beneath the shake.
3
Brava Shake Installation: Tiles installed in staggered courses for authentic texture.
4
Custom Copper Fabrication: Half-round gutters, downspouts, and flashing fabricated in-house.
5
Winter Protection: Snow guards installed to prevent sliding snow and ice damage.
The Results: A Cottage Roof Built to Last
The completed roof delivers the warm, cottage-inspired look the homeowner envisioned while providing modern performance and durability. Brava synthetic shake tiles paired with copper accents create a refined exterior that will age beautifully over time.
This project reflects Wolf Development’s ability to blend design vision with technical execution—resulting in a roof that enhances both appearance and long-term value.
Distinct Cottage Aesthetic
A softer, more inviting exterior transformation.
Long-Term Performance
Roofing system engineered for 50+ years of durability.
Low Maintenance Living
No rot, splitting, or ongoing upkeep required.
Improved Drainage
Copper gutters ensure efficient water management.
Winter Safety
Snow guards protect the home and surrounding landscape.
Building Relationships, Not Just Roofs
“We wanted our home to have a warm, cottage feel — and the new roof exceeded our expectations. The Brava shake and copper accents are beautiful. Wolf Development’s work is exceptional.”
Your Winnetka Roofing Questions, Answered
How long does a Brava synthetic shake roof last?
Up to 50 years with minimal maintenance, backed by a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty.
Why choose Brava over natural cedar?
Brava delivers the look of cedar while being fire-rated, mold-resistant, and far more durable.
Are copper gutters worth the investment?
Yes. Copper gutters can last 80+ years and add long-term value and curb appeal.
How do snow guards help in winter?
They prevent heavy snow from sliding off steep rooflines, protecting gutters and walkways.
Does Wolf Development handle both roofing and copper fabrication?
Yes. All copper work is custom-fabricated by our in-house craftsmen.
Still have questions?
Reach out directly. We’re here to talk.
- Licensed & Insured
- GAF Master Elite
- DaVinci Certified
- Since 2016
Considering a Brava Shake Roof for Your Winnetka Home?
Schedule a consultation to discover how Wolf Development can enhance your home’s beauty and performance with premium synthetic roofing systems.