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Historic Tile Roof Restoration & Drainage Rebuild for an Evanston Home
A complete renewal of a 1960s tile roof system, combining historical accuracy with modern protection against Illinois’ harsh weather.
Client
Evanston
Location
Evanston, IL
Duration
14 weeks
Date
March 2023
The Challenge: Leaks, Failing Underlayment, and Fragile Tile
This 1960s Evanston home had developed multiple leaks across its original clay tile roof. While a handful of tiles were visibly cracked, the real issue was hidden beneath the surface. The original organic, fibrous underlayment had completely deteriorated after decades of exposure, allowing wind-driven rain to penetrate the system. Many of the original fasteners were also corroding, further compromising the roof’s integrity.
As an Evanston roofing company experienced in historic tile restoration, we knew this project required far more than surface repairs. Due to the age and fragility of the tiles, every piece had to be removed carefully and preserved wherever possible. Maintaining the home’s architectural authenticity while delivering long-term performance was the primary objective.
About the Materials: Clay Tile Roofing & Architectural Copper
Clay tile roofing has long been a defining feature of Evanston’s historic homes. Known for its longevity and classic appearance, clay tile performs exceptionally well when properly installed over a modern roofing system. When paired with architectural copper detailing, it creates a roofing assembly that is both durable and visually refined.
Key Benefits of Clay Tile
Longevity
Clay tile roofs can last up to 100 years with proper maintenance.
Historical Accuracy
Restored using reclaimed tiles to preserve the home’s character.
Weather Protection
Modern underlayment protects against leaks and ice damming.
Copper Flashing
Prevents corrosion and enhances durability at key transition points.
Sustainability
Clay and copper are natural, recyclable, and environmentally responsible materials.
Precision Restoration Meets Modern Engineering
Our restoration approach focused on preserving the original tile while rebuilding the roofing system beneath it from the ground up. Each tile was removed by hand using a skiff folding method to support the material and prevent breakage—a time-intensive process that required senior-level craftsmanship.
Once the roof deck was exposed, the deteriorated underlayment was replaced with a modern system designed for longevity and moisture control. A full ice-and-water shield was installed to protect against winter ice damming, followed by a high-performance synthetic underlayment to support ventilation and drainage.
The gutter and drainage system was fully rebuilt using high-back gutters that extend onto the roof surface for improved water control. Finally, the tiles were reset using new starter courses, with additional reclaimed tiles sourced from a specialized salvage yard to maintain consistency. All flashing and detailing, including chimney flashing, roof-to-wall transitions, dormers, headboards, and starter boards, were replaced with new copper components.
How the Clay Tile Roof Solution Came Together
How the Clay Tile Roof Solution Came Together
1
Tile Preservation & Removal: Every tile was removed by hand using skiff folding to minimize breakage.
2
Underlayment Replacement: Failed organic underlayment was replaced with ice-and-water shield and synthetic layers.
3
Drainage Rebuild: High-back gutters and a re-engineered drainage system improved water management.
4
Material Matching: Reclaimed tiles were sourced to match the original roof’s color and profile.
5
Detail Upgrades: New copper flashing and trim ensured long-term leak protection.
The Results: A Historic Roof Reimagined for the Future
The completed roof preserves the home’s historic appearance while delivering modern performance. By rebuilding the roofing system beneath the original clay tile, the home now benefits from decades of reliable protection without sacrificing its architectural identity.
This 14-week restoration reflects Wolf Development’s commitment to thoughtful craftsmanship, careful coordination, and precision execution, especially on complex historic homes.
Leak-Free Performance
New underlayment and flashing eliminated long-standing water intrusion issues.
Preserved Historic Character
Original clay tiles were restored and reused wherever possible.
Improved Drainage
Rebuilt gutter system enhances water flow and winter performance.
Extended Roof Lifespan
Modern materials add 50+ years of service life to the system.
Increased Home Value
A professionally restored tile roof enhances curb appeal and resale confidence.
Building Relationships, Not Just Roofs
“Our roof had been leaking for years, and every patch repair failed. Wolf Development approached it like a true restoration. The craftsmanship, communication, and care were outstanding. The roof looks beautiful and performs perfectly.”
Your Evanston Roofing Questions, Answered
Can old tile roofs be restored instead of replaced?
Yes. In many cases, the tiles themselves are still in excellent shape — it’s the underlayment that fails. We specialize in restoring and reusing existing tiles.
How do you source matching tiles for older roofs?
We work with regional salvage yards and custom tile suppliers to find the closest match in size, color, and texture for historical consistency.
What causes tile roof leaks in Evanston?
Most leaks are due to deteriorated underlayment, corroded fasteners, or failed flashing — all common in older clay tile systems near the lakefront.
Do you offer underlayment upgrades for tile roofs?
Yes. We use modern synthetic underlayments and full ice-and-water shields to improve durability and weather resistance.
How long can a restored tile roof last?
A properly restored clay tile roof can perform for another 50+ years with periodic maintenance.
Still have questions?
Reach out directly. We’re here to talk.
- Licensed & Insured
- GAF Master Elite
- DaVinci Certified
- Since 2016
Considering a Tile Roof Restoration for Your Home?
Schedule a consultation with Wolf Development Roofing Specialists to explore restoration or replacement options that preserve your home’s beauty while protecting it for decades.