KEEPING HISTORY DRY: THE ART AND SCIENCE OF HISTORIC ROOFING
Tuesday, December 1, 2026
Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Location: City Hall Council Chambers
All are welcome to attend this free event. * Please plan to arrive a few minutes early to find a seat before the presentation begins.
Discover the craftsmanship, materials, and techniques behind the roofs that protect your historic home!
A roof is more than just a protective covering. It is an essential part of a building's architectural character and a reflection of the craftsmanship, technology, and construction practices of its time.
Join the City of Monroe's Historic District Commission for an informative presentation exploring the materials, traditional construction methods, and preservation techniques associated with historic roofing systems.
Led by Jon Bennett, Assistant Construction Manager at The Henry Ford, this session will examine a variety of historic roofing materials, including wood shingles, cedar shakes, slate, metal, and early composite materials.
Participants will also learn about common roofing failures, the potential consequences of inappropriate repairs, ventilation and underlayment considerations, and practical strategies for balancing historical authenticity with modern performance and long-term preservation.
Whether you're a historic homeowner, a preservation enthusiast, or simply interested in traditional building techniques, this presentation offers valuable insights into protecting and maintaining one of your home's most important architectural features.
About the Program Series
This presentation is part of
"Your Heritage Home: A Practical Program Series for Old House Lovers," an ongoing educational initiative presented by the City of Monroe Historic District Commission.
Through expert presentations, hands-on learning opportunities, and practical preservation guidance, the series helps homeowners and residents better understand, maintain, and preserve the historic properties that contribute to Monroe's unique architectural character and community heritage.
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