APPLICATION: HDC98-0132

DATE FILED: August 25, 1998

APPLICANT: 
Mr. and Mrs. A. Roy Saunders
18 Forest Avenue
Rockville, Maryland 20850

Address: 18 Forest Avenue
Zone: R-90, Single family detached residential
Present Use: Residential
Proposed Use: Same
Age of Structure: Built 1909

The subject 2-1/2 story frame Georgian revival American Foursquare house has a pyramidal- hipped main roof clad with pressed tin patterned shingles. The front and rear porch roofs are clad with standing seam tin. The house is in near original condition.

HDC –233-90 Remove small rear porch and construct 32 foot one-story rear porch, replace picture window with French doors to interior: Approved.

REQUEST:

The applicant requests approval to remove the existing patterned tin shingles on the main roof and replace with composition Tamko-Frederick 0028 architectural type shingles. The front and side porch standing seam roof may also need replacement with asphalt shingles. The roof is leaking and has been repaired in the past. Estimates were submitted for asphalt type shingles at $4400 and stainless steel (monel) standing seam roofing at $44,000.

Staff recommends conditional approval of HDC98-0132 based on site visits of the structure and neighboring environment, finding the original shingles are at the end of their projected lifespan of 75-100 years.

1. Historic, archeological, or architectural value and significance of the site or structure and its relationship to the historic, archeological, or architectural significance of the surrounding area.

The house at 18 Forest Avenue is a contributing resource to the West Montgomery Avenue Historic District.

2. The relationship of the exterior architectural features of the structure to the remainder of the entire structure and to the surrounding area

The patterned tin shingle roof is an important element of the original building design and a material commonly used on middle class residential structures in the first quarter of the 20^th Century. It was not as expensive as slate and did not need additional structural load consideration, was fireproof and durable, but slightly more expensive than standing seam roofing. Its overall pattern continues the late 19^th Century interest in decorative design and detail carried over in late Victorian Queen Anne, Craftsman, and Arts and Crafts styles popular during this era. Staff is attempting to get several estimates using 25-30 year rated patterned metal roofs that require no painting and would be a more realistic replacement cost using available tax credits.

3. To any other factors, including aesthetic factors, which the Commission deems to be pertinent.

 Staff recommends that approval be subject to the following conditions:

• Applicant works with staff on alternative metal or asphalt replacement shingles and tax credit applications if financially comparable.