Roof Replacement on Older Homes in Clarksville, TN
Older homes have character. Original woodwork. Historic charm. But they also have old roofs.
Plank decking (1x6 boards with gaps). Multiple layers of shingles (sometimes four). Cedar
shake underneath. Unusual roof shapes. And rot. Lots of rot.
We have been replacing roofs on older homes in Clarksville since 2003. Historic district near
downtown. Farmhouses from the 1800s. Mid-century ranches. Victorian homes. We have seen
it all.
This article covers roof replacement on older homes in Clarksville. The challenges. The
solutions. And why you need an experienced roofer. Call (931) 666-1469 for a free estimate.
Challenges of Older Home Roof Replacement
Let us list what we nd.
Plank decking. Older homes have 1x6 or 1x8 boards spaced 1/4 to 1/2 inch apart. That is
not a solid surface for modern shingles. The gaps can cause shingles to crack. We often need
to overlay with plywood (1/2-inch CDX). Cost $75 to $150 per sheet. An average 2,000 sq ft
home needs 60 sheets. That is $4,500 to $9,000 extra.
Multiple layers. Some older homes have three or even four layers of shingles. Tear-o takes
longer (double the time). Disposal costs more (triple the weight). We have seen roofs with
asphalt over cedar shake over asphalt over wood. It is a mess.
Cedar shake underneath. Many older homes have cedar shake roofs under asphalt. The
shakes are nailed directly to the rafters. Tear-o is brutal. The shakes are brittle. They crumble.
Nails everywhere. We have to hand-pull many of them.
Unusual roof shapes. Steep pitches (12/12). Multiple dormers. Complex valleys. Hand-cut
flashing. Requires skilled labor. A crew that only does simple ranches will struggle.
Historic district restrictions. If you are in the Clarksville historic district, you may need to use
specific materials (slate, tile, or wood shakes). Asphalt may not be allowed. We know the
guidelines. We work with the historic preservation commission.
Underlying rot. Older homes have had more time for leaks to cause rot. We often nd
extensive decking rot and even rafter damage. The rot may be hidden under multiple layers.
We have to tear o to nd it.
Fort Campbell families, older homes near base (but o post) have these same challenges. We
have experience.
How We Replace Roofs on Older Homes (Step by Step)
- Free inspection. We go into the attic. We inspect the decking and rafters. We look for rot.
We also check for vermiculite insulation (may contain asbestos). We do not disturb it if present.
- Structural assessment. If we suspect rafter damage, we recommend a structural
engineer. We can refer you. Cost $500 to $1,000 for an engineer.
- Asbestos testing (if needed). Older homes may have asbestos in shingles, underlayment,
or insulation. We can refer you for testing. Cost $200 to $500.
- Tear-o . Slower than a modern home. We remove layers carefully. We hand-pull nails
from cedar shake. We use a shingle eater for asphalt layers. We tarp the ground because
debris will fall.
- Decking replacement. We replace rotted planks. We may overlay with plywood to create a
solid surface for shingles. We show you photos of the rot.
- Rafter repair (if needed). Sister new rafters next to damaged ones. This is structural work.
Cost $500 to $1,000 per rafter.
- Underlayment. Same as any roof. Synthetic felt. Ice shield in valleys, eaves, and around
penetrations. We extend ice shield 8 feet up from eaves.
- Shingle installation. Architectural shingles are standard. For historic districts, we use
approved materials (slate, tile, or wood). We can source them.
- Flashing. Hand-cut for complex roof lines. We use copper for historic homes (it lasts and
looks appropriate).
- Cleanup. More debris than a modern roof. We haul it all. We magnet and sweep.
Why Choose Clarksville Roofing Co for Older Homes?
We have experience. We have done dozens of historic and older home roof replacements. We
know what to expect. We know how to handle surprises.
We also work with the historic preservation commission. We can help you navigate the
approval process. We know which materials are approved.
For Fort Campbell families in older o -base homes, we offer the same expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to replace the roof on an older home in Clarksville?
Yes. Montgomery County requires permits for all roof replacements. The historic district may have additional requirements. We handle both.
Can I replace a cedar shake roof with asphalt shingles?
Yes, after tear-o . You may need to add plywood decking over the planks. We do that. Asphalt shingles are lighter than cedar shake.
How much does it cost to replace a roof on an older home?
More than a modern home. Add $2,000 to $5,000 for plywood overlay, additional tear-o labor, and potential rafter repair. A typical 2,000 sq ft older home costs $14,000 to $18,000.
Does my older home have enough ventilation?
Probably not. Older homes often have no ridge vents and blocked so t vents (if they have so t vents at all). We add ventilation during the replacement. Cost $400 to $800.
Can I keep my original wood shake roof?
Great question — the answer depends on your specific situation. Call us at (931) 666-1469 for a free consultation. We give straight answers with no sales pressure. We serve all of Clarksville, TN and surrounding areas.
A: You can, but it is a re hazard and may not be insurable. Insurance companies often require
replacement of wood shake roofs. We recommend replacement.
How long does a roof replacement on an older home take?
Two to four days, depending on complexity. More than a modern home. The tear-o takes longer. The decking work takes longer. We will give you a timeline.
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Ready for a free estimate from a licensed Clarksville roofer?
Call (931) 666-1469