Terra Cotta Roof Replacement
<!-- ===== SPG Project Highlight: Union County Public Library [roof replacement](/residential/roofing/replacement/) ===== -->
Union County Public Library Roof Replacement
Specialty terra cotta tile roof replacement that preserves a 1915 landmark in Liberty, Indiana. We are protecting a historic building while matching its period correct appearance.
In Progress
Project at a Glance
Location & Type
- **Location:** Liberty, Indiana
- **Building:** Public Library
- **District:** Liberty Residential Historic District
Roof Systems
- **Terra cotta tile** roof system
- Metal decking and high performance underlayment
- **Low slope** tie ins with fully adhered membrane
Key Challenges
- Match historical appearance
- Work around active public access
- Tie into ongoing expansion and framing
Respecting History With Modern Craftsmanship
Built in 1915, the library is part of a nationally recognized district with architecture ranging from Greek Revival to Craftsman. The original clay tile roof had aged beyond repair. Our mandate was clear. Protect the building for the next century and keep the look historically correct. For property owners with historic structures, understanding when to replace your roof helps determine the optimal timing and approach.
Our Approach
We coordinated with the expansion team, set structural supports, and installed metal decking with a high performance underlayment for a watertight dry in. New terra cotta tile is laid with true lines at hips, ridges, and slopes. Low slope areas are tied in with a fully adhered membrane for long term performance.
Historically sensitive terra cotta tile installed over modern substrates for durability.
Step by Step Progress
1) Framing & Support
Custom trusses and metal decking over new structural steel to support the roof expansion.
2) Underlayment
High performance underlayment across the deck for immediate water tight protection.
3) Tile Layout
Tiles laid with precise coursing for alignment and pattern consistency across planes.
4) Ridge Detailing
Hand laid ridge tiles with premium mortar at all intersections for strength and fidelity.
5) Low Slope Areas
Low slope tie ins receive fully adhered membrane roofing for reliable drainage.
6) Final Touches
Walkthroughs, flashing inspections, and site cleanup in preparation for turnover.
Historic Appearance and Public Access
We match period details while maintaining safe access for visitors and staff. Staging, fencing, and scheduling are coordinated with the library to minimize disruption.
What This Delivers
Performance
- Watertight system from deck to tile
- Durable low slope tie ins
- Long service life with maintainable details
Preservation
- Period correct materials and lines
- Craftsmanship that respects the original design
- Protection for a public asset and community landmark
Status
- Major phases complete with ongoing inspections
- Final detailing and cleanup in progress
- Turnover pending coordination with expansion team
Photo Gallery
Framing and metal decking set the base for a century of service.
High performance underlayment creates a clean, watertight substrate.
Precise coursing keeps hips, ridges, and slopes aligned.
Ridge work balances strength with historical accuracy.
Low slope areas use a fully adhered membrane for dependable tie ins.
From the street the new tile reads as original, only better protected.
Preserve history with the right roof
We blend modern performance with period correct details. Public buildings, churches, and historic homes. Understanding tile roofing pros and cons helps you evaluate whether specialty tile materials are right for your historic project. Our specialty work serves historic properties across Liberty, Indianapolis, and surrounding Central Indiana regions.
Related Reading
- Planning Your Home Exterior Design — How roof material fits broader exterior aesthetics