Coating old roofs can become an exciting project.
Pictured on this page is one of the remaining nine lighthouses from the period of history that boasted 26 structures, such as this one. Our business of coating old roofs does lead to unusual locales such as this one. Here we performed a fully reinforced restoration project using Preservation Products acrylic on this Delaware landmark. As in all our projects, the roof was cleaned, then primed. Four layers of acrylic were applied with mesh placed between the first and second layer.
Here, located on top of this Victorian residence stands the original light that aided ships navigating through the shipping channels of the Delaware River. Today, on the front lawn, a modern skeletal light has replaced this original beacon. Still in use, the station is a private residence; the Coast Guard maintains the light. Of trivia interest is that the Liston Range Front light guides ships for the longest distance compared to any other lighthouse.
2005 Update: Since this web page was posted, two former children from the nearby village shown in the photos have contacted me. Both had memories of sneaking down the beach to look over the wall at the lighthouse. If you take the time to view the old photo of the lighthouse in its early days (located in the historical links below), these excursions took some courage as well as distracted parents. 2007 Update: The care of this rare lighthouse is now in the keeping of a former resident of the nearby village. He always wanted to live there.
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| Nearby village | Modern day light guiding a ship on the horizon |
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| The guys call this step "running the roof" | Mesh width precut |
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Above photo is primer over pressure washed panels--notice the severe profile of old paint. This appearance can be compared to most painting projects. The fully reinforced technique improves a panel's look as illustrated to the right.
Below is acrylic/mesh/acrylic over the primed panels--notice the smoother surface. The improved appearance is one of the attractive results of this technique in coating cold roofs. Two more coats of tinted acrylic will be applied. The base color of acrylic is a light grey.
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| The two coats of Barn Red acrylic | Details finish the job |
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Coating old roofs with acrylic
Coating old roofs with different colors
For those visitors who want to explore, check this page devoted to history of this lighthouse or Delaware River & Bay Lighthouse Foundation. It is rare to see a photo of an older structure, but a review of these links reveals such a gem of a photograph. For me, the opportunity to work on this Victorian residence wth a watchtower, located in a picturesque locale, was a true privilege. The owner that contracted us is the grandson of the last lightkeeper and the interesting story of both men is detailed in the two previous links.
If you are seeking an experienced company to offer an estimate to preserve your existing roof, one of us would be delighted to visit your residence, discuss the alternatives available and, if requested, submit a quote for restoring your tin roofs. Click here for a map of our geographical work area.
Beyond information about our contracting services, this site is designed for individuals interested in tin roofs--photos, technical tidbits and history. These web pages are prepared by the same contractor that specializes in the restoration of these tin roofs. She enjoys dabbling in website construction, therefore photos and articles are simply presented. All pictures are from Roof Menders projects, the same contractor. If you have questions, just call 610-941-1051 for a chat.