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SPG Roofing & Exteriors

Terra Cotta Roof Replacement

Picture of Brady S. Clements

Brady S. Clements

Founder of SPG Roofing & Exteriors

Specialty terra cotta tile roof replacement for the Union County Public Library in Liberty, Indiana. Built in 1915, this landmark is getting a full roof upgrade that protects the structure for the next century while matching its period correct appearance, from steep slopes to low slope tie ins.

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

Talk to a Historic Roofing Specialist

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.

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.

Terra cotta tile roof replacement on the Union County Public Library in Liberty, Indiana
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

Consult on a Historic Roof

Custom trusses and metal decking installed over structural steel
Framing and metal decking set the base for a century of service.
High performance underlayment covering the roof deck
High performance underlayment creates a clean, watertight substrate.
Terra cotta tiles laid out with consistent coursing
Precise coursing keeps hips, ridges, and slopes aligned.
Ridge tiles set and sealed with premium mortar
Ridge work balances strength with historical accuracy.
Low slope roof section with fully adhered membrane
Low slope areas use a fully adhered membrane for dependable tie ins.
Wide shot of the library showing new terra cotta tile installation
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.

Start a Historic Roofing Plan

Picture of Brady S. Clements

Brady S. Clements

Founder of SPG Roofing & Exteriors

Contact Us
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