Hingham is one of the few towns where we’re as likely to be asked for red cedar as for asphalt. With one of the best-preserved colonial downtowns in New England and a large stock of antique and reproduction homes, Hingham homeowners often want — and their houses deserve — roofing that respects the architecture. That’s a specialty of ours: one of our recent Hingham projects was a complete cedar roof replacement, shown in the gallery below.

Cedar, slate, and getting the details right

A cedar roof done properly is a 30-plus-year roof, but the details decide everything: stainless fasteners, proper coursing and keyways, and — the step most installers skip — a ventilated underlayment mat so the shakes can dry from both sides. We install true cedar as well as high-end architectural shingles that mimic wood for owners who want the look with less maintenance. For homes in or near the historic districts, we’re comfortable working through any design review the project needs.

Not every Hingham roof is an antique

From Crow Point to South Hingham, plenty of the town’s mid-century and newer homes just need a dependable asphalt replacement — full tear-off, ice and water shield at eaves and valleys (essential given how Hingham’s shaded northern exposures hold snow), and our 50-year material / 15-year workmanship warranty. Harbor-facing homes get the same high-wind fastening schedule we use on all coastal work.

Worth knowing: Hingham requires building permits for re-roofing, and homes in the historic districts may need an additional review for visible material changes. We handle the paperwork on both counts and can advise on what the commission will and won’t flag before you commit to a material.