Owner withdraws request to replace red-slate roof at 5 Claremont Street; commission urges slate specialist repairs

Guillermo, speaking for his mother (the owner of record), asked the Worcester Historical Commission May 22 to replace a distinctive red-slate roof at 5 Claremont Street because recurring leaks were affecting upper-floor residents.

Commission staff and commissioners advised a different approach. Michelle Johnstone, staff to the commission, recommended hiring a slate specialist for a comprehensive repair rather than piecemeal patching. "I think it's really important to get a slate expert that your average roofer…aren't gonna be very good at slate," Johnstone said.

Guillermo said roofers had performed multiple patch repairs but leaks persisted, and he expressed willingness to pursue specialist repairs and return if problems continue. "We love the historical house. We wanna maintain as best we can," he said.

The commission granted a leave to withdraw without prejudice so the owner can seek slate expertise and attempt repairs; the motion passed by roll call: Commissioner Santos (yes), Commissioner Holnarski (yes), Commissioner Thierman (yes), Commissioner Northway (yes), Commissioner Andre (yes), Commissioner Taylor (yes), Chair Diane Long (yes). Staff offered to connect the owner with Preservation Worcester for contractor recommendations.

Commissioners noted the roof is a significant character-defining feature — the red slate was described in the record as one of the building's most significant features — and advised preservation-minded repairs before considering wholesale replacement.