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Design Review Board approves composite slate roof at 748 North Broadway after debate over authenticity and longevity
Summary
The Saratoga Springs Design Review Board approved a roof replacement at 748 North Broadway, allowing a composite (DaVinci) slate product with copper accents despite concerns from some board members about durability and material integrity; the board noted that a later switch to true slate would also be acceptable.
The Saratoga Springs Design Review Board on April 9 approved a roof replacement at 748 North Broadway, allowing a composite slate product paired with standing‑seam copper elements, while recording board concerns about the long‑term performance of synthetic slate.
The homeowner presented photographs and samples and said the existing asphalt roof was deteriorated and leaking and that real slate would be prohibitively expensive and high‑maintenance. The applicant said she preferred a DaVinci composite slate that, in her view and experience, “looks identical” to real slate from the street and would reduce long‑term maintenance and repair. She said she had samples on her porch and had inspected installations at other local properties.
Board members pressed the applicant on performance and precedent. Member Rob Duboff said he opposed the synthetic product for use in the North Broadway historic area, citing examples elsewhere where composite slates had warped or faded. Other members noted prior approvals of the same product at 385 Broadway and at a church conversion at Van Dam and Woodlawn; one board member said approving the product here but denying it elsewhere would require a strong argument. Several members said they prefer genuine slate where feasible, and one suggested the homeowner explore New York State tax credits to offset slate costs.
After discussion, the board approved the application “as presented,” with a notation that if the applicant later chose to install true slate the Design Review Board would approve that change simultaneously. The motion was made by the presiding chair and seconded by Jeff Wood; the board recorded the motion as approved.
Members who spoke on this item included the homeowner (applicant), Rob Duboff (opposed to synthetic slate), Jeff Wood, Leslie DeCarlo, Chris Bennett, and board members who questioned long‑term performance. Samantha Bossart of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation advised the applicant to explore New York State tax credits for historic rehabilitation to offset the cost of real slate installation.
The board’s decision preserves the homeowner’s ability to choose an upgraded roof appearance now while leaving open the option for a later change to true slate without returning to the board.
Votes at a glance: Motion to approve application for 748 North Broadway roof replacement — motion made by the chair; seconded by Jeff Wood; outcome: approved (voice vote).
