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New Rochelle HLRB defers decision on metal ‘slate‑look’ roof at 73 Fifth Avenue
Summary
The Historical and Landmarks Review Board deferred action on an application to replace an asphalt roof with galvanized steel shingles that mimic slate, asking the applicant to consult the homeowner and provide additional information or samples.
The City of New Rochelle Historical and Landmarks Review Board deferred action in February 2025 on an application (HLRB 2 2025) to replace the roof at 73 Fifth Avenue with galvanized steel “slate‑look” shingles.
The applicant, identifying himself as Ober Abraham of Best Choice/Best Roofing, presented the product as a 28‑gauge galvanized steel shingle designed to mimic slate. Abraham said the manufacturer offers a transferable limited lifetime warranty, estimates about a 15% reduction in the home’s energy costs, and advertises wind resistance up to 200 miles per hour. He said the homeowners preferred a slate appearance but sought a more economical alternative to full slate.
Board members said the house, which was discussed as likely built around 1930, has historically had asphalt shingles and that HLRB guidance generally favors in‑kind materials for roof replacements. Kevin Kane, the city’s director of planning and sustainability, and Benito Seja, senior project manager, reminded the board that the HLRB’s guidelines on the city website encourage like‑for‑like replacements based on a building’s age and style. Several board members said the metal product represented a departure from the row of similar asphalt roofs on the block and asked the applicant to discuss alternative materials with the homeowners.
A member of the public, Elena Harrison Cowie of 70 Hunter, asked to see a physical sample and said the product shown in the application did not look like slate. Cowie recommended checking state guidance before adopting the product more broadly.
Board members said that if the homeowners decide to replace the existing roof with an in‑kind asphalt shingle, they likely would not need to return to the board; if the homeowners want the metal slate‑look product, the applicant would have to return with additional justification and samples. The board therefore agreed to adjourn the item pending the applicant’s consultation with the homeowners and any further materials the applicant provides.
The board did not vote to approve the proposed galvanized steel shingles at this meeting.
