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Board approves homeowner’s request to replace failing dormer slate with wood siding
Summary
The Winchester City Board of Architectural Review voted to allow a homeowner at 453 North Braddock Street to replace failing slate on three dormers with wood straight-lap siding after members and staff weighed preservation guidelines, manufactured-slate alternatives and flashing/reveal details.
The Winchester City Board of Architectural Review on Aug. 15 approved BAR24-626, allowing the homeowner at 453 North Braddock Street to replace failing slate on three dormers with straight-lap wood siding.
Lisonbee Hape, the property owner and applicant, told the board contractors found severely deteriorated original slate while replacing a later metal roof. "We would like to replace the slate, the failing slate that is on each of those dormers with the wood siding," Hape said, explaining that the original slate crumbles when handled and that salvaging it is not feasible.
Board members asked about options including restoring with real slate or using manufactured slate. Hape said replacing with real slate would be cost prohibitive and the contractor could not guarantee matching variegated colors. Board member Mister Wynne said the remaining slate is no longer a coherent roofing element and supported replacement, adding, "So from an aesthetic curb appeal standpoint, I'm in agreement." Staff member David noted limited visibility from the street and past board precedent for similar minor changes.
Members discussed construction details the board wants addressed if replacement is permitted: ensure continuous step flashing, verify reveal and trim details so the new siding will not project awkwardly, and follow manufacturer installation instructions for clapboard or straight-lap siding. Board members encouraged the applicant to investigate manufactured slate for cost and maintenance comparisons; Hape said she would consider it if not cost prohibitive.
After discussion, a motion to approve BAR24-626 as presented passed by voice vote.
The approval is limited to the work presented to the board: replacing the three failing dormer slate surfaces with wood straight-lap siding that matches existing house siding and trim, subject to standard installation and flashing details. The board did not order a broader change to the house or district regulations; staff will monitor implementation.
