Roof Restoration in Catonsville, MD, Historic "Victorian Rose"

The vision

Built around 1860, this charming Victorian, now lovingly known as Victorian Rose, has been an architectural centerpiece since the homeowners purchased it in 1979. With wood-frame Dutch-lap siding, a wraparound porch, a turret with a pointed roof, and a carriage portico, the home carries history in every detail. By the mid-1990s the owners had embraced a "Painted Lady" aesthetic inspired by the historic homes of Cape May, NJ, rose with almond-cream trim and blueberry doors, and turned their attention to the aging roof, envisioning alternating shingle shapes rising in four-row patterns to the peak.

The solution

The homeowners originally considered slate, but structural and budget limitations made it impractical. Classic Remodeling introduced them to high-quality, thick asphalt shingles that replicate the look of Victorian-era slate tiles but are much lighter and longer-lasting, CertainTeed Grand Manor & Carriage shingles. Before installation, our project manager inspected the roof and found two layers of shake shingles beneath a layer of asphalt.

The removal was done with precision to protect the home's paint and integrity, and several 130-year-old boards found to be deteriorated were expertly replaced. The new roof was laid out exactly as envisioned, alternating Victorian-style shingle shapes climbing to the peak, and the grounds and driveway were cleaned thoroughly, with the homeowners able to access their home throughout the project.

The result

More than 25 years later, the roof has stood the test of time, shingles secure and the surface strong, perfectly complementing the home's Painted Lady palette. The homeowners reflect fondly on Classic Remodeling's design insight, premium materials, and professional execution. Victorian Rose continues to bloom with timeless character and enduring craftsmanship.

Project gallery