Patina Polished Living – Flat Roof Replacement in Old Town Alexandria
- Tom Hurley
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
When Patina Polished Living, a well-known local home-wear shop in Old Town Alexandria, began experiencing roof leaks, protecting both the building and the space inside became a priority. As a historically unique property with a flat roof system, the solution needed to be durable, energy efficient, and appropriate for an older structure in a dense urban setting.
Located in the heart of Old Town, the building required a roofing approach that could address ongoing leaks without compromising the character of the space below.
What Prompted the Work
The existing flat roof had begun to fail, allowing water intrusion during rain events. Flat roofs, especially on older buildings, can be particularly vulnerable if materials have reached the end of their service life or were not originally installed to modern standards.
Given the nature of the space and its contents, a full replacement was recommended rather than short-term repairs.
Scope of Work
This project involved replacing the existing flat roof with a modern, commercial-grade roofing system designed for long-term performance.
The roof was replaced using commercial-grade TPO roofing. TPO is a white rubber membrane commonly used on flat roofs due to its durability, reflectivity, and energy efficiency. Its reflective surface helps reduce heat absorption, making it a strong option for flat roofs in historic and urban environments where temperature control and longevity matter.
Care was taken to ensure proper installation details, drainage considerations, and seamless transitions to protect the structure below.
What Made This Project Unique
Beyond the technical scope, this project was especially meaningful as it involved working with family friends and a favorite local Old Town home-wear shop. Historic flat roofing projects require a careful balance of modern materials and thoughtful execution, particularly when the building plays an active role in the community.
Every aspect of the work was approached with attention to detail, knowing the importance of keeping the space protected and operational.
The Result
With the new TPO roofing system in place, the building is now fully protected from leaks and better equipped to handle seasonal weather conditions. The upgraded flat roof also improves energy efficiency while providing long-term durability appropriate for a historic Old Town property.
Projects like this highlight the importance of choosing the right flat roofing system for older buildings, especially in historic districts where experience and material selection matter.