The Rocks – Washington, Connecticut

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Washington, Connecticut, "The Rocks" stands as a testament to the opulence of the Gilded Age. This distinctive country home, designed, built, and inhabited by architect Ehrick Rossiter in the late 19th century, exudes timeless elegance and historical significance.

Commissioned by Hobbs Incorporated of New Canaan, Connecticut, Slate & Copper Services undertook a comprehensive exterior restoration of this architectural gem. This endeavor coincided with Hobbs's extensive restoration and renovation project, conducted in collaboration with Sachs Lindores Architecture.

The meticulous restoration of "The Rocks" began in the summer of 2015 with Slate & Copper Services' Wood Roofing Division. The process involved the removal of the existing red western red cedar shingle roof and skip-sheathing, followed by the installation of ¾” plywood sheathing over the existing rafters. To ensure durability and weather resistance, Grace Ultra self-adhering bituminous underlayment and Cedar Breather were meticulously applied. The roofing shingles chosen for the project were 18” long Alaskan Yellow Cypress Tapersawn, boasting a 5/8” butt and installed with a 5 ½” exposure. Inspired by historical photographs showcasing Rossiter's attention to detail, Slate & Copper Services incorporated a saw-tooth butt detail on all eave courses, turrets, outbuildings, and sidewall shingles, creating a striking shadow effect at the soffits.

Every aspect of the roofing system was crafted with precision and authenticity. Exposed roof flashing, fabricated from 16 oz. lead coated copper, ensured both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Standing seam lead coated copper roofs, crickets, and meticulously flashed chimneys added to the home's grandeur. Custom-built gutters and scuppers, fashioned from lead coated copper, seamlessly integrated into the architecture, complementing the overall design. Additionally, each turret was adorned with custom lead coated copper finials, adding a touch of sophistication.

For low slope roofing and shower pans, Soprema Alsan, a two-part urethane epoxy monolithic liquid membrane product, was employed, guaranteeing superior performance and longevity.

In keeping with the architectural integrity of "The Rocks," Alaskan Yellow Cedar was selected for the siding. Impeccably crafted #1 perfection shingles, installed at 5” exposure, revived the timeless charm of the original design. Once again, the saw-tooth detail was meticulously incorporated, preserving the essence of Rossiter's vision.