Decorative tile roofs are beautiful to look at and a cost-effective way to change the style of your home. The specific process used to create these unique tiles will vary based on the materials used. Keep reading to learn about the process for fabricating sheet metal tiles.
Decorative sheet metal roof tiles can be produced in a number of types of metals. Copper that’s not just beautiful, but is environmentally friendly, galvanized sheet metal to obtain an older era of heritage roofing, or even a factory-finished painted steel available in many colours to coincide with a property’s paint scheme.
If you have a specific style or design of stamping for a sheet metal tile, a press die can be produced to a precise and unique decorative sheet metal tile or sheet metal shingle roof.
The quality of decorative tiles is highly dependent on the type of materials used. For instance, copper is a popular type of sheet metal for metal roof tiles and is one of the highest lifespans. In contrast, prefinished sheet metal and galvanized have a similar lifespan, in some cases of up to fifty-years.
The Canadian Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, ON, are among the nation’s most recognizable landmarks, showcasing the grandeur of gothic revival architecture, and they are a great example of our sheet metal roof tile fabrication work. Designed by several prominent architects, including Thomas Fuller, Chilion Jones, Thomas Stent, and Augustus Laver, the structure features the iconic centre block, as well as the east and west blocks, and the Library of Parliament. Over time, these structures have required careful preservation to maintain their historical and architectural integrity.
Victoria Lofts in Toronto, ON, is a striking example of how historic architecture can be preserved while meeting modern living needs. Originally built in 1892 as the Victoria-Royce Presbyterian Church, this Romanesque Revival landmark was transformed into residential units while retaining its remarkable exterior. The conversion is a testament to the value of blending heritage preservation with contemporary functionality.
When the building was repurposed, preserving its distinctive copper detailing became a priority. Heather & Little were commissioned to fabricate and install custom decorative sheet copper cladding to replace elements that were beyond repair. These included intricate arches, collars, and cornices, features that may appear simple but are highly complex to create.
Each copper component was crafted through sheet metal fabrication from multiple separate pieces, soldered together, and shaped to fit the structure’s unique curves. The process required forming bends along sheet metal and then curving them with a smooth radius, a challenging task that demands exceptional skill. This kind of work is where Heather & Little’s artisans excel, ensuring the building’s restored elements harmonize perfectly with the original design.
Heather & Little has been a trusted partner in preserving Parliament Hill for decades. As Historic Metal Conservators, their team works closely with architects and contractors to document roofing systems, develop restoration plans, and execute projects with precision. From the Peace Tower’s intricate copper cresting to the east block’s protective leadwork, each project honors original craftsmanship while meeting modern safety standards.
The Victoria Lofts project is a showcase of what can be achieved with expert sheet metal fabrication. The recreated copper work, particularly the radius corners, required precision, patience, and a deep understanding of historic detailing. The result is a seamless integration of new craftsmanship into a heritage structure, ensuring the building maintains its historic charm while standing strong for decades to come.
The sheet metal roof tiles move through a number of stages; once the die is produced, sheets are cut to the required size for the press, from the press, a lock system is hand-formed, in some cases, the tile needs to be trimmed, a water channel is incorporated, which deflects rainwater away from where the tiles are joined when installed. The sheet metal shingles are inspected for quality, color, appearance, and locking system. When they pass inspection, they’re packaged for shipping and are ready to be installed!
One of the most striking undertakings was the Peace Tower copper roof restoration. The project involved removing the original roofing, upgrading the building envelope, and reinstalling copper panels using updated seaming methods, all while preserving its ornate details. Similar expertise was applied to the centre block, which received a complete copper roof replacement.
The Library of Parliament restoration was another award-winning achievement, involving the use of copper, lead, and Monel metal to replicate its complex roof structure and decorative elements. Other projects included restoring the west block’s MacKenzie Tower, replacing copper roofs on the east block’s towers, and revitalizing the mansard roof of the Office of the Prime Minister and Privy Council.
If you have a restoration project, especially one involving decorative sheet metal fabrication, Heather & Little has the expertise needed to achieve exceptional results. Contact us today to discuss your project.
If you are looking for a second opinion on your project or have a particularly complex issue that needs a fresh eye, such as historic building restoration, we’re here to help. Tackling tricky restoration projects is our specialty, and we welcome the opportunity to provide consulting services. We apply a keen attention to detail to all our commissions.
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