For more than a century, the Washington County Courthouse in Iowa has stood as a proud landmark and symbol of civic life. Its red-brick exterior, towering clock, and architectural details give the courthouse its unique character and historical charm. Yet like many older buildings, its roof demanded attention to ensure that it could continue serving the community for decades to come.
The recent roof replacement at the Iowa Courthouse wasn’t just about protecting the building, but also about preserving its history and upgrading its performance. Thanks to Brava Old World Slate shingles, the courthouse now combines timeless style with modern durability, ensuring that its legacy remains intact.
A Landmark Worth Protecting
The Washington County Courthouse represents the heart of the county’s civic life, hosting government functions and serving as a recognizable landmark in the skyline.
Maintaining this structure means protecting more than brick and mortar. It means safeguarding a piece of history, one that residents identify with and celebrate as part of their community’s story. That’s why the roof replacement had to strike a balance between authenticity and practicality.
Why the Roof Needed Attention
The courthouse roof has been replaced several times over the decades. An asphalt roof in the 1950s gave way to slate in the 1990s, but even natural slate couldn’t withstand Iowa’s demanding climate forever.
Over time, shingles began to deteriorate, metal flashing showed signs of wear, and severe winters caused hazardous snow slides. In fact, one incident destroyed an awning at the courthouse entrance, prompting officials to take action. Clearly, it was time for an upgrade that offered lasting performance. That’s where Brava comes in.
Choosing the Right Materials
County leaders reviewed multiple bids and roofing solutions before landing on Brava Old World Slate. The choice came down to many factors, including cost. But they were also interested in finding a material that could match the courthouse’s classic look while providing modern reliability.
At Brava, our composite tiles are crafted to mimic the beauty of natural slate, offering added benefits that make them ideal for historic preservation projects. Being manufactured locally in Iowa added another layer of connection to the community.
The Benefits of Brava Old World Slate
When you choose roofing for a historic or civic building, you need performance, safety, and authenticity in equal measure. Brava Old World Slate checked every box. Here are the advantages of using our composite slate shingles:
Authentic Look: Each tile replicates the texture and depth of natural slate, preserving the courthouse’s historic character.
Lightweight Design: Composite tiles reduce the structural load and protect the original decking.
Durability: The tiles will not crack or chip under harsh weather.
Low Maintenance: Minimal upkeep saves both time and taxpayer dollars.
Color Stability: UV-resistant pigments ensure the tiles hold their appearance for decades.
Sustainability: The tiles are made from recycled materials, contributing to eco-conscious construction.
Fire Rating: Class A protection ensures maximum safety for a civic landmark.
Snow and Ice Performance: The tiles are designed to work seamlessly with snow guards and heat trace systems.
Project Highlight: Iowa Courthouse
Replacing a roof on a historic structure is never a simple task. Contractors had to ensure the courthouse remained accessible during business hours, keeping entrances open while scaffolding and lifts were in place and protecting landscaping and sidewalks.
The installation started by removing the old slate and inspecting the decking for damage. Each step required precision to honor the original craftsmanship while updating the building for modern use. It was a lot of work, but well worth it in the end.
Installing the New Roof
Once the old roof was carefully removed, the team installed a protective ice barrier across the entire area. Taking this step helps protect against future leaks and structural damage from freeze-thaw cycles.
Next came the Brava Old World Slate shingles, installed with starter, hip, ridge, and valley accessories for a flawless finish. Contractors also installed Alpine SnowGuards across the roof, preventing snow from sliding off and causing hazards.
To complete the project, the original Raychem heat trace cables were salvaged and reinstalled, ensuring reliable ice control in the winter months. Every detail mattered, from the fasteners used to the safe removal of debris.
A Collaborative Effort
This project wasn’t accomplished by just one party alone. Washington County officials worked closely with contractors, preservationists, and Brava experts to bring the vision to life. By combining skilled craftsmanship with the right materials, the team delivered a solution that respected the courthouse’s past while preparing it for the future. That kind of collaboration is what makes preservation projects like this successful.
The Lasting Impact
Today, the Washington County Courthouse stands stronger than ever. The new roof protects the structure from the elements and ensures that the building continues serving the community. And, of course, it looks absolutely incredible!
For residents, this project represents more than an improvement to a local government building. It’s a promise that the courthouse will remain a symbol of civic pride for generations to come.
Learn More About Brava Old World Slate
Preserving historic structures requires thoughtful choices. You want materials that capture the beauty of the past while offering the strength and performance needed today.
The Iowa Courthouse project demonstrates how Brava composite roof tiles deliver on that promise, protecting history, supporting community, and ensuring long-lasting results that people can count on. Contact us today for a free quote.
