Maury Associates

Nantucket requires a building permit for roof replacement, filed through the Building Department. The island's defining wrinkle is historic review: nearly the entire island is a designated historic district, and the Historic District Commission (HDC) must approve essentially any visible exterior change, including roof material and color. Cedar is the expected material in most of the core. Massachusetts code requires ice-and-water shield at the eaves and around penetrations, and severe-wind provisions drive enhanced fastening and reinforced edge metal. Licensed contractors familiar with HDC review handle the filings — this step is non-negotiable and can add lead time.

Nantucket is the most expensive place to roof in Massachusetts. Ferrying materials and crews, severe-wind detailing, corrosion-resistant fasteners and copper flashing, and the near-universal use of cedar all push costs well above the mainland. A cedar shingle re-roof on a typical island home commonly runs $30,000-$70,000 or more, depending on size and complexity. Architectural asphalt, where the HDC permits it, is cheaper but still elevated by freight and labor. Copper flashing and standing-seam metal on custom homes run higher still. Waterfront and large historic homes reach the top of the range.

Massachusetts requires a written contract and a Home Improvement Contractor registration for most residential roofing work; ask for the registration number and check it before paying a deposit.

More on permits, costs, rebates and common questions, plus every other roofing contractor serving the town, on the Roofing in Nantucket page.