Preserving a Nashville Landmark From the Top Down

Project Overview

Built in 1925, War Memorial Auditorium is one of Nashville’s most recognizable historic landmarks. During a major renovation, Maxwell Roofing was selected to deliver a modern roofing solution that improved durability and service life while preserving the building’s original appearance.

The existing tile roof was custom-built decades ago, and preserving its character was a priority throughout the project. Through extensive preconstruction planning and custom material development, Maxwell delivered long-term protection without altering the character of the building.

Project Challenges

The project required Maxwell to solve a difficult preservation problem: improve the roof’s performance without making it look new. The existing custom tile roof was secured with copper wire attachments and featured multiple colors from decades of exposure, making a standard coating impractical.

Additionally, large limestone parapets at the perimeter required a reliable waterproofing solution that would not stand out like traditional metal flashing. Every decision had to balance modern performance with strict historic preservation.

Maxwell’s Strategic Solutions

Maxwell began solving these challenges well before construction. Superintendent Charles Lunsford, Estimator Stephen Marbach, and Vice President of Construction Kasey Fanton developed a detailed installation strategy.

The team created a three-part coating system using resin, reinforcing fabric, and a quartz-finished surface. Four custom color blends were developed to match the existing tile variations, and crews labeled and mapped approximately 2,400 tiles to ensure each received the correct color.

Maxwell also sourced custom liquid flashing designed to bond directly to the membrane and match the limestone parapets. Nearly 900 linear feet was installed around the roof perimeter, creating a waterproof transition that blends into the historic façade.

Project Outcomes

Maxwell restored the roof to modern performance standards with long-term warranty coverage, all while preserving the auditorium’s historic visual appeal. Extensive preconstruction planning allowed Maxwell to complete the work in roughly half the anticipated time. The project demonstrates how careful planning and specialized craftsmanship can give a historic building modern protection without sacrificing the details that make it unique.