New copper roof being made with traditional methods

The scaffolding is now up for a big renovation job on the E Wing (the back west wing on the original motherhouse near the parking lot entrance).

“We are putting on a new copper roof using traditional methods,” explained Véronique Paris, Coordinator of Building Services.

The project costs almost $1.65 million and took two years to plan. Véronique explained that the project had to be approved by the Direction générale du patrimoine of the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications.

“The heritage experts insisted that we use traditional methods to conserve this knowledge and craftsmanship,” Véronique said. “By having this work done, we are conserving it.”

A team of up to 10 people are working on the roof through the spring, summer and fall. Some craftsmen will use the sheet-to-baguette roofing technique. The work is expected to be completed by early October.

The current roof is original and was built in 1954 when the Congrégation de Notre-Dame sisters had an addition built on the E Wing. The new roof should last 50-75 years.