The owner of 204 Washington Avenue (lot 108) in Cape Charles submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction of a single-family home. The “building footprint meets the setback\prevailing standard requirements of the zoning ordinance.” According to the applicant, they are planning on using vinyl siding and synthetic decking material for the front porch.
During discussion, the board voiced strong opposition to the use of vinyl covering over the outer chimney. According to chairman Joe Fehrer, the board did not want to set a precedent by approving a vinyl chimney. “I don’t believe, and Larry (DiRe), can you think of any others in the historic district, that have this…a masonry chimney may be more appropriate. We are in the historic district, there is criteria we have to follow.”
The applicant, Spencer Custis of Richmond stated that the project was already at budget limits, and that a masonry chimney, which is, from a design standpoint visually odd, would also be too expensive. The board noted the expense, and offered that maybe using decorative brick veneer might achieve the look the board was going after, and would save costs.
Another issue was the use of a round, port style window on the left side of the home. While round windows are common in Bay Creek, the board rejected its use in the historic district, noting that there are no round windows in old Cape Charles. The applicant responded that he could remove the round window, but, “It will break my wife’s heart. She’s seen these in Bay Creek, and really loves how they look.”
The board approved the Certificate of Appropriateness given that the applicant would use brick veneer on the chimney (or remove it completely), and change the small port window to something rectangular.
639 Monroe Avenue
The owner of 639 Monroe Avenue has submitted an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness for the removal of an existing utility room and new construction of a bath and bedroom. The proposed new addition footprint meets the rear yard setback, but not the side yard setback as proposed. Any use of existing materials will allow the new construction footprint to match the existing setbacks. This addition is proposed to use Hardie board, at the same reveal as existing siding, and vinyl windows are proposed throughout. The roofing material is proposed thirty-year architectural shingles, at a 3×12 pitch. The addition is proposed to be 12’ x 23’. The owner will be painting the soffit and shingles to match the existing color of the home. The owner is also planning to add a 6×13 ft. deck to the rear of the structure.
bedroom
The board approved the application.
About the Author
I can’t believe Cape Charles ok’d vinyl Windows in a historical area, we have worked with numerous towns and BAR’s in Virginia and none of them approved vinyl, a substitute is Composite Windows that have options of colors on the exterior, simulated divided lite’s and pine interiors so the customer can stain or paint the interior. They are termite and salt resistant so they are great for the eastern shore.
Berlin MD has approved these Windows in their historical areas.
The manufacturer is Interstate Door & Window
The closest dealer is Loudoun Door & Window inc. in Onancock