Here we are! The decoration of Domaine Tomali-Maniatyn's roof is (almost) completed. We still have a few finishing touches to put here and there, but we are very proud of the results, which goes beyond our best expectations!
Our roof is inspired by those of the Zakopane region, in the Polish Tatras mountains. It is most certainly unique in Quebec and even in Canada.
On the technical side, there are two layers of wood shingles on top of the protective coating, with a small space, allowing the roof to breathe and providing a better insulation. Each shingle is cut in chevron in order to be interlocked with its neighbor on a same row. They are also cut in a long and thin shape so that they closely follow each curve of the roof.
These two overlapping layers of shingles will give a longer life to our roof (we expect between 70 to 100 years, depending on the weather). Once the first layer will have reached the end of its life, in about 35 to 50 years, it will be removed and the second layer will then be painted to take over. But that's enough for the technical side of it...
From a decorative standpoint, this roof is almost like a hand-sewn piece of lace! The last row of shingles goes beyond the rooftop to form a delicate crenelation over the sky. Each gable and each balcony are covered on three sides with shingles that follow the slopes and curves of the roof, in the typical style of Zakopane's mountain lodges.
When your reach Domaine Tomali-Maniatyn (preferably just before sunset, this is the best light), the view is breathtaking: as you ascend the road, you will see the roof as if it was emerging from the grass and flowers like a powerful, yet delicate, ghost ship...
Here are a few pictures telling the story of its construction that started in 2002.
