PARIS — In the early hours of the morning until nightfall, the roof restorers of Paris diligently work to replace the iconic zinc sheets that contribute to the city’s distinctive skyline, regardless of the harsh winter snows or the sweltering summer heat.
Recently, the unique craftsmanship of these workers has garnered attention with UNESCO designating their roof restoration methods as an Intangible World Heritage, highlighting the significance of their work.
UNESCO’s citation explained, “Restoring a roof includes the removal of the old zinc sheets, precise measuring and custom-cutting of new sheets using traditional Parisian folding machines, and then assembling and securing these pieces back onto the roofs.” With approximately 80 percent of Parisian roofs adorned with zinc, it serves as a living repository of the skills that contribute to the city’s unique architectural identity.
Predominantly young men, these roofers are generally drawn to heights, architecture, and the outdoors. One such worker, 21-year-old Fantine Dekens, transitioned from bartending to roofing to embrace a profession that allowed her to work outside and at lofty heights. Since beginning her roofing journey in 2021, she has developed a deep appreciation for her craft.
“There is a unique allure surrounding the roofs of Paris that drew me in,” Dekens shared. “Being outdoors is fantastic. However, you cannot ignore the physical challenges; it can get extremely cold or hot, and the materials we handle can be quite heavy. It’s not a profession you can sustain for a lifetime.”
With the recognition from UNESCO, the hope is that it will attract more individuals to this specialized field and enhance their working conditions. The roofing profession is struggling with a shortage of skilled workers who can maintain the zinc roofs that have been part of Paris since the 19th-century Haussmann period, characterizing everything from elegant balcony-laden apartments to the elegant churches spread throughout the city.
“For me, while this acknowledgment celebrates our craft, it brings to light the pressing need to address why there are so few roofers available,” she remarked.
Using welding techniques passed down since the 1800s, roofers meticulously measure new zinc sheets to ensure they fit the rooftops perfectly before climbing the often steep and slick surfaces to secure them in place.
“There’s a poetic aspect to being up high,” Dekens expressed. “I feel liberated in my movements. During breaks, we often take naps, sing, or yell without anyone watching. It’s a remarkable experience to have a panoramic view of all of Paris at once.”
