Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Rock Falls, Ill., presented a formidable challenge. The original roof had multiple leaks, and the weather-beaten steeple desperately needed restoration.

Despite the project’s complexity, Boss Roofing-Siding Experts demonstrated unwavering dedication and expertise, navigating various obstacles to deliver outstanding results. Their efforts culminated in a prestigious Gold Award from the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association in the 2024 Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards Program.

Scope of Work

The roofing project was massive and involved a detailed plan to address the extensive damage. The work comprised 100 squares of asphalt shingles for the main building and 15 squares for the steeple. Attention to detail was paramount for the project’s success, particularly for the 150-foot steeple set amidst power lines. Coordinating a lift that could reach such heights was another crucial aspect of the project.

The roof and steeple repairs were executed in two phases over three weeks to restore the church to its former glory. The first phase involved removing the deteriorating roof and installing GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles, a process carried out over two weeks. Subsequently, the focus shifted to restoring the steeple, a task completed with precision and care over one week. The team employed essential resources such as asphalt shingles, underlayment, flashing, gutters, roofing tools, and safety equipment.

Boss Roofing-Siding Experts set up scaffolding and employed specialized lifts to complete the project.

Asphalt Roofing: An Effective Solution

Asphalt shingles emerged as the undisputed choice for the roofing project, offering multiple advantages. Ease of installation, low maintenance, and diverse color options made them a clear frontrunner. Moreover, asphalt shingles are durable in harsh weather conditions, including unforgiving winters. This performance allows the roofing system to hold up against the elements over time, providing long-lasting protection.

The church’s historical significance and the pragmatic consideration of cost-effectiveness influenced the decision to opt for asphalt shingles. Honoring the architectural heritage while adhering to budget and timelines was paramount for the project. Maintaining continuity with the previous roofing material was pivotal to the decision-making process.

The versatility of asphalt shingles, with an extensive array of colors available, seamlessly integrates with various architectural styles. This feature allowed the church to select a hue that harmonized with the building’s distinct design and paid homage to its rich historical context.

“The restoration of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church sets an extraordinary precedent in the industry,” said Reed Hitchcock, ARMA executive vice president.

Challenges and Considerations

Given the church's historical background, the renovation project demanded meticulous attention to detail.

The team encountered numerous challenges, including operating at extreme heights, safety concerns related to lifts, and navigating around power lines. Preserving the structure’s architectural integrity, while adhering to a stringent timeline, introduced additional complexities.

One of the primary obstacles was the towering height of the building itself, which presented technical hurdles and necessitated careful strategizing to ensure safe accessibility. Additionally, renovation could not disrupt the church’s daily operations.

To address these issues, Boss Roofing-Siding Experts set up scaffolding and employed specialized lifts, enabling them to navigate the height safely.

Simultaneously, the team maneuvered around power lines while removing the old shingles without letting debris fall and endangering the nearby surroundings.

The task of matching the color scheme with another building on-site and meeting contemporary performance standards heightened the project's intricacy. Although faced with difficulties, the contractor completed the renovation, delivering a resilient roof and steeple.

The team’s exemplary handling of the project garnered widespread appreciation from the church community. Church leaders and parishioners alike expressed gratitude for the project’s timely completion, signaling a new chapter in the legacy of this treasured edifice.

Boss Roofing-Siding Experts' recognition underscores the contractor’s skill in addressing constraints, implementing creative techniques, and delivering impressive outcomes.

“The restoration of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church sets an extraordinary precedent in the industry,” said Reed Hitchcock, ARMA executive vice president. “Boss Roofing’s dedication to quality and safeguarding historical treasures is commendable.”

In acknowledgment, Boss Roofing-Siding Experts received $2,000, national industry recognition, and coverage on ARMA’s website and social media channels. The team plans to invest the prize money in employee development and hold a congratulatory meeting to celebrate their hard work.

Recognition and Honor

The ARMA Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards Program celebrates innovation, craftsmanship, and excellence in the roofing industry. The program recognizes the top steep- and low-slope asphalt roofing projects across North America based on four categories: Why Asphalt; Project Challenges; Distinction; and Beauty.

Projects with the highest scores receive Gold, Silver, or Bronze medals. This year, ARMA has introduced Best-in-Class Categories to enhance diversity among winners and celebrate a broader range of achievements. These standout categories, awarded solely on judges’ nominations, include: In the Neighborhood; Commercial/Mixed Use; Craftsmanship; and Technical Difficulty.

The 2024 program received 94 submissions that showcased success stories, advanced solutions, and complex artistry in asphalt roofing systems. This year’s program had two gold medalists selected by a panel of industry experts, making it a monumental year for the awards.