Restoring grandeur to a historic home in Minneapolis

By Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA).

True North Roofing, LLC’s triumphant achievement of winning the Bronze Award in the 2024 Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards marks a pivotal moment in their journey of dedication to craftsmanship and excellence.

In the heart of the Uptown area of Minneapolis, a 120-year-old historic home stood tall, beckoning for restoration and renewal. Its aging roof awaited a transformation that would marry class with durability. Undeterred by the challenges, True North Roofing, LLC embarked on a journey embracing the opportunity to breathe new life into this architectural gem.

Crafting excellence: True North’s meticulous material selection

The project, spanning a vast 73 squares, unfolded against the backdrop of urban vibrancy and historical significance. A homeowner sought not just a roof but also a symbol of enduring quality that could withstand the rigors of time and weather while respecting the distinguished century-old residence.

True North Roofing, LLC curated premium materials to ensure both beauty and longevity for this prestigious project. The team selected the CertainTeed Northgate® ClimatFlex® Shingles in Hunter Green, known for their Class-Four impact resistance and timeless allure. Complemented by the steadfast protection of MuleHide SA-SBS Pine Green for impeccable water resistance and the intricate detailing of FJ Moore Frostproof Pipe Flashing, every element spoke volumes of the team’s dedication to excellence.  Each material was chosen for its functionality and to elevate the aesthetic of the roof.

Preserving heritage: Strategic selection of asphalt roofing

The decision to opt for asphalt roofing was not arbitrary but a carefully considered choice rooted in the unique demands of the historic building and the discerning preferences of the homeowner. True North Roofing, LLC recognized asphalt’s unparalleled versatility and reliability in withstanding the steep pitches and gusty winds characteristic of the Uptown skyline. Asphalt seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, meeting the expectations of both the homeowner and the neighborhood’s historical committee.

In navigating the roofing options available, True North Roofing, LLC assessed the specific needs of the century-old building. By understanding the importance of preserving architectural integrity while ensuring modern durability, asphalt emerged as the ideal solution. Its ability to withstand the harsh elements of the Minnesota climate, including snow, wind and hail, made it a natural choice for the project.

Asphalt roofing offered a seamless integration of tradition and innovation, aligning perfectly with the historical committee’s vision for the neighborhood. Its timeless aesthetic, advanced technology and durability promised to protect the building and enhance its visual appeal for generations to come. By selecting asphalt roofing, True North Roofing, LLC demonstrated its ability to meet the unique challenges posed by historic restoration projects.

Conquering urban heights amidst challenges

The project posed formidable challenges, from the extreme height of a 20/12 turret tower to the intricate details of rounded flats and expansive metal valleys that seemed to stretch for miles. True North Roofing, LLC’s team of 18 skilled craftsmen rose to the occasion, even overcoming a sudden downpour during the second day of installation. Each team member brought a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring that every aspect of the project was handled with precision and care.

Working the hustle and bustle of city streets, the team navigated tight spaces and stringent safety regulations. Despite the challenges posed by the urban environment, they remained steadfast in their commitment to excellence, attending to every detail with meticulous care.

From the initial planning stages to the final touches, they worked to ensure that the jobsite remained protected at all times, implementing safety measures to safeguard both their crew and the surrounding community. As they labored high above the city, True North Roofing, LLC’s team demonstrated their technical expertise and their passion for their craft. Each shingle was laid and the valley was sealed with skill, ensuring that the finished product would not only meet but also exceed the expectations of their client.

Craftsmanship beyond compare

The project demanded more than skill; it required an understanding of history and an appreciation for craftsmanship. From meticulous wooden repairs to intricate handcrafted details, every aspect required precision and care. As the project neared completion, the once-muted skyline of Uptown Minneapolis was transformed into beauty and grace. The dramatic peaks and sweeping valleys of the roofline, adorned in shades of green and blue, breathed new life into the neighborhood’s skyline.

True North Roofing, LLC’s triumph in restoring grandeur to the Minneapolis home stands as a testament to the enduring power of dedication. As the sun sets over the urban horizon, the completed roof stands tall, a beacon of pride for the community and a symbol of excellence in roofing.

Excellence in Asphalt Roofing: Winning bronze

True North Roofing, LLC earned the 2024 Bronze Award in the ARMA’s Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards Program. The contractor’s win catapulted them into the spotlight, gaining them widespread acclaim within the roofing community and beyond. “Kudos to True North Roofing, LLC,” stated Reed Hitchcock, ARMA executive vice president. “Their recent project epitomizes excellence in asphalt roofing, showcasing innovative solutions to restore historic homes.”

In acknowledgment of this achievement, True North Roofing, LLC received a $500 monetary prize, national industry recognition and coverage on ARMA’s website and social media channels. This fueled their determination to pioneer new frontiers in roofing and they reveled in their achievement at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) in Las Vegas. True North Roofing, LLC surmounted daunting technical hurdles and fostered collaborative synergy.

Recognition and honor: ARMA’s prestigious award

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, showcasing 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. ARMA recently honored the winners at the 2024 International Roofing Expo.

To learn more about the awards program or ARMA, visit asphaltroofing.org.