Triumph in the valley: A journey of excellence and pride

By Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA)

Dennis General Contractor proudly clinched the prestigious Gold Award for their exceptional craftsmanship on the Fleshman Creek roofing project.

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Paradise Valley, Montana, Dennis General Contractors, a roofing contractor serving residential and commercial clients, completed a roofing project against the backdrop of historical charm and natural splendor. This achievement earned them the Gold Award in the 2024 ARMA Asphalt Roofing Excellence Awards, a testament to perseverance and innovation in facing challenges.

Project profile: Beauty and complexity

Embarking on their largest roofing project to date, the team journeyed towards a pinnacle of achievement. This roofing endeavor posed a formidable challenge, with 110 squares of asphalt shingles that demanded meticulous planning and execution to ensure success.

The property’s position in the esteemed Paradise Valley emphasized maintaining its natural beauty and architectural integrity. The area’s abundant heritage provided a stage for the deliberations and decisions made throughout the project.

Tackling challenges: Weather conditions and rotten sheathing

Set amidst the picturesque landscapes of Fleshman Creek, the project unfurled with unexpected challenges. With its deteriorating material and compromised sheathing, the aging roof demanded a comprehensive overhaul. Rotten sheathing throughout the entire structure mandated a complete replacement, intensifying the complexity. Despite these obstacles, the team displayed remarkable ingenuity and craftsmanship, navigating the intricate details.

This included 53 pieces of custom bent valley metal, tailored to accommodate pitches ranging from 3/12 to 10/12. Precision was paramount, with each piece seamlessly integrated to ensure optimal functionality. Furthermore, crickets were skillfully framed to mitigate the impact of dead valleys, enhancing aesthetics and structural integrity. Amidst the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, encompassing snow and rain, the project timeline faced further delays. Yet, despite these hurdles, the team persevered, driven by a shared commitment to excellence. Remarkably, within seven days, the project was brought to fruition, a testament to the team’s unwavering dedication and expertise.

Asphalt roofing: Versatility and performance

In navigating Montana’s challenging climate, the decision to opt for asphalt shingles emerged as a strategic choice for the Fleshman Creek project, offering enhanced protection against the region’s notorious hail and windstorms while carefully aligning with the client’s budgetary considerations. Malarkey’s Legacy® Shingles, known for their Class 4 impact rating, 130 mph wind warranty and utilization of eco-friendly materials, stood as the epitome of durability and sustainability, ensuring optimal performance in the face of Mother Nature’s harshest elements.

The selection of the timeless “Black Oak” color not only complemented the property’s exterior aesthetic but also exemplified asphalt shingles’ unparalleled versatility in seamlessly integrating with a myriad of architectural styles and roof configurations. This deliberate choice underscored the planning and commitment to longevity, aiming to safeguard the home’s structural integrity.

The project’s success was a testament to the superior quality of materials, exemplary craftsmanship and dedication of Dennis General Contractor. The team’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence was evident throughout every phase, from meticulous planning to flawless execution. The homeowner’s satisfaction and praise for the exceptional workmanship further underscored the project’s resounding success. It demonstrated Dennis General Contractor’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled results and exceeding client expectations.

Excellence in Asphalt Roofing: Winning gold

Receiving recognition for their exemplary work filled the team with a sense of excitement and pride. Their first award validated their commitment to excellence, inspiring them to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation in their field. Celebrations ensued in Las Vegas at the International Roofing Expo (IRE), where the team basked in their achievement and shared insights with industry peers.

Dennis General Contractor received a $2,000 monetary prize, national industry recognition and coverage on ARMA’s website and social media channels. The prize money earned will be reinvested into the team, fostering growth and development for future projects. Plans are underway to utilize the funds for safety lessons, ensuring the crew remains a top priority.

“Congratulations to Dennis General Contractor! The Fleshman Creek project truly exemplifies excellence in asphalt roofing,” remarked Reed Hitchcock, executive vice president of ARMA. “The team’s innovative solutions show off the capabilities of asphalt roofing systems, particularly in challenging projects.”

While the future holds a full schedule for the next three months, with 350 roofs and reroofs lined up, the team remains grateful and excited for what lies ahead. Each project is a chance to leave a lasting legacy of quality and craftsmanship, driving them forward to the 2025 Excellence Awards.

In the heart of Paradise Valley, amidst breathtaking vistas and rustic charm, a roofing project unfolded, showcasing resilience and ingenuity. Overcoming challenges and embracing the spirit of collaboration, the team emerged triumphant, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and craftsmanship.  

As the sun sets over the picturesque landscape, the completed roof is a testament to the dedication and expertise of all involved, a beacon of pride for the community and a symbol of enduring quality.

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.