Downtown Ashland has a lot of history, and many of its older buildings have stories that go far beyond the roof system. For First Class Roofing, projects like this are about more than replacing roofing materials. They are about helping local building owners protect properties that matter to the community.
Recently, First Class Roofing was on-site above Main Street in Ashland, Ohio, working on a roofing project connected to Uniontown Brewing. The building has been part of downtown Ashland for generations, and like many older commercial properties, it requires a thoughtful approach when repairs and replacements are needed.
William, president of First Class Roofing, grew up in Ashland and has always considered it his hometown. That local connection makes projects like this especially meaningful. When a business owner invests in an older downtown building, they are not only taking care of their own property. They are also helping preserve the character and future of the community around it.
A Local Business With a Long-Term Vision
Uniontown Brewing has become part of downtown Ashland’s ongoing story. The building owner has worked over time to improve and maintain the property while building the business. That is common with historic and older commercial buildings. Improvements often happen in phases, with each project helping the building move forward.
For First Class Roofing, that kind of long-term stewardship is worth respecting. Older buildings are not always simple. They often require balancing cost, timing, access, structural conditions, and the building owner’s future plans. The goal is to help the owner make the right decision for the roof, the building, and the business.
Why the Roof Needed Attention
The shingle roof on part of the property had reached the point where replacement could no longer be delayed. After wind damage affected the roof, the timing was right to move forward with the work.
This is a common situation for commercial and mixed-use properties. A roof may be watched, patched, or maintained for a period of time, but eventually the condition of the system reaches a point where replacement is the better long-term decision. When wind, age, and existing wear come together, waiting too long can create more risk for the building owner.
On an older downtown property, the decision is not only about stopping leaks. It is also about protecting the structure, preserving usable space, and helping the business continue operating with fewer interruptions.
Why Installation Details Matter
One of the important topics William discussed from the roof was the decision-making process when installing metal over an existing shingle roof.
In some situations, metal roofing can be installed over shingles. However, First Class Roofing is cautious about simply placing metal directly on top of shingles. Metal expands and contracts as temperatures change. If the underside of the metal rubs against shingle granules over time, that movement can wear on the back side of the panels. Moisture and condensation can also be present beneath metal, so the details of the installation matter.
A better approach in many cases is to create separation between the existing shingles and the new metal roof. Furring strips can help provide that gap while also creating a better fastening surface, as long as they are properly attached into the roof structure. On older buildings, this detail is especially important because the roof deck, rafters, and existing materials all need to be considered before the installation method is chosen.
That is why commercial roofing is not just about choosing a material. It is about understanding how the roof will move, how it will be fastened, how water and condensation will be managed, and how the system will perform over time.
Roofing Above Main Street Takes Planning
This project also required careful planning because of the building height and downtown location. Materials had to be loaded onto a roof roughly 50 feet above ground level. A local crane service was used to lift metal panels and lumber up to the roof so the crew could work safely and efficiently.
Working in a downtown setting adds another layer of coordination. Access, safety, traffic, nearby businesses, pedestrians, and timing all have to be considered. Even a temporary street closure has to be handled carefully so materials can be moved without creating unnecessary risk.
These are the kinds of details building owners may not always see when they first think about a roofing project. The installation itself is only one part of the job. A successful commercial roofing project also depends on preparation, communication, equipment, safety planning, and a crew that understands the setting.
Protecting Older Commercial Buildings in Ashland and Mansfield
The First Class Roofing Difference
- 25+ years relevant expertise
- Solid company reputation
- Professional treatment
- Quality workmanship
- Multiple warranty options
First Class Roofing is based in Mansfield and serves commercial building owners throughout the surrounding Ohio communities, including Ashland. Projects like this are a reminder of why local experience matters.
Older commercial buildings need roofers who understand more than shingles, metal panels, or flat roof systems. They need contractors who can look at the whole building, explain the options clearly, and help the owner make a decision that fits the property’s current needs and future plans.
For downtown buildings, churches, retail spaces, restaurants, breweries, offices, and other commercial properties, the roof plays a major role in protecting everything below it. A well-planned roofing project can help extend the life of the building, reduce future problems, and support the business or organization inside.
First Class Roofing is proud to help protect properties that are part of the local community. Whether your building needs roof repairs, replacement planning, storm damage evaluation, or a commercial roof inspection, our team can help you understand your options and decide the best next step.
Contact First Class Roofing to schedule a commercial roofing inspection.