Elyria Roof Replacement & Structural Repair: GAF Barkwood

When a severe storm rolled through Elyria, OH, a massive oak tree branch became a major liability for one local homeowner. The heavy limb didn't just graze the roof; it crashed directly onto the front corner of the house, causing significant structural damage that went far beyond missing shingles. The homeowner reached out to M&T Roofing & Restoration, knowing that as GAF Master Elite® contractors, we have the expertise to handle complex structural repairs and full system replacements in Northeast Ohio.

The Problem

Upon arrival, our inspection team found that the impact of the tree branch had compromised the integrity of the home’s skeletal structure. The weight of the limb had snapped two main rafters and crushed the roof decking, creating a large indentation where water could easily pool and enter the attic. Furthermore, the damage extended to the exterior trim, smashing the wooden fascia boards and the ventilated soffits underneath. The front gutter system was also completely flattened, rendered useless for managing water runoff. If left untreated, the exposed rafters would have quickly succumbed to wood rot, leading to a much more expensive interior restoration project.

Our Solution

M&T Roofing & Restoration developed a comprehensive plan that addressed both the structural stability of the home and its long-term curb appeal. Rather than just patching the hole, we proposed a complete roof replacement to ensure the entire system was uniform and covered by a lifetime warranty. Our solution involved stripping the roof to the bones, sistering the damaged rafters with new pressure-treated lumber, and rebuilding the eave and soffit assembly from scratch to ensure the home was once again watertight and structurally sound.

Materials & Products

For this Elyria home, the owner selected GAF Timberline® HDZ shingles in the popular "Barkwood" color. Barkwood offers a warm, earthy tone that perfectly complemented the home's siding and surrounding landscape. We didn't stop at the shingles; we installed a complete GAF Lifetime Roofing System. This included GAF WeatherWatch® Mineral-Surfaced Leak Barrier in the valleys and along the eaves to protect against ice dams—a common issue here in Northeast Ohio. For the structural repairs, we high-quality aluminum for the new gutters and downspouts, ensuring the front of the home was both functional and beautiful.

The Process

The project began with our roofing and carpentry crew. Before any shingles could be laid, we spent the first morning carefully removing the crushed sections of the roof. We reinforced the damaged rafters and installed new decking, ensuring a level surface for the new roof. Once the structural repairs were complete, our roofing team moved in to install the GAF system. We coordinated the gutter installation to follow immediately after the fascia and soffit repairs were finished. Throughout the one-day process, our team maintained a clean job site, using equipment to catch falling debris and protect the homeowner's landscaping from further harm.

The Result

The transformation was night and day. What was once a storm-damaged eyesore is now one of the most resilient homes on the block. The GAF HDZ Barkwood shingles provide a deep, dimensional look that adds significant value to the property. Most importantly, the homeowner now has peace of mind knowing the structural "bones" of their roof are stronger than they were before the storm. With the new seamless gutters and repaired soffits, the home is fully protected against the heavy rains and snow of Northeast Ohio for decades to come. The client was thrilled that M&T could handle the complex carpentry and the roofing all under one contract, simplifying what could have been a very stressful restoration process.