Roof Replacement in Ludlow, MA

Mill-era homes near the Chicopee River

The Ludlow Manufacturing Company opened its mill on the Chicopee River around 1868 and laid out worker housing, schools and a library in the southwest part of town. The mill buildings are being redeveloped into housing and business space, and the company-era homes around them are now well over a century old. Houses like these often have board decking and more than one old roofing layer, so a tear-off and deck inspection are worth insisting on.

Neighborhoods built by waves of newcomers

Irish and French-Canadian mill workers arrived first, and a "Little Canada" grew around Center Street, West Avenue and Stebbins Street. Polish families settled along East Street, and Ludlow is home to a large Portuguese-American community. Later decades added postwar neighborhoods and newer homes on wooded lots across town.

Shade, moss and debris

On wooded lots, roofs stay damp longer, collect leaves in the valleys and gutters, and grow moss and algae on shaded slopes. When you replace, ask about algae-resistant shingles, and trim back branches that touch or overhang the roof.

Permits in Ludlow

The Town of Ludlow's building department issues the permit. Expect your contractor to file it and to list a Massachusetts Construction Supervisor, and ask for the Home Improvement Contractor registration number if you live in the home.