How Do You Replace an Iconic Roof While Preserving Its Historic Value?
Replacing an iconic roof while preserving its historic value requires balancing careful craftsmanship with respect for the building’s original design. At Happy Hollow Country Club, Anchor Roofing approached the project by maintaining the roof’s historic appearance while upgrading materials for modern performance, ensuring the structure remains protected and visually authentic for decades to come.
This wasn’t a small job. It was a major iconic Omaha roof replacement that required careful planning, precise execution, and constant communication with club management. From the moment the project began, the goal was clear: replace failing Spanish tile and worn flat roofing with materials that would look authentic, perform reliably, and keep the club fully operational throughout the process.
A Referral Project with High Expectations
Anchor Roofing first connected with Happy Hollow Country Club through a referral from a member of the board. While Anchor Roofing had completed work for some club members in the past, this was the first time the team was hired directly by the club itself. That meant expectations were higher than ever — not only in terms of quality but also in terms of discretion and professionalism.
The club’s roof is more than a protective covering — it’s a visual symbol. Everyone who sees the building has a mental image of what it should look like. And because the club is a central venue for weddings, events, golf tournaments, and daily member activities, the roof had to be replaced with minimal disruption.
The Scope: Spanish Tile Replacement and Flat Roof Replacement
The project had two primary components:
Spanish tile roof replacement
- The existing tile was removed and replaced with Brava synthetic Spanish tile in Tuscan Clay.
Flat roof replacement
- The flat roof sections were removed and replaced with Carlisle 90 Mil EPDM, backed by a 30-year warranty.
The choice of materials was intentional. Brava synthetic Spanish tile provides the classic look of traditional clay tile but offers improved durability and lighter weight. Carlisle EPDM is a proven solution for flat roof areas, providing long-lasting protection and a strong warranty.
Working Around the Club’s Daily Life
What made this project truly unique was the need to be minimally intrusive. Happy Hollow Country Club operates like a living, active campus. Events happen daily, and the property is never truly “closed.” Golf games, weddings, meal events, and tournaments all had to continue uninterrupted, even while work was underway.
That required careful scheduling and constant coordination with club management. The Anchor Roofing team made sure that no work interfered with member access, event spaces, or daily operations. This kind of project management isn’t just about logistics; it’s about respect for the client’s priorities and the community that relies on the facility.
Safety and Precision During Heavy Tile Removal
One of the biggest challenges was removing tons of heavy Spanish tile safely. With such a busy property, the risk wasn’t just about falling debris. It was about ensuring that no member, guest, or staff member could come into contact with roofing material on the ground.
Anchor Roofing set up extensive safety barriers and managed the site carefully as work progressed around the property. Safety planning included:
- Controlled debris zones to prevent tile or materials from entering active member areas
- Member-safe staging areas positioned away from entrances and event spaces
- Event coordination scheduling to avoid peak usage times
- Daily cleanup protocols to keep walkways and grounds clear at all times
The team’s attention to detail ensured that the project moved smoothly without compromising safety.
The “Fork in the Road” Moment: Choosing the Right Flashing
Every major roofing project has moments where the team must decide between the easy option and the correct option. On this job, one of those decisions involved the flashing around the dormers.
Spanish tile roofing can be challenging when it comes to flashing. Many contractors would use standard Ice and Water Shield, which is faster and cheaper. Anchor Roofing took a different approach. Because the roof was meant to last 50 years, the team chose to install lead sheets in those critical areas instead of relying solely on membrane underlayment.
This decision was more expensive and time-consuming for our Omaha-based team, but it ensured a higher level of long-term protection. It’s the kind of choice that doesn’t always get noticed by the client, but it makes a major difference in performance over time.
The Result: A Roof That Looks Authentic and Performs Better Than Ever
When the project was complete, the response from the club was overwhelmingly positive. The team had delivered a roof that maintained the iconic look of the original structure while improving performance and durability.
The new Brava synthetic Spanish tile restored the classic appearance of the club, while the Carlisle EPDM flat roofing provided reliable protection backed by a 30-year warranty. Members and staff noticed the difference immediately — not only in appearance but in the peace of mind that comes from knowing the roof is now built to last.
The project solved a long-standing issue for the club: leaks that had plagued the property over the years. With the new roof installed properly, those leaks became a thing of the past.
Why This Historic Roof Replacement in Omaha Stands Out
This job wasn’t just a commercial roof replacement Omaha project — it was a careful restoration of an iconic landmark. It required skill, planning, and a willingness to do things the right way, even when the right way was more difficult. From the safety planning to the material choices, every detail was focused on long-term performance.
The Happy Hollow Country Club project is a strong example of what Anchor Roofing brings to high-stakes jobs: local expertise, craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality that shows in every decision.
A Roof Built to Last
The Happy Hollow Country Club roof replacement wasn’t just about replacing old materials. It was about honoring a historic building and protecting it for future generations. With the right materials, careful planning, and expert installation, Anchor Roofing delivered a result that will stand up to Nebraska weather for decades — while keeping the club fully operational throughout the process. Our approach prioritizes our clients’ needs, which is why we have a reputation of excellence throughout the Omaha area.
Planning a Complex or Historic Roof Replacement in Omaha?
If you are thinking about replacing your roof, an experienced, skilled contractor is key to getting the job done right the first time. At Anchor Roofing, we are committed to professionalism, honesty, and open communication with our clients. Contact us today to find out what we can do for you.