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Freestone County discusses new courthouse roof as contractors outline bids and timelines
Summary
Contractors told the Commissioners Court the courthouse roof requires removal to deck and replacement; vendors proposed manufacturer-backed systems, engineers estimated a three-week design timeframe and bids back in about four weeks, and the court discussed using grant funds for the work.
Freestone County Commissioners heard a lengthy presentation from two roofing firms and discussed whether to replace the courthouse roof now or wait until a planned interior restoration.
Contractors visiting the courthouse described a deteriorated roofing system that must be removed down to the structural wood deck. One vendor described the current roof as a recovered roof that cannot simply have another layer applied: "By code, we can't put a roof over top of it. Again, it's gotta come off of the deck." A second contractor said manufacturer-backed membranes are hot-air welded and carry longer manufacturer warranties, while single-ply repairs are more vulnerable to damage.
County staff and vendors said the county could have a design and engineering package ready in roughly three weeks and receive bids in about four weeks once design documents are complete. Contractors said the bid package should include pre-priced allowances for concealed deck repairs so bidders and the county would not face unexpected cost claims after tear-off. One vendor listed examples of warranty terms that would range from 20-year manufacturer warranties to longer-term manufacturer liability on heavier multi-ply systems.
Court members discussed whether roof work could count toward a grant-funded restoration 20% match. A vendor noted the courthouse roof is not an exterior historical architectural feature because it cannot be seen from the ground, which simplifies the state historical-review process. County staff said they would verify whether grant rules would allow county-funded roof expenditures to be credited toward the match and indicated they would seek the grant administrator’s approval if moving forward.
Participants warned there are low spots and sagging near drains that hold water and accelerate failure. Contractors recommended complete tear-off and full replacement rather than repeated recoveries to avoid recurring problems.
No formal contract award was made at the meeting; the court asked staff to obtain updated quotes and explore whether the roof project could be approved under the existing grant’s terms.
