Stretch & Sons
Construction, Inc.

Gregory J. Wroblewski, S.E., P.E.
Frankfort, Illinois 60423
(815) 814-6454

DESIGN/BUILDERS

Professional and Courteous

If your building has a structural or building envelope problem, then one call to Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. is all it takes to have every aspect of your problem resolved in a professional and courteous manner.

All Types of Buildings

We are a Design/Build company specializing in restoring all types of buildings up to 5 stories tall in the Chicagoland area. Much of our work is for Property Managers and Boards of Directors of multi-family dwelling associations (condominiums and townhouses). However, we have also restored numerous commercial, industrial, educational, religious and institutional buildings, as well as single family homes over the last 40 years.

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Whether we work as a structural engineering firm, general contractor, forensic engineer/contractor, expert witness, or arbitrator, we are dedicated to providing our clients with a consistently high level of value in all that we do. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Cost Effective

If there is a cost effective way to repair your building so that it will function well for years to come, then we will make that recommendation. However, if reconstruction is your better alternative, then we will make you aware of that as well. Our goal is to properly restore your building in a manner that will help keep your budget in check. If there are monetary constraints, the project can be completed over several years. We will then prioritize your repairs in order to limit additional problems down the road.

Quality Construction

Note that finding and eliminating all sources of a problem is critical to the process. Too often others will merely repair the consequential damage, only to have the problem quickly return. These "band-aid" type of repairs are a waste of money for they generally allow distresses to propagate, thereby costing the client more money in the end. Instead, a contractor should use quality materials and proper techniques so that a long lasting, cost effective repair can be attained.

Balcony Restorations

One example of projects we specialize in is balcony restoration. That is because balconies are generally made using several different building materials, are subjected to a more harsh exposure, are a serious life safety concern, and are a source of problems to other nearby building components when distressed. When properly restored, balconies add significant value to a property, and can be enjoyed by the owners for years to come.

About Us

Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. is a family owned and operated company founded by Stephen “Stretch” Wroblewski. Stretch had been working as a union mason for a Chicago based company for 18 years, and picked up side jobs on weekends and holidays. Then in 1974 Stretch quit his union job to start his own full-time business. The company’s first job was general contracting a custom home for Stretch and his family.

Gregory Wroblewski at contruction site
Gregory J. Wroblewski, S.E., P.E.
President
Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc.

Early on Stretch & Sons primarily worked as a masonry subcontractor on new single family dwellings. However, in the late 1970’s as the economy slowed and interest rates increased, Stretch & Sons worked less on new construction projects, and more on restoration projects for clients with all types of buildings. This primarily included all forms of masonry construction, tuck pointing, and concrete flat work.

Stretch’s youngest son, Greg, had interests in both construction and higher education. So while working summers and spring breaks for the family business, Greg obtained both his bachelors and masters degrees in Civil Engineering with a specialty in Structural Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana/Champaign. Greg started working full-time as a structural engineer in 1986, but continued working weekends and holidays with his father. It was during this time that the company started working more with other building materials in its restoration work, and Stretch and Greg became partners.

Then in 1993 Greg left his full-time engineering position to work full-time with his father. Stretch soon eased into retirement, and Greg took over as President of Stretch & Sons. Then, as an Illinois Licensed Structural Engineer, Greg was able to formally convert Stretch & Sons into a design/build firm later that same year. The projects have grown, but we still treat every client as if they are family.

Greg has the rare combination of a world-class education, profound structural engineering knowledge, and a wide variety of construction experience. He is personally involved in the key aspects of every project performed by Stretch & Sons. This is a large reason why we have remained a smaller than average company, but this way we continue to have nothing but
satisfied customers.

Structural Engineers

Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc.
Structural Engineers Sheet

We have completed numerous projects as Illinois Licensed Structural Engineers. Some of this work was as Design/Builders, while other jobs were strictly as engineering consultants. Many times this engineering work has led to construction projects performed by Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc.; however, this certainly is not required.

Examples of the kind of work we do as structural engineers include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Structural Inspections
  • Leak Investigations
  • Roof Inspections
  • Steel Tank Inspections
  • Structural Analysis
  • Structural Design
  • Working Drawings
  • Structural Sketches
  • Specifications
  • Engineer's Cost Opinions
  • Construction Observation
  • Expert Witness Testimony
  • Arbitration

Note that one of the key elements that helps separate Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. from other structural engineering companies is the fact that we have been a Restoration Design/Build company for more than 20 years. Consequently, our construction experience has been a tremendous benefit to our engineering work in many ways. We know the intricate details of how buildings are really constructed, where failures tend to occur more frequently, what materials give you the most “bang for your buck”, and what construction details to avoid (just to name a few). Consequently, having sound knowledge of the construction industry helps us in all aspects of our engineering work from inspections to design, and everything in between.

On the other hand, having profound engineering knowledge also makes us far better contractors. Thus, one feeds off of the other. In fact all of our employees are trained to understand why code guidelines are important, and why certain building techniques work the best. Although restoring buildings properly can frequently take longer to complete and demand that more expensive materials be used, in the long run we find this approach to be worthwhile. The results are employees that take pride in their work, repairs that last for many years, and clients that appreciate the value they receive in the investment they make in their building.

Representative Projects

Ashfield House Condominium Association
Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Design/Build 75 Balcony Restoration Project
(Balconies, Structural Steel, Concrete, Guardrails, Masonry, Timber, Soffiting, Waterproofing, Caulk)
Riviera Condominium Association
Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Design/Build 31 Balcony Restoration Project
(Balconies, Structural Steel, Concrete, Guardrails, Masonry, Timber, Soffiting, Waterproofing, Caulk)
Scarborough Fare Condominium Association
Oak Forest, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Projects
(Masonry, Balconies, Concrete, Precast Concrete, Misc. Steel, Guardrails, Waterproofing, Caulk, Interior)
Raintree Condominium Association
Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Projects
(Masonry, Balconies, Concrete, Timber, Guardrails, Misc. Steel, Waterproofing, Caulk, Roofing)
Scott & Kraus, LLC
Chicago, Illinois
Forensic Engineering Projects
(Commercial, Residential)
Wiedner & McAuliffe, Ltd.
Chicago, Illinois
Forensic Engineering Project
(Single Family Dwelling)
L. J. Harrison, AIA, AAHP
New Lenox, Illinois
Structural Analysis/Design/ Construction Observation Projects
(All structural materials)
Mr. Robert Mussman
Hebron, Indiana
Forensic Engineering Project
(Single Family Dwelling)
Waste Management, Inc.
Calumet City, Illinois
Steel Tank Inspections/Structural Steel Design Projects
Westedge Condominium Association
Oak Lawn, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Project
(Structural Steel, Masonry, Caulk)
Mission Hills M5 Condominium Association
Northbrook, Illinois
Masonry/Lintels/Caulk Restoration Project
Peotone Junior High School
Peotone, Illinois
Design/Build Masonry Restoration Project
Crawford Estates Condominium Association
Oak Lawn, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Projects
(Masonry, Foundation Underpinning, Interior, Caulk)
Parkshire Estates
Oak Lawn, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Projects
(Masonry, Balconies, Guardrails, Lintels, Timber, Roofing, Caulk, Interiors)
Mr. And Mrs. Stephen T. Wroblewski
Monee, Illinois
Design/Build New Custom Home
(Many Construction Materials)
Academy Townhhomes
Chicago, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Projects
(Timber, Roofing, Masonry, Interiors, Caulk)
Stonegate Condominium Association
Oak Lawn, Illinois
Inspection/Design/Specifications/Construction
Observation 82 Balcony Restoration Project
Mr. and Mrs. James Rowley
Mount Prospect, Illinois
Forensic Engineering/Construction Project
(Single Family Dwelling)
(Timber, Roofing, Caulk, Aluminum, Interior)
D. J. Amici Tool, Inc.
Algonquin, Illinois
Masonry/Misc. Steel Restoration Project
Peotone Village Hall
Peotone, Illinois
Masonry/Lintels Restoration Projects
One Atrium Court Condominium Association
Berwyn, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Projects
(Masonry, Concrete, Structural Steel, Timber, Roofing, Misc. Steel, Balconies, Walkways, Waterproofing, Windows, Doors, Aluminum, Siding, EIFS-Dryvit, Caulk, Interiors)
Dr. Don Kalant
Naperville, Illinois
Forensic Engineering Project
(Commercial)
Village of Bolingbrook Fire Station 3
Bolingbrook, Illinois
Inspection/Design Project
(Fire Station)
Reichert Warehouse
Peotone, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Project
(Masonry, Lintels, Windows)
Peotone Car Wash
Peotone, Illinois
Masonry/Lintels Restoration Project
Westgate Valley Townhomes
Palos Heights, Illinois
Design/Build Restoration Projects
(Masonry, Lintels, Timber, Caulk, Interiors)
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Albert
Frankfort, Illinois
General Contract Basement Refinishing Project
(Many Construction Materials)
Mr. and Mrs. K. Reed Bible
Berwyn, Illinois
General Contracting Restoration Projects
(Masonry, Interiors, Timber, Siding, Caulk)

Testimonials

The following testimonials are from some of Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc.’s past and present clients. The list includes owners of property management companies, condominium board presidents, a school district superintendent, and an architect. Please take a few minutes to read what others have to say about Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc.

"We have had the opportunity to use Greg Wroblewski, S.E., P.E. as both a licensed structural engineer and in a construction capacity. Mr. Wroblewski has been instrumental in numerous projects at one of our larger complexes that consists of 19 buildings and 318 units. I can say with certainty that it is rare to come across a vendor that is as professional, knowledgeable, courteous, and ethical as Mr. Wroblewski of Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. is. I would highly recommend him for any projects that you may have."

Cindy Huddleston, CMCA
President
CDH Properties, Inc.


"After doing research and considering the recommendation of another local condominium association that had used Mr. Wroblewski’s services, the Riviera Condominium Association hired structural engineer, Greg Wroblewski to perform an inspection of the Riviera balconies. His report was extremely thorough, easy to read, and all findings were well documented. The Riviera Board of Directors was very pleased with the report and was confident of Mr. Wroblewski’s findings. Our Board would highly recommend Mr. Wroblewski’s structural engineering services.

After soliciting bids for a contractor to repair/replace the compromised Riviera balconies, the Riviera Condominium Association chose Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. to replace all balconies. Mr. Wroblewski who is president of Stretch & Sons was on site every day, working alongside his employees and overseeing his subcontractors. Our association was fortunate to have the services of another independent contractor who inspected the balconies throughout the replacement process. This inspector was highly satisfied with the work and often commended
Mr. Wroblewski on his attention to detail. The president of another construction company, which had submitted a proposal, stopped one day and was very complimentary of Stretch & Sons’ work. The Riviera Board of Directors would highly recommend Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc."

Dianne Larsen
President
Riviera Board of Directors


"We appreciate your company’s professional and courteous service in dealing with the associations we manage."

Dennis M. Heywood
President
Erickson Management Company


"Stretch & Sons has done three major jobs for our Condominium Association. All three involved major water leaks. Two had been previously repaired by others unsatisfactorily and at very substantial costs. His proposals are the most complete and informative and the work shows his expertise and knowledge, paying attention to every detail. Walking that extra mile (something rare in this day), he works closely with a contact person keeping them apprised of what has, what is, and what will be done. I would have no problem recommending Stretch & Sons."

Sharon Cannon
President
Lawncastle Condominium Association


"Everyone knows to maintain a list when fortunate enough to find a good auto mechanic, dentist, insurance agent, or other providers of services essential to a comfortable lifestyle. One may even go so far as sharing these discoveries with friends. Well, serendipity compels me to urge everyone to add a good - damn good - construction engineer by the name of Greg Wroblewski to that list!!

While performing my duties as President of the Board of Managers for my condominium complex I believe that nothing short of a modest miracle brought to my attention the formidable construction skills of Greg Wroblewski. The condominium complex had been menaced for years by a pervasive water infiltration problem. Other construction engineers and contractors were futile in their efforts to even identify the source(s) of the problem, let alone devise a solution. Then, Greg Wroblewski and his firm Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. were engaged to help our then desperate residents.

Once Mr. Wroblewski arrived on the scene the condominium complex was, at last, on the comeback trail! He systematically and conscientiously detected the source of each leak, many of which were attributable to structural, design and material defects. Moreover, in understandable lay terms, Mr. Wroblewski proposed and documented a variety of economical corrective measures that proved quite effective!

Greg Wroblewski, who holds two degrees in engineering, is a consummate professional!!! Save yourself a whole lot of aggravation, time and money by going directly the first time to someone who knows what he is doing, and will do it at reasonable rates. (I wish my board had done so.)

It is without reservation that I recommend you engage the services of Greg Wroblewski of Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. with all your construction needs!!!"

K. Reed Bible
President, Board of Managers
One Atrium Court Condominiums


"The firm was called upon to evaluate the condition of the balconies of each of the 75 units in our condominium building. The firm’s president, Mr. Greg Wroblewski, did a very thorough job of inspecting each balcony and preparing a detailed report for our review. The report, prepared at a reasonable cost, was extremely well done in a truly professional manner. Based on this report, our Board decided to remove and replace the concrete flooring, railings, and soffits on all of the balconies.

Our management company drew up specifications for the project and sent out Request for Proposals (RFPs) inviting contractors to bid. Bids were received and representatives of the interested parties were invited to visit with us to present the concept of the project and discuss their proposals. Mr. Wroblewski’s presentation was very professional and his bid was competitive. His firm was awarded the contract.

"The Project"

  • Was started on time.
  • Work was very well planned to minimize inconvenience to residents.
  • The entire workforce conducted themselves in a professional manner. They were friendly, courteous, and worked steadily. They were very diplomatic in their interaction with some residents who did not see fit to cooperate during the work.
  • Any concerns were promptly and efficiently dealt with.
  • Contrary to many construction projects, "extras" were kept to a minimum-less than 3/10th of one percent of the contract price.
  • The workforce was very respectful of our property and its appearance. They cleaned up, whenever possible, any mess they made on a daily basis. After the project was completed they even power washed the parking lots where equipment, dumpsters, and materials had been stored.
  • "Punch list" items were promptly addressed.
  • The project was completed ahead of schedule.
  • The project was completed totally in compliance with the contract-we are 100% satisfied."

Donna Hilt
President
Ashfield House Condominium Association


"My name is Helen Rendak and I have been a Board member here at Parkshire Estates for more than 25 years. I have been President for about 10 years.

We have employed Gregory Wroblewski of Stretch & Sons for at least 8 years. We find Greg to be very knowledgeable and thorough. What we like is that Greg will show us exactly what needs to be done and how he plans on correcting the problem. He takes pictures and makes sure the entire Board understands what needs to be done. He has also attended our Board meetings. Our buildings are almost 40 years old but with Greg’s guidance we are in very good shape. We have been doing tuck pointing and lintel repairs. Greg will be with us for years to come making sure that all problems are addressed and repaired properly, plus maintaining roofs.

I can vouch for his work and he is fair. He does not do more work than is necessary. The Board learned a lot from him and our owners are impressed by his work."

Helen Rendak
President
Parkshire Estates Condominium Association


"My name is Karen Rivoli and I have been President of Marydale Condominium for the past eleven years.

Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. recently did work for our association. They repaired the entry into our dumpster area and did masonry work surrounding the dumpster area; plus they replaced some concrete sidewalks; repaired the rafters within our roofed breezeway; and numerous other jobs around our buildings, and garages.

He worked in a very professional way at all times while on the property. He took time to explain what he was doing and how he was going to do it if any of the board members had a question, which was quite often. He also gave the board three walk arounds. First when he first met with the Board in order to see what work had to be done; second to reinsure the Board before the work was to begin; third a walk around after the work was completed.

As president of Marydale Condominium Association for eleven years I have dealt with many different contractors. On a scale of one to ten I would give Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. a rating of ten for his expertise, professionalism, and he is a very hardworking young man.

I recommend Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. very highly, and if anyone has any questions I give Erickson Management Company permission to use this letter as a reference, or call me with any further questions."

Karen Rivoli
President
Marydale Condominium Association


"The writer has been professionally associated with Mr. Gregory J. Wroblewski for over ten years. Within that time he has been the collaborative Structural Engineer to my role as an Architect.

As the retired Senior Partner (1981) of a 300 person Architectural/Engineering firm, I have been enabled to judge many engineers. Greg is as good as any I have known.

We have been associated on varied projects as here described:

  • As inspectors of a $1.5 million home in Indiana (a state of 12 of which I have registration). The Owner engaged us as plaintiff’s expert witness.
  • As designers of the structural remediation of a multi-deck parking structure (100’ x 600’ foot print) in incipient failure. The structure was of precast concrete, and could not be restored but also could not be demolished. The owner, a multi-national corporation had no site space on which it could park employee’s cars. We satisfactorily built a steel substructure which took all the loading. We saved a project that was only ten years old.
  • Recently we were engaged to survey the structural deficiencies of the primary multi-story headquarters building of a significant local suburban airport. Dozens of photographs (by the writer) documented visually the areas of fault. We examined the drawings, reviewed the multi-chapter specifications and produced a bound report to the Commission. Specifications and drawings within that report have supported a request for bids from the various trades for repairs. In addition the report may support contemplated legal action versus the Architectural/Engineering firm and the Contractor.

The above illustrate engineering and professional competence of Mr. Wroblewski. Rare among engineers he can verbalize upon the problems and their fixes.

I commend him to you.

L.J. Harrison, A.I.A
President
L. J. Harrison, R.A & Associates


"Stretch & Sons tuck pointed the Peotone Junior High School during. We were very satisfied with the work. I would highly recommend Stretch & Sons for tuck pointing."

Allen Hall
Superintendent
Peotone Community Unit District 207-U

Employment Opportunities

Stretch & Sons Construction, Inc. is frequently seeking qualified individuals to fill various rolls within our company. If a position is not currently available, we will keep resumes of potential future employees on file.

Applicants must possess characteristics that fit with our corporate culture including: honesty, integrity, loyalty, dependability, hard-working, punctual, professional, a team player, good communication skills, and attention to detail.

If you believe that you meet these criteria and are interested in working for a reputable restoration general contracting firm in the Chicagoland area, then please download and complete our job application and forward to: stretchnsons@ameritech.net

Compensation is commensurate with abilities and experience.