Coastal Windows & Exteriors of Beverly has completed its fifth Roof for Heroes donation, providing a complete GAF roofing system at no cost to Marine Corps veteran Lenny Szrlong at his Middleborough home. The program, launched in 2020, reflects the company's commitment to serving military veterans who often face financial challenges after their service.
This initiative addresses a critical need for veterans across the region, where many service members struggle with major home repairs due to financial hardship. A failing roof can lead to structural damage, health hazards from mold and moisture, and significant energy loss, with poor roofing performance accounting for up to 25% of a home's total energy loss. The timing of this donation is particularly significant as electricity rates have increased 31% since 2021, with National Grid rates increasing 13% and natural gas rates jumping 27% over the past year alone.
The energy-efficient roofing installation features America's #1 shingle brand, offering multi-layered defense against weather damage. Winter roof replacement provides leak prevention, guards against moisture penetration, minimizes attic heat buildup, and prevents ice dam formation during frigid New England winters. This year's Farmers' Almanac forecasts a "Chill, Snow, Repeat" pattern, indicating a cold and snowy winter season ahead.
"This initiative holds dear to our hearts and mission as a company," said Stephanie Vanderbilt, Owner of Coastal Windows & Exteriors. "Providing shelter means making a promise — a promise of protection and security. Donating a free GAF roofing system is a great way to keep that promise, as its layers of high-quality protection work together to keep the home and the people inside safe from the elements."
Szrlong expressed gratitude for the donation, stating, "As a Marine Corps veteran and lifelong Massachusetts resident, it warms my heart that there are companies like this who help local veterans through affirmative action and tangible results." The veteran noted that most contractors he had dealt with "didn't know their product and only wanted a sale," but found the Coastal team different in their approach.
Community leaders have praised the program, with Stephen Adelman, Chief Warrant Officer 2 (Retired) and Veterans Service Officer for the Town of Middleborough, stating, "We can't thank Coastal Windows & Exteriors enough for honoring those who served with a free roof…there is no better feeling than helping veterans in need." State Senator Kelly Dooner added, "Our veterans deserve to feel safe and secure in their own homes. The Roof for Heroes program is a meaningful example of a community honoring service with action."
Coastal Windows & Exteriors has received recognition for its veteran support, earning the Minuteman Service Award in 2022 for outstanding dedication and leadership supporting active-duty American military personnel and veterans. The company offers additional support through a $750 discount on top of any current promotion for all military personnel, plus up to 20 years of financing based on credit approval.
"You protect our country, we protect your home," Vanderbilt added. "That's the foundation of our Roof for Heroes program. We believe actions speak louder than words, and this is our way of demonstrating gratitude to the men and women who have sacrificed for our freedom." The company maintains its website at https://mycoastalwindows.com for additional information.
As a GAF-certified roofing contractor and James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, Coastal Windows & Exteriors has established itself as New England's top-rated remodeler with the highest volume of verified reviews. The company has achieved numerous accolades, including SBA Massachusetts Business Person of the Year, GAF President's Club Award, and recognition as the #1 woman-owned replacement company in New England on both the Inc. 5000 and Qualified Remodeler lists.
