Coastal Windows & Exteriors Completes Fifth Veteran Roof Donation Through Roof for Heroes Program

Coastal Windows & Exteriors of Beverly has completed its fifth Roof for Heroes donation by installing a complete GAF roofing system at no cost for Marine Corps veteran Lenny Szrlong at his Middleborough home. The initiative, launched in 2020, reflects the company's commitment to serving veterans who have served the nation, with this donation coming at a critical time as energy costs rise and winter approaches.

The roofing installation features America's #1 shingle brand, providing multi-layered defense against weather damage. Winter roof replacement offers leak prevention, guards against moisture penetration, minimizes attic heat buildup, and prevents ice dam formation during New England winters. This year's Farmers' Almanac forecasts a "Chill, Snow, Repeat" pattern, indicating a cold and snowy winter season ahead.

Roof for Heroes addresses an important need for veterans across the region, as many service members face financial hardship after military service, making major home repairs impossible without assistance. 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 given recent energy cost increases. Electricity rates have increased 31% since 2021, with National Grid rates increasing 13% and natural gas rates jumping 27% over the past year alone. A properly installed roofing system from Coastal Windows & Exteriors regulates attic temperatures and maintains consistent heating in New England homes, delivering both immediate comfort and long-term savings for veteran families facing higher energy bills.

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 company's owner, Stephanie Vanderbilt, emphasized that "providing shelter means making a promise — a promise of protection and security," adding that donating a free GAF roofing system keeps that promise through layers of high-quality protection.

Community leaders praised the initiative, 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 Representative Norman Orrall and State Senator Kelly Dooner also commended the program for 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 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. More information about the company's programs can be found at https://mycoastalwindows.com.

The company has achieved numerous accolades, including being ranked #4 overall and #4 among privately owned exterior remodeling companies in New England on the Qualified Remodeler Top 500 list, and is the only roofing company in the region to make the list. Coastal Windows & Exteriors has also won the BONS Editors' Choice Award for 2023, 2024, and 2025, and is recognized as New England's top-rated remodeler with the highest volume of verified reviews.