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Upper Blackstone Valley GAF Roofing Experts Featured in Milford Free Press: Honoring a Marine Veteran
Coastal Windows & Exteriors Completes Free GAF Roofing Installation for Marine Veteran Lenny Szrlong Across Worcester County & Upper Blackstone Valley
Coastal Windows & Exteriors was featured in Milford Free Press for completing its fifth Roof for Heroes donation. This milestone achievement provided Marine Corps veteran Lenny Szrlong of Middleborough with a complete GAF roofing system at no cost. As GAF roofing experts serving Milford and Upper Blackstone Valley, Coastal continues to honor those who served through this meaningful initiative. The company’s commitment strengthens communities throughout Worcester County with America’s #1 shingle brand.
Beverly-Based Coastal Windows & Exteriors Honors Marine Veteran with Free GAF Roofing Installation
Coastal Windows & Exteriors marked a significant milestone by completing its fifth Roof for Heroes program donation this December. Marine Corps veteran Lenny Szrlong of Middleborough received a complete roofing system just days before Christmas, reflecting the company’s sustained commitment to supporting those who served.
The installation included:
- America’s #1 shingle brand from GAF
- Multi-layered protection against harsh New England weather
- Transferable lifetime warranty on materials
- 25-year labor workmanship warranty
- Complete leak and ice dam defense
- Peace of mind for decades to come
“I’d like to thank Coastal Windows & Exteriors for this incredible opportunity,” said Szrlong. “As a Marine Corps veteran, and life long Massachusetts resident, it warms my heart that there are companies like this who help local veterans through affirmative action, and tangible results. Most contractors I’ve dealt with didn’t know their product, and only wanted a sale. Theo, and the rest of the team at Coastal proved they were different. And for that I am grateful!”
Stephanie Vanderbilt, owner of Coastal Windows & Exteriors, emphasized the mission behind every project: “This initiative holds dear to our hearts and mission as a company. Providing shelter means making a promise of protection and security. Every veteran deserves quality workmanship and genuine care throughout the process. Lenny’s new roof will protect his home for decades, and that’s our way of honoring his service.”
The Roof for Heroes program operates under a simple but powerful motto: “You protect our country, we protect your home.”
Roof for Heroes: A 5-Year Promise to Those Who Served
What is the Roof for Heroes Program?
Coastal Windows & Exteriors launched its Roof for Heroes program in 2020 to address a critical need. Many veterans face difficult choices between housing costs, heating bills, and basic necessities.
The program provides:
- Complete GAF roofing systems donated at no cost to qualifying veterans
- Professional installation by certified Master Elite contractors
- Comprehensive warranty protection for long-term security
- Thoughtful selection process honoring veterans across Massachusetts
Since 2020, Roof for Heroes has transformed the lives of veteran families throughout Massachusetts. Worcester County and Upper Blackstone Valley residents directly benefit from this sustained charitable commitment. That’s how local businesses like Coastal Windows & Exteriors can make meaningful impacts in their communities! From Milford to Hopedale, Mendon to Bellingham, the program reaches veterans across the region.
Milford Community Leaders Celebrate Veteran Recognition
Local and state officials gathered in Middleborough to recognize Coastal’s dedication to veteran welfare. Their presence underscored the community-wide appreciation for programs that translate gratitude into action.
Stephen Adelman, Chief Warrant Officer 2 (Retired) and Veterans Service Officer for the Town of Middleborough, expressed his appreciation: “This is wonderful what you are doing, and the Veterans Office and Town can’t thank you enough for what you are doing for Lenny.”
Town Manager Jay McGrail added: “The town of Middleborough is grateful to Coastal Windows & Exteriors to provide this roof for Lenny, a deserving Vietnam veteran and Middleborough resident.”
State Representative Norman Orrall attended the installation to honor Szrlong’s service and recognize Coastal’s commitment to veterans across the Commonwealth. “I am so impressed that Coastal offers these free roofs for our veterans and I’m thrilled that they chose to replace one for Lenny, a Marine Veteran here in Middleborough,”
State Senator Kelly Dooner emphasized the program’s significance: “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. By providing a new roof for Marine veteran Lenny Szrlong, Coastal Windows & Exteriors is making a real difference, and I’m proud to join Middleborough in recognizing Lenny’s service and sacrifice.”
What is GAF Roofing? Understanding America's #1 Shingle Brand
What is GAF roofing and why does it matter for Milford homeowners? GAF stands as America’s #1 selling shingle brand, trusted by homeowners and contractors nationwide for superior quality and protection. Understanding roofing systems before choosing a contractor helps homeowners make informed decisions about protecting their most valuable investment.
What is a Roofing System? The GAF Multi-Layered Approach
Many homeowners don’t realize a roof is far more than just shingles. A proper roofing system provides comprehensive protection through multiple integrated components working together. GAF’s 6-component roofing system approach includes:
- Shingles (GAF Timberline HDZ) – The visible top layer providing weather resistance and aesthetic appeal. GAF Timberline HDZ shingles feature LayerLock™ technology for superior durability.
- Leak Barriers – Waterproof protection installed in vulnerable areas like eaves, valleys, and around chimneys. This component prevents water infiltration from wind-driven rain or ice dams.
- Starter Strip Shingles – Specialized shingles installed at roof edges providing a secure seal and preventing wind uplift during storms.
- Underlayment – A protective layer between roof decking and shingles that creates a secondary water barrier and protects against moisture penetration.
- Ridge Cap Shingles – Extra-thick shingles designed specifically for roof peaks and hips, providing finished appearance and additional protection at stress points.
- Attic Ventilation – Proper roof ventilation components like ridge vents regulate temperature and moisture, preventing ice dams and extending roof life.
Why does a “system” approach matter versus just replacing shingles? Each component serves a specific protective function. When installed together following GAF Master Elite standards, they create layered defense against New England’s harsh weather conditions. For Lenny’s roof, Coastal installed a complete GAF system ensuring decades of reliable protection.
Different Types of Roof Systems: Why GAF Timberline is Top-Notch
Homeowners researching different types of residential roofing systems discover numerous options. Asphalt shingles remain most common in New England due to cost-effectiveness, durability, and weather performance.
GAF Timberline HDZ shingles deliver specific advantages for Massachusetts weather conditions:
- LayerLock™ Technology – Mechanical locking feature provides superior wind resistance up to 130 mph
- StrikeZone™ Nailing Area – Larger target area ensures proper installation and enhanced durability
- DuraGrip™ Adhesive – Powerful adhesive seals shingles tightly, preventing wind damage
- StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection – Copper-infused granules inhibit algae growth common in humid climates
Why is GAF America’s #1 selling shingle brand? GAF roofing systems withstand New England’s temperature swings, heavy snow loads, ice dam conditions, and high winds. The company backs products with 50-year warranty protection, demonstrating confidence in long-term performance. Worcester County homeowners choose GAF for proven reliability through brutal Massachusetts winters.
Protecting Worcester County Homes: Winter Roofing Solutions
Winter presents unique challenges for Worcester County roofs. Heavy snow accumulation, ice dam formation, and temperature fluctuations demand proper installation and ventilation. GAF roofing systems include design features specifically addressing winter damage prevention, making them ideal for Upper Blackstone Valley conditions.
How to fix ice dams on your roof
Remove snow from roof edges using a roof rake from ground level to prevent ice dam formation.
When should you replace your roof?
Replace your roof when it exceeds 20-25 years old with visible damage or recurring problems.
Why Upper Blackstone Valley Homeowners Trust Coastal's GAF Expertise
Industry-Leading Roofing Expertise
Coastal Windows & Exteriors isn’t just another roofing contractor—we’re ranked #191 nationally and the only woman-owned roofing contractor in New England on the prestigious 2025 Qualified Remodeler Top 500 list.
What Makes This Recognition Significant for Milford Homeowners:
✅ 925+ verified Google 5-star reviews – The highest-rated roofing contractor in Massachusetts, proving consistent quality across every Worcester County project.
✅ GAF Master Elite Certification and Service Excellence Award winner – Recognized by the nation’s largest roofing manufacturer. Less than 3% of roofing contractors nationwide achieve Master Elite status, which requires proven installation excellence, customer satisfaction, and ongoing training in GAF roofing systems.
Why This Matters for Every Milford Homeowner:
Whether you’re a veteran receiving a donated roof or a homeowner investing in your property, Coastal Windows applies the same industry-leading GAF installation standards to every project. The GAF Timberline HDZ roofing system featured in this veteran’s roof replacement—complete with storm resistance, proper ventilation, comprehensive leak protection, and America’s #1 shingle brand quality—is the same proven system we install for all Upper Blackstone Valley homeowners.
GAF Roofing Current Promotions for Milford & Worcester County Homeowners:
- Seasonal promotions available now with financing up to 20 years based on credit approval
- Veterans & Active Military: Additional $750 military discount stackable with promotions
- Free Roof Inspection: No-obligation assessment of your current roof condition
- GAF System Education: Learn about the complete roofing system approach
Roofing Excellence for Upper Blackstone Valley
In a market increasingly dominated by private equity firms and national franchises, Coastal Windows & Exteriors remains family-owned and locally operated—yet we compete at the highest national level. Our ranking as the only woman-owned roofing contractor in New England’s Top 500 proves that a local, woman-led business can deliver world-class GAF roofing craftsmanship while maintaining the personal touch and community commitment that larger corporations simply can’t match.
Woman-Owned, Veteran-Focused Business
Stephanie Vanderbilt leads Coastal Windows & Exteriors with a mission that extends beyond business success. Her vision embraces community responsibility, quality craftsmanship, and genuine care for every homeowner. This approach earned recognition as the #1 Woman-Owned Exterior Remodeling Company in New England on the Inc. 5000 list.
Unlike national franchises such as DaBella, Long Home, and Window World, Coastal remains truly local. The Beverly-based company serves Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine—including Worcester County, Upper Blackstone Valley, Milford, Hopedale, and Mendon—with personalized attention that corporate franchises cannot match.
Military families receive special recognition through multiple support programs:
- $750 military discount (stackable with current promotions)
- Up to 20 years financing with credit approval
- Priority scheduling for veteran roof replacements
- Roof for Heroes program accepting nominations year-round
Veterans or their family members can apply for Roof for Heroes consideration or nominate fellow service members facing housing challenges.
CWE’s Award-Winning Excellence and Military Support
Coastal’s commitment to excellence shows through prestigious industry recognition and consistent community support throughout Worcester County. The company’s military support programs extend beyond discounts to genuine partnership with veteran families across the Upper Blackstone Valley. GAF Master Elite expertise ensures every installation meets the highest industry standards.
Certifications and Industry Recognition
- GAF Master Elite certification placing company in top 3% of contractors nationwide
- Qualified Remodeler Top 500 rankings (#191 nationally, #4 in New England, #1 Woman-Owned in New England)
- #1 Woman-Owned Replacement Company (Inc. 5000)
- Minuteman Service Award 2022 honoring community service
- Best of the North Shore Editors’ Choice Award winner 2023, 2024, and 2025
- GAF Service Excellence Award
These achievements reflect consistent dedication to quality workmanship, customer satisfaction, and community investment throughout Worcester County and the Upper Blackstone Valley.
Request Your Free GAF Roofing Consultation: Serving Milford & Worcester County
Milford Free Press featured Coastal Windows & Exteriors for good reason—the company delivers on its promises to veterans and homeowners throughout Massachusetts. This latest Roof for Heroes donation demonstrates genuine commitment to the Milford MA community, Upper Blackstone Valley, and Worcester County residents.
Whether facing emergency roof repairs, planning winter roof replacement, protecting your home from ice dams and leaks, or learning about GAF roofing systems, Coastal Windows & Exteriors provides expert solutions. As GAF roofing experts and local Master Elite contractors, the company combines technical expertise with compassionate customer service across Milford, Hopedale, Mendon, and all of Worcester County.
Schedule your free GAF roofing consultation today to discover how Coastal can protect what matters most with America’s #1 shingle brand. Visit the complete Milford Free Press feature to learn more about this inspiring story of community service.
Read the complete story here: Milford Free Press – Coastal Windows & Exteriors Completes Fifth Roof for Heroes Donation
Frequently Asked Questions
How to fix ice dam on roof?
Remove snow from roof edges safely using a roof rake from ground level to prevent further ice dam growth. Create drainage channels through existing ice dams carefully to relieve trapped water pressure. Professional low-pressure steam removal costs $400-$4,000 and protects shingles while eliminating ice dams safely.
When to replace a roof?
Replace your roof when it reaches 20-25 years old with visible damage or recurring leak problems.
How long should a roof last?
Roof lifespan ranges from 20-50 years depending on material quality, installation expertise, and climate exposure.
What is a roof gable?
A roof gable is the triangular wall section formed where two sloping roof planes meet at a ridge.
Can ice dam roof issues lead to long-term roof damage?
Ice dams cause severe long-term roof damage beyond immediate leaks including rotted decking, compromised structural integrity, and mold growth.
