Coastal Windows & Exteriors (CWE) of Beverly, Massachusetts, has installed a complete GAF roofing system at no cost for Marine Corps veteran Lenny Szrlong at his Middleborough home. This marks the fifth Roof for Heroes donation since the program launched in 2020, reflecting the company's ongoing commitment to serve those who have served the nation.
Szrlong, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran residing in Middleborough, was selected for this donation through the Roof for Heroes program. The initiative addresses a critical need for veterans, many of whom 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. Poor roofing performance accounts for up to 25% of a home's total energy loss.
"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."
The energy-efficient roofing installation features America's number one 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, Farmers' Almanac is forecasting a "Chill, Snow, Repeat" pattern, indicating a cold and snowy winter season.
The timing of this donation is critical, as electricity rates have increased 31% since 2021. Over the past year alone, National Grid rates increased 13% and natural gas rates jumped 27%. With a cold winter ahead bringing higher energy bills, a high-performance roof delivers both immediate comfort and long-term savings for veteran families.
Szrlong expressed his gratitude for the life-changing donation. "I'd like to thank Coastal Windows & Exteriors for this incredible opportunity," said Szrlong. "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."
Local officials also commended the effort. Stephen Adelman, Veterans Service Officer for the Town of Middleborough, said, "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." 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."
State Representative Norman Orrall and State Senator Kelly Dooner also praised the program. Senator Dooner noted, "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 earned the Minuteman Service Award in 2022 for outstanding dedication and leadership supporting active-duty American military personnel and veterans. As an SBA award recipient for exceptional community service, the company offers a $750 additional 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."
Additional information about the company and its programs can be found at mycoastalwindows.com.
