Local Roofers Pay It Forward

By Nancy K. Crevier

Mark Edwards and Dave Eisenbach of Mark Edwards Roofing and Siding want people to know that sometimes a good thing is not too good to be true.

Mr Edwards counts himself among the lucky ones who have not been adversely affected by the sluggish economy and financial failures. “Business has been very good for us,” Mr Edwards said. So when he drives past a home where roof repair is clearly in need and being relegated to the bottom of the “to do” list, he feels obligated to pass on his good fortune to those who may be in a less fortunate situation.

Since the winter storms of 2010-2011, when numerous homeowners faced unexpected roof repairs due to ice damming and heavy snow cover, Mr Edwards and Mr Eisenbach have offered free roof replacement to those financially or physically unable to take on that expense.

Surprisingly, only three homeowners have taken him up on replacing roofs at no cost, Mr Edwards said. “People have a lot of pride and don’t want to ask for help. Or they think it’s a scam,” he said of his pro bono offer.

People who were not in need of his assistance did call, said Mr Edwards, but not necessarily requesting free roofs. “I got a lot of thank you calls from people who read about our offer and were grateful that there are people who will help others out. That made us feel good,” he said. Of course, there were the calls from people he knew were able to afford repairs, and simply looking for a free ride. “I didn’t even bother answering some of those calls,” Mr Edwards admitted.

With winter weather just around the corner, the two men are concerned that financially strapped homeowners in need of a new roof or repairs to the roof will put off that task in order to pay for heating costs. Once again, Mr Edwards and Mr Eisenbach are encouraging people in need to contact them.

“We can assist people in dealing with insurance companies, and we will put a roof on for anyone in need. It bothers me when I drive by a house and see a tarp, worn out, that has clearly been up there a while. Maybe the homeowner is elderly, or maybe it’s just hard times, or maybe they are having trouble dealing with the insurance company and have given up. If I can do this and make someone’s life better, why not? Who knew,” asked Mr Edwards, “when I was younger that I’d be able to do this?”

“It’s just our way of saying thank you to all of those who give us good word and who have kept us busy,” said Mr Eisenbach.

To make an appointment with Mr Edwards for a free roof replacement or repairs, call 203-270-1577. As before, the offer is made only to those who are financially or physically unable to take on the cost of roof replacement.