By Jenny Yu.  

Enjoy these heartwarming stories of roofing companies giving back to veterans in their communities.  

It’s truly been a season of giving in the roofing world over the last few months. From Michigan and Montana to Massachusetts and New York, these four roofing companies selflessly spent time and resources providing roofs free of charge for veterans in their communities.  

Waterford, Michigan 

“My roof was just really old,” Marine Veteran Jared Holt shared with CBS News. “It was something that, every time I pulled into the driveway, I looked at and knew it was this really large expense that was coming for me and my family." 

One kind neighbor nominated Jared and his family for a new roof, and local roofing company Roof One, part of the Bone Dry Roofing family, offered the gift of a new roof, free of charge.  

Steve McCusker, founder and owner of Roof One, grew up in a military household and understood the value of community and care for servicepeople. His crew of 22 people ensured that Jared’s family felt that support. "It takes a massive expense that we were in the process of saving for, so now we maybe can take a small percentage of that that we were saving and have a really nice holiday,” Jared said.  

South Hadley, Massachusetts 

U.S. Navy Veteran Leo Pilares won the 2025 AQ Cares Veteran Roof Giveaway, an annual initiative from Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding in partnership with GAF. The contest invited community members to read stories about local veterans’ service and ongoing contributions to their communities, and Leo’s stood out, garnering the most votes.  

“Leo’s story really struck a chord with all of us,” Morgan Bennett, marketing and development director at Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding, told WWLP-22News. “He represents the quiet strength and selflessness that defines so many of our veterans. Being able to provide him and his family with a safe, secure roof isn’t just about roofing. It’s about gratitude, stability and giving back to someone who’s given so much.” 

Missoula, Montana 

Just in time for the holiday season, Marine Veteran Cliff Martin and his wife Kathleen received a new roof from Might Dog Roofing in partnership with Owens Corning’s Roof Deployment Project.  

“We didn't know how we were going to manage to get a new roof, and we had been exploring all different avenues,” Kathleen Martin told MTN News. “They told us they had a program, and we applied and we were selected. We are very grateful.” 

As a veteran himself, Mighty Dog owner Nick Whitehead was equally grateful to be of service. "Being in a position as a veteran to give to another veteran — hands down the best thing ever," Nick said.  

Latham, New York 

Finally, in Latham, New York, another Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project made one veteran’s day. Michael Szesnat, Sr., a disabled Marine Corps veteran, and his wife Deborah were the recipients of a roof built by Pinnacle Roofing in partnership with Purple Heart Homes.  

After a church friend did some research into the Purple Heart Homes program, realizing they qualified, Michael and Deborah got the help they needed. “I’ve been putting it off,” Deborah told NEWS10. “We’ve had some problems, and I’ve been trying to save to have it fixed but learned it had to be replaced. That was two or three years ago, so it was perfect timing. I really appreciate this so much.” 

With new roofs, all four families were able to enjoy the holiday season, safe and warm in their homes, all thanks to the kindness and generosity of the roofing community.  

By Jenny Yu.  

Enjoy this heartwarming story of two roofing companies giving back to a veteran in need of a new roof.  

Bone Dry Roofing and Owens Corning have had a long supplier-contractor relationship. This past summer, they teamed up for a different kind of partnership.  

For three years, Army veteran Timothy Nichols saved up for a new roof for his home in Lexington, Kentucky. “It got to the point where there's almost more patches than solid roof,” Timothy told LEX18. “We knew that it was getting close, and we were hoping that we had saved enough to cover the roof.” 

Their AC unit, however, had other plans.  

“Literally a day before Bone Dry Roofing came out to give me a quote or an estimate on the roof, our AC went out,” Timothy shared. “That basically ate up our savings for what we were planning on doing for a roof.” 

Thankfully, the team at Bone Dry Roofing told Timothy about Owens Corning’s Roof Deployment Project, which provides free roof replacements for veterans. Kelly Street of Owens Corning told WKYT, “We love to give back to veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country; it’s a small way that we can show appreciation.” 

Owens Corning supplied the materials and Bone Dry Roofing supplied the labor for Timothy’s roof replacement, which would have cost $12,000 to $13,000. “We try to do one a year,” Jade Marsh, general manager of Bone Dry Roofing, said. “We've been successful for I think the last four years finding a candidate that was deserving and in need of a new roof.” 

“Good stuff like this just doesn't happen to me,” Timothy expressed. “It couldn’t have happened at a better time. We just really needed a win.” 

Two roofs aren’t better than one. A Georgia homeowner seeks advice for their secondary roof issue. 

Melissa, a homeowner from Georgia, experienced issues with ductwork amid their roofing system and asked: 

Our roof appears to have been built on top of the house's old flatter roof, leaving us with about 2.5 feet clearance (making things very interesting as we look to find someone to work on the HVAC ductwork crammed in that narrow space) where, due to the pitch of the (exterior) roof, we should have 5+ feet, according to a contractor who came out. How can we remedy this secondary roof? We can't get the ductwork fixed, nor can we get spray foam to help with the condensing ductwork, so we're in quite a pickle... 

Below is what our roofing expert John Kenney from Cotney Consulting Group had to say in response: 

It appears you're dealing with a second roof built over an existing low-slope or flat roof, creating a tight cavity between the structure. This hidden space complicates HVAC access, insulation and future repairs and can pose safety risks due to the concealed void, especially if it was not engineered adequately before installation. 

Here are some solutions, but there are no easy fixes to your problem. 

1 - Remove the secondary roof 

• What it entails: Tear down the newer outer roof, fully expose the old flat roof, then properly rebuild from single-plane rafters or trusses. 
• Pros: Restores full interior clearance; provides proper insulation and ventilation; simplifies future maintenance. 
• Cons: Most invasive and expensive; requires coordination with structural, roofing, HVAC and insulation contractors. 

2 - Raise the roof pitch 

• What it entails: Extend wall or rafter height and build new rafters/trusses over the old roof, raising the pitch to add interior space  
• Pros: Increases clearance without full teardown; keeps original ceiling intact. 
• Cons: Complex structural work; impacts HVAC, electrical and ductwork; costly and may require new engineering and permits. 

3 - Build a dormer or knee wall addition 

• What it entails: Add dormers (framed projections) or knee wall "pop-outs" at select sections to locally increase height above ductwork areas. 
• Pros: Less invasive, targeted intervention; avoids full roof rebuild; lower cost. 
• Cons: Limited to small areas; may affect exterior appearance and waterproof details.   

Make this decision by considering: 

1 - Your budget and scope: Minor duct access fixes? Go with dormer/knee walls. Planning major attic renovation or HVAC overhaul? You may need a full rebuild or roof raise. 

2 - Inspect the existing framing: Engineered trusses cannot be modified — only stick framing can accommodate pitch changes. 

3 - Consult a structural engineer: They can assess wall capacity and advise whether roof jacking or renovation is feasible. 

4 - Factor in future maintenance: Removing or raising the roof simplifies future work; patching with dormers lowers costs and disruption, but may complicate later repairs. 

Overview: 

Your current "roof over roof" configuration limits essential access and creates insulation challenges. While dormers can offer a quick patch, restoring usable attic space requires removing or raising the outer roof. It's a big job, but the most dependable solutions come from addressing the core structural issue. A structural engineer and roofing pro should be consulted before you make any decisions to verify the structure's integrity.   

Another expert, Gilbert Diaz from Bone Dry Roofing, also tackled Melissa’s question and shared:  

To start, I’d like to understand a bit more about what you’re aiming to accomplish. Is the goal to address interior damage, condensation issues or is it primarily about gaining access to HVAC ductwork in that confined space?  

That said, even without those answers yet, here are a couple of initial suggestions worth considering: 

1 - Remove the original roof decking 

If feasible, removing sections of the original fiat roof could open the space and provide the clearance needed to work on ductwork or insulation. This would be labor-intensive. 

2 - Re-route ductwork 

If removal isn’t an option, selectively cutting access panels to reroute ductwork into more accessible runs may be a solid workaround. 

Once we have more context on what exactly you’re hoping to resolve, I’ll be glad to offer more targeted recommendations. 

Continue the conversation in our forum!

By Bone Dry Roofing Company. 

Consider this guide to take proactive steps in ensuring your roof’s safety and longevity. 

It can be easy to take the roof over your head for granted until something goes wrong. That’s why it’s important to be able to recognize the indicators of roof damage sooner rather than later in order to prevent further damage and avoid more costly repairs or replacements. Our experts here at Bone Dry Roofing Company compiled a list of the main marks to look out for so you are informed, prepared and empowered to maintain the health of your roof.  

1 - Age matters 

Roofs have a lifespan, and knowing the age of your roof is crucial. Most asphalt shingle roofs last around 20-25 years, while other materials may endure longer. If your roof is approaching or surpassing its life expectancy, it’s time to evaluate its condition. 

2 - Missing or damaged shingles 

Perform a visual inspection of your roof. Are there shingles that are curling, cracked or missing altogether? Damaged shingles compromise the roof’s ability to protect against water infiltration and may indicate the need for repairs or replacement. 

3 - Granule loss 

Check your gutters for an accumulation of granules. Shingles naturally shed granules over time, but an excessive amount could signify aging or defective shingles. Granule loss compromises the protective layer of the shingles, making your roof vulnerable to damage. 

4 - Leaks and water stains 

Water stains on your ceiling or walls are obvious signs of a leaky roof. However, don’t wait for visible signs indoors. Perform regular attic inspections for water stains, mold growth or damp insulation, indicating potential roof issues. 

5 - Sagging roof deck 

A sagging roof deck is a serious concern that requires immediate attention. This issue suggests structural damage, often caused by prolonged water exposure or compromised support structures. 

6 - Daylight through the roof boards 

During the day, turn off the lights in your attic and look for any areas where daylight is visible. If light can penetrate, so can water, indicating potential roof weaknesses. 

7 - Increased energy bills 

A sudden spike in energy bills could be attributed to poor roof insulation. If your roof is no longer effectively regulating indoor temperatures, it might be time for an upgrade. 

8 - Moss and algae growth 

While moss and algae may seem harmless, they can trap moisture and lead to shingle deterioration. Regularly clean your roof to prevent the growth of these unwanted invaders. 

9 - Loose or damaged flashing 

Flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights is essential for preventing water infiltration. Loose or damaged flashing can compromise the integrity of your roof, leading to leaks. 

10 - Roof valleys 

The valleys of your roof are prone to water accumulation. If you notice damaged or missing shingles in these areas, it’s a sign that your roof may not be effectively channeling water away. 

By staying vigilant and conducting regular inspections, you can catch roof issues before they escalate into major problems. Don’t wait until a small leak becomes a waterfall in your living room. Use this checklist to empower yourself as a homeowner, ensuring that your roof remains a steadfast guardian of your home for years to come. If you observe any of these signs, consult with roofing professionals to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. A well-maintained roof not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind and security for your family.  

Original article source: Bone Dry Roof Company

By Bone Dry Roofing Company. 

Learn what a commercial roof maintenance program is and how it can help you. 

A structurally sound roof is key to protecting your company’s most valuable assets. This crucial component of your commercial building is well worth the investment. And the investment is not only necessary upon the installation, but also needs to be maintained over the roof’s lifespan. Without the proper maintenance, a roof is left vulnerable to undiscovered issues that compound and can lead to costly repairs. Our experts here at Bone Dry Roofing Company suggest implementing a commercial roof maintenance program to help mitigate these concerns. 

What is a commercial roof maintenance program? 

A commercial roof maintenance program is a systematic approach to maintaining and preserving the condition of a commercial roof. The program typically involves routine inspections, cleaning and repairs to help keep the roofing system in good condition and prevent leaks, cracks and other damage. The specific components of a commercial roofing maintenance program can vary, but common services include: 

1 - Routine Inspections 

Routine roof inspections help to identify potential issues before they become significant problems. Typically, when you have your roof inspected, it includes an assessment of the roof’s overall condition and an evaluation of its structural integrity, repairing of membrane damage from punctures, caulking, resecuring any loose sheet metal, gutters or downspouts and cleaning of gutters, scuppers and drains. 

2 - Cleaning 

Cleaning helps to remove dirt, debris and other build-ups that can cause damage to the roof. This often includes cleaning gutters, drains and other areas susceptible to clogging. 

3 – Repairs 

Any identified issues or concerns that are discovered during the inspection. This can include repairing leaks, cracks and other problem areas to help prevent further damage and extend the life of the roof. 

4 - Coatings and sealants 

Applying roof coatings and sealants can help extend the roof’s life and protect it from water damage. These products can also improve energy efficiency and reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. 

5 - Emergency services 

A commercial roof maintenance program should include emergency services for unexpected events, such as storms or accidents. This often includes priority repair services to minimize the damage and prevent further problems. 

As you can see, investing in a commercial preventative roof maintenance program can help to extend its life, improve its performance and reduce the need for costly repairs. A well-maintained roof can also help to improve the overall look and feel of your building and can be a valuable investment for a business owner. 

Extend the life of your roof 

According to a study from Firestone Building Products performed over 15 years; using a preventative maintenance plan can increase the life of your commercial roof by 35% or more. Not only that, but the amount of money spent maintaining your commercial roof can go from $0.25 per square foot, down to $0.14 per square foot when performing proper maintenance. 

Ensures warranty protection  

One of the most incentivizing facts about investing in a preventative roof maintenance program is that it can help to protect the warranty of your roofing system. Most roofing manufacturers require routine maintenance to keep the warranty in effect. As a business owner, you have so many responsibilities and it can be easy to forget to schedule routine roof inspections. A roofing maintenance program is a perfect solution so that you never have to worry about the condition of your roof or risk losing your warranty. 

Additionally, a preventative roof maintenance plan can help ensure that the roof is installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This can help to prevent voiding the warranty due to improper installation or maintenance practices. Please keep in mind that it is always best to consult with the manufacturer of your roofing material to understand the specific maintenance requirements for your warranty. 

In summary, a preventative maintenance plan can help protect your commercial roofing system’s warranty by maintaining that the roof is in good condition, extending its life and ensuring that it is installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Give yourself the peace of mind you deserve that your most valuable assets are protected with a roof that you trust. 

Original article source: Bone Dry Roof Company 

By Anna Lockhart.  

Bone Dry Roofing Company founder shares his story and the core values behind the business in this special podcast. 

In the March R-Club Roofer of the Month podcast episode, host Megan Ellsworth sat down with Travis Webb, cofounder of Bone Dry Roofing Company, to discuss the brand’s backstory and the core values they keep in running the business. Since 2003, Bone Dry Roofing has served customers across the South with quality roofing solutions.  

Over the years, the company has certainly found a specialty, helping customers with multi-slope needs. Travis shared, “We were a big resource for people with multi-slope roof projects. When we were doing work with different educational and institutional groups and a lot of work with universities across the southeast and colleges, we got involved and used industry contacts, et cetera to find professionals in each of the different facets of roofing so that we could be a one-stop shop for some of the general contractors for our end users. And it has been a niche for us to provide that service.” 

In addition to being a go-to provider for multi-slope needs, Bone Dry Roofing is proud to pursue their core passions: investing in partnerships and a commitment to excellence in all that they do. When asked about these core values and why customers should work with their company, Travis explained that much of it is about the communication and respect given to those within the company and the customers.  

Travis shared, “Communication is so vital to everything. Inter-office communication, especially with our customers, it's hard to overcommunicate. ‘Hey, we're on our way. We wanted to let you know we'll be there.’ ‘Hey, if you call us in the middle of the night and we have the ability to, at least we're going to communicate back to you. Send somebody out there just so that we're always a resource.’ I think that that's probably the biggest thing we try to focus on is just always stay in touch and have a relationship with everybody, both in the company and outside of it.” 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast episode to learn more about Bone Dry Roofing Company!  

By Anna Lockhart.  

Here’s what has been trending on the AskARoofer™ (AAR) newsroom this past month. 

September brought our readers a slew of interesting articles spanning various topics. Readers particularly enjoyed the question from a Georgia building owner about the safety of putting rocks on a TPO roof. Roofing experts from Innovative Roofing Group, Bone Dry Roofing, Pittman Waller Roofing Company and Elite Exteriors provided insightful answers to his question, and their answers might surprise you.  

Across the globe, there are roofers and carpenters dedicated to preserving the historical arts of their trade. After the devastation of the fire that occurred at Notre Dame, a team of skilled carpenters and historians gathered together to restore the landmark to its former glory using the same tools and techniques as those who originally built the cathedral over eight centuries ago. Our second most-read article of the last month shares the story of their commitment to historical preservation.  

Our top article of September brought our readers contractor insights from the co-owner of Apex Home Solutions, Landon Coggins. As an experienced contractor based out of Oregon City, Oregon, Landon answers questions submitted by homeowners, providing valuable advice on how to best choose a roofer depending on the type of roof and his top “survival tips” homeowners should know.  

 Here are our top five most-read articles from September:  

5 - Contractor Insights: Landon Coggins, Apex Home Solutions 

4 - Rebuilding History With Medieval Tools 

3 - Q & A - Can You Put Rocks on a TPO Roof? 

2 - Play it Cool When it Comes to Your Roof 

1 - What do I do When Hail Damages my Roof? 

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory.

Georgia homeowner asks about the possibility of putting rocks on a TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roof. 

Chris, from Georgia, asked the following: 

Can you put rocks on a TPO roof? If so, why would you? 

Roofing expert, Brenna from Innovative Roofing Group, had this to say in response: 

Technically yes, you can use rocks, or ballasts, on a TPO roof in conjunction with a slip sheet, but it's more likely that you'll see them previously installed than added to a roof afterwards. They're typically used as a cost saving measure, or a way to provide protection to the existing roof system. The ballasts weigh down the membrane which means fewer fasteners and less adhesive is needed for support.

Roofing expert, JD Gustavel from Bone Dry Roofing Company, replied: 

Yes, you can put rocks on a TPO Roof.

Personally, I had a special circumstance with a job where a radio tower was present near the roof system. Rock was installed on the TPO Roof to safeguard from potential icicles that formed during the winter months. These icicles could have fallen and damaged the roof system without some sort of protection. Mainly rocks can be used on a TPO Roof to safeguard from potential damaging weather.

Roofing expert, April from Pittman Waller Roofing Company, said this in response: 

You can put rocks on a TPO roof to act as a ballast and provide UV protection; however, it is rare and not recommended by Pittman Waller Roofing Company, LLC.

Roofing expert, Jordan from Elite Exteriors, had this to say in response: 

Gravel is not recommended on TPO roofs. Tpo roofs typically aren’t designed to hold the extra weight and adding gravel adds no benefit. 

Gravel is typically used for two primary reasons, one to protect underlying roofing materials on built up roofs and two to secure/weigh down roofing material on single ply flat roofs. 

This last part isn’t fact, but in my experience TPO needs to be clear and open. It is recommended to clean off debris and dirt to prevent puddling and premature deterioration near seams. 

Continue the conversation in our Forum!

Have a question? AskARoofer.

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory.