Take a minute to read this review, you will be happy you did.
I am writing this review shortly after Jay, the owner of First Class Roofing, has pulled away from my house. I found FCR after spending hours reading through countless reviews on both Yelp, Google and Angie's List, trying to select companies to repair my leaking roof; it was overwhelming. Seeing that Jay was local and only had 5 star reviews, although had far less total reviews compared to other companies, I decided reach out and give his company a shot.
The initial encounter was pleasant; the secretary was very polite, took my info down and said the owner would be there later in the day for the estimate. A few hours later, my doorbell rings and I find him standing at my door, EARLY, yes that's right, early. That rarely happens if at all.
Jay comes inside and listens to me explain the issues I'm currently experiencing (3 leaking skylights and a vent) and then we go outside for him to show me a few things. He spent the time to explain exactly what was causing my problem: a shoddy roof installation by the last contractor. My stomach was in knots as he just delivered the grim confirmation that I'd need a new roof. Having just purchased my home and thinking that the it was in good shape given a home inspection report, I was in shock, and still am.
Either way, Jay says "Let me grab a ladder and go take a look." We head to the backyard, he sets up, and climbs up to poke around. While on the roof, he thoroughly explains everything that he's seeing so I would understand. Realizing the news he just delivered and understanding my reality (young, single, first-time home buyer who is now broke) Jay says "Give me a minute I have to head to the truck." Shortly after he returns with a bucket of flashing cement and begins to apply it to all of the trouble areas, spending a good 20 minutes patching up the roof.
I was floored. Here is a man whom I've never met before taking the time to fix my leaks to buy me a little time with a full roof replacement. We chatted while the work was being done about life, work, family etc. I learned enough about Jay in that short time-span to know that he is an honest, hard-working and humble individual; a truly good person who is in the business to help others. His 40+ years experience was apparent throughout the "estimate" but I feel that is only part of being a true professional, anyone can be knowledgeable. The other part shined through with each stroke of his trowel, laying down more cement to potentially stop my leaks. In the end I offered whatever I could: money, food, drinks. He refused it all.
Now I won't say you should expect the same exact thing to happen to you when Jay shows up at your house to give an estimate. However, you can certainly expect a man who will give you an honest, and well-informed assessment of your roof and explain all the repair options available. Once I have enough money saved up, I will definitely be calling Jay back to do a full replacement. I'm a strong believer in treating others how you wish to be treated; a little courtesy goes a long way. read more