When the hailstorm rolled through Berks County a few months ago, it didn’t just damage homes. It opened the floodgates for out-of-state “storm repair” crews—contractors who move from town to town chasing weather events, knocking on doors, and selling big promises with small print.
Homeowners were offered fast timelines, cheap materials, and “we’ll handle your insurance” pitches. Sadly, many found out too late that these so-called savings come with hidden costs: shoddy workmanship, unsafe framing, and no one left to answer the phone when things go wrong.
A Real Example from Our Neighborhood
One local family recently called us after one of these crews left their home in rough shape. The contractor had cut the bottoms off load-bearing studs to replace a sill plate—then “repaired” the damage with scabbed-together scraps of wood. The wall was unstable, the siding was crooked, and the whole structure was compromised.
We were happy to step in and make it right, but the money that was “saved” on the original job was spent twice fixing what should have been done properly the first time.
Doing things right is paramount to us—and that means building safely, honestly, and with pride in our craft.
How to Protect Yourself After a Storm
If someone shows up after a storm offering roofing or siding repairs, ask a few simple questions before signing anything:
- Are they licensed and insured in Pennsylvania?
- Do they have local references you can verify?
- Will they still be around next year to warranty their work?
A little due diligence can save a homeowner thousands of dollars and a world of frustration.
Marvel Builders: Local, Proven, and Here to Stay
At Marvel Builders, we’ve been serving Berks County and surrounding communities for decades. We don’t chase storms—we build relationships. Our work stands on craftsmanship, integrity, and a commitment to doing what’s right even when no one’s looking.
So the next time you need a roof repaired or siding replaced, remember:
Do it once. Do it right. Hire local. Hire integrity.
What a mess they left! Thats not how to frame…
