INDIANAPOLIS — For most homeowners, replacing a roof can cost thousands of dollars, but for one Indianapolis Army veteran, that cost is free, thanks to a national program and local roofing company giving back

For Edward Harper and his wife, a new roof is something they knew they needed, but how they were going to pay for it was another question.

“This means a whole lot to us,” Regina Harper said. “It’s like something lifted up off my shoulders because we were trying to figure out whether we’d start saving. Maybe next year we could get it done, and look what happened. I’m really excited. Ed is too, and we really appreciate it.”

Regina decided to apply for help, and that help arrived right at their doorstep.

Crews with Porter Roofing and Restoration spent the day replacing the couple’s roof and gutters, completely free.

It’s part of the Owens Corning Roof Deployment Project, which provides new roofs to veterans in need.
The project would typically cost someone around $27,000.

“Veterans give a lot to our country, and when we started this company, we knew we wanted to give back, and who better to give back to,” said Jesse Porter, owner of Porter Roofing.

The Owens Corning foundation donated the materials, while Porter Roofing provided the labor. Since the program began in 2016, more that 875 military members across the country have benefitted.

As the Harpers see it, it means they no longer have to worry about saving up for this major expense.

“It’s great,” Harper said. “it feels wonderful. He was young when he went in, got drafted. So, this is good. It’s a good pay off and near the end so we’re thankful.”

With Veterans Day less than two weeks away, this project is one way the community is honoring those who served.

“This is the Porter way of saying thank you for your service,” said Maria Bosler, owner of Porter Roofing.

While the work on the roof may only take a day, for Edward and his wife, the peace of mind it brings will last much longer.

“We’re so grateful and so thankful. We really, really, really, appreciate all this,” said Harper.