Get Quotes Contact Us Sign In
Website
Call
General Roofing Since 1924, General Roofing Company has been installing and repairing residential, commercial and industrial roofs in the Greater East Bay Area; providing professional personal service on every roofing project completed. We declare that this company HAS QUALIFIED for and continues to meet the Ongoing Research and Rating Requirements for Diamond Certified status. General Roofing Company will inspect and evaluate your roof and design a Maintenance Program to extend the life of your roof and protect your home or business investment.
Follow us
Services
General Roofing Company was established by my grandfather, Jacob Wakerling nearly 100 years ago. He firmly believed in three principles; Craftsmanship, Integrity and Reliability. Those standards found to be so important then are what enables us to continue to serve our customers successfully. Four generations of our family have participated in building a company to be proud of.
Mike Wakerling is the owner of General Roofing Company with more than 45 years in the industry. He started his career working with his father at the age of 18 as an apprentice roofer. Shane Wakerling is the Vice President and General Manager at General Roofing Company. He graduated from California Polytechnic State San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor's Degree in business.
General Roofing Company has installed complete roof systems for homeowners and businesses for almost 100 years through out the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Only the highest quality roofing products are applied. General Roofing Company's technicians continually engage in training and certification programs for several different roofing methods.
General Roofing Company will endeavor to provide an accurate diagnosis of water intrusion issues. Often, we can provide on the spot temporary solutions such as the application of sealants or temporary covers, and will expedite permanent repairs whenever possible to help our customers minimize damage.
Reviews (31)
Write a Review
Vita Rey
Apr 23, 2022
Bill and this company was recommended to me by a friend. I'm super glad they came, Ismael and Alex were on site as they replaced our old flat roof and installed insulation as well, plus removed three (!) junky satellite dishes and replaced the roof vent pipes. What I appreciated the most is that they asked to help clean their debris out of the neighbors yard, huge props for that. Great quality and value, highly recommend!
Amanda Ackerman
Apr 14, 2022
I got this company as a recommendation from a friend who used them for roof installation and liked them. I had a small issue around a flashing that I couldn't quite look at so they sent me the same person who helped my friends - Bill Richards. He found a rather large hole that was causing my issue. He was concerned there wouldn't be enough work to be worth the minimum service fee ($600), so we found other things that needed to be done - I got an old satellite dish removed, and a screw that had come loose on the deck roof was replaced.

I think I waited about 2 weeks between my phone call and my first appointment and then another 2.5 weeks combined for getting my estimate and the repair finished. They came out and got everything done so quickly with no disruption to my schedule. I super appreciate it!
J. F.
Nov 15, 2021
General has taken care of my roof ever since I moved in to my 1920s era house in 2000 and even before that! I used them because the prior and only other homeowner used them over the years. In my experience, they are trustworthy, competent, and quick. They have fixed a major leak (not their fault), re-roofed my house as well put in a new roof. The one time there was a neighbor complaint (they accidentally disturbed her bush) they resolved it quickly and to her liking. She is rather finicky so I was relieved that they took responsibility and resolved the issue without me getting involved. I really like them.
Michael Moody
Sep 25, 2021
We called General Roofing to give us an estimate on replacing our roof. We had some indication in our living room ceiling that the roof was leaking. We assumed the the roof had to be replaced right away. Bill inspected the roof. He let us know that the leak was caused by a few roofing nails that had come loose and were sticking out of the asphalt shingles.

He said that otherwise, the roof was in good condition and should last another five to ten years. He fixed the problem with the loose nails for a small charge. It has been five years and the leak still hasn't returned. When we do have our roof replaced it will be by General Roofing. Thank you, Bill for all your help. Nick
Alan Briskin
Sep 20, 2021
I never thought putting on a new roof would become an enjoyable experience. I have highest praise for Bill Richards and the whole team from General Roofing. Everyone I met and interacted with, from administrative and scheduling assistance performed by Marissa to the efficiency and professionalism of Juan, the crew foreman, was of the highest level.

Due to some of the intricacies of the job, 3 layers of past roofing materials, an attic with blown insulation, landscaping that needed to be protected, and the unknowns of a house built over 100 years ago, we were cautious about who we would hire. After five different roofing companies gave estimates, all reputable and competent, we chose General Roofing.

They have been in business for almost 100 years and for good reason. Bill Richards not only provided the most in-depth explanation of what was needed but was the only contractor who designed a novel solution to the landscaping issues we presented. Of the five estimates we received, they were the most comprehensive in the scope of work performed, highest in quality of materials and workmanship (diamond certified), customized for our particular needs, and price competitive.

That's a formula that can't be beat. And their follow through and execution was consistent with their promises. The project was done on time, with consistent communication, and daily clean-up. All my questions, some pretty minor, were answered promptly and respectfully. And as I said, everyone was enjoyable to work with. We offer our highest recommendation. Alan Briskin Jane O'Brien
Shari Huhndorf
Aug 21, 2021
Excellent! Bill responded right away to my request for a bid and provided a thorough assessment of my roof. He took time to explain the necessary repairs and answer my questions. The work was done in a timely way at a very fair price. The entire team is professional, responsive, and courteous. Highly recommended. Service: Roof repair
Paul Segalini
Aug 14, 2021
They were very professional and upfront with no hidden costs, etc. it was a pleasure to work with Bill and the crew that did the work. I would use them again. Services: Roof repair, Roof installation
Lawrence Rice
Jul 01, 2021
I contacted 17 roofers. Five came to look at the job, and four of those submitted an estimate. I selected General Roofing. Bill Richards was first to bid, understood the issues, was patient and professional throughout. Their bid was not the cheapest, nor the most expensive, but they did an impeccable job efficiently. I would engage them again.
Jon Kane
May 19, 2021
Bill Richards was excellent to work with, always available, answered all of my questions, and explained every step of the way. The crew was neat and efficient, and they finished the job quickly. The staff at the General Roofing office was also friendly and efficient when it came to billing and paperwork, and a pleasure to work with. I interviewed more than one company, and I am glad that I chose General!
Jennifer Ware
Jan 23, 2021
We had General Roofing install 4 Velux skylites in July of 2020. Because of the pandemic and sheltering in place, everything took much longer than usual. Bill came by right away to take a look at the job and was able to bid the project without actually entering the house. Orders from Velux were understandably slow. Once the work started the crew had to be pulled off the job because one of them had possibly been exposed to the virus. Luckily everyone tested negative and the installation was completed without a further hitch. Jorge and crew did a great job!

Now we want even more skylites! I would recommend General Roofing for their professionalism and attention to detail, and for keeping their crew and us safe. I'll revise this review if there is any leaking after the rains start.
Stuart Crawford
Jan 20, 2021
General Roofing did a fantastic job installing our new roof. They arrived on time, did a very high quality job (finishing in four days) and thoroughly cleaned up afterwards. Our finished roof looks beautiful. The crew consisted of: Ernesto Eusebio Helmer Leopoldo Luis Many thanks to everyone! We highly recommend General Roofing.
William M. Collins
Aug 26, 2020
Excellent service! Patient, explained everything in language I could understand, thorough, techs were great! Services: Roof repair, Roof inspection, Storm / wind damage roof repair
Allison Einbinder
Jun 14, 2020
General Roofing is our go-to roofing company for our home. We've hired them to patch the roof a couple times. The full replacement is inevitable--and guess who we're hiring?!? General Roofing! Their service is amazing, professional, and all around fabulous!
Lawanda A.
Apr 14, 2020
I won't give them any stars if I could! IF YOU LIKE TO BE OVER CHARGED AND POOR CHEAP MATERIALS AND SLOPPY WORKMANSHIP THIS COMPANY IS FOR 2/15/20 I would not have written the review if it wasn't true. The fact that it took over seven months to reply is a testament to you lack of service. The timeframe it took you to respond to my posts is a reflection of your business.

I did not post immediately how bad your company's work was because I lived next to your family member who turned out to be a mean, racist and miserable individual - I'm sure you saw another roofing company repairing my roof! My advice: go back to roofing school, learn from real pros, quit jacking up your prices and quit getting your friends to post good things about your business!
Greg B.
Mar 04, 2020
So, as a commercial property owner and former contractor I will offer this endorsement for General. After walking the job I can say, they did good work. They got the 2 jobs I gave them done and on budget. They communicated with me regularly and dealt well with any of my concerns. They didn't try any fast ones, and as someone with a long history in the trades myself, I'da caught that and am pleased I didn't have too.

Best endorsement I can give them. I will have then do the next building that needs work very shortly. Gotta stay on top of my maintenance schedule even if it isn't raining just now.
Colin C.
Feb 04, 2020
I have worked with Shane and Mike at General Roofing for years now. First on our HOA Board for 43 Condo's. They did all the roofs and I was so impressed with their work that I have had them do the roofs on many of my apartments. I had a leak problem in one of my buildings. They hadn't installed that roof as it was done many years ago. They came out the same day I called and they fixed the problem right away. You can't get any better service than that. I will always call them first as they are the best. Nadine C.
George K.
Oct 29, 2019
Simply terrible service with the sales people and front office. I didn't need to go further.
Richard E.
Sep 26, 2019
We are so glad we hired General Roofing to put in extra vents and a skylight. Mike Rodriguez, estimator was great. He came out and spent time explaining the job. He made sure that the skylight was the right one for us. After the job was complete, he came back out to make certain we were satisfied with the work. Henry and Juan were so efficient and neat. We are very pleased with their work. The professionalism from reception, estimator and workers was outstanding. Thank you so much!
John M.
Aug 13, 2019
General Roofing were very easy to work with. They were prompt, efficient, and flexible. I recommend them to anyone looking to replace their roof.
Gabriel P.
Jun 24, 2018
Don't know how this General Roofing Company made Diamond Certified Ratings! I wouldn't refer this company to anybody. Bill Anderson came out to my residence and gave me a quote on my dry rot repairs. I told them I was good with the quote and took a copy of the contract. He told me he would put me on a calendar date and get back to me. I asked Bill if I needed to follow up with them, he said " No but they were 3 weeks out." Three weeks later I called and left a message to let me know what day the repairs will get done.no call back.

Two weeks after that I call them and someone said oh your job was scheduled today but we couldn't finish other jobs. General Roofing said they would be at my house the next day. Waited for them all day & No Show! I called them back to tell them I wasn't interested in there service. They said, " JUST CALL ANOTHER COMPANY WE DON'T CARE!"
Mike O.
Jun 14, 2018
Had a great experience with General Roofing. Everyone I dealt with was courteous and professional. After not being happy with a prior roofing company's recent performance and their not providing good options for two roofs that were ponding and one had developed a leak that they tried several times to fix. Now on to General. Bill the estimator came out and was great.

He looked at the two small flat roofs. And while the other company continued to say how bad the roofs were installed, Bill disagreed. As he looked over the one roof he said he thought found the leak - there was a gap between the gutter and wall and there was a pool ball sized hole in the stucco. He patched it. Given the roofs were getting close to 20 years old, we decided to get a quote That came quickly and we got on the wait list.

This did take a while but Bill's patch did the trick. When the crew came out they were awesome. Worked hard and kept everything clean. I waited hoping there was no hidden water damage. Only one small spot of dry rot that they replaced. Both roofs were done in a day and they look great. Haven't been through rainy season yet but I'm sure they will be great. And I believe I can count on General Roofing if an issue arises. Great job and gives me piece of mind to know that water won't be an issue.
C. K.
Mar 31, 2018
Big No No to this company. They have very aggressive sales people and very strange part was I ve got two people came from this company at different time and they gave me three different prices. but I needed have roof so I ve paid a lot of about of deposit with their contract signed. After 3 months they ve emailed me that they wanted cancel this contract so.

If you dont want to have financial problem or any kind of problem DO NOT GO to to this company. Also they didnt send me the refund right a way. Something wrong with them. How come two sales people came to my place and gave me different prices. Also the two people gave me different tarts date. ODD.
Carl R.
Mar 02, 2018
They did a great job on half of my roof. Now I wish I'd had them do the whole roof, because the other half wasn't done nearly as well as General's half. General uses top-notch materials, workmanship, and their estimator actually showed up when other companies didn't. My only complaint was the lack of communication regarding delays (I recognize that there was extraordinary rain last year, and every roofer was overbooked), and other issues, but overall, I am a very happy customer.
Marcie M.
Jan 25, 2018
I'm going to have to edit this as I originally gave them 5 stars because they came to our house quickly to patch the roof. Unfortunately, 6 days later it's raining again and the roof is leaking in the same place we called them about. Left a message so if they call back and come out to help, I'll give them 5 stars again. Until then, it's raining in our living room right where we just paid $1300 for restoration and $900 for the roof "fix".
Richard G.
Nov 29, 2017
UPDATE #2 Downgrading from 2 stars back to 1. So the company has come out and said they'd do the work to make right on my dad's roof, however, it's been months and nothing has been done. They've said that they haven't forgotten about him, but it's clear that they have. I'll have to discuss with my dad first, but I feel at this point, maybe the BBB will be able to help us out on this as we haven't been able to make any further headway on this.
Rob M.
Sep 26, 2017
The new roof came out great! Pricing compared to competitors was good also. In and out in 2 days and helped me deal with the asshole insurance company trying to hold out payment! Thanks Gen Roof!
J. W.
May 21, 2017
I contracted with General Roofing for installation of a roof vent for a bathroom fan and patching & sealing chimney mortar. I've used Diamond Certified companies in the past for other projects so I expected their cost to be on the high end. The price quoted seemed reasonable given I thought they would need interior access to the attic crawl space to cut a hole for the vent and the description of the failing mortar sounded pretty severe.

However the reality of the job was that the vent was cut from the roof, not the attic, and the chimney work took about 15 minutes to complete. My contract cost was $950 which included less than $100 of parts & supplies. It took the two guys 50 minutes to complete the work ($850/50 min) which is approximately $17/minute. Even if the quality is great, that's excessive. Agreeing to that cost is on me for not doing enough research & not asking enough questions. My recommendation to you is if you contract with this company for a repair, get them to quote you a 'not to exceed' hourly rate.
Aalim M.
Apr 27, 2017
We are very thankful and extremely impressed with the wonderful work Mike Wakerling and his team at General Roofing Contractors did in repairing our roof. They were very affordable, timely and professional. If you ever need Roofing services, we would strongly recommend them.
Annie T.
Apr 22, 2016
I want to write a better review of these folks because they are nice people and their work is good. My feedback is based on trying to get them out for an estimate on two different occasions. I have been caught in the cycle of insanity with them where I call and request the estimate, am told to email the address and or details and my email gets caught in a black hole.

I have had to follow up over and over again and each time am asked to do the same thing (email request) with no Accountability or follow through. I often need roof work - maintenance or replacement - and can't have a company not follow up with me so often. It's so frustrating to have owners and tenants wanting to get a job done and it goes nowhere. Sorry :(
Victor D.
Jun 18, 2015
Where is the 6 star button? Bill is excellent to work with and his team is just as stellar. They replaced all my gutters and downspouts. I had a lot of wood rot and they replaced it all. The price was more than fair. I found them on Angie's List and I will give them the thumbs up thee as well. Great Job Team!
Molly S.
Oct 16, 2013
I tend to use yelp for restaurants and nail salons, but I need to give credit where credit is due. These guys made an intimidating job simple, fast and worry free. As someone who never thought she would need to call for a roof job, I was completely new to the process and super stressed out. But these guys explained everything to me, guided me through the process start to finish, even educated me on the materials they used.

I never felt pressured, which was a change from the 2 other companies I called. The price was competitive and they worked with my crazy schedule. The staff was professional and more than that, kind and patient. Which is rare for any kind of construction company these days. I will probably not have to use them again because they did such a nice job but I will recommended them to family friends and anyone in need of new roofing or roof repairs.