Second Generation Roofing vs Metal Roof Systems Inc
Sonoma Roofing Contractors Comparison · Updated March 2026
The central decision is material choice: Second Generation offers full-service asphalt roofing with proven repair expertise, while Metal Roof Systems specializes exclusively in metal installations for long-term durability.
| Second Generation Roofing | Metal Roof Systems Inc | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★ 4.6 | ★ 5.0 |
| Years Licensed | 26 years | 36 years |
| License # | 768860 | 583412 |
| Workers' Comp | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Bond Amount | $25,000 | $25,000 |
| Location | Sebastopol, CA | Santa Rosa, CA |
| Website | secondgenroofing.com | www.metalroofsystemsinc.com |
Key Differences
What Customers Say
Second Generation Roofing
Customers consistently highlight Second Generation's transparent communication about needed repairs, efficient crew work, and thorough cleanup across diverse roofing projects including complex tear-offs.
Metal Roof Systems Inc
Customers emphasize the exceptional longevity of Metal Roof Systems' installations, with roofs remaining excellent after nearly two decades, and appreciate their communication throughout the process.
Key Takeaway: Second Generation's feedback centers on managing project complexity and identifying hidden issues during active work, while Metal Roof Systems' reviews focus on the enduring quality of completed metal installations years after completion.
Customer Reviews
Second Generation Roofing
Good company to work with and was very quick to completion. They did a complete overhaul of our leaking chimney along with the roof. The repaired chimney looked good as new, and the exterior paint mat...
I am a licensed Realtor in Sonoma / Marin County. I have personally used Second Generation Roofing for my rental property and have referred them to many happy clients and friends. I would highly recom...
Noel and his team were prompt and professional. Great attention to detail and very transparent about anticipated repairs. They went the extra mile to make sure that their work was top quality, definit...
Metal Roof Systems Inc
Metal roofs are more expensive than standard roofs but they last twice as long, are fire resistant, and have a traditional yet modern, innovative look. I chose Metal Roof Systems to install mine becau...
They did my roof back in 2003. Still looks great to this day.
Excellent Work - Great Communication
Consider Second Generation Roofing if...
- ✓ You're planning a conventional asphalt shingle replacement and want competitive pricing with proven 26-year experience in the material
- ✓ Your home is older or multi-story and likely to reveal dry rot, improper flashing, or other hidden issues during tear-off that require immediate repair expertise
- ✓ You need related services like gutter replacement or downspout work handled by the same crew during the roof project
- ✓ You value detailed pre-work inspections that identify anticipated repairs before starting, avoiding surprise costs mid-project
Consider Metal Roof Systems Inc if...
- ✓ You're specifically seeking a metal roof for fire resistance in a wildfire-prone area and want a contractor with 36 years devoted entirely to metal systems
- ✓ You're making a long-term investment in premium roofing with expectations of 20+ year performance and can accommodate the higher upfront cost
- ✓ Your property requires specialized knowledge of metal roof installation techniques, ventilation, and fastening systems rather than general roofing experience
- ✓ You prioritize material longevity and fire rating over the flexibility to handle ancillary repair work during the same project
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- → Ask Second Generation for references on projects involving older homes where they discovered and repaired hidden damage during tear-off, and confirm their pricing structure for unexpected repairs
- → Ask Metal Roof Systems for the total installed cost comparison to asphalt systems and specific fire rating certifications for the metal products they install
- → Confirm with Metal Roof Systems whether they handle related repairs like dry rot or chimney flashing, or if you'll need to coordinate separate contractors for issues discovered during installation
The Bottom Line
Your decision hinges entirely on roofing material. If you need a conventional asphalt shingle replacement—especially on an older home that may reveal hidden repairs—Second Generation's 26 years of full-service experience, transparent repair planning, and efficient project execution make them the clear choice. If you're specifically investing in a metal roof for fire resistance and long-term durability, Metal Roof Systems' 36-year specialization and proven installations lasting decades justify their focus. Don't choose Metal Roof Systems for a standard shingle job, and don't choose Second Generation if metal roofing expertise is what you need. Match the contractor to your material decision first, then verify they can handle your property's specific conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Metal roofing costs significantly more upfront but offers fire resistance that's increasingly valuable in wildfire-prone areas and documented lifespans exceeding 20 years. If you plan to stay in your home long-term and prioritize fire safety, the investment makes sense. If you need a cost-effective replacement on a standard timeline, asphalt shingles from an experienced installer like Second Generation provide reliable 30-40 year warranties at lower cost.
The data doesn't indicate Second Generation works with metal systems—their project descriptions focus entirely on shingle installations and related repairs. If you're considering metal, you'd be choosing a specialist like Metal Roof Systems who has spent 36 years mastering that specific material. Ask Second Generation directly if metal is something they offer, but their reviews suggest asphalt is their core expertise.
Second Generation's reviews specifically mention identifying and repairing dry rot, improper installations, and other issues discovered during tear-off, indicating this is routine for them. Metal Roof Systems' specialization is installation of the metal system itself. Before choosing, ask Metal Roof Systems whether they handle substrate repairs or if you'd need to coordinate separate contractors for any wood damage found during your metal roof installation.
Second Generation's reviews mention efficient crews and some projects completed quickly once scheduled, suggesting they move at a strong pace. Metal Roof Systems has limited timeline feedback in reviews. Installation speed for metal roofing is generally slower than asphalt due to the precision required in fastening and seam work, but ask both companies for estimated project duration specific to your roof size and complexity.
Looking for the Best?
See our ranked list of top roofing contractors in Sonoma.
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How We Compare Contractors
License Verification
All license data is sourced from official California CSLB records and verified regularly.
Review Analysis
Customer reviews are aggregated from Google and analyzed to identify patterns in service quality.
Detailed Comparison
We analyze credentials, insurance, experience, and feedback to highlight meaningful differences.
Not all licensed contractors are created equal. While a valid license is the baseline requirement in California, contractors can vary significantly in experience, insurance coverage, and customer satisfaction.
- Experience matters: A contractor with 15+ years of experience has likely encountered and solved problems that newer contractors haven't faced yet.
- Workers' compensation protects you: If a contractor without workers' comp insurance has an employee injured on your property, you could be held liable.
- Reviews reveal patterns: Individual reviews can be misleading, but patterns across many reviews often reveal a contractor's true strengths and weaknesses.
- Bond amounts vary: A contractor's bond provides financial protection if they fail to complete work as agreed. Higher bonds offer more protection.
Taking time to compare contractors on these factors can save you from costly mistakes and help ensure your project is completed by a qualified professional.
Data Sources: License information from California CSLB. Ratings and reviews from Google. Last verified March 13, 2026.
This comparison is based on publicly available information. We recommend getting multiple quotes and verifying all credentials directly before hiring.
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