Commercial Roof Replacement Grand Rapids: How Fettig Jobs Saved Big with Weather Shield 

When Fettig Jobs in Grand Rapids needed a commercial roof replacement, they were faced with quotes from other contractors recommending a total tear-off. For a busy local business like Fettig—an award-winning employment agency serving West Michigan—that kind of project would be both expensive and disruptive. 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve been helping businesses protect their roof investments for over 40 years. So when Fettig reached out to us, our goal was simple: give them the best solution that protected their building and their bottom line. 

Here’s how our custom re-roofing plan helped Fettig Jobs avoid a full tear-off, reduce construction mess, and extend the life of their commercial roof. 

What Made Fettig’s Roofing Project Unique? 

Fettig Jobs isn’t just any business. With offices across Grand Rapids, Cedar Springs, Lowell, and Holland, they’re a trusted, family-owned staffing agency that prides itself on real connections and long-term results. They’ve earned the Best of Staffing Award four years in a row—a clear sign that quality matters to them. 

When their Grand Rapids location needed a new roof, they approached it the same way they handle staffing: by looking for a smart, long-term fit. 

Unfortunately, the first two roofing quotes they received pushed for a full tear-off. That would mean major disruption, longer construction times, and a higher price tag. 

Did Fettig Really Need a Full Tear-Off? 

Not necessarily. 

One of the first things we did was perform a professional roof moisture scan. This allowed us to determine the actual condition of the existing roof layers. After a thorough inspection, we discovered that only the top layer needed to be removed—there was no need to tear everything off. That’s a big deal.

By avoiding a full tear-off, Fettig was able to: 

Save significantly on labor and disposal costs 

Minimize noise and disruption to their daily operations 

Keep more materials out of the landfill 

This approach not only saved money—it was also better for the environment. 

How Did Weather Shield Handle the Fireproofing on the Roof Deck? 

During our inspection, we noticed that the underside of the metal roof deck had been sprayed with fireproofing spray foam insulation. That’s something many commercial roofing contractors overlook, but it matters. 

Normally, roofing systems are mechanically fastened with screws that go right through the roof deck. But in Fettig’s case, doing that would have punched holes straight through the fireproofing insulation—creating a mess and potentially reducing the fire safety of the building. 

Instead of forcing a standard solution, we reached out to the roof system manufacturer to discuss alternatives. With special approval, we were able to adhere both the insulation and the new roof membrane, avoiding the need for fasteners altogether. 

It took extra coordination, but it was the right choice for the building, and our client appreciated the attention to detail. 

What Was the Final Outcome for Fettig Jobs? 

Thanks to a combination of roof inspections, manufacturer collaboration, and custom installation techniques, we delivered a roof that: 

• Extended the lifespan of the building’s commercial roof system 

• Preserved the integrity of the fireproofing underneath 

• Reduced waste and cost by avoiding an unnecessary full tear-off 

• Provided a clean, professional finish without the disruption of invasive construction 

The Fettig team told us they were especially happy with our process, communication, and quality of work. 

Why Is Moisture Scanning Important Before a Re-Roof? 

Fettig’s success story highlights why moisture scanning is a crucial first step in any commercial roofing project. 

Without it, building owners are left guessing, or relying on contractors who assume a full tear-off is always necessary. At Weather Shield, we believe in doing what’s right for the roof, not just what’s routine. 

By scanning for trapped moisture, we can tell whether roof insulation is still performing well or if it needs to be removed. That gives us (and our clients) confidence in the scope of work and often leads to cost savings and better long-term performance. 

Can You Adhere a Roof Instead of Fastening It? 

Yes, and sometimes, it’s the best choice. 

In Fettig’s case, adhering the new insulation and roofing membrane was essential to avoid damaging the sprayed fireproofing below the metal deck. But even beyond that, adhered roof systems offer benefits like: 

• Cleaner finishes 

• Less noise during installation 

• No risk of penetrating interior ceiling finishes or insulation 

We work closely with roof system manufacturers to ensure warranty-approved solutions that match the building’s needs and code requirements. 

How Does Weather Shield Communicate During a Commercial Roofing Project? 

We understand that most of our clients aren’t roofing experts—and they shouldn’t have to be. That’s why we keep communication clear, simple, and honest throughout the process. 

With Fettig, we: 

Explained every step of the plan and why it made sense 

Shared moisture scan results and roof inspection findings 

Got approvals where needed and followed code to the letter 

Stayed in touch throughout the project to avoid surprises 

Our goal is always to make roofing decisions feel confident, not confusing. 

Fettig Jobs trusted us with their roof, and we respected that trust by delivering a custom solution that saved money, avoided unnecessary disruption, and protected the building for years to come. 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’re here to help you get the most out of your commercial roofing investment—whether that’s through smart roof maintenance, emergency repair, or planning a full roof replacement. If you’re unsure what your roof really needs, let’s take a look together. 

Let’s talk about your roof. Contact Weather Shield Roofing Systems to schedule a roof inspection or ask questions. 

Kyle Bruinsma

Account Executive

Since 2019, Kyle Bruinsma has delivered high-quality, cost-effective commercial roofing solutions at Weather Shield Roofing Systems. As both a roofing professional and commercial property investor, he brings a unique perspective to each project—treating every building like his own. Kyle values the strong team culture at Weather Shield, where everyone works together to keep customers dry.