Quick Summary: After evaluating 20+ roofing contractors for best roofer in Amherst, NY, our top pick is OConnor Contracting for their 4.9-star rating (266 reviews), 24/7 emergency service, and GAF Master Elite certification. For budget-conscious homeowners, Amherst Roofing offers excellent value with 28+ years of local experience.
Quick Comparison: Best Amherst Roofers at a Glance
| Roofing Company | Google Rating | Reviews | Years in Business | 24/7 Service | Free Estimates |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OConnor Contracting | ⭐ 4.9 | 266 | 12+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Buffalo Roofing | ⭐ 4.8 | 379 | 20+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Amherst Roofing | ⭐ 4.7 | 127 | 28+ | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| NBS Roofing | ⭐ 4.5 | 57 | 25+ | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Gold Construction | ⭐ 4.6 | 45+ | 20+ | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Why Your Choice of Amherst Roofer Matters
Amherst, NY experiences some of the most demanding weather conditions for residential roofs in the United States. Located in the Buffalo-Niagara region, homeowners here face:
- 90+ inches of annual snowfall — nearly double the national average!
- Lake-effect snow storms from Lake Erie that can dump a couple inches, or a couple feet overnight
- Favorable conditions creating consistent ice dams during the winter
- High winds that regularly exceed 50 mph during winter storms
- January averages 11 inches of snow — the peak month for roof stress
These extreme conditions mean your roof works harder than roofs in most other parts of the country. Choosing a local contractor who understands Western New York’s unique climate isn’t just smart — it’s essential for protecting your home.
Common roofing problems in Amherst include:
- Ice dam formation along eaves and gutters
- Shingle blow-off from high winds
- Granule loss from freeze-thaw cycles
- Flashing failures around chimneys and vents
- Condensation damage from poor attic ventilation
- Premature aging (roofs may last 15-20 years vs. 25-30 in milder climates)
How We Selected the Best Amherst Roofing Companies
Our team evaluated 23 roofing contractors serving Amherst and the surrounding Erie County area. We narrowed the list to these top 5 based on:
✅ Google rating of 4.5 stars or higher
✅ Minimum 50 verified customer reviews
✅ 10+ years serving the Buffalo-Amherst area
✅ Proper licensing and insurance verification
✅ BBB accreditation (A rating or higher preferred)
✅ Manufacturer certifications (GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed)
✅ Response time to quote requests (within 48 hours)
✅ Warranty offerings on labor and materials
We also reviewed customer feedback patterns, looking for mentions of professionalism, communication, cleanup, and post-installation support.
The 5 Best Roofing Companies in Amherst, NY
1. OConnor Contracting — Best Overall
⭐ 4.9 Google Rating (266 Reviews) | A+ BBB Rating
📍 Address: 106 Hubbardston Pl, Buffalo, NY 14228
📞 Phone: (716) 600-7663
🕐 Hours: Open 24 hours — 7 days a week
🌐 Website: oconnorroofingbuffalo.com
💰 Free Estimates: Yes
Why We Ranked Them #1:
OConnor Contracting has earned their reputation as the best roofer in the Amherst area through consistent 5-star service and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Founded in 2014 by Kris O’Connor, the company has grown to become one of Western New York’s most trusted names in roofing.
What sets OConnor apart is their commitment to their customers. From the first call, through the installation or repair process, Oconnor prioritizes delivering exceptional craftsmanship and an unparalleled customer experience.
Services Offered:
- Roof repair and roof replacement
- Storm damage assessment and repair
- Asphalt shingle installation
- Metal roofing
- Flat roofing (TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen)
- Siding installation and repair
- Seamless gutters
Certifications:
- GAF Master Elite Contractor (top 2% of roofers nationwide)
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
- Atlas Pro Plus Contractor
What Customers Say:
“OConnor Contracting was incredible. They came out the same day after the storm and had a tarp up within hours. The full roof replacement was done in two days, and they left our yard cleaner than they found it.” — Michael T., Amherst
“Fair pricing, excellent communication, and top-quality work. Kris personally checked on the job twice. You can tell they actually care.” — Jennifer R., Williamsville
Best For: Homeowners who want premium quality, 24/7 availability, and manufacturer-backed warranties. Ideal for storm damage emergencies.
2. Buffalo Roofing — Best for Large Projects
⭐ 4.8 Google Rating (379 Reviews)
📍 Address: 5565 Transit Rd, Williamsville, NY 14221
📍 Location: Inside Felber’s Building Supplies & Design Center
📞 Phone: (716) 444-7663
🕐 Hours: Open 24 hours
🌐 Website: buffaloroofing.com
💰 Free Estimates: Yes
📱 Book Online: Available
Why They Made Our List:
With nearly 400 Google reviews and a 4.8-star rating, Buffalo Roofing has built an impressive track record over their 20+ years serving Western New York. Their location inside Felber’s Building Supplies gives customers a unique advantage — you can visit their showroom to see and touch roofing materials before making a decision.
Buffalo Roofing handles both residential and commercial projects, making them an excellent choice for homeowners with larger or more complex roofing needs.
Services Offered:
- Complete roof replacements
- Roof repairs and maintenance
- Preventive maintenance programs
- Storm damage repair
- Snow damage repair
- Insurance claim assistance
- Commercial roofing
- Siding installation
Roofing Materials:
- Premium asphalt shingles
- Metal roofing systems
- TPO flat roofing
- EPDM rubber roofing
- Modified bitumen
What Customers Say:
“Buffalo Roofing replaced our 30-year-old roof in just two days. The crew was professional, and they helped us navigate the insurance claim process. Highly recommend.” — David K., Amherst
“Great experience from quote to completion. Their showroom helped us pick the perfect shingle color. No pressure, just helpful advice.” — Sarah M., East Amherst
Best For: Homeowners who want to see materials in person, need help with insurance claims, or have larger/commercial projects.
3. Amherst Roofing — Best Value & Local Experience
⭐ 4.7 Google Rating (127 Reviews)
📍 Address: 8900 Transit Rd, East Amherst, NY 14051
📞 Phone: (716) 304-4554
🕐 Hours: Monday-Friday 9 AM – 5 PM
🌐 Website: amherstroofingwny.com
💰 Free Estimates: Yes
Why They Made Our List:
With roots dating back to 1996, Amherst Roofing is one of the longest-standing roofing companies in the area. This family-owned and operated business has been helping local homeowners for nearly three decades — meaning they’ve seen every type of roof problem Western New York weather can create.
Their specialization in roof ventilation is particularly valuable for Amherst homes. Proper attic ventilation prevents ice dams, reduces moisture damage, and can significantly lower your heating and cooling bills.
Services Offered:
- Roof repair
- Complete re-roofing
- New roof installation
- Roof inspections
- Attic ventilation solutions
- Skylight installation
- Roof vent installation
Special Features:
- Financing available through partner lenders
- Ventilation specialists (critical for preventing ice dams)
- Family-owned for 28+ years
- Deep knowledge of local building codes
What Customers Say:
“Amherst Roofing fixed our ice dam problem that three other companies couldn’t figure out. They added proper ventilation, and we haven’t had an issue since. True local experts.” — Tom H., Amherst
“Honest, fair pricing, and they stand behind their work. They’ve done two roofs for us over the years. Wouldn’t call anyone else.” — Linda P., Clarence
Best For: Homeowners seeking experienced local contractors, those with ventilation/ice dam issues, and budget-conscious buyers who want quality without premium pricing.
4. NBS Roofing — Best for Quality Materials
⭐ 4.5 Google Rating (57 Reviews) | 25+ Years in Business
📍 Address: 5943 Fisk Rd, Lockport, NY
📞 Phone: (716) 302-5522
🕐 Hours: Monday-Saturday, Closes 8 PM
🌐 Website: nbsroofing.com
💰 Free Estimates: Yes
Why They Made Our List:
NBS Roofing is a family-owned business that has quietly built a loyal customer base over 25+ years. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, they have access to premium materials and can offer enhanced warranty options that many competitors can’t match.
Their emphasis on “your home’s safety” isn’t just marketing — NBS takes a consultative approach, often recommending solutions that prioritize long-term durability over quick fixes.
Services Offered:
- Residential roof repair
- Residential roof replacement
- Commercial roofing
- Roof cleaning
- Roof inspections
- Siding repair and installation
Roofing Materials:
- Owens Corning Duration shingles (industry-leading)
- Metal roofing
- Slate roofing
- Cedar shake
- Flat roof systems
What Customers Say:
“NBS installed our Owens Corning Duration roof five years ago. We’ve been through multiple Buffalo winters without a single issue. Quality materials make a difference.” — Robert G., Pendleton
“A true family business. They treat your home like it’s their own. Not the cheapest, but you get what you pay for.” — Karen W., Lockport
Best For: Homeowners who prioritize premium materials and manufacturer warranties over lowest price.
5. Gold Construction — Best for Home Remodeling + Roofing
⭐ 4.6 Google Rating | BBB Accredited | 20+ Years Experience
📍 Address: 2495 Grand Island Blvd, Ste 2, Grand Island, NY 14072
📍 Also Serving: 4162 Bailey Ave, Amherst, NY 14226
📞 Phone: (716) 400-6139
🌐 Website: goldconstructionroofing.com
💰 Free Estimates: Yes
Why They Made Our List:
Gold Construction brings a unique advantage: they’re full-service home improvement contractors, not just roofers. This means they can handle projects that involve multiple trades — like replacing a roof while also updating skylights, gutters, and chimney flashing in one coordinated project.
With over 20 years of industry experience, Gold Construction has developed a reputation for handling complex projects efficiently and professionally.
Services Offered:
- Roof repair and replacement
- Skylight installation and replacement
- Gutter installation
- Chimney flashing repair
- Siding
- Home remodeling
What Customers Say:
“We needed a new roof plus three new skylights. Gold Construction handled everything seamlessly. One contractor, one project timeline, one point of contact. So much easier than coordinating multiple companies.” — Mark D., Grand Island
“Professional crew, fair price, and they cleaned up everything. Would definitely use them again.” — Nancy B., Amherst
Best For: Homeowners with multi-trade projects (roof + skylights + gutters), or those planning broader home renovations.
What to Look for When Hiring an Amherst Roofer
Before signing a contract, verify these essential items:
Licensing & Insurance
New York State doesn’t require a specific roofing license, but reputable contractors carry:
- General liability insurance ($1 million minimum)
- Workers’ compensation insurance
- Proof of bonding (for larger projects)
Ask for certificates of insurance and verify they’re current.
Local Experience
Amherst’s climate is brutal on roofs. Prioritize contractors with:
- 10+ years serving the Buffalo-Niagara area
- Specific experience with ice dam prevention
- Knowledge of local building codes and permit requirements
Manufacturer Certifications
Top-tier certifications indicate advanced training and access to better warranties:
- GAF Master Elite — Top 2% of roofers nationwide
- Owens Corning Preferred/Platinum — Factory-trained installers
- CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster — Premium certification
Written Estimates
Get detailed written estimates from at least 3 contractors. Each should include:
- Complete scope of work
- Materials and brands specified
- Timeline
- Payment schedule
- Warranty terms (labor AND materials)
References & Reviews
- Check Google, Yelp, and BBB reviews
- Ask for 3-5 recent local references
- Look for patterns in negative reviews (communication issues, cleanup problems, etc.)
Red Flags to Avoid
🚩 Door-to-door salespeople after storms (often “storm chasers”)
🚩 Pressure to sign immediately or “today only” pricing
🚩 Cash-only payment or full payment upfront
🚩 No physical business address in the area
🚩 Can’t provide proof of insurance
🚩 Unusually low bids (often means cutting corners)
🚩 No written contract or vague terms
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a roof replacement cost in Amherst, NY?
The average roof replacement in Amherst costs $8,500-$16,000 for a typical 1,500-2,000 sq ft home with asphalt shingles. Metal roofing runs $15,000-$28,000. Factors affecting cost include:
- Roof size and pitch (steeper = more expensive)
- Material choice (architectural shingles vs. 3-tab vs. metal)
- Number of layers to remove
- Chimney, skylight, and vent flashing
- Decking repairs needed
Pro tip: Get 3+ quotes and compare scope of work, not just price.
How long does a roof last in Amherst’s climate?
Due to harsh winters and lake-effect snow:
- 3-tab shingles: 12-18 years (not recommended)
- Architectural shingles: 18-25 years
- Premium shingles (GAF Timberline HDZ): 20-30 years
- Metal roofing: 40-60+ years
- Slate: 75-100+ years
Roofs in Amherst typically last 5-10 years less than identical roofs in milder climates.
Do Amherst roofers offer free inspections?
Yes. All five companies on our list offer free inspections and estimates. We recommend scheduling inspections:
- After major storms
- In spring (to assess winter damage)
- In fall (before snow season)
- If your roof is 15+ years old
What’s the best roofing material for Amherst, NY?
For most Amherst homes, we recommend architectural asphalt shingles (like GAF Timberline or Owens Corning Duration) for the best balance of durability, cost, and performance.
For maximum longevity, standing seam metal roofing handles snow, ice, and wind better than any other material — but costs 2-3x more upfront.
Avoid 3-tab shingles — they don’t hold up well to Amherst’s freeze-thaw cycles and high winds.
How can I prevent ice dams on my Amherst roof?
Ice dams are a major issue in Amherst. Prevention strategies include:
- Proper attic insulation (R-49 minimum recommended)
- Adequate attic ventilation (ridge vents + soffit vents)
- Ice and water shield membrane along eaves (code requires 24″ in NY; we recommend 36″+)
- Heated cables along eaves (last resort)
- Prompt snow removal after heavy storms
Several companies on our list specialize in ventilation — Amherst Roofing is particularly known for solving ice dam problems.
Final Recommendation
For most Amherst homeowners, OConnor Contracting offers the best combination of quality, service, and peace of mind. Their 4.9-star rating, 24/7 availability, and GAF Master Elite certification make them the safest choice for your roof investment.
However, if budget is a primary concern, Amherst Roofing delivers excellent value backed by nearly three decades of local experience.
Ready to get started? We recommend contacting your top 2-3 choices for free estimates. Compare not just price, but scope of work, materials, warranties, and your comfort level with each contractor.
About This Article
This guide was independently researched and written by our home improvement editorial team. We evaluated contractors based on publicly available information including Google reviews, BBB ratings, and company websites. Last verified: January 2026.
