5 Generations of History and Experience
​Our History
With over 120 years of experience, McFar Contractors has become one of the most trusted commercial roofing companies in the NY Tri-state area. Our mission is to help our clients maintain their buildings and create lifelong relationships that last through generations.​
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​1898: The Beginning of a Legacy - Jacob Farbstein founded Globe Skylight and Roofing
In Brooklyn, NY. goal was simple: to provide safe and secure jobs for roofers and tin knockers. Jacob was instrumental in establishing the Sheetmetal and Roofers Union in NYC. He survived the Great Depression and two world wars, and in the 1950s, moved to Florida, where he continued advocating for workers' rights until his passing in 1968.
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1940: Harold Farbstein - Second Generation
At just 18 years old, Harold Farbstein began working with his father. In 1940, he founded United Roofing and Waterproofing, eventually becoming one of the largest roofing contractors in NYC. Harold oversaw major projects, including the roofs of the World Trade Center, Citicorp Building, and numerous public schools and housing projects. He was a staunch advocate for equal pay and continued his father’s commitment to workers’ rights. In 1979, Harold moved to Florida, where he continued his work until his passing in 1996.
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1969-: David Farbstein - Third Generation ​
After returning from Vietnam in 1969, David Farbstein joined his father’s business. In 1980, David partnered with Mr. McCarthy to form McFar Contractors. Their mission was to provide personalized service to private building owners. David built McFar's reputation as a family-owned company known for its integrity and quality service. With his tireless work ethic, David led the company with dedication and maintained strong family bonds. Today, he continues to guide his daughter Penny with love and wisdom.
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1991: Penny Farbstein- Fourth Generation
After working alongside her father during summer breaks in high school, Penny graduated with honors from architecture school and joined the company full-time. She took on leadership roles both on-site and in the office, helping to expand the company’s operations, including asbestos abatement. After the challenges brought on by COVID-19, Penny carried the company forward with integrity and dedication. As the 4th-generation Farbstein, Penny is proud to lead the company.
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2021: Penny Farbstein Mendelsohn- First Woman to Own/Operate
Penny has over 25 years of experience and is first woman owner in the Farbstein family. She proudly continues a 120-year legacy of expert flat roof installation and maintenance in the NY Tristate area. With her architectural background and a lifetime of hands-on experience, she works to uphold the core values that define her business: integrity, honesty, quality, loyalty, and a genuine love for roofs. Penny (aka “Penny the Roofer”) embodies the family’s tradition of personal service and a commitment to finding, fixing, and preventing roof leaks. McFar is poised to push into the next generation, blending old-school values with innovative solutions. Under Penny’s guidance, the company remains dedicated to maintaining the trust, friendship, and exceptional service that have been the foundation of their success for over a century. When she’s not on a roof or at the beach, Penny enjoys practicing Tae Kwon Do (second-degree black belt), yoga, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
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2023 - Ethan Der Aris - Fifth Generation
In late 2023, Ethan DerAris, David’s grandson and Penny’s nephew, became the fifth generation to join the family business. Ethan took on the role of General Manager, working alongside the family to continue serving the tri-state area with the same dedication and integrity that has been the foundation of McFar for over a century.