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Is the Roofing Industry Growing?

A roofer is drilling into a metal roof.

The Dynamic Growth of the Roofing Industry

The roofing industry is experiencing a transformative period of growth driven by technological advancements, increased environmental awareness, and evolving consumer demands. This expansion is not only reshaping the market landscape but also creating a wealth of opportunities for businesses and consumers alike. Understanding these growth dynamics can offer valuable insights into the future of the industry.

Technological Advancements: Revolutionizing Roofing Solutions

One of the most significant factors propelling the growth of the roofing industry is technological innovation. Cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing how roofs are designed, installed, and maintained. For instance, drone technology is being increasingly utilized for roof inspections. Drones provide high-resolution images and data, allowing for precise assessments without the need for manual inspections, which can be both risky and time-consuming. This technological shift is making roofing more efficient and safer.

Moreover, the advent of advanced roofing materials is contributing to the industry’s expansion. Innovations such as synthetic roofing materials, cool roofs, and green roofs are gaining popularity. Synthetic materials, like polymer composites, offer enhanced durability and weather resistance. Cool roofs, designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat, are improving energy efficiency in buildings. Green roofs, covered with vegetation, not only enhance insulation but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing urban heat islands and improving air quality.

Environmental Sustainability: Driving Eco-Friendly Roofing

Environmental concerns are reshaping consumer preferences and driving the demand for sustainable roofing solutions. Homeowners and businesses are increasingly seeking eco-friendly options that minimize environmental impact. This shift is pushing the industry towards greener practices and materials.

Solar roofing is a prime example of this trend. Photovoltaic (PV) roofing systems integrate solar panels directly into roofing materials, transforming roofs into energy-generating assets. These systems not only reduce electricity bills but also contribute to the broader adoption of renewable energy. The growing popularity of solar roofs is supported by government incentives and a global push towards reducing carbon footprints.

Additionally, recycling and waste reduction are becoming pivotal in the roofing industry. Manufacturers are developing recyclable roofing materials and promoting practices that reduce waste during installation and disposal. For instance, metal roofs, known for their longevity, are fully recyclable at the end of their life cycle. Such practices align with the circular economy model, further driving the industry’s growth by appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Evolving Consumer Demands: Quality, Aesthetics, and Customization

Consumer expectations are evolving, and the roofing industry is responding by offering higher quality, aesthetically pleasing, and customizable solutions. Modern homeowners and businesses are no longer satisfied with basic, utilitarian roofs; they seek options that enhance the overall look and value of their properties.

Architectural shingles, for example, are gaining popularity due to their superior durability and aesthetic appeal compared to traditional asphalt shingles. These shingles come in a variety of styles and colors, allowing for greater customization and alignment with architectural styles.

Furthermore, the trend towards smart homes is influencing the roofing industry. Smart roofing systems equipped with sensors can monitor the condition of the roof, detect leaks, and provide real-time data to homeowners and maintenance professionals. This integration of technology enhances convenience and extends the lifespan of roofing systems by enabling proactive maintenance.

Market Expansion and Economic Growth

The roofing industry’s growth is also evident in its expanding market size and economic impact. The global roofing market is projected to reach new heights in the coming years, driven by increasing construction activities and urbanization. Rapid urban development, especially in emerging economies, is creating a surge in demand for new roofing installations and replacements.

Moreover, the industry’s expansion is generating significant employment opportunities. From manufacturing and installation to sales and maintenance, the roofing sector employs a diverse workforce. This job creation is particularly vital in boosting local economies and supporting communities.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Despite the promising growth, the roofing industry faces several challenges that need to be addressed to sustain its momentum. Skilled labor shortages, fluctuating material costs, and regulatory compliance are some of the critical issues. Investing in workforce training and development, adopting cost-effective production methods, and staying abreast of regulatory changes are essential strategies for overcoming these challenges.

Looking ahead, the future of the roofing industry appears bright. Continued innovation, a stronger focus on sustainability, and an ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences will be key drivers of growth. By embracing these trends, the roofing industry is poised to not only expand but also lead the way in building a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

Conclusion

The roofing industry is undergoing a period of remarkable growth fueled by technological advancements, environmental sustainability, and evolving consumer demands. These factors are transforming traditional roofing practices and opening up new avenues for innovation and market expansion. As the industry continues to evolve, it offers a wealth of opportunities for businesses to thrive and for consumers to benefit from more efficient, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing roofing solutions. The future of roofing is not just about protecting buildings; it’s about enhancing the quality of life and contributing to a more sustainable world.

What Are The Most Popular Roofing Materials in 2024?

aerial shot of roofers

Choose Roofer's Paradise Podcast as Your Local Roofer in Fort Worth, TX

A roof is a critical component of every home. It serves both aesthetic and structural functions. As of 2024, several roofing materials are increasing in popularity due to their durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the most popular roofing materials. And if you’re in the market for a new roof in Fort Worth, TX, give Roofer's Paradise Podcast a call at . We offer roof installations, roof repairs, inspections, maintenance, and much more.

Asphalt shingles remain one of the most popular roofing materials due to their affordability, ease of installation, and versatility. They come in various colors and styles, including architectural shingles that mimic the look of more expensive materials like slate or wood.

Metal roofing has gained popularity for its longevity, durability, and energy efficiency. It can last over 50 years and is highly resistant to fire, insects, and rot. Metal roofs come in varying styles, including standing seam, corrugated, and metal tiles, and are available in different metals like steel, aluminum, and copper.

Slate roofing offers timeless elegance and exceptional durability, lasting up to a century or more with proper maintenance. It’s fire-resistant, environmentally friendly, and adds a high-end look to homes. However, it’s also one of the most expensive roofing materials.

Clay and concrete tiles provide a classic and Mediterranean aesthetic to homes. They are durable, fire-resistant, and can last 50 years or more. However, they are heavy, so proper roof framing is necessary, and professional installation is recommended.

Synthetic roofing materials, such as synthetic slate or shake, offer the look of natural materials with added durability and lighter weight. They are typically made from recycled materials and can be more affordable than their natural counterparts.

Wood shingles and shakes provide a rustic, natural look to homes. Cedar and redwood are commonly used due to their natural resistance to insects and decay. While wood roofing is environmentally friendly and biodegradable, it requires regular maintenance and is susceptible to fire.

Green roofs, which are covered with vegetation, are becoming increasingly popular for their environmental benefits. They help reduce energy costs, manage stormwater runoff, and provide insulation. However, they require a sturdy roof structure and proper waterproofing.

Your New Roof in Fort Worth, TX

The choice of roofing material depends on factors such as budget, climate, architectural style, and personal preference. It’s essential to consider longevity, maintenance requirements, and energy efficiency when selecting the right roofing material for your home.

If you need help deciding on a new roof in Fort Worth, TX, give Roofer's Paradise Podcast a call. Our local roofers offer roofing installations, repairs, and much more, so connect with us today at .

The Role of Ventilation in Roof Health: Preventing Moisture Damage

air vent on red corrugated metal roof

Why are roof vents important? 

The role of ventilation in roof health, particularly in preventing moisture damage, cannot be overstated. Proper ventilation helps regulate moisture levels in the attic or roof space by allowing humid air to escape. Without adequate ventilation, moisture from various sources, such as cooking, bathing, and heating systems, can accumulate in the attic. This moisture can lead to condensation, which, over time, can cause mold, mildew, and rot in the roof structure and insulation.

Roof vents also help prevent ice dams. In colder climates, inadequate ventilation can contribute to the formation of ice dams on the roof. Ice dams happen when warm air from the living space heats the underside of the roof, causing snow to melt and then refreeze at the eaves. Proper ventilation helps maintain a consistent roof temperature, preventing snowmelt and reducing the risk of ice dam formation.

Ventilation promotes airflow through the attic or roof space, allowing fresh air to enter and stale air to exit. This airflow eliminates excess heat and moisture, preventing the buildup of stagnant air pockets that can contribute to moisture problems and structural damage.

More Reasons to Ventilate Your Roof

Properly ventilating your roof extends its life, as excessive moisture can accelerate the deterioration of roofing materials, leading to premature failure of the roof system. Proper ventilation helps remove moisture and reduce humidity levels, thereby extending the lifespan of the roof and its components.

By venting moisture-laden air to the exterior, we help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can compromise indoor air quality and pose health risks to occupants. Proper ventilation can also contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the workload on heating and cooling systems. By venting hot air from the attic in the summer and preventing heat loss in the winter, ventilation helps regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.

Moisture damage can weaken the structural integrity of the roof, leading to sagging, rot, and decay. Adequate ventilation helps prevent moisture-related issues, preserving the integrity of the roof structure and supporting elements.

In conclusion, ventilation plays a vital role in maintaining roof health and preventing moisture damage. Homeowners should ensure that their roofing systems are properly ventilated to control humidity levels, promote airflow, and protect the roof from potential damage. Regular inspection and maintenance of ventilation systems are essential to ensure optimal performance and long-term durability of the roof.

How Do You Market a Roof Sale?

view from below of a roof under construction

What should I think about while marketing a roof?

No matter what part of the country your roofing business is located in or the areas you serve, marketing your business is essential, just as for any business in other industries. But the methods and types of roofer marketing aren’t like other industries. For starters, roofing is one of the most expensive things on a home, and second, most homeowners don’t notice anything about the roof until there is something of significance. 

So, it is up to each roofer, to market their business in a way that will place them at the forefront of homeowners and business owners when the time comes. So, what are the best methods and ways for roofer marketing? Read on for answers to commonly asked questions and let’s get your roofing business on top of more homes and businesses! 

What is the purpose of roofer marketing?

To increase business which increases sales which makes that bottom line healthier! Okay, so how do you market your roofing business? Whether you’ve been in the roofing business for years, or you’re a start-up roofing business, marketing is just as essential as it is for any other company in any other industry. Here are some proven methods of roofer marketing: 

Referral Roofer Marketing

Referral roofer marketing can generate up to 5 times more conversions with minimal effort and time. Referral roofer marketing programs shouldn’t be complicated and they don’t have to be expensive. Some suggested referral ideas include: 

  • Create a referral program to get the best-qualified leads because the referring customer is familiar with your business and the service you provide. Potential customers are more likely to trust you when they know somebody who used you, and the profit margin is typically 25% on average. A roofer marketing referral program can give your current customers an incentive when you offer services like free gutter cleaning. 
  • Ask your current customer to refer family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers to you! 
  • Find vendors in common with your roofer marketing efforts that you can exchange customer referrals with. Some examples would be a siding company, a window company, a chimney sweep, a tree service, house leveling and foundations, etc. 
  • Ask the local chamber of commerce for customer referrals. This can get you commercial property business as well as residential business. 

Digital Roof Marketing

WHOA! If you’re reading this, you’re experiencing digital marketing! So, does digital roofer marketing work? Obviously! Digital marketing allows you to reach a larger range of audience and provides you with tracking capabilities. With digital roofer marketing, you can measure the number of emails that are opened and read, you’ll see how many people are completing your “for more information….” Forms, and over time, you’ll see the traffic web rates. Some digital roofer marketing ideas include: 

  • Start by building a website that has the company name, contact information, and services offered easily readable. Keep the graphics clear and easy to understand language to attract customer attention.
  • Update the website regularly. Keep the information about your roofing business updated. For instance, if you offer holiday light installation, update that on the website just before December and update again that you remove the holiday lights too.
  • A picture is worth a thousand words and that includes photos of the roofing services you have provided and offer.
  • Share customer reviews and testimonials.
  • Have a blog section on your website about roofing topics that are helpful and interesting to commercial property owners and homeowners.
  • Include a downloadable guide on your website that features roofing advice and other essential roofing information, like how the roof and gutters affect the foundation.
  • Don’t forget to include the “Contact Us” form on your website! This will allow you to follow up with those ‘just shopping’ customer inquiries.

Word-of-mouth Roofer Marketing

Chances are you’re already doing some of the following suggestions, but maybe you’re not getting the response you desire. You can reduce the number of “Not interested.” Responses by creating a plan first. 

  • Door-knocking is a great word-of-mouth roofer marketing effort, but you need to create a sales pitch that makes you stand out from all the other roofers knocking on doors. 
  • Canvassing neighborhoods that have recently experienced severe weather. 
  • Canvas neighborhoods of older homes.
  • Leave behind attention-grabbing advertising materials like business cards with a ‘pop’, professionally designed pamphlets that provide company information and roofing tidbits that aren’t well-known facts. 
  • Have signage with your company’s name and number that you can leave with customers. “Coming soon” will have those driving by looking for the new roof soon, and “Roofing by ….” signage will tell them who to call for their roof. 

How can I increase my roofing sales?

Okay, you have some direction and ideas on roofer marketing, but how can you improve the sales? Well, that trusty tri-fold ladder and tape measure aren’t going to be used as much as they have been. Today, apps and drones are doing the work for you. 

 By fully implementing these in the process of roofer marketing, you can create a more compelling presentation for potential clients that encompasses pricing, product as well as the old fashion, tried, and true human interaction and sales techniques. The things to remember that need your utmost attention include: 

  1. Professional presentation of yourself and your company
  2. A refined sales pitch
  3. Providing solutions to problems
  4. Sell the value of the products and services you offer 
  5. Get to know your prospective clients and build relationships with them
  6. Offer freebies like consultation, drone imagery, and annual inspections.
  7. Offer options in materials and upgrades. 
  8. Offer recent references and referrals of like-jobs

In Closing 

With the advice, suggestions, and tips in roofer marketing that we’ve provided here, and staying diligent with these things, you’ll see an increase in your sales and business growth! 

Does Roof Rejuvenation Work?

close-up of worn shingle roofing

What Is Roof Rejuvenation?

No matter where in the country you provide your professional roofing services, roof rejuvenation is something to present to your clients. When you do, you’ll most likely be asked a lot of questions, like what is roof rejuvenation? And how well you’re informed and answer these questions will determine if you make the sale. So, how should you answer that question?

The majority of homes in this country have asphalt shingle roofs. As shingles age, they lose their natural oil, becoming dry and brittle and overall less effective in doing their job. One of the best things your roofing services can do is have multiple choices to offer your clients. Those choices include roof repair versus replacement, along with roof rejuvenation, thanks to today’s technology.

The Basics of Roof Rejuvenation

When they ask you what that is, explain to them it is soy fusion technology. With roof rejuvenation sprayed over their existing asphalt shingles. It is an all-natural bio-oil that restores flexibility back into the asphalt shingles, enabling them to withstand the changing temperatures and extreme weather that can be experienced across the country. Additionally, it can extend the life of the existing asphalt shingle roof life between 5 and 15 years! 

Of course, the homeowner’s next question will be, “What does roof rejuvenation cost?” Just like with a new roof installation, the cost can vary based on the size of the roof. With new asphalt shingle roofing costing up to $20,000 or more for many homes today, your roofing services can advise them that the cost of a roof rejuvenation will be a small percentage of that and provide them a list of the benefits that this treatment will have for them and the environment. 

Before you can sell your clients a roof rejuvenation treatment, you want to be able to answer basic questions for them. Some of the most common questions you should be prepared to answer are: 

How Can I Tell if My Roof Has Problems?

Before you answer this question, ask your client, “What do think? When should you redo your roof?” You may be surprised by their answers. It could range anywhere from, “I don’t know,” to “When it’s leaking!” This is when you want to take the time to explain to them what roofing services you offer and how you know when repairs are possible or if replacement is a must. There are several things that can indicate a new roof is needed. Here we have listed four indicators that cannot be ignored: 

A Sunken Roof

A roof that has sunk or buckled needs immediate professional roofing services. These are both signs of rot in the support beams and studs that provide structural integrity to the roof. If they are rotting, the integrity is weakened. 

Water Spots and Stains

If you have noticed water spots or stains on the ceiling, you have a roof leak, and the longer it goes unaddressed, the more water damage is happening. Schedule professional roofing services sooner than later to prevent your roof from rotting too much and becoming unsafe. 

Algae and Moss Growth

A roof that has algae, lichen, or moss growth can is often because of insufficient ventilation. Some growth is normal, but when it spreads, it is damaging the structure of your roof and home. A company that provides a full line of roofing services can inspect the attic and roof, then make suggestions on how to remedy the problem and save your roof. 

Cracked & Missing Shingles

Cracked or missing shingles are common after significant weather events like hailstorms and high winds. If it just one or two, replacing is them is sufficient roofing services, but a thorough inspection is recommended. A total roof replacement may be the best way to go based on unseen damage under the shingles. 

What is the Cause of Most Roof Problems?

A leaking roof is the most common complaint that companies offer roofing services hear. The problems can range from broken, cracked, or missing flashing and/or shingles. 

What Maintenance Should Be Done for a Roof?

As a homeowner, the things you can do to extend the life of your roof include:

  1. Keep the gutters and downspouts cleaned and repaired.
  2. Keep trees trimmed back. 
  3. Removing sufficient accumulation of ice and snow. 
  4. Perform monthly inspections looking for broken, cracked, or missing shingles.
  5. Schedule roof services for cleaning off algae, lichen, and moss buildup.
  6. Check the attic ventilation, insulation, and leaks.
  7. Have professional roofing services inspect the roof once a year.
close-up of shingle roofing in good condition

In Closing 

A company that offers professional roofing services should advise its clients of the options that we mentioned earlier. If they choose to make repairs, explain to them the method and the processes your company uses and how to repair a roof leak. 

The Entrepreneurial Spirit With Joel Patzke of TrueWorks Roofing

For Joel Patzke, owner of TrueWorks Roofing, work life began at a very early age.

“When I was 11 or 12, I started my first company. My buddy and I printed out the stencils for address signs. We would go knocking door to door painting new address signs on people’s curbs. We had a whole pitch. Then we started doing mailboxes too. We’d do two for one; we started giving them deals and everything. We’d come home with sixty bucks in my pocket. We mowed lawns. Then a snow cone stand when I was 15.”

In his early career, Joel went into restaurant service, eventually becoming the general manager of several restaurants and bars in the Houston area. His team transformed customer care standards through out-of-the-box, proactive service. At the bars, crews learned to note visitor names and their drinks during their very first visit. By their second visit, greeters would be ready with visitor names and their favorite beverages, blowing minds and winning serious brand loyalty. 

Over time, Joel found that these premium customer service skills and strategies translate very well into the roofing industry.

Above and Beyond Customer Service

“When we’re looking for employees now at TrueWorks, once I see that they’ve had server or bartender experience, they really go to the top of the list for me. Because they’ve had years of training that they don’t really know the value of yet. It’s just about relating to people, looking them in the eye, laughin at their dumb joke, being witty on the spot, all those kind of things…Everybody likes to be VIP, especially blue collar guys and gals.”

Working in roofing can be a very challenging occupation, especially with frantic homeowners worried about their property’s future. 

“We always joke ‘Nobody ever wants to call a roofer.’ But they call us in their most stressed out state. We do get a lot of people that call; they are upset and a little hysterical. It is rewarding to be able to go in there and take that burden off of them, deliver that great quality job, then get to see them through to the other side smiling. As many people as we meet, we meet so many good ones too that are just great human beings that were in a stressed out state. They really appreciate what we do, the efforts that we go through to go above and beyond. It’s fun getting invited to barbecues. We make friends with these people. That is rewarding and really fun.”

Forging Relationships through Unusual Acts of Service

At TrueWorks Roofing, Joel founded a culture of creative customer care to consistently break the mold. Employees are encouraged to explore new and insightful ways of blessing their customers after each job.

We call it our ‘Thoughtful Cherry on Top’. We just try to do fun creative things. It’s really about listening to the client, observing their needs. Maybe it’s a dog toy for their dog. We had a client say ‘There’s a lot of mosquitoes.’ We sprayed their yard. We’ve mowed the lawn. We’ve done a mobile car detail. We’ve painted a mailbox – going back to my old roots – putting an address on it.”

Inspiration might come from Joel’s past or particularly inventive professionals in other industries. Real estate agents are just one class of professional who are really good at paying attention and providing that over-the-top finish to their service. Those are the types of moments that really stand out in a customer’s mind. Home owners have so many options when it comes to roofing contractors, but it’s the little things that often rise to the top of the pack. 

It’s not necessarily the monetary value either that captures a homeowner’s loyalty. It’s the thought behind the extra service or gift that really hits home. When that mentality is baked into the culture of a company in fun, practical ways, it’s amazing the level of innovation that naturally comes out of it. 

Networking and Growth Opportunities

Constant innovation is a struggle! Even with all sorts of brain power packed into his staff, Joel can’t manage the task alone. Thankfully, there’s plenty of like-minded professionals out there pushing the service envelope and making new strides in customer care. 

“When I first started, I would share a lot. I was real active on LinkedIn. Then you got on one podcast, then another. You started meeting people and started networking. Then you join a mastermind, and you meet different leaders. You go to their company and see how they do things. You let other people come to you. Again, it goes back to that… We’re on a mission to elevate the roofing industry. We’re all in this together. Everybody who shares that same mission, we are on a team. There’s plenty of work for all of us. The ones of us who are trying to do things the right way, we’re not gonna run out of work. We’re not gonna run out of roofs that need to be roofed.”

Exposure to other professionals and their programs has certainly helped Joel refine his own processes at TrueWorks Roofing, especially with employee training.

“People doing training well in roofing I find are typically cramming it all into 2 or 3 days. The ones who are doing it good are doing 2 to 3 days of classroom training like 9-5. They’re throwing 6 months of training at this person – deer in the headlights – who’s not gonna retain any of that. 

We take a different approach. We basically have a 3 month training program. By the time they get out of that, they really are experts at roofing systems (residential, commercial, insurance, retail, etc.) and the way we do things. Your roof’s just so important; I don’t want somebody not being knowledgeable and being unable to educate the client out there representing our brand. We take training very seriously.”

It turns out that effectively teaching company culture takes time. That’s especially true for many hard labor professionals and salesmen, who often struggle unlearning the old ways of doing business. 

I think the roofing industry is 5-6 years behind other industries when it comes to marketing. When it comes to customer service, some technologies, some processes… things like that. Some of the other companies that I’ve been in have no CRM, and still use a vanilla folder and filing cabinet.”


Hop on the Roofer’s Paradise Podcast!

In an industry that’s so frequently behind the times though, a little extra customer care and marketing initiative really pays off. If you’ve been looking to break free of the weekly grind and start making headway towards growing your roofing business, then now is the time to get out of the old “I just do roofs” box. 

To find more inspiration and updates on some of the hottest industry trends, be sure to subscribe to the Roofer’s Paradise podcast!

We’d love to hear your story too. Join the ever-growing tide of innovative business owners like Joel Patzke, who are making waves in the industry. Call our team today and hop on a podcast with Nolen!

Business Coach Mike Mataraza Joins Roofer’s Paradise

Note from the Editor: We had so many spectacular quotes and words of wisdom from Mike Mataraza to choose from! Instead of our normal article format, we’ve snagged most of Mike’s insights and arranged them for your convenient reading. With the exception of a few editor’s notes and headers, this content all comes straight from the source!

Introduction

Hi, everyone! My name is Mike Mataraza. I am a business and life coach for entrepreneurs and business owners. My website is coachwithmike.com, pretty easy. I’ve been doing this for about 17 years. Before I started coaching, I had 4 businesses of my own. I had one in Tokyo, one in Bangkok…3 now, 2 before in North America. I worked with [Tony] Robbins; I was an executive at his company for 5 years.

Tony had me going to 5-8 companies a week and talking to the owners, finding out what their problems were, doing customized trainings for them. I did real estate, I did mortgage, I did tech companies. I worked for Budweiser. I went to Pepsi. I went to Walmart. I went to investment companies. I did tons of work with remodeling people, solar panel people, roofers, plumbers. You know, I have to go in and turn business into more business. It was amazing, because I got exposed to every type of company there was, all the different personality types and owners. All different types of problems. All different sizes of companies, from 5 people to 5000 person companies.

Learning to Ask for Help

Why would anybody do their first thing without mentorship?! You could say “Oh, I know how to do that.” Sure you do, but you also don’t know what you don’t know. And if you got a guy…who’s done this for more than a decade…what tiny little things might he have that could save you this much money here and that much money there, make the process faster…

There’s a reason why I’m a business and life coach. When I first started, I was purely a business coach. When you’re a business owner, any mental block you have, any health thing that’s out of balance with your life will affect the business. Everybody has this dream they have in the future. What if you could have a lot of your dream now and really enjoy the journey to an even bigger dream later?

How Teach-ability Can Be Cultivated

I remember when we [Mike and Nolen] started coaching. The wonderful thing about you as a client is that you came to me with a massive level of success. You’re a very smart businessman. You have multiple businesses and multiple income streams, and they were certainly doing well. Yet, you were super coachable.

A lot of people, when they start with me, if they were in your situation they’re just like ‘You know, I hired you just to have a business coach, but I just want you to know that I know everything. I always humor them and say ‘Great! Tell me what you know.'” Then 2 to 3 sessions in, they go “Oh, well I kinda know everything…but what about this?” Then we start having a real dialogue.

You love Maui like nobody’s business. That is your passion. You came to me; you said “Mike, I really want to live in Maui full time. I’m going to start buying property and then do the…rental income. And then finally, I can move.”

I’ve been with them [clients] for years. I’ve been through marriages and children. Through going from barely making any money to living their dream, and it’s beautiful to go deep and watch the progress. And that’s the difference with coaching.

Redefine What a Business Looks Like in Your Head

One thing I see with a lot of people that I coach is: They actually think they’re business owners and they’re not. What they are is very advanced self-employed people.

Do we have systems, processes, people, procedures in place? What can be delegated to another person? What kind of software are we using to track all your projects? Are there standard operating procedures? Because those are the things that allow someone to be a true business owner. The only measure of being a true business owner – there’s just one measure – Can you go somewhere for two weeks, not answer your phone, and when you come back everything’s fine and you have more money in the bank than when you left?

If you want to go beyond traditional levels of success, don’t just think of yourself as a craftsman. Put on the mindset of a businessman. Create those processes. Build a system of people, software, tools, etc. to standardize those processes and gradually remove yourself from that equation. “My job is no longer to be the roofer. My job is to be the owner of a roofing company.”

At that point you have choice. I work with a lot of people like yourself that they build their business with their bare hands. They don’t necessarily want to leave. They like seeing the supervisors every day. They enjoy their team. They actually love their people and their secretary and their assistant. They enjoy going into the office. So it’s not like, you’re a business owner and you just bail on your business.

Anchor to Your Dream and Move Towards It.

Anchor to your dream. If you want to live in Maui, why would you buy 5 rental properties in Fort Worth that you now have to take care of and manage?

There’s a reason why I’m a business and life coach. When I first started, I was purely a business coach. When you’re a business owner, any mental block you have, any health thing that’s out of balance with your life will affect the business. Everybody has this dream they have in the future.

Make a 6 month plan. It’s long enough that you can get stuff done, but short enough that you don’t have time to sit on your butt. Health, relationships, finances, and business. What are my goals in each of those areas? What are my top 5 steps in each of those areas to make those goals happen? What’s my vision statement?

[Mike goes on to explain how goals should be segmented into months, then weeks and days, and how accountability plays into their success.]

I swear it. If you just do that… 30% increase minimum in your income. If you get accountability plus coaching, 50% increase in your income, because now you’re actively looking at what you’re doing and making changes.


Keep Pursuing Your Dreams with Roofer’s Paradise!

Well, that was a spectacular discussion from Mike Mataraza! Remember: Don’t treat a dream as just a dream. Treat it like it’s something you’re going to do. Take inventory of your life. Consider what’s in the way of your dream and start cleaning that up. Don’t do it alone either! Your objectivity is limited to your perspective, so widen that perspective with insight from successful, like-minded people who challenge you.

Be sure to check in next week for more exciting content from successful business owners. If you haven’t already, subscribe to Roofer’s Paradise so you never miss a new release! We can’t wait to see you next week.

Investing in Your Future Self with Brett Huizenga of Hometown Roofing

Brett Huizenga understands the relentless desire to strive, progress, and earn. He also has a unique, shrewd perspective on the roofing industry, thanks to his personal background in the investment industry. Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Brett grew up in a sales-driven environment for much of his formative years. Even in college, he supported his studies by selling premium steaks and specialty knives.

In his early career, Brett worked for TD Ameritrade as part of a stock options division. A post-recession environment taught him the heavy consequences of dangerous investment practices, knowledge he would carry with him along his business management journey.

In 2018, Brett purchased Hometown Roofing, located (quite appropriately) in his hometown of Omaha. While his ownership story may be very different from those we’ve previously shared on the Roofer’s Paradise Podcast, we can extract some very valuable lessons from it. Be sure to take notes from Brett’s keen insights on smart expansion and investing in your future self!

Pick Your Battles, and Expenses.

Ambition drives progress, but it can also lead to some sticky situations. Plotting your roofing company’s growth rate, and balancing risk and rewards, can all be quite challenging. One question will help keep your course clear as the company grows: If you expand your business and take on more expenses, will it leave you wanting or needing to earn more money?

There are three flavors of expansion:

  • Growth of service area.
  • Advancement in service capacity.
  • Expansion of service offerings.

Each type comes with its own investments in equipment, personnel, and more. What too many business owners don’t realize is the rate of return sometimes makes not expanding more profitable. On the happier end of the spectrum, some roofers discover a sweet spot market (like Brett’s situation in Omaha) that offers limited competition, but great profit potential!

“Yes, there’s a lot of competition. I think competition is a good thing, because it pushes people to the next level. But…this brand has been around for a while, here in Omaha. If I can continue that and grab market share here, I don’t know that I necessarily need to expand to other cities.”

As we’ve mentioned in some of our prior discussions at Roofer’s Paradise, expansion into additional cities and states typically comes with considerable SEO difficulties due to lost “local business” status. Add in the additional complexities of increased personnel and equipment expenses, and you’ll quickly see why premature expansion has killed so many businesses! If you find your future self set on growing your business into new markets, be sure to take all these factors into account before you pull the trigger.

Extend the Lead (into Referrals)

In commercial-centric roofing, it’s easy to hang up your hat at the end of a job. In residential roofing, however, every installation project represents a networking opportunity with neighbors and friends. Extending one lead into many takes practice and confidence, but it’s also much easier than cold calling.

Here are some incredible tips to maximize referral opportunities during a roofing job:

  • Maximize your passive brand exposure with yard signs and vehicle wraps.
  • Door knock on nearby homes to introduce yourself and your company.
  • Turn active clients into word-of-mouth representatives via referral incentives.

As Brett shares, physical branded assets offer incredible exposure for your business. While yard signs and truck wraps may not have the same prestige as billboard ads or similar marketing venues, they offer superb branding opportunities at a fraction of the cost. With these assets laying the groundwork around your job site, it’s almost like you already have a foot in the door when you start door-knocking down the boulevard.


Share Your Business History on Roofer’s Paradise!

Have your own hot take on the roofing industry and business management? Share your story on Roofer’s Paradise! We’re always exploring new ideas here on the show, and we’d love to hear yours. Contact the team to schedule your talk.

If you haven’t already, be sure to subscribe to our podcast to be notified of all the latest content. Investing in your future starts with learning from others’ successes and mistakes, and you’ll find all the best pointers on Roofer’s Paradise!

Quinn Martin of MCSquared Roofing Joins Roofer’s Paradise

Running your own business requires a finely balanced mix of perfectionism and practicality. That’s the challenging lesson Quinn Martin has learned over decades of running a successful roofing company. Quinn walked into the roofing world at the young age of 12, supporting his step-dad’s contracting business. At age 16, he bought his own truck and began his own startup roofing service. That grew from minor shingle jobs to full installations, siding, deck building, and even interior solutions. 

In today’s podcast, we’ll explore Quinn’s path from exterior contractor to streamlined digital roofing provider, with multiple lessons he learned along the way! We’ll also explore the dangers (and uses) of perfection, plus MCSquared Roofing tactics for maximizing profitability. 

If you’re in need of fresh insights for your roofing company, be sure to listen in!

Stretched Thin and Stressed Out

Quinn’s journey in the roofing journey started out like many others. A personal background in contracting and hard labor, followed by a natural growth in client base and service capabilities. Unfortunately, that thrilling expansion period introduced a dangerous trap, one that many contractors fall into: over-extension.

Simple roofing work ballooned into pull exterior projects and interior renovations. For Quinn, extra solutions came with their own complications, time-drains, and management challenges. His own personal perfectionism only added to these difficulties. A firm dedication to superb craftsmanship helped earn excellent reviews, but it also caused some projects to run longer than necessary. MCSquared’s owner found himself driving back and forth across town managing multiple teams of specialized contractors and running himself ragged. 

Worse still, these extra solutions weren’t even generating any real boosts to the company’s bottom line. Quinn needed a change. He needed to simplify. 

Quinn gradually MCSquared scaled back to its original roots: a purely roofing-focused company.  Not only did this breathe new life into the company’s profit margin, it transformed the ultimate growth path of Quinn’s business.  

Growing Your Roofing Company Digitally with Online Shopping

With the roofing world turned upside down by rising covid restrictions, numerous contracting businesses found themselves spiraling as they looked for ways to recoup sales. Door-knocking was out for many in the more locked-down states, including North Carolina. So were many other traditional marketing tactics that relied on in-person sales. 

For Quinn (who never really liked sales in the first place), this was a tantalizing opportunity to reach prospects in new and creative ways. 

“We weren’t allowed to go out and bid roofs. I started thinking, ‘There’s gotta be a better way to do this.’ Why do I have to go out?’ We’ve been using satellites for years. If I get a request for a quote, I can sit there and use the satellite and measure it out myself. I can see exactly how many feet of ridge there are and…every single inch of material that goes into that roof. And then I compile emails for my customers, email it out to them with five different roof options. Then they just pick the roof that fits their style and budget. Sign online. Pay online. Schedule online.”

MCSquared Roofing has not only reduced their need for sales personnel to practically zero, but they’ve been able to funnel the cost savings back into the business. This means greater profit margins and more incentivized roofing crews. 

A More Practical Version of Perfectionism

Business owners need to feel connected to the function and outcome of their company. For roofing contractors, this often translates into a micro-management habit at every jobsite. While perfectionism encumbered Quinn in the past, he’s found more practical outlets for it these days.

First, he works hard to provide the most information-rich proposals for would-be clients. Consumers have also shown a surprising willingness to shop for roofing online. Quinn attributes most of his client responsiveness to better information availability and low-pressure environments. 

“…I’m not sitting there for two hours in a homeowners house presenting to them, trying to talk them into a certain roof. We’re not trying to sell anybody a roof. We’re trying to give them enough data to [help them] buy the roof. If we give them the options, I’m not going to assume they want the stone coated steel, top of the line roof. I’m also not going to assume they want this cheap little 3-tab roof that’s gonna last them 15 years. I’m going to let them decide what’s right for them. In our proposals, we send tons of information on each shingle. We send the brochure for each and give them the information they need to choose what’s right for them.”

Next, Quinn provides his own finishing inspection at the end of each job. No micromanaging crews during installs, just a simple walk-around to ensure quality control and cleanliness around the site. 

“That’s going to be your first bad review, if you do a bad job on the cleanup…I will walk around the roof. If the debris that I pick up is more than fit in the palm of my hand, somebody screwed up.” This final check also provides ample opportunity to talk with the property owners and build relationships. After all, client referrals are an essential part of every roofing contractor’s business!


Share Your Story with Us in the Roofer’s Paradise Podcast!

So many contractors break through their first year of business, only to break down due to over-extension. Taking on additional solutions and service areas may seem like easy wins, but these choices come with serious management requirements, labor costs, and time drains. Avoid these pitfalls! Protect your roofing company by cultivating a streamlined service infrastructure first.

Want more tips on smart expansion for your roofing company? Subscribe to the Roofer’s Paradise Podcast for outstanding interviews and tips from industry successes! You’ll find plenty of fresh insights to guide your business towards sweet success. Better yet, contact us with your own success stories and help countless roofers like you!

Starting a Roofing Company in a Small Market, With Curt Visser of Property Revolution

Curt Visser founded Property Revolution to provide the impeccable, time-conscientious contracting service that was missing from his local community. Curt grew up in Michigan working in his family’s dairy farming business. He often credits the rough hours and more-than-occasional equipment struggles with sharpening his problem solving and stress management skills. 

Starting a roofing company was never Curt’s long-term plan. The business that would eventually become Property Revolution actually spawned out his experience as a property developer. As he purchased and cultivated new properties, Curt often struggled with finding dependable contractors who could meet their due dates and bids. He decided to found his own contracting company in 2017, only to be set back by a horrific personal injury on his family’s dairy farm. A scary encounter with an angry bull left Curt with severe spine and abdominal injuries, forcing him to work from a chair for almost the entire year. 

Even as he recovered from these injuries, Curt took the plunge into independent contracting and launched his full-service company.

Excellence in Specialization

While his business began as a one-stop-shop for meeting the needs of real estate developers, it quickly became clear that over-extension would severely hamper Curt’s team. 

“One of our company values is efficiency. We found that unless we were just going to be general contractors and be general everything and sub it all out, it was really hard to be efficient doing that because you would have a team of guys or a crew leader who was really skilled at one thing. You’re asking him to do what he’s good at and things he’s not quite as good at. We would always get it done and make sure the quality was there, but we’d find that we just spent too much time doing things that weren’t in our ideal route.” 

Even though the company produced excellent results (and happy clients), Curt realized that offering so many services was costing his team valuable time and revenue opportunities. That’s why he ultimately decided to scale back his solutions. 

“Over time, we found that home exteriors is what worked best for us, so we just kept eliminating services until we got down to what we offer currently.” Ever since he made the switch in 2020, Curt has noticed a profound impact in his company’s growth and efficiency

Overcoming Seasonal Slowdowns

As with many northern states, Michigan experiences seasonal cold periods that bring most roofing projects to a close. This would be bad news for most roofing contractors, but Property Revolution seizes the opportunity to provide other critical exterior services like siding repair. In fact, Curt maintains specialized teams for roofing, siding, deck building, and fence installation. 

Not only do the extra solutions – still under the exterior service umbrella – offer continued activity during the cold season, but they also allow his team to capitalize on relationships built from his roofing client portfolio. When Curt isn’t busy managing the exteriors business, Curt takes time to further cultivate his rental properties throughout the area. 

Where other contractors regularly drop off the map due to over-expansion, Property Revolution’s moderate 35 mile service radius also allows them to maintain their “local contractor” status in Google Search. Curt has found that a small cluster of exterior services makes this modest service area much more sustainable for long-term profitability. 

Key Lessons for Starting a Roofing Company

#1: Build Your Company on Outstanding Company Hires. 

Like many of our podcast guests, Curt takes time every month to consult with industry experts and mentors. Starting a roofing company is a big task, after all, so he takes every bit of advice you can get. One lesson he’s learned: There’s no investment that quite impacts your company growth like quality hiring. Curt maintains multiple specialized teams for roofing, siding, decks, and fencing. None of these divisions would be profitable without the exceptional management talent that keeps them focused, on-time, and motivated. 

“The most critical thing you can ever do is make good hires.” 

Once you find dependable managers and crews however, it’s crucial that your company works to equip and motivate them towards personal growth. Every employee at Property Revolution is encouraged to plot their own growth path and seek opportunities for promotion. While some employees may leave to continue their careers in other businesses, this dedication to personal growth ultimately results in longer average retention and greater company productivity. 

This employee empowerment allows Curt to spend his time where he’s needed most. 

“Don’t be afraid to let go of the reins where you can. As business owners, it can be difficult to micro-manage and try to be in everything all the time, but good people will step up if you give them the opportunity to.”

#2: Take Control of Your Inventory for More Efficient Project Fulfillment.

So many roofers and exterior service providers struggle with unnecessary project woes brought on by inventory mistakes. Whether it’s damaged siding materials or late metal paneling, contractors have to deal with a lot of problems caused by their suppliers. 

Curt’s solution has been to maintain a local storage facility to store materials and build in extra process control. His team purchases materials immediately after each client signs their contract, then has them shipped to their warehouse for sorting. Not only does this prevent material pricing shifts (which would impact the reliability of their quotes), but it allows Curt’s team to spot any manufacturer defects or supply damages weeks ahead of each construction project. 

While one might expect these additional quality assurances to cost extra man hours, Curt’s team actually saves time and money by eliminating job delays and re-ordering setbacks. This strategy may be challenging to implement in more populated areas with high property costs. If you’re planning on starting a roofing company in a small city or moderately sized-area however, consider an investment in your own material storage space!


Want to Chat? Get in the Conversation with Roofer’s Paradise!

Here at Roofer’s Paradise, we love talking shop with local experts and industry enthusiasts. Call our team and schedule your interview time with Nolen! If you’ve got a story worth sharing, we want to hear it.

Be sure to subscribe to our podcast so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes! We’ve got more juicy conversations and winning advice from some of the most successful roofing companies in the nation. See you next time.