creating a business plan for roofing company

Roofing Business Plan: Tips and Sample Template

Even though starting a roofing business can be challenging, you'll have a higher chance of success if you have a good roofing company business plan to run everything efficiently.

Roofing is a lucrative industry to get into, especially for people who are willing to work hard and get the job done. Every home and building needs a roof, so, there’s a market there for sure for people who want to build a roofing business. Why, then, do 96% of roofing businesses fail in the first 5 years? A big reason is that many roofers skip a vital step in building a successful business: Crafting a thoughtful roofing business plan.

There’s a saying that goes, “failing to plan is planning to fail” and that rings true for businesses. Anyone can start a business, but it takes work to build one that last. Having a business plan for your roofing business can help you set yourself up for long term and lasting success.

In this blog, we’re going to help you craft a roofing business plan by exploring:

• What a business plan is.
• Why you need one.
• 5 Tips for creating your roofing business plan.
• A traditional formal for a business plan.

We’ll end off with some info about how roofing business software , like Roofr , can help you set up your business for long term success.

What is a business plan?

A business plan is a document that lays out a companies objectives, goals, and actions to achieve those goals. It acts as a template for what they want to accomplish and how they will get there. This of it as a roadmap of your roofing business' journey, from when you create it to a particular growth point in the future (typically in three to five years).

Why do you need a roofing business plan?

Your roofing business plan is not only helpful for you when planing, but comes in handy for establishing and growing your business. A business plan is usually a requirement for:

• Landing investors and winning over extra capital to fund your business when you’re getting started.
• Applying for business licences, loans, or any other documents you need.

Business plans are also super helpful to:

• Keep you focused on your goals and objectives as you grow.
• Provide a kickoff point when you’re getting started.
• Get you thinking about marketing plans and how you want to promote your business.
• Ensure you have all your brand info — like logo, colors, fonts, etc — decided proactively.
• Establish financial goals and limits.

Business plans also get you to consideration whether you’ll want to invest in roofing tech like Roofr to streamline your processes and optimize your business.

How to create a great roofing business plan

Now that you know what a business plan is and why you need one, it’s time to get into writing one!

It doesn’t matter if you are a new company, or have been around for a while — it’s never too late to build a business plan! You may want to go back and update it — or your goals and plans — over time, too.

Here’s our top 4 tips for writing a great business plan.

1. Have a realistic plan

Realistic is KEY. By realistic, we mean both realistic goals, budgets, and timelines. Another way to think of it is to make sure that every plan and goal is SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Set goals that relate to your business strategy, your annual revenue, or lead goals. Everything should bet set in a time frame that makes sense - annual revenue, monthly leads, 5 year growth, etc.

Being realistic is key for long-term success. If you set a goal that is unrealistic, it’s easy to become defeated or unmotivated quickly. Having $10 million in venue in your first year is not realistic for most new roofing companies. But, growing to $10 million in venue in 5 or 10 years? A bit more realistic.

It’s also important to set goals based on your own location. What worked for a roofer in California won’t be the same for a Roofr in Georgia.

2. Think about your purpose for your company

By “purpose” we mean beyond the obvious. Yes — you want to sell roofs and install roofs.

But, what drives you?

What kind of legacy do you want to leave?

Your purpose could be to motivate a team and unite them to achieve a common goal. Your purpose could center around being highly profitable and seeing the healthy growth of your roofing business. It could be about bringing tech to the industry and learning how to use roofing tech.

What your purpose is can determine what you include in your business plan, or even how you write it. For an investor, it can be helpful to hear about your purpose or dreams .

You can also set goals and objectives based around your bigger purpose. If your goal is to leave a legacy of a roofing company that treats its employees really well, then you could set goals for how much you want to pay them, if you want to host employee appreciation days, how many hours they’ll work, what your retention rate should be year over year, etc.

3. Establish certain company values

Your company values can be industry-specific, but should also target customer loyalty while ensuring employee satisfaction. By acknowledging these values and additional ones, you can achieve both short-term and long-term business goals.

Some examples of company values for roofers are:

Quality Craftsmanship: Being committed to delivering the highest quality roofing solutions, ensuring durability and longevity for our customers.

Customer Satisfaction: Customer happiness could be your ultimate goal. Commit to going the extra mile to meet and exceed our clients' expectations.

Safety First: Prioritizing the safety of our employees and clients by following strict safety protocols and ensuring a secure work environment.

Innovation: Staying at the forefront of roofing technology and continuously seek innovative solutions to enhance our services and products.

4. Enlist yearly initiatives and goals

Yearly goals are really powerful for long term change. Try to think about what your goals are in year chunks. They should be big enough to take a year but, again, be realistic. Make a list of all your yearly initiatives and goals to keep an eye on the growth of your business. These initiatives can become milestones for growing your company, specific revenue or head count you want to hit, or a number of jobs you want to close.

Roofing business plan template

Here’s a common format to follow when creating roofing business plan s:

• Executive Summary
• Company Description
• The Business Opportunity
• Competitive Analysis
• Target Market
• Marketing Plan
• Financial Summary
• Funding Requirements

You can also include sections on your sales strategy, product or service details, any 5 or 10 year specific plans, etc. Think about your own objectives and goals and build from there — but there 9 are pretty standard.

Here’s what each of those 9 should include.

1. Executive summary

An executive summary for a business plan should be a brief overview of the rest of the document. It should be that first “grab” to a reader who is looking over your plan. Any key opportunities, goals, objectives, or plans should be included, but smaller details don’t need to be added.

Keep it short!

2. Company description

By the time someone is done reading this part of your plan, they should know:

• What your business does.
• Who your customers are.

If you do siding, eavestroughs, or anything else, be sure to call that out here. Your company name, and yours — if you’re the owner — should also be included.

This should also be nice and short!

3. The business opportunity

In this section, you can dive a bit deeper into who you are as a company. What are your values? That legacy piece that we talked about earlier — this is a great place to highlight that. If you’re seeking investment money, then you can win them over on your company here.

4. Competitive analysis

This section should cover your competition. Look at who your main competition is, what they’re doing, and anything you can learn about how they run their company. Keep in mind that depending on your area of expertise and target demographic, not every roofer in your area could be competition. For example, if you are a residential roofer, then don’t bother looking at commercial roofers.

5. Target market

Don’t be afraid to get specific! Your target market can include everything up to:

• Household income.
• House size.
• Family size.
• Occupation.
• And anything else!

It can seem counterintuitive to go so specific on who you want to target for your business, but getting really niched down can actually make marketing efforts more effective.

6. Marketing plan

How do you want to market? Now that you’ve niched down your target audience, look at where that audience is. Many roofers use Facebook to connect with homeowners. Does your ideal neighbourhood have a facebook group? You can also look at more traditional forms of marketing like radio ads or billboards. Again — depending all on your target market.

At the very least, you should have a website on your marketing plan. Every single potential customer is going to look for you on the internet, so make sure you have a presence there! You could also include any tools like Roofr’s Instant Estimator in this section and identify how it will bring in qualified leads.

7. Financial summary

This section is all about the money. You’re going to outline:

• Operating expenses
• Historical financial statements
• Budget planning
• Income expectations
• Revenue goals

You can included any financial goals in here too.

8. Team info

If you already have employees or plan to hire, this section should contain all your info for that. Company positions or team headcount requirements, hiring processes, job requirements, etc. If you’re just getting started, this may seem premature, but remember that these plans are all about how you want to grow. This kind of information can be really helpful when getting business licences or securing an investment.

9. Funding requirements

This section is specifically for businesses who are seeking outside investment. If you’re building a business plan for yourself, then you may not need this. Funding requirements should outline how much money you’re looking for, what you plan on doing with it, what ROI — return on investment — you’re expecting, and anything you’re willing to provide back to an investor (money, shares, etc) .

Other inclusions for a roofing business plan

Your goals and objectives related to each section can be included within that section itself, but you could also include a page of all your goals and objectives in a single place. If you think you’ll go back to your business plan often to reflect on your goals, it could be a good idea.

Our big tip for writing a business plan?

Always go down the rabbit hole.

If you find yourself wondering if it’s important or if you should include it, do it. At the end of the day, the more in depth your business plan is, the more thought you’ve put into what you want to achieve. That will never be a bad thing.

Roofing business plan FAQs

How much investment am i going to need.

As you know, every new business requires a substantial financial backing to work. The same goes for a roofing business.

However, the amount of funds you’ll need depends on the business size you want, labor availability, budgeting for tools and machines, and if you want to save on costs by using roofing platforms like Roofr. Sadly, there’s no exact figure for starting a roofing business, but you may be able to ask around the industry to gauge what a reasonable budget would be.

What are some funding sources for roofing companies?

For many new roofing companies, the source of operational finances is personal savings. Obviously, that doesn’t always work. After all, the more your business grows, the more you’ll spend on your operations.‍

If you don't have much personal savings, there are numerous financing avenues to turn to. For example, bank loans, credit cards, and angel investors.

Bank loans and personal savings are the most efficient ways to fund your roofing business, since the other funding methods are not as reliable and effective.

What equipment do I need when starting my business?

While you’re thinking about all these big, heavy questions around your business, take time to think about the seemingly “smaller” things: your tools! Once you’re ready to go, you’ll need af ew things to get started:

• Underlayment
• Roofing material
• Roofing accessories (drip edge, vents, etc)

A roofing business plan is a plan for success

Don’t think of your business plan as something you have to do. Think of it as your first deep dive into the legacy you want to leave and what you wish to accomplish for your business. Hopefully this guide helps and you feel confident to get started on your own roofing business plan.

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How to write a business plan for a roofing company?

Putting together a business plan for a roofing company can be daunting - especially if you're creating a business for the first time - but with this comprehensive guide, you'll have the necessary tools to do it confidently.

We will explore why writing one is so important in both starting up and growing an existing roofing company, as well as what should go into making an effective plan - from its structure to content - and what tools can be used to streamline the process and avoid errors.

Without further ado, let us begin!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a roofing company?

• What information is needed to create a business plan for a roofing company?
• How do I build a financial forecast for a roofing company?

The written part of a roofing company business plan

• What tool should I use to write my roofing company business plan?

Being clear on the scope and goals of the document will make it easier to understand its structure and content. So before diving into the actual content of the plan, let's have a quick look at the main reasons why you would want to write a roofing company business plan in the first place.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

It's rarely business as usual for small businesses. The economy follows cycles where years of growth are followed by recessions, and the business environment is always changing with new technologies, new regulations, new competitors, and new consumer behaviours appearing all the time...

In this context, running a business without a clear roadmap is like driving blindfolded: it's dangerous at best. That's why writing a business plan for a roofing company is essential to create successful and sustainable businesses.

To write an effective business plan, you will need to take stock of where you are (if you are already in business) and where you want the business to go in the next three to five years.

Once you know where you want your roofing company to be, you'll have to identify:

• what resources (human, equipment, and capital) are needed to get there,
• at what pace the business needs to progress to get there in time,
• and what risks you'll face along the way.

Going through this process regularly is beneficial, both for startups and existing companies, as it helps make informed decisions about how best to allocate resources to ensure the long-term success of the business.

To get visibility on future cash flows

If your small roofing company runs out of cash: it's game over. That's why we often say "cash is king", and it's crucial to have a clear view of your roofing company's future cash flows.

So, how can you achieve this? It's simple - you need to have an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your roofing company business plan already includes a financial forecast (which we'll discuss further in this guide). Your task is to ensure it stays current.

To accomplish this, it's essential to regularly compare your actual financial performance with what was planned in your financial forecast. Based on your business's current trajectory, you can make adjustments to the forecast.

By diligently monitoring your roofing company's financial health, you'll be able to spot potential financial issues, like unexpected cash shortfalls, early on and take corrective actions. Moreover, this practice will enable you to recognize and capitalize on growth opportunities, such as excess cash flow enabling you to expand to new locations.

To secure financing

A detailed business plan becomes a crucial tool when seeking financing from banks or investors for your roofing company.

Investing and lending to small businesses are very risky activities given how fragile they are. Therefore, financiers have to take extra precautions before putting their capital at risk.

At a minimum, financiers will want to ensure that you have a clear roadmap and a solid understanding of your future cash flows (like we just explained above). But they will also want to ensure that your business plan fits the risk/reward profile they seek.

This will off-course vary from bank to bank and investor to investor, but as a rule of thumb. Banks will want to see a conservative financial management style (low risk), and they will use the information in your business plan to assess your borrowing capacity — the level of debt they think your business can comfortably handle — and your ability to repay the loan. This evaluation will determine whether they'll provide credit to your roofing company and the terms of the agreement.

Whereas investors will carefully analyze your business plan to gauge the potential return on their investment. Their focus lies on evidence indicating your roofing company's potential for high growth, profitability, and consistent cash flow generation over time.

Now that you recognize the importance of creating a business plan for your roofing company, let's explore what information is required to create a compelling plan.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

Information needed to create a business plan for a roofing company

Drafting a roofing company business plan requires research so that you can project sales, investments and cost accurately in your financial forecast, and convince the reader that there is a viable commercial opportunity to be seized.

Below, we'll focus on three critical pieces of information you should gather before starting to write your plan.

Carrying out market research for a roofing company

As you consider writing your business plan for a roofing company, conducting market research becomes a vital step to ensure accurate and realistic financial projections.

Market research provides valuable insights into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies, and other key factors that can significantly impact the commercial success of your business.

Through this research, you may uncover trends that could influence your roofing company.

It is possible that market research may reveal that there is an increasing demand for roofing services that specialize in eco-friendly materials. Additionally, research may suggest that homeowners may be looking for roofing solutions that come with warranties.

Such market trends play a significant role in forecasting revenue, as they offer valuable data about potential customers' spending habits and preferences.

By incorporating these findings into your financial projections, you can present investors with more accurate information, helping them make informed decisions about investing in your roofing company.

Developing the marketing plan for a roofing company

Before delving into your roofing company business plan, it's imperative to budget for sales and marketing expenses.

To achieve this, a comprehensive sales and marketing plan is essential. This plan should provide an accurate projection of the necessary actions to acquire and retain customers.

Additionally, it will outline the required workforce to carry out these initiatives and the corresponding budget for promotions, advertising, and other marketing endeavours.

By budgeting accordingly, you can ensure that the right resources are allocated to these vital activities, aligning them with the sales and growth objectives outlined in your business plan.

The staffing and equipment needs of a roofing company

As you embark on starting or expanding your roofing company, having a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) is essential for ensuring your business's success.

Both the recruitment and investment plans must align with the timing and level of growth projected in your forecast, and they require appropriate funding.

The staffing costs for a roofing company could include paying for roofers, a project manager, administrative staff, and a payroll clerk. They might also incur costs for any necessary safety equipment such as harnesses and hard hats. The equipment costs could include ladders, scaffolding, roofing materials, power tools, and vehicles.

To create a realistic financial forecast, you also need to consider other operating expenses associated with the day-to-day running of your business, such as insurance and bookkeeping.

With all the necessary information at hand, you are ready to begin crafting your business plan and developing your financial forecast.

What goes into your roofing company's financial forecast?

The financial forecast of your roofing company will enable you to assess the profitability potential of your business in the coming years and how much capital is required to fund the actions planned in the business plan.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a roofing company are:

• The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
• The projected balance sheet ,
• The cash flow forecast ,
• And the sources and uses table .

Let's take a closer look at each of these.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for a roofing company shows how much revenue and profit your business is expected to make in the future.

A healthy roofing company's P&L statement should show:

• Sales growing at (minimum) or above (better) inflation
• Stable (minimum) or expanding (better) profit margins
• A healthy level of net profitability

This will of course depend on the stage of your business: numbers for a startup will look different than for an established roofing company.

The forecasted balance sheet of your roofing company

The projected balance sheet of your roofing company will enable the reader of your business plan to assess the overall financial health of your business.

It shows three elements: assets, liabilities and equity:

• Assets: are productive resources owned by the business, such as equipment, cash, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
• Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors, lenders, and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers).
• Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the profits and losses accumulated by the business to date (which are called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

Analysing your roofing company projected balance sheet provides an understanding of your roofing company's working capital structure, investment and financing policies.

In particular, the readers of your plan can compare the level of financial debt on the balance sheet to the equity value to measure the level of financial risk (equity doesn't need to be reimbursed, while financial debt must be repaid, making it riskier).

They can also use your balance sheet to assess your roofing company's liquidity and solvency:

• A liquidity analysis: focuses on whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short-term assets to cover its liabilities due in the next 12 months.
• A solvency analysis: takes and longer view to assess whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debts over the medium-term.

The cash flow forecast

As we've seen earlier in this guide, monitoring future cash flows is the key to success and the only way of ensuring that your roofing company has enough cash to operate.

As you can expect showing future cash flows is the main role of the cash flow forecast in your roofing company business plan.

It is best practice to organise the cash flow statement by nature in order to show the cash impact of the following areas:

• Cash flow generated from operations: the operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the business's commercial activities
• Cash flow from investing activities: the investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.) either to maintain the business's equipment or to expand its capabilities
• Cash flow from financing activities: the financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to financiers

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to make sure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

Your roofing company business plan will normally include both yearly and monthly cash flow forecasts so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The sources and uses table or initial financing plan is a key component of your business plan when starting a roofing company.

It shows where the capital needed to set up the business will come from (sources) and how it will be spent (uses).

This table helps size the investment required to set up the roofing company, and understand how risks will be distributed between the business owners, and the financiers.

The sources and uses table also highlights what the starting cash position will be. This is key for startups as the business needs to have sufficient funding to sustain operations until the break-even point is reached.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what will go into the financial forecast of your roofing company business plan, let's have a look at the written part of the plan.

The written part of the business plan is where you will explain what your business does and how it operates, what your target market is, whom you compete against, and what strategy you will put in place to seize the commercial opportunity you've identified.

Having this context is key for the reader to form a view on whether or not they believe that your plan is achievable and the numbers in your forecast realistic.

The written part of a roofing company business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

• The executive summary
• The presentation of the company
• The products and services
• The market analysis
• The strategy
• The operations
• The financial plan

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

The first section of your roofing company's business plan is the executive summary which provides, as its name suggests, an enticing summary of your plan which should hook the reader and make them want to know more about your business.

When writing the executive summary, it is important to provide an overview of the business, the market, the key financials, and what you are asking from the reader.

Start with a brief introduction of the business, its name, concept, location, how long it has been in operation, and what makes it unique. Mention any services or products you plan to offer and who you sell to.

Then you should follow with an overview of the addressable market for your roofing company, current trends, and potential growth opportunities.

You should then include a summary of your key financial figures such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Finally, you should detail any funding requirements in the ask section.

2. The presentation of the company

As you build your roofing company business plan, the second section deserves attention as it delves into the structure and ownership, location, and management team of your company.

In the structure and ownership part, you'll provide valuable insights into the legal structure of the business, the identities of the owners, and their respective investments and ownership stakes. This level of transparency is vital, particularly if you're seeking financing, as it clarifies which legal entity will receive the funds and who holds the reins of the business.

Moving to the location part, you'll offer a comprehensive view of the company's premises and articulate why this specific location is strategic for the business, emphasizing factors like catchment area, accessibility, and nearby amenities.

When describing the location of your roofing company to a third party financier, you may want to emphasize the potential for growth in the region. You could point to the area's strong population growth and highlight the potential to capture a larger customer base. Additionally, you might want to discuss the benefits of the area's infrastructure, such as the availability of resources and transportation networks, which could make it easier to expand the business. Finally, you could emphasize the potential for the roofing company to benefit from the vibrant economic activity in the region, which could create more opportunities for growth.

Lastly, you should introduce your esteemed management team. Provide a thorough explanation of each member's role, background, and extensive experience.

It's equally important to highlight any past successes the management team has achieved and underscore the duration they've been working together. This information will instil trust in potential lenders or investors, showcasing the strength and expertise of your leadership team and their ability to deliver the business plan.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your business plan should include a detailed description of what your company offers, who are the target customers, and what distribution channels are part of your go-to-market. 

For example, your roofing company might offer roof installation and repair services, roof inspections for home or business owners, and gutter installation and repair services. These services can help customers maintain the integrity of their roof, ensuring that their home or business is protected from the elements. Additionally, inspections can give customers peace of mind knowing that their roof is safe and secure.

4. The market analysis

When outlining your market analysis in the roofing company business plan, it's essential to include comprehensive details about customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and relevant regulations.

The primary aim of this section is to give the reader an understanding of the market size and appeal while demonstrating your expertise in the industry.

To begin, delve into the demographics and segmentation subsection, providing an overview of the addressable market for your roofing company, key marketplace trends, and introducing various customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

Next, shift your focus to the target market subsection, where you can zoom in on the specific customer segments your roofing company targets. Explain how your products and services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these customers.

For example, your target market might include homeowners who live in older houses. These homeowners may need to repair their existing roof or replace it with a new one. They will likely be looking for a reliable roofing company with reasonable pricing and quality materials.

In the competition subsection, introduce your main competitors and explain what sets your roofing company apart from them.

Finally, round off your market analysis by providing an overview of the main regulations that apply to your roofing company.

5. The strategy section

When crafting the strategy section of your business plan for your roofing company, it's important to cover several key aspects, including your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

In the competitive edge subsection, clearly explain what sets your company apart from competitors. This is particularly critical if you're a startup, as you'll be trying to establish your presence in the marketplace among entrenched players.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you aim to maintain profitability while offering competitive prices to your customers.

For the sales & marketing plan, outline how you plan to reach and acquire new customers, as well as retain existing ones through loyalty programs or special offers.

In the milestones subsection, detail what your company has achieved thus far and outline your primary objectives for the coming years by including specific dates for expected progress. This ensures everyone involved has clear expectations.

Lastly, in the risks and mitigants subsection, list the main risks that could potentially impact the execution of your plan. Explain the measures you've taken to minimize these risks. This is vital for investors or lenders to feel confident in supporting your venture - try to proactively address any objection they might have.

Your roofing company faces a variety of risks. For instance, if your employees are working at a high altitude, they could slip and fall, potentially leading to serious injury or death. In addition, a storm could damage your roofing materials, leading to a costly replacement. You may also encounter legal risks, such as if a customer claims the roof was installed improperly and sues the company. These are just some of the risks your roofing company may face.

6. The operations section

The operations of your roofing company must be presented in detail in your business plan.

The first thing you should cover in this section is your staffing team, the main roles, and the overall recruitment plan to support the growth expected in your business plan. You should also outline the qualifications and experience necessary to fulfil each role, and how you intend to recruit (using job boards, referrals, or headhunters).

You should then state the operating hours of your roofing company - so that the reader can check the adequacy of your staffing levels - and any plans for varying opening times during peak season. Additionally, the plan should include details on how you will handle customer queries outside of normal operating hours.

The next part of this section should focus on the key assets and IP required to operate your business. If you depend on any licenses or trademarks, physical structures (equipment or property) or lease agreements, these should all go in there.

You may have key assets such as the roofing tools and materials that could be used to complete projects, as well as the vehicles and equipment used to transport them. You might also have intellectual property, such as the branding and logo that you use to market your company, or the designs and techniques you have developed over the years that make your roofing services unique.

Finally, you should include a list of suppliers that you plan to work with and a breakdown of their services and main commercial terms (price, payment terms, contract duration, etc.). Investors are always keen to know if there is a particular reason why you have chosen to work with a specific supplier (higher-quality products or past relationships for example).

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will include the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of the content of a roofing company business plan, let's look at some of the tools you can use to create yours.

What tool should I use to write my roofing company's business plan?

In this section, we will be reviewing the two main solutions for creating a roofing company business plan:

• Using specialized online business plan software,
• Outsourcing the plan to the business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your roofing company's business plan

Using online business planning software is the most efficient and modern way to write a roofing company business plan.

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

• You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
• You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
• You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
• You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
• You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Hiring a business plan writer to write your roofing company's business plan

Outsourcing your roofing company business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

These writers possess valuable experience in crafting business plans and creating accurate financial forecasts. Additionally, enlisting their services can save you precious time, enabling you to concentrate on the day-to-day operations of your business.

It's important to be mindful, though, that hiring business plan writers comes with a cost. You'll be paying not just for their time but also for the software they use, and their profit margin.

Based on experience, a complete business plan usually requires a budget of at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax, and more if revisions are needed after initial meetings with lenders or investors - changes often arise following these discussions.

When seeking investment, be cautious about spending too much on consulting fees. Investors prefer their funds to contribute directly to business growth. Thus, the amount you spend on business plan writing services and other consulting services should be negligible compared to the amount you raise.

Another aspect to consider is that while you'll receive the output of the business plan, you usually won't own the actual document. It will be saved in the consultant's business plan software, which will make updating the plan challenging without retaining the consultant on a retainer.

Given these factors, it's essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of outsourcing your roofing company business plan to a business plan writer and decide what best suits your business's unique needs.

Why not create your roofing company's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write a roofing company business plan is a terrible idea.

For starters, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel (or any spreadsheet) is very technical and requires both a strong grasp of accounting principles and solid skills in financial modelling.

As a result, it is unlikely anyone will trust your numbers unless - like us at The Business Plan Shop - you hold a degree in finance and accounting and have significant financial modelling experience in your past.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the 1990s and early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Also, using software makes it easy to compare actuals vs. forecasts and maintain our forecasts up to date to maintain visibility on future cash flows - as we discussed earlier in this guide - whereas this is a pain to do with a spreadsheet.

That's for the forecast, but what about the written part of my roofing company business plan?

This part is less error-prone, but here also software brings tremendous gains in productivity:

• Word processors don't include instructions and examples for each part of your business plan
• Word processors don't update your numbers automatically when they change in your forecast
• Word processors don't handle the formatting for you

Overall, while Word or Excel may be viable options for creating a roofing company business plan for some entrepreneurs, it is by far not the best or most efficient solution.

• Using business plan software is a modern and cost-effective way of writing and maintaining business plans.
• A business plan is not a one-shot exercise as maintaining it current is the only way to keep visibility on your future cash flows.
• A business plan has 2 main parts: a financial forecast outlining the funding requirements of your roofing company and the expected growth, profits and cash flows for the next 3 to 5 years; and a written part which gives the reader the information needed to decide if they believe the forecast is achievable.

We hope that this in-depth guide met your expectations and that you now have a clear understanding of how to write your roofing company business plan. Do not hesitate to contact our friendly team if you have questions additional questions we haven't addressed here.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How to write a business plan to secure a bank loan?
• Difference between business plan and pitch deck
• What should you include in your business plan appendices?
• How much is a business plan?
• Key steps to write a business plan?
• Top mistakes to avoid in your business plan

Do you know entrepreneurs interested in starting or growing a roofing company? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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Roofing Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Roofing Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Roofing business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Roofing businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Roofing business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Parker Roofing LLC is a new residential roofing company located in Columbus, Ohio. We provide multiple roofing services to the homeowners of Columbus, including installation, repair, maintenance, and replacement services. We know that other roofing companies in the area don’t follow through with their promises. They overcharge for their services and don’t always do the job properly. We aim to be the #1 roofing company in the area by providing the best customer service in the industry, charging affordable rates, and providing quality roofing services to every client.

Parker Roofing LLC is founded by Jonah Parker who has over twenty years of experience as a roofing contractor. He has worked for several other businesses and provided roofing services to hundreds of clients over the years. His extensive experience, customer service skills, and previous clientbase will ensure the business is a success.

Product Offering

Parker Roofing LLC will provide residential roofing services to homeowners in the Columbus, Ohio area. These services will include roof installation, maintenance, replacement, inspections, and repairs. We also install gutters and skylights. Parker Roofing LLC will utilize a variety of roofing materials, including solar tiles, clay tiles, shingles, silicone, metal, and more.

Customer Focus

Parker Roofing LLC will primarily serve homeowners living in Columbus Ohio. Columbus has a 44% home ownership rate, so many residents will require our services at some point. We will also work with real estate companies and property management companies who need roofing services for their residential properties.

Management Team

Parker Roofing LLC is run by Jonah Parker. Jonah has worked for several other roofing companies over the past twenty years and has created a loyal following of clients through his work. After working for other businesses, he is ready to utilize his skills, connections, and loyal customer base to create his own roofing company.

Success Factors

Parker Roofing LLC is primed for success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Quality roofing services for an affordable price.
• Management team with extensive roofing experience and a focus on maintaining long-term relationships with customers.
• Skilled team of roofing professionals who will get the job done right the first time.

Financial Highlights

Parker Roofing LLC is seeking $225,000 in debt financing to launch. The funding will be dedicated to the office build out, purchase of initial supplies, working capital, marketing costs, and startup overhead expenses. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Office build-out: $50,000
• Equipment and supplies: $50,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $50,000
• Marketing costs: $25,000
• Working capital: $50,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Parker Roofing LLC.

Company Overview

Who is parker roofing llc.

  We primarily aim to serve homeowners living in the Columbus area, as they need professional and friendly experts when something goes wrong with their roof. However, we will also provide roofing services for real estate companies and property management companies who need roofing services for their residential properties.

Jonah recently conducted a market analysis and consumer survey to see if the business would be in high demand. The results from these were very positive, with many consumers saying that they would be interested in hiring the company’s services as soon as the business launches. Jonah immediately began to plan out his business after receiving the results and is now ready to launch Parker Roofing LLC.

Parker Roofing LLC History

After spending several years in the roofing industry, Jonah Parker has gained the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to start his own roofing business. In April 2023, he quit his job at his employer and incorporated Parker Roofing LLC as an LLC.

Since incorporation, Jonah has achieved the following milestones for Parker Roofing LLC:

• Developed the company’s name, logo and website
• Finished the list of services the company will provide
• Determined equipment and inventory requirements
• Found a potential office location

Parker Roofing LLC Services

Parker Roofing LLC will provide the following services:

• Roof installation
• Roof inspections
• Roof replacements
• Roof maintenance
• Roof repair
• Skylight installation
• Gutter installation

Industry Analysis

Roofing is essential for every building. A sturdy roof protects residents from the elements, such as snow, rain, and sleet. Roofing is also necessary to prevent the natural elements from destroying a building from the inside out. The roofing industry is an essential industry, as very few buildings can thrive without a roof. This makes the industry highly profitable and provides market stability.

The roofing industry is expected to grow over the next several years. This is primarily due to the increase in housing construction, leading to millions of new homes being built and needing roofs. Demand is also high due to many older buildings needing roof repairs and replacements. According to Allied Market Research, the global roofing industry was valued at $102.4 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from now until 2030. This moderate growth ensures the industry will remain profitable, so it is a great time for new roofing companies to enter the market.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market, customer segmentation.

Parker Roofing LLC will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Real estate companies
• Property management companies

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Parker Roofing LLC will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Smith & Smith Roofing

Smith & Smith Roofing has been a major residential roofing service for the Columbus area for the past forty years. Run by Charles and Jane Smith, the company employs over 100 roofing contractors and has helped install and replace hundreds of roofs for local residents. Though Smith & Smith will continue to be successful, they are a minor competitor because they only provide installation and replacement services. We will have a competitive advantage by offering repair, maintenance and other services to our clients.

Columbus Roofing Solutions

Columbus Roofing Solutions is a roofing contractor that exclusively installs roofs on newly constructed buildings. They install roofs for new homes in housing developments as well as new offices and other commercial businesses. They do not offer repair or maintenance services and they don’t make roofs for existing properties. Though we expect to compete heavily with Columbus Roofing Solutions for clients building new homes, we will not compete with them for our other customer segments.

Sturdy Roofs LLC

Sturdy Roofs LLC is a local roofing company that provides a variety of roofing services for both residential and commercial buildings. The company works with roofs of all styles and materials, but prioritizes the use of energy-efficient and green materials when possible. As such, they are extremely popular with upper market clients and those with the disposable income to make their property more environmentally friendly.

Though Sturdy Roofs LLC will maintain its success, their services price out many residents in need of roofing services. They also make most of their money through commercial contracts. We will not provide commercial roofing services, so we expect Sturdy Roofs LLC to be a minor competitor.

Competitive Advantage

Parker Roofing LLC will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

• Pricing : Parker Roofing LLC will provide an array of roofing services that will be priced competitively and be more affordable than the competition.
• Customer-Focus : Parker Roofing LLC’s focus will be on providing customer-focus service that prioritizes customer satisfaction and maintaining long-term relationships.
• Management : Jonah has been extremely successful working in the roofing industry and will be able to use his previous experience to make clients feel comfortable with the process.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Parker Roofing LLC will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Client-focused roof installation, restoration, and repair services, where the company’s interests are aligned with the customer.
• Service built on long-term relationships and personal attention.
• Quality services for affordable rates.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Parker Roofing LLC is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

The company will have several social media accounts and invest in ads on all social media platforms. These accounts will showcase pictures of our crew as well as a list of the services we provide. The company will use targeted marketing to appeal to our target demographics.

SEO Website Marketing

Parker Roofing LLC will invest funds into maintaining a strong SEO presence on search engines like Google and Bing. When a person types in “local roofing services” or “Columbus roofing services”, Parker Roofing LLC will appear in the top three choices.

Advertisement

Advertisements in print publications like newspapers, magazines, etc., are an excellent way for businesses to connect with their audience. Parker Roofing LLC will advertise its services in popular magazines and news dailies. Obtaining relevant placements in industry magazines and journals will also help in increasing brand visibility.

Parker Roofing LLC understands that the best promotion comes from satisfied customers. The company will encourage its clients to refer other individuals and businesses by providing discounts on future services for every new client produced. This strategy will increase in effectiveness as time goes on.

The pricing of Parker Roofing LLC will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when hiring our roofing services.

Operations Plan

Parker Roofing LLC will utilize the following operations plan. Operation Functions:

• Jonah will be the Owner of Parker Roofing LLC. He will run the general operations of the company and provide roofing services to his initial clientbase. He will start off running the business on his own, but will gradually hire the following staff:
• An Administrative Assistant who can answer phones, schedule appointments, and work on general administrative tasks.
• An Accountant who will manage all client invoicing, billing, and payables.
• A Marketing Assistant who will run all the marketing and promotions campaigns.
• Several contractors who will provide quality roofing services.

Milestones:

Parker Roofing LLC will have the following milestones complete in the next six months:

• 5/1/202X – Finalize lease agreement for office space
• 6/1/202X – Office build out
• 7/1/202X – Hire and train essential staff
• 8/1/202X – Begin marketing campaign
• 9/1/202X – Launch Parker Roofing LLC
• 10/1/202X – Reach break even

Though Jonah has never run a business before, he has spent enough time in the industry to understand the operations and management aspects of running a roofing business. However, Jonah will hire several other staff to help provide roofing services as well as run other aspects of the business that Jonah is unfamiliar with.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Parker Roofing LLC will come charging our clients for our roofing services.

The cost drivers for Parker Roofing LLC will include the overhead costs, salaries, cost of supplies, and marketing expenses.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and pay off the startup business loan.

• Number Of Clients:
• Annual Lease: $25,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, roofing business plan faqs, what is a roofing business plan.

A roofing business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your roofing business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Roofing business plan using our Roofing Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Roofing Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of roofing businesses , some examples include: Hot roofing, Metal roofing, Single ply roofing, and Shingling.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Roofing Business Plan?

Roofing businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Roofing Business?

Starting a roofing business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Roofing Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed roofing business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your roofing business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your roofing business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Roofing Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your roofing business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your roofing business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Roofing Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your roofing business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your roofing business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful roofing business:

• How to Start a Roofing Company

• Received a document?

How to Start a Roofing Business: 9 Tips to Grow & Thrive

20 articles

If you’re looking to start a roofing business, it’s the perfect time to flip the switch. Industry research notes that the US roofing industry consists of more than 80,000 businesses employing 250,000 people — and annual industry revenues exceed $50 billion. It’s an excellent time to consider starting a roofing company, as both the residential and commercial sectors are experiencing a wave of new construction, and that means opportunities for the roofing industry, which is expected to grow revenues by around 1% annually for the next five years. 

Moving from working as a roofing contractor to starting your own business may feel a bit dizzying, but it doesn’t have to be. Establishing a business legally is a straightforward process, and creating a plan for growth is exciting. As you get deeper into the process, you’ll get to tackle challenges with cash flow, marketing, hiring, and more. 

We worked together with Kyle Shirley, founder and owner of Sol Vista Roofing in Denver, to create a guide to start and grow a roofing business from the ground up. 

Table of Contents

1. Lay the sheathing: Registration, licensing, and insurance

Handling the fundamentals is like putting down the deck at the start of a roofing project: It sets you up for success later. Starting a business starts with the legal and logistical nuts and bolts that get you ready for growth later on. 

Here are a few key steps to make sure you cover:

• Register your business with your state’s Secretary of State. You’ll need a name for your business entity and a business structure — often a sole proprietorship or limited liability company (LLC). 
• Get the proper license and insurance according to your state’s requirements. We have a contractor licensing guide for every state you can refer to — as many states do require specific licensing for roofing businesses. 
• Obtain a business bank account and any software or staff you’ll need for accounting and bookkeeping. It’s important to keep your business’ finances separate from your personal accounts. 

Once you’re registered, licensed, insured, and financially prepared, you’re ready to start thinking about how to grow your roofing business from the ground up. 

2. Make a clear business plan aimed at growth

The first step in growing your roofing business is to create a plan to grow. Start with your business plan – if you didn’t have a business plan when you started your roofing business, now would be a good time to write it down. 

“A strong business plan consists of thorough market research,” says Kyle Shirley. “You should look into the top players in your city or market, then perform a SWOT analysis to evaluate your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. New businesses can leverage technology, automation, and lower overhead costs to compete with existing businesses. Your business plan lays out your strategy for breaking into the market and financial projections for the first five years, giving you a sense of how many jobs you need to take on to grow and scale.”

Below, we’ve listed some items your business plan should definitely include . 

Set goals for your business

Goals may include the revenue you want to generate over the next five years, the number of new jobs you will take on, or targets for hiring employees. The clearer you can be with your growth objectives, the easier it is to determine what resources you need in order to accomplish them. 

Get clear on your customers

Are you going to specialize in a specific niche, or diversify your client base? Will your business focus on residential customers or commercial roofing projects ? The audience you are trying to reach — and the types of roofing jobs you want to take on — will determine your marketing strategy and hiring requirements, as well as other business decisions.

Analyze your competition

Once you’re clear on your goals and the types of roofing projects you’re going after, look at what your competition is doing. What kinds of jobs are they bidding on? How can you differentiate your company from existing businesses?  

Action item: Create a growth plan for your roofing company.  Why it matters: Avoid the most dangerous business error of all: “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” 

3 . Keep the cash flowing like water down a valley

Here’s a little-known fact about growing a roofing business: It can be incredibly cash-hungry. If you start growing without proper financial management, you will quickly find your company out of cash and in bankruptcy court. That’s not an overstatement: Cash flow is the number one reason why roofing contractors fail . 

“The construction business has a long cash conversion cycle,” notes Kyle Shirley, “so you need to go in with eyes wide open, understanding the average days sales outstanding (DSO) for your market — which you can find by reaching out to local or state roofing organizations. From there, you can track your accounts receivable, accounts payable, and overhead expenses to see your current cash flow. Even better, you can project your sales, labor costs, and materials costs further out to make sure that the revenue coming in is going to cover your costs.” 

In order to grow, a roofing company must proactively manage cash flow — or you’ll end up doing about as well as a roof without flashing. Since you’re a seasoned roofer, you know that payments can lag behind job completion — sometimes way behind. But your costs keep adding up, and you need cash on hand to continue hiring skilled roofers, buying materials and equipment, and taking on more or bigger roofing jobs. 

To grow your roofing business sustainably, it’s not enough to be a skilled roofer. You need to be a master of your cash flow. 

Becoming a successful business owner means knowing when to delegate and when to stay involved. When it comes to cash flow, it’s important to always have your finger on the pulse. 

Review your cash flow regularly

If you have an accountant, work with them to create a real-time view of your cash flow that you can check any time. Even without a dedicated accountant, you can use a cash flow forecast to predict your cash needs for the upcoming week, month, or year. Revise your projections to include actual expenses and revenue to make sure your model is accurate. 

Modern construction accounting software can take into account expenses, accounts payable, and accounts receivable to help you spot cash flow problems before they sink your business. 

WATCH : How to calculate cash flow for a construction project  

Use cash flow to inform your business decisions

When making financial decisions for your roofing business, operate with certainty rather than assumptions. Cash flow predictions and analytics are useful, but you’ll also want to lean on cash flow statements from past months and years that give a true picture of how your roofing business is doing. 

Beyond staying on top of cash flow as an owner, you’ll also want to make sure that you develop operational excellence among your team as your business grows: prompt invoicing , strong payment terms, and efforts to drive down costs where possible. 

Action item: Evaluate a recent cash flow statement and develop a real-time cash flow dashboard. Make it a priority to check in on your business cash flow at least weekly. Why it matters: If your business is cash flow negative, it doesn’t matter if you have significant revenue coming in down the line. Growing and maintaining your roofing business means having positive cash flow to expand your workforce and take on new jobs. 

4. Set your prices as carefully as you assemble a roof

While cash flow is critical for survival, profit is essential for growing a roofing business. Your profit is the money you will use to reinvest in the business for continued growth. Too many roofers fail to price their services correctly, either aiming too high to attract customers or too low to maintain profitability. 

Read more: The profit roadmap for contractors

For many business owners, nailing down the right pricing structure feels like a mystery, and some resort to simply copying competitors in hopes of success. But here’s the truth: Roofing businesses charge wildly different rates (from $3.50 to $10 per square foot in commercial roofing or $4.35 to $11 per square foot in residential roofing), and you need to figure out the price that will work for your business.

“Most contractors are not charging enough,” says Kyle Shirley. “Businesses tend to focus on their labor and material cost, but most people are not factoring in overhead. Some contractors I speak to think they don’t have any overhead, but even a solo contractor has to cover gas and insurance costs. Other overhead costs include marketing, technology (software, a website, etc.), and rent — though there are many more. And of course, your pricing also has to include a profit margin, because that profit is what you can re-invest in your business to grow.”

Your prices are going to depend on your region, whether you’re doing commercial or residential roofing work, and your specialization. Fortunately, getting the price right isn’t difficult, and you only have to follow one simple rule: The customer has to cover every cost. 

When you’re just doing individual roofing jobs, it’s easy to forget about the cost of doing business — but when you’re running a business, you need to remember that every job you take on needs to cover overhead as well . In addition to materials and labor for roofing jobs, you need to cover the cost of staff, offices, benefits, and more. 

Oh, and you do want to make a profit, right? Your pricing needs to take all of this into account. The average profit margin across the roofing industry is 7.2% , but you may adjust that number higher or lower depending on your business needs.

Keep reading: Contractor’s guide to profit and overhead

Action item: Take a look at your current hourly rate and billable hours, then determine whether they are actually covering your costs and working toward making a profit. Why it matters: Too many businesses fail because they undercharge or overprice their services. Make sure you know the real cost of running your roofing business and price accordingly. 

5. Hire & retain employees that form a great underlayment

Your employees are the face of your roofing business, which means that whoever you hire will represent your company in front of your customers. Successful business owners put their people first because a thriving team leads to a growing company. Roofers know that an underlayment helps protect the finished roof, so get team members who will help hold your company together.

“As a new business owner, you need employees who will build your reputation and earn a good review,” Kyle Shirley emphasizes. “When we started out, we did a lot of interviews and vetting. We tested our roofers out on different projects and jobs to make sure they would represent Sol Vista Roofing as professionals. We want customers to feel fantastic about the service they get so they’ll spread the word. That’s crucial when you’re just starting out.”

Update your benefits package to remain competitive

The more you can offer potential employees, the better employees you will attract. Strong health benefits, retirement plans, and leave policies may seem like high costs, but the value of productive employees can quickly outweigh the initial investment. Hiring, training, and developing an excellent team is the best investment you can make in growing your roofing business. 

When your employees consistently treat your customers with respect and demonstrate professional knowledge, growth comes naturally. Also, when you invest in your employees, they’re more likely to stick around, helping you to keep turnover low and engagement high. 

Provide training opportunities

Create onboarding procedures for every position that orients new employees to skills as well as company culture. While standardizing training for roofers is important, don’t forget about your back-office employees. Make sure your office staff have access to tools and courses that help them do their jobs more efficiently.

Training doesn’t have to be expensive. Levelset’s Payment Academy offers free courses on collections and credit, construction financial management, and more. 

Make it clear how employees can grow from the start. Rather than providing a job, open up a career path for everyone who works in your roofing business. Strong employees are attracted to growth opportunities, so provide incentives and promotions for performance to everyone who works for you.

Action item: Look at your processes for hiring, training, and development to identify areas for improvement.  Why it matters: Employees are the single greatest asset of any roofing business. Treat them accordingly. 

6. Create clear policies and procedures for every aspect of your business

As your business grows, you’ll have less direct involvement in the day-to-day operations of the company. Too many business owners try to fight fires or manage every aspect of operations, but this is a recipe for burnout and stagnation.

“As you open your doors and take on new customers, document your policies and standard operating procedures,” says Kyle Shirley. “It doesn’t have to be pretty, but you need to write it down. Then, over time you can refine your procedures as you learn more about your business. How would you have handled that sale differently? Update the procedure. We have procedures for everything our company does, and those documents are visible to every one of our employees. If someone on my team asks how to get a measurement report for a roof, I point them to the procedure. As your business grows, you won’t have your hands in every aspect of operations, but good policies and procedures will make sure your team is consistent.”

Instead, you need to optimize your operations by building great processes, writing them down, and trusting your employees. Take all that you’ve learned about roofing, sales, and more—and add in knowledge from your employees. Use this accumulated experience to standardize how your team handles calls, evaluates customer creditworthiness , and manages repairs and installations. 

You need to have clear, written instructions for every company process. A policy serves three purposes: 

• Keeps everyone on the same page
• Saves supervisors from having to repeat information
• Ensures that wisdom isn’t lost when you have employee turnover 

Trust your employees

Once you have standard procedures, let your employees follow them. Too many business owners try to micromanage, but this approach is rarely successful. Instead, refine your procedures over time and use ongoing training to empower your employees to handle every situation. 

In the end, your business is a collection of many different processes — from simple phone greetings to deciding whether to file a mechanics lien for non-payment . Having clear, unified processes for every aspect of your roofing business improves productivity and prevents knowledge from disappearing when employees leave your company. 

Action item: Identify processes that need standardization, write out clear instructions for those processes, and keep going until you have documentation to handle (nearly) every aspect of your roofing business. Why it matters: As you grow, you’ll have less direct control over your business. By crafting great processes, your wisdom stays in every aspect of the company even as your attention moves toward strategy rather than day-to-day operations. 

7. Execute a focused marketing and sales strategy

You can have the best roofers, office manager, and accountant on the planet, but if you don’t win jobs, your roofing business will not grow. Build a sales and marketing team that understands your target audience — and what gets them to say “yes” to the sale . 

“A sales procedure is one of the most important things you can have,” says Kyle Shirley. “And you want it to include everything. Our sales team parks on the street so they don’t block a homeowner’s driveway. We get to know the customer first. We walk around the property with the homeowner, and we gradually get a sense of what they need from us. After we do an inspection, we present our quote on site — and we explain the value that we bring, like our warranty. We don’t want to email that quote later, because we want a chance to discuss what we’re offering to the homeowner.”

On residential jobs, the homeowner is dealing with a potentially large outlay of funds and may be in a stressful situation—like a failing roof or the impending sale of their home. You want your sales staff to act with empathy and understanding. 

If your goal is to get more commercial or public jobs, you’ll need someone experienced in writing winning bids. Bidding a private commercial project can be different from bidding a government job — your team should understand the difference.    

“Commercial roofing sales is much more about building relationships over time,” notes Kyle Shirley. “You do good work with a developer and they begin to understand what you offer. You show them that you get their problem and you present solutions that will work for them. We’ll often send a video with our bids to explain our reasoning, which helps replicate that personal touch you usually get working on the residential side with homeowners.”

Both residential and commercial roofing companies need to be able to demonstrate their value to potential customers by addressing their needs and maintaining professionalism.

Growing a roofing business requires that customers know who you are and how to find you. Having a recognizable brand, strong online presence, and an easy-to-use website are vital for growth. 

“In terms of marketing, we do one-to-one outreach on the commercial side and lots of mass digital work on the residential side,” says Kyle Shirley. “We love Google pay-per-click (PPC) ads, and we’re active on social media platforms so that we can be visible in front of homeowners. You need to pay for a search engine optimization (SEO) person as well as some type of new media ads. But don’t discount legacy marketing: postcards, yard signs, door hangers. In some markets, going door to door after a storm is a viable tactic.”

According to Findstack , 72% of people use Google reviews to find businesses , and those with at least 200 reviews generate twice as much revenue on average. As a residential roofing business owner, you need to recognize that the majority of your marketing efforts must go toward optimizing for Google searches, which is where the majority of your potential customers are likely to find you when they’re looking for help with small service jobs or large remodeling projects.

Optimize your website

Either hire an outside agency or an internal specialist who can help you rank in Google for relevant search terms, like “roofer in X city.” You’ll want a strong domain name (www.yourdomain.com), well-written marketing copy, and perhaps even a regularly updated blog with information that supports potential customers. 

You can have your business show up in Google Reviews and on Google Maps by signing up for a business profile .  

Your website needs to work well on both computers and mobile devices, have your contact information readily available, and include a contact form that is easily accessible. When your potential customers find your website from a Google search, make it easy for them to get information about your business and reach out to you.

Feature recent roofing projects that highlight the types of projects you want to work on. Write up the project details, like problems you solved, your standards of cleanliness during construction, and the communication process with the project owner. 

Create a recognizable brand

Beyond optimizing your website and working toward better rankings in Google, you’ll want to make sure that you have a strong brand. Considering your business’ colors, logo, slogan, name, uniforms, trucks, and more can make marketing easier — and make it easier for your business to spread by word of mouth.  

If people know about your business, you’ll get more business. Once you’re an established name in your area, marketing becomes easier, but it never loses importance. Staying ahead of the competition means continually reaching out to potential customers and positioning your roofing business as the best solution to their needs.

4 techniques for closing sales

Here are four ways that strong roofing businesses get the sale for both repair work and new installations:

• Participate in a sales training program that includes role playing over the phone and in person. 
• Encourage your salespeople to spend more time listening than speaking, and to take notes on what the customer is looking for. 
• Ensure your sales staff do a thorough inspection , provide options, and use the echo customer’s language to share that they’ve understood.
• Provide a detailed proposal on site , including transparent pricing and line item costs that give the customer a clear sense of your value. 

Action items: 

• Evaluate your sales performance and audit your processes to see if there are areas for improvement.
• Review your sales and marketing materials regularly to make sure they speak to the audience you’re trying to attract. 
• Take a close look at your current branding and your online marketing efforts to find areas for improvement.

Why it matters: Without a strong sales and marketing machine, there are no jobs to bring in revenue for your business. Making sure that your sales staff is well trained is a crucial part of running a successful roofing business. 

The majority of your customers are looking for you online, so making sure you stand out there is critical for business success. And it’s not just important for residential jobs — even developers and general contractors will look up your website as part of their prequalification process to determine your ability to complete a commercial roofing job. 

8. Know the laws that pertain to roofing businesses

Construction law is complex, and roofers have a lot of rules to follow. Failure to comply with building codes and other regulations can result in project delays, steep financial penalties, or a loss of your contractor license.

In addition to property rules, roofer’s licensing requirements , and other laws, you also need to be able to read and understand your construction contract thoroughly. If you’re not careful, you may end up agreeing to contract terms that delay payments or hurt your business financially. Someone at your company should review every contract — or even better, hire a legal team to do it for you.

9. Be the leader your company needs

Becoming a strong leader for your business is an important step if you want to grow. Business leaders with a clear vision, strong communication, and deft organization are able to overcome challenges and make wise decisions as they grow. 

Many roofing business owners started out as roofers or supervisors. The upside of that path is that you have excellent background knowledge about the industry that can inform decisions about materials, techniques, or sales. On the other hand, very few people are natural born leaders, and working as an individual roofer doesn’t always offer the opportunity to develop leadership skills. 

So start working on becoming a better leader right now. 

Always keep communicating

As the business owner, it’s easy to get stuck in your silo — but it’s a mistake. Your roofers, salespeople, customer service representatives, accountants, and more are at the front of your business and have information you need. Take time to ask three simple questions: What’s going well? What isn’t? How can I help you?

Stay open to feedback

It’s easy to get caught in a rut doing business the way you’ve always done it. Be open to new insights by meeting with other business owners, attending classes, joining professional groups, and getting feedback from members of your team. 

Never stop learning

Leadership skills develop over time and by incorporating insights from many sources. Listen to leadership podcasts , read leadership books , and take leadership classes with the intent to never stop growing as a leader.

The success of your roofing business starts with your own success as a leader. Build from your strengths and work on your weaknesses to develop into a business owner capable of growing and expanding where you want to be. 

Action item: Make a plan to become a better business leader this year.   Why it matters: Your roofing business’ success starts with you. Leadership skills take time to develop, and these skills will help you gain the insights you need for continuous growth. 

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How To Start A Roofing Business in 2022 (Entrepreneurs Guide)

So, you want to learn how to start a roofing business this upcoming year? That’s great! The roofing industry is extremely healthy right now—take a look at these statistics , which show the current state of roofing in the U.S. As you can see, the roofing industry provides many jobs and is a very profitable business.

That being said, the market is quite crowded, and it stands to reason that it can only get more crowded from here on out. That’s why it’s essential to get started sooner rather than later with creating your roofing company. The quicker you can get your roofing company established in your local community, the better off you’ll be down the road as more businesses pop up in the surrounding areas.

Of course, starting a roofing company is a bit of a process. Just like starting any company, certain steps must be taken. Missing steps or failing to go through the process thoroughly can result in serious headaches down the road. Don’t worry, though! We’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve outlined the key steps you need to take to create a successful roofing business.

And, for everything roofing related—including roofing tips , tool reviews, product reviews, and much more, make sure to check out the rest of our blog. We have tons of great resources for those interested in pursuing a career in roofing!

How to Start a Roofing Company: 6 Key Steps

Create a thorough business plan.

Regardless of the business you’re trying to start; you NEED a business plan if you’re going to successfully get off the ground. While your business plan doesn’t need to be so exhaustive that you spend so much time on it that it derails your ability to open your business in a timely manner, it does need to be thorough.

Depending on who you ask or where you look, you’ll get all sorts of outlines for what you should have in your business plan. We’ve found that this outline , courtesy of NFIB, is succinct enough to where it isn’t too much, but still thorough enough so you’ll make sure you don’t miss anything.

The NFIB outline includes the following sections:

• Executive Summary
• Company Description
• Products and Services
• Market Analysis
• Strategy and Implementation
• Organization and Management Team
• Financial Plan and Projections

Choose Your Name

Depending on who you ask, this is either the most fun part of starting a roofing company—or the most stressful. While the name is an important part of your eventual business, it isn’t the end-all-be-all. Performing high-quality services is what is truly important. So, don’t sweat the naming portion. Choose something that you like, and that gets you excited. Take your time with the naming portion, but don’t drag it on, and keep second-guessing yourself. Workshop a few different ideas with friends and family and see what sticks. Also, do your research to make sure the name is available. This list of some of the best available roofing names is a great place to get the juices flowing!

Make Sure You Understand Business Taxes and the Legal Obligations of Your Roofing Business

It’s essential that you do things by the book, and understanding business tax laws, as well as the legal obligations of your roofing company, is a key part of that. For example, you’ll need to be insured and have any of the necessary certifications to operate in your state or city. Working with a business consultant, lawyer, and accountant is the best way to ensure all your t’s are crossed and i’s dotted.

Decide How You’ll Acquire Your Equipment

There is a decent amount of tools you’ll need for your roofing company. Some you’ll need to purchase, others you may be able to rent. For a starter list of 7 essential roofing tools and products , check out the video below!

Develop a Marketing Plan

Because your business is new, you’ll have to create a thorough marketing plan that will help you get in front of your audience. Take a look at this marketing plan template to get started.

One area that you should definitely focus on is your digital marketing efforts, starting with a website. A website is a key part of bringing in new business, as well as showing people who you are, what your values are, and why they should trust you to work on their home.

Figure Out Your Offseason Plan

Unless you’re in a state that doesn’t experience snow in the winter, you’ll likely run into an offseason for your roofing endeavors. So, you definitely need to plan for that. For example, many midwest roofers pivot during the winter season to become a snow damage roof repair company. Ice dams are a huge problem in many midwest homes. Working in the winter with snow can obviously be a bit of a burden, but it’s a great way to ensure your business is taking in revenue year-round. Whatever your offseason plan is, make sure you discuss it early on. Waiting until the last minute will only cause issues.

Get Listed on Roofing Directories

As an extension of your marketing plan, you should try and get on as many high-quality roofing directories as possible—the key phrase there being: high-quality. Getting on every and any roofing directory may not be the best plan in the long run. If your roofing business gets on a roofing directory with a bunch of low-quality roofing contractors , then people may perceive your company as being low quality as well.

To avoid this issue, only seek out the best roofing directories, like the RI Roofing Directory. We take great care to ensure only the best roofing businesses make our list. Once you have your roofing business up and running and have some quality roofs and positive reviews under your belt, apply to get on the RI Directory !

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🏔️ peak performance 2024 is here. get the report, crafting effective roofing business plans.

• by Briquelle Simpson
• August 14, 2023,
• last updated 6 months ago

Why do some roofing businesses thrive while others struggle to stay afloat? The answer often lies in the foundation of a well-crafted business plan. As the saying goes, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.”

In this article, we’ll delve into what a roofing business plan is, why it’s a crucial tool for your success, how to create one, and answer some frequently asked questions to guide you through the process.

• Creating a comprehensive roofing business plan is essential for long-term success.
• Analyzing competitors, understanding target customers, and developing marketing strategies are key to standing out in the roofing industry.
• Funding options such as personal savings, bank loans, and angel investors can help you get your roofing business off the ground.

What Is a Roofing Business Plan?

A solid roofing company business plan is the backbone of any successful roofing business. It provides a roadmap for your company’s growth, outlining the necessary steps to achieve your goals and objectives.

A roofing business plan is like a roadmap for your company’s future. It’s a comprehensive document that outlines your business goals, strategies, and tactics for achieving them.

Why Do You Need a Roofing Business Plan?

Create a clear vision.

A business plan helps crystallize your goals and objectives, providing a clear direction for your roofing company. It ensures everyone on your team is aligned and working toward a common purpose.

Give Your Company Guidance and Focus

With a solid plan, you can concentrate on the tasks that truly matter and avoid distractions. It enables you to prioritize activities that will drive your business forward.

Manage Risks

A well-constructed business plan forces you to consider potential challenges and devise strategies to mitigate risks. This proactive approach can save you from unforeseen pitfalls and keep your roofing company from failing .

Instill Credibility for Funding

If you’re seeking investments or loans, a comprehensive business plan demonstrates your commitment, seriousness, and potential return on investment to lenders and investors.

The Essentials of a Roofing Company Business Plan

By creating a comprehensive plan, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come your way and set your roofing business on the path to success. Here are the key sections you need in your roofing business plan.

• Company overview
• Market analysis
• Organization and management
• Customer analysis
• Marketing and sales
• SWOT analysis
• Funding and financial projections
• Implementation plan

Let’s dive into what you should put into each of these sections.

Company Overview

The executive summary is a snapshot of your business, presenting a brief history, mission, and the types of roofing projects your company will undertake. A well-defined mission statement can inspire your team and attract potential clients by showcasing your company’s values and commitment to quality.

For example, if your roofing company aims to provide fast service and top-notch quality in a busy city like Seattle, your mission statement should reflect these core values.

It’s important to ensure that your mission statement is clear, concise, and accurately reflects your mission.

Market Analysis

Understanding the roofing industry and its trends is crucial for the success of your business. A thorough and accurate marketing analysis can help you identify potential growth opportunities and refine your marketing strategy.

The roofing industry in the United States has seen an annual growth rate of 3.1% over the past few years. Knowing the current state of the market and staying updated on market trends will enable you to make informed decisions and seize opportunities as they arise.

Crafting a Competitive Analysis for Your Roofing Business Plan

As part of the market analysis in your business plan, you’ve got to look at what others are doing in the industry. You need to know your competition’s strengths and weaknesses.

Here’s how to make a competitive analysis:

• Identify your direct and indirect competitors: Recognize the other players in the roofing industry, from large corporations to small, local roofing companies.
• Analyze the competition’s strengths and weaknesses: Look at their marketing strategies, service offerings, and pricing models to see what’s working for them and what isn’t, so you can avoid making the same mistakes and capitalize on opportunities they may have overlooked.
• Develop a competitive advantage: Offer innovative services, use high-quality roofing materials, or provide exceptional customer service to set your roofing business apart.

Your competitive analysis will help you create a more effective marketing strategy and position your roofing business for success.

Organization & Management

Your management team can effectively guide your business toward success. A strong team is crucial for making informed decisions and implementing effective strategies in the roofing industry.

To find the best managers and new hires , your roofing business plan should outline the relevant experience and leadership skills you’re looking for. Remember that strong leaders can motivate and inspire their team, make quick and effective decisions, and manage resources efficiently.

You can also look to roofing mentors by creating an advisory board. Build an advisory board of experienced individuals with diverse backgrounds, and you’ll be able to tap into a wealth of knowledge and expertise to support your team.

Customer Analysis

To effectively market your roofing services and grow your business, you need to know your target customers. Outline your target audience in your roofing business plan with demographic (age, income, location, etc.) and psychographic (preferences, values, lifestyles, buying habits, etc.) profiles.

With a deeper understanding of your customers, you can create marketing campaigns that are more likely to resonate with them, ultimately leading to higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction.

Marketing Plan

Your roofing business plan isn’t complete without a well-thought-out marketing plan. Detail your marketing strategies and develop a cohesive marketing plan to attract more customers, increase your revenue, and establish a strong presence in the roofing industry. 

The key to an effective marketing strategy lies in implementing:

• Online marketing tactics: SEO , social media , blogging , and email marketing
• Offline marketing tactics: roofing flyers , truck wraps , networking events , and direct mail

You’ll also want your marketing plan to touch on the 4 P’s of marketing:

• Product: The specific roofing services your business offers
• Price: The pricing strategy for your services.
• Place: The location of your business and any associated distribution channels
• Promotion: The various marketing tactics you’ll use to get your roofing services in front of potential customers. 

By carefully considering these elements, you can create a comprehensive marketing plan that resonates with your target audience and drives business growth.

SWOT Analysis

Now that your roofing business plan covers what strengths and weaknesses your competitors have, you need to evaluate your own. A SWOT analysis will help you uncover your company’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to help you make informed business decisions.

Start your own SWOT analysis

Discover your roofing company’s strengths, weaknesses, and more with this easy-to-use SWOT template.

Financial Projections & Funding

Financial planning plays a vital role in the success and expansion of your roofing business.

You should carefully prepare the financial section of your roofing business plan. It should include assumptions, a break-even analysis, profit and loss projections, cash flow, and a projected balance sheet.

Additionally, your roofing business plan should mention how you’re going to go about funding your company. Personal savings, bank loans, and angel investors are all viable funding sources, each with advantages and risks. Let’s briefly go over each of those.

• Personal savings: Reliable, low-risk option that allows you to retain full control over your business and its operations. However, accumulating the necessary funds can take time, and you may not have enough money to cover all your expenses.
• Bank loans: Larger amounts of capital, but you’ll have to pay back the loan with interest. You’ll need a well-prepared business plan and a solid credit history to secure a bank loan.
• Angel investors: Individuals who invest in early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Working with angel investors typically means giving up a portion of your company’s ownership, which could affect your control over business decisions.

By carefully analyzing your financial projections, you can ensure accurate financial planning, allocate resources effectively, and anticipate potential challenges before they arise.

Implementation Plan

How will you implement the goals you’ve written in your roofing business plan? That’s where the operation or implementation plan comes in.

Operational planning involves managing daily operations, setting SMART long-term goals, and monitoring progress. This section lays out the step-by-step approach you’ll take to achieve your goals, including timelines and key milestones.

Make sure that you provide a clear path for your company’s future. Additionally, regularly review your business plan and adjust as needed to help you stay on track and adapt to changes in the market and industry.

Roofing Business Plan FAQs

Do i need a business plan if my roofing business is already established.

Absolutely! A business plan provides guidance for growth, changing markets, and obstacles.

How often should I update my business plan?

Review and update your roofing business plan annually or whenever your business environment experiences significant changes.

What if my roofing business plan doesn't go as planned?

Flexibility is key. Business landscapes evolve. Adjust your plan as needed to stay on track or pivot when necessary.

Make a Winning Roofing Business Plan

Crafting a roofing business plan isn’t just a box to check—it’s a strategic tool that can steer your roofing business toward long-term success. You’re setting the stage for growth, innovation, and effective decision-making by outlining your goals, strategies, and potential challenges.

Remember, just as you wouldn’t start a roofing project without a blueprint, don’t navigate the world of roofing entrepreneurship without a business plan to guide your way. Here’s to reaching new heights in your roofing company!

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How to Start a Roofing Company

Starting a roofing company can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful roofing company.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a roofing company is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Roofing Company :

• Choose the Name for Your Roofing Company
• Develop Your Roofing Company Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Roofing Company
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Roofing Company (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Roofing Company with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Roofing Company
• Buy or Lease the Right Roofing Company Equipment
• Develop Your Roofing Company Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Roofing Company
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Roofing Company

The first step to starting a successful roofing business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your roofing business:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your own roofing company.

2. Develop Your Roofing Company Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a new roofing company is to develop your business plan. The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your roofing business.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your roofing company and what type of roofing company you operate. For example, are you a shingle roofer, metal roofer, or slate roofer?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the roofing industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target market are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when looking for services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your roofing company? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your roofing company make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

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3. choose the legal structure for your roofing company.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your roofing company and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the owner of the roofing company and the business are the same legal entity. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small businesses. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a roofing company together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a roofing company include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a roofing company is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your roofing company, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

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4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Roofing Company (If Needed)

In developing your roofing company business plan, you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a roofing company to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a new roofing business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

There are a few things to consider when looking for a location for your roofing company. First, you’ll want to find a spot that is accessible and visible to potential customers. You’ll also want to make sure that the location is zoned for commercial use and has enough space to accommodate your business. Finally, you’ll need to consider the cost of leasing or purchasing property in the area.

Once you have a few potential locations picked out, it’s time to start doing research. Make phone calls and email inquiries to get the specific information you need from each property owner. Inquire about the number of years left on their leases, restrictions they place on businesses operating within the space, and any additional costs or fees associated with renting or buying their property.

6. Register Your Roofing Company with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your roofing company’s name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your roofing company to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

In order to start a roofing business, you will need to obtain the following licenses and permits:

• Business License : allows you to operate a business in your city or state.
• Contractor’s License : allows you to perform construction work in your state.
• Roofing Contractor’s License : allows you to perform roofing work in your state.
• Tax ID Number : allows you to collect taxes from your customers.
• Sales Tax License or Seller’s Permit : for selling products.
• Zoning Approval : typically at the city or county level, this provides authorization for construction or use of a building or land for a particular purpose.
• Fire Department Approval : a process by which the local fire department reviews and approves the installation of a fire alarm system.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Roofing Company

The type of insurance you need to operate a roofing company may vary depending on the size and type of company.

In general, business insurance policies that you should consider for your roofing company include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Auto insurance : If a vehicle is used in your business, this type of insurance will cover if a vehicle is damaged or stolen.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right Roofing Company Equipment

To start a roofing company, you will need some essential equipment. This includes ladders, roofing tar, roofing nails, and a hammer. You may also want to invest in a tarp to protect the area below the roof while you are working.

12. Develop Your Roofing Company Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your roofing company.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your roofing company. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional roofing company’s website provides potential customers with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your business website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media networks will help customers and others find and interact with your roofing company.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Roofing Company

The software that you need to run a roofing company can vary depending on what type of roofing company you want to start. If you’re starting a residential roofing company, you’ll need software for estimating prices, managing roofing jobs, and invoicing clients. If you’re starting a commercial roofing company, you’ll need software for estimating prices, as well as for bidding on and managing projects. 

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your roofing company. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

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How to Start a Roofing Company FAQs

Where can i download a roofing company business plan pdf.

You can download our Roofing business plan PDF here. This is a roofing company business plan PDF template you can use in PDF format.

Is it hard to start a roofing company?

Starting a roofing company can be difficult because there are many regulations that must be followed. In addition, the roofing industry is highly competitive, so it's important to have a good marketing strategy and offer high-quality products and services. However, with the right knowledge and skills, starting a roofing company can be rewarding.

How can I start a roofing company with no experience?

First, you'll need to do some market research to determine if there is a demand for roofing services in your area. You'll also need to set up a business entity and register with the state. You'll need to have a business plan and marketing strategy, and you'll need to find qualified roofing contractors to work with your company.

What type of roofing company is most profitable?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the most profitable type of roofing company will vary depending on the specific market and industry conditions. However, in general, a commercial roofing company is likely to be more profitable than a residential roofing company, as the former typically commands higher prices for its services.

How much does it cost to start a roofing company?

To start your own roofing company, it can cost between $15,000-$20,000 for the initial investment. This includes setting up a business license, renting or purchasing equipment, and hiring employees.

What are the ongoing expenses for a roofing company?

The expenses for a roofing company can vary depending on the size of the company, the services offered, and the location. However, some of the most common ongoing expenses include labor costs, roofing materials costs, and marketing and advertising expenses.

How does a roofing company make money?

There are a few different ways that a roofing company can make money. One way is by providing a service where a roofing contractor installs a new roof for their customer. They can also make money by repairing roofs for their customers. Another way that they can make money is by selling materials such as shingles, flashing, ridge vents, and other roofing supplies.

Is owning a roofing company profitable?

Owning a roofing company can be profitable if you are able to find quality employees, stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies, and generate a large enough customer base. 

There are many reasons why roofing businesses can be profitable. One reason is that there is a lot of demand for roofing services, as most homeowners need to have their roofs replaced at some point. Another reason is that the cost of materials and labor is relatively low, which allows for a healthy profit margin. Finally, the industry is relatively recession-proof, which means that demand for roofing services remains high even during tough economic times.

Why do roofing companies fail?

There are a few reasons why new roofing companies can fail. One reason is that the company may not have good marketing or may not be well-known in the community. Additionally, the company may not have good customer service or may not be reliable. Finally, the company may not have good pricing or may not be competitive in the market.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

How To Write a Business Plan for Roofing Company in 9 Steps: Checklist

By alex ryzhkov, resources on roofing company.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan

Are you considering starting a roofing company? With the roofing industry's steady growth in the US, now is a great time to enter this market. According to recent statistics, the roofing industry is expected to reach a value of $47.5 billion by 2027. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for new roofs, repairs, and maintenance services. To ensure your roofing company's success, it's essential to have a well-thought-out business plan in place. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the nine steps you need to follow to write a comprehensive business plan for your roofing company.

The first step in creating a business plan for your roofing company is to identify your target market. Determine whether you will focus on residential or commercial clients or both. Research your target market's demographics, preferences, and needs to tailor your roofing services to their expectations.

Next, conduct thorough market research to gain a deeper understanding of the roofing industry's current trends, demand, and opportunities. This research will help you identify any gaps in the market and position your roofing company accordingly.

It's vital to analyze your competition in the roofing industry. Identify the key players in your area, study their offerings, pricing strategies, and customer base. This analysis will allow you to differentiate your business and develop a competitive advantage.

Before launching your roofing company, you must determine and comply with the legal and regulatory requirements. This may include obtaining licenses, permits, and insurance specific to the roofing industry. Consulting with legal professionals will help ensure you meet all necessary obligations.

Calculate the startup costs for your roofing company, taking into account expenses such as equipment, materials, insurance, and marketing. Secure financing through loans, investments, or personal savings to cover these initial expenses.

Developing a pricing strategy is crucial for your roofing company's profitability. Consider factors such as material costs, labor expenses, overheads, and desired profit margins. Determine competitive yet profitable prices that will attract customers while ensuring your company's financial sustainability.

Create a comprehensive marketing and advertising plan to promote your roofing services. Utilize online platforms, social media, and local advertising channels to reach potential customers. Highlight your unique selling points and emphasize the quality of your work to stand out from competitors.

Identify the necessary equipment and resources for your roofing company. This may include tools, vehicles, safety gear, and skilled labor. Research reputable suppliers and contractors to ensure you have access to reliable resources.

Finally, outline the organizational structure of your roofing company. Define roles and responsibilities for key positions, such as project managers, sales representatives, and administrative staff. Clearly define how each department will contribute to the company's success.

By following these nine steps, you'll be well-equipped to write a comprehensive business plan for your roofing company. With careful planning and execution, your roofing business can thrive in this growing industry.

Identify The Target Market

In order to successfully start and run a roofing company, the first step is to identify your target market . This involves understanding the specific group of customers who are most likely to need and use your roofing services.

Start by considering the geographic location you plan to serve. Are you targeting homeowners in a specific city, region, or state? Or are you looking to provide roofing services to businesses and organizations? Identifying the specific area you want to focus on will help you tailor your marketing efforts and allocate your resources effectively.

In addition to the geographic aspect, consider the demographics of your target market. Are they primarily homeowners, business owners, or both? What is their average income level? Are they primarily residential or commercial customers? Understanding the demographics of your target market will allow you to tailor your services and marketing messages to their specific needs and preferences.

Tips for identifying your target market:

• Conduct market research to gather data and insights about your potential customers.
• Consider partnering with real estate agents, contractors, or home improvement professionals who can refer customers to your roofing company.
• Attend local trade shows, conferences, and networking events to connect with potential customers and learn more about their needs and preferences.
• Use online platforms such as social media, forums, and online communities to gather feedback and insights from customers in your target market.

By clearly identifying your target market, you can develop a focused marketing strategy, tailor your services to meet their needs, and ultimately increase your chances of success as a roofing company.

Conduct Market Research

Market research is an essential step in understanding the roofing industry and identifying potential customers. It helps you gather valuable information about the target market, including customer preferences, needs, and buying behavior. Conducting thorough market research enables you to make informed decisions and tailor your business strategy to meet the demands of your target audience.

Here are some important steps to follow when conducting market research for your roofing company:

• Identify your target market:
• Define the specific demographic and geographic characteristics of your ideal customers.
• Consider factors like income level, age, location, and property type to narrow down your target market.
• Analyze customer needs and preferences:
• Identify the main problems or issues that customers face when it comes to roofing.
• Conduct surveys or interviews to gather insights about their preferences and expectations.
• Understand the factors that influence their decision-making process, such as price, quality, and reputation.
• Assess market demand:
• Estimate the size of the market and the demand for roofing services in your target area.
• Consider factors like population growth, housing development, and economic trends that may impact the demand for your services.
• Look for potential gaps or opportunities in the market that you can capitalize on.
• Study the competition:
• Identify other roofing companies in your area and analyze their offerings, pricing, and marketing strategies.
• Identify any unique selling points that can differentiate your business from competitors.
• Understand the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors to refine your own business strategy.

Market Research Tips:

• Use online resources, such as industry reports, trade publications, and government statistics to gather data about the roofing industry.
• Utilize social media platforms and online forums to engage with potential customers and gather insights about their needs.
• Consider conducting focus groups or customer surveys to gather qualitative data and gain deeper insights into customer preferences.
• Stay updated with industry trends and innovations to anticipate future demands and adjust your business strategy accordingly.

Analyze The Competition

Analyzing the competition is a crucial step in developing a successful business plan for your roofing company. Understanding your competitors and their offerings will help you identify your unique selling points and develop effective strategies to differentiate your business in the market.

Start by researching other roofing companies in your target market. Look for their websites, social media profiles, and online reviews to gather information about their services, customer feedback, and pricing. This will give you insights into their strengths, weaknesses, and areas where you can potentially outperform them.

Additionally, consider conducting a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) of your competitors. This analysis will help you assess your competitors' strengths and weaknesses, identify opportunities you can leverage, and anticipate potential threats to your business.

Here are some important factors to consider when analyzing the competition:

• Product and service offerings: Evaluate the range of services and products your competitors offer. Determine if they specialize in specific types of roofing or if they offer additional services such as gutter installation or attic insulation.
• Pricing strategy: Understand how your competitors price their services. Compare their pricing structure, discounts, and payment options to determine how you can position your pricing in the market.
• Unique selling points: Identify what makes your competitors unique and how they differentiate themselves from others. Look for areas where you can offer something different or provide additional value to attract customers.
• Customer feedback: Pay attention to customer reviews and ratings of your competitors. Analyze common complaints and concerns to identify areas where you can excel in customer satisfaction.
• Market share: Determine the market share your competitors hold in your target market. This will give you an idea of the competition intensity and help you identify areas where you can gain a competitive advantage.
• Visit local trade shows and industry events to network with other roofing companies and gain firsthand knowledge about their operations.
• Consider conducting mystery shopping or hiring a professional consultant to assess your competitors' customer service, responsiveness, and quality of work.
• Stay updated on industry trends and technological advancements to identify potential gaps in your competitors' offerings that you can fill.

Determine The Legal And Regulatory Requirements

When starting a roofing company, it is crucial to understand and comply with the legal and regulatory requirements that govern the industry. By ensuring you are in compliance, you can avoid penalties, lawsuits, and other potential legal issues that could hinder the success of your business.

Firstly, register your roofing company as a legal entity with the appropriate government authorities. This could be as a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Each structure has its own legal and financial implications, so it is essential to choose the one that suits your specific needs.

Obtain the necessary licenses and permits required to operate a roofing company in your area. The requirements vary depending on your location, so research and contact the appropriate local, state, and federal agencies to determine the specific licenses and permits you need.

Additionally, secure adequate insurance coverage to protect your roofing company and its clients. This typically includes general liability insurance, workers' compensation insurance, and property insurance. Consult with an insurance professional to identify the coverage that best suits your business requirements.

It is also important to comply with safety regulations to ensure the well-being of your employees and clients. Familiarize yourself with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and implement safety protocols in your daily operations. This will not only protect your workers but also enhance your reputation as a responsible and trustworthy roofing company.

• Consult with a business attorney or a legal professional who specializes in the construction industry to navigate the complex legal requirements.
• Join relevant trade associations or organizations to stay updated on industry regulations and network with experienced professionals.
• Keep thorough records of licenses, permits, insurance policies, and safety training to demonstrate compliance if required.

By understanding and fulfilling the legal and regulatory requirements, your roofing company will lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth and success in the industry.

Calculate The Startup Costs And Secure Financing

Calculating the startup costs for your roofing company is a crucial step in developing a comprehensive business plan. It is important to accurately estimate all expenses associated with starting and running your business, as this will determine the amount of financing you will need to secure.

Start by identifying all the necessary expenses, such as equipment and materials, licenses and permits, insurance, marketing and advertising costs, office space, utilities, and salaries for employees. Use industry averages and quotes from suppliers to get an accurate estimate of these costs.

Once you have calculated the total startup costs, you will need to determine how you will finance your business. There are several options to consider:

• Personal savings: Using your own savings to finance your startup is a common option for many entrepreneurs.
• Bank loans: Approach banks and financial institutions to secure a loan for your startup costs. Provide them with a detailed business plan and financial projections to increase your chances of getting approved.
• Investors: Seek out potential investors who are willing to provide funding in exchange for equity in your roofing company.
• Grants and government programs: Research grant opportunities and government programs that provide financial assistance to small businesses in the roofing industry.
• Consider creating a contingency fund to account for unexpected expenses that may arise during the startup phase.
• Explore crowdfunding platforms as an alternative means of securing financing for your roofing company.
• Improve your chances of securing financing by having a strong business plan, detailed financial projections, and a solid credit history.

Develop A Pricing Strategy

Developing a pricing strategy is a crucial step in establishing a successful roofing company. Setting the right price for your services will help you attract customers, cover your costs, and maximize your profits. Here are some important considerations when developing your pricing strategy:

• Cost estimation: Start by determining the cost of labor, materials, and other overhead expenses for each roofing project. Consider factors such as the size of the roof, complexity of the job, and any additional services required.
• Competitive analysis: Conduct market research to understand the pricing trends in your area. Analyze the rates charged by your competitors and identify any unique selling points that can justify higher pricing.
• Value-based pricing: Consider the value you provide to your customers when setting your prices. Focus on the quality of your work, customer service, and any warranties or guarantees you offer.
• Profit margin: Determine the level of profit you aim to achieve. Factor in your costs, expenses, and desired profit margin to ensure your pricing is profitable.
• Markup method: Decide whether you will use a fixed markup or a percentage-based markup on your costs to determine your selling price. Evaluate which method aligns better with your business goals and industry standards.
• Consider offering different pricing options to cater to various customer needs. This can include tiered packages or add-on services at an additional cost.
• Regularly review and adjust your pricing strategy based on market conditions, changes in costs, and customer feedback.
• Do not underprice your services to undercut competitors. Remember, quality work and excellent customer service deserve fair compensation.

By carefully considering these factors and developing a comprehensive pricing strategy, you can ensure that your roofing company remains competitive while also maximizing your profitability.

Create A Marketing And Advertising Plan

Creating a comprehensive marketing and advertising plan is crucial for the success of your roofing company. This plan outlines the strategies and tactics you will use to promote your services, attract customers, and build brand awareness. Here are some important steps to consider:

• Define your target audience: Identify the specific homeowners, businesses, or organizations that are most likely to require roofing services. Understanding your target market will help you tailor your marketing messages and choose the most effective channels to reach them.
• Establish your unique selling proposition (USP): Determine what sets your roofing company apart from the competition. Highlight your strengths, such as quality workmanship, exceptional customer service, or competitive pricing, to differentiate yourself in the market.
• Develop your branding: Create a strong and memorable brand identity that reflects your company's values and positioning. Design a logo, choose a color scheme, and develop a consistent brand voice that resonates with your target audience.
• Build an online presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. Create a professional website that showcases your roofing services, displays customer testimonials, and provides easy contact options. Use search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to improve your website's visibility on search engines and consider incorporating online advertising methods such as pay-per-click (PPC) ads and social media marketing.
• Utilize traditional advertising methods: Don't overlook traditional advertising methods such as print advertisements in local newspapers or magazines, billboards, and direct mail campaigns. These can still be effective in reaching local communities and generating leads.
• Establish strategic partnerships: Identify potential partners in related industries, such as construction contractors or home improvement stores, and explore opportunities for collaboration or referrals. Building strategic partnerships can help you expand your customer base and increase brand awareness.
• Implement tracking and analytics: Monitor the performance of your marketing activities by using tracking tools and analytics. This will help you identify which marketing channels and campaigns are generating the most leads and conversions, allowing you to optimize your efforts and maximize your return on investment.

Tips for an Effective Marketing and Advertising Plan:

• Allocate a budget specifically for marketing and advertising activities to ensure you have the necessary resources to execute your plan effectively.
• Continuously evaluate and adapt your marketing strategies based on the changing needs of your target audience and the effectiveness of your campaigns.
• Regularly monitor and engage with customer feedback and reviews to maintain a positive online reputation.
• Consider offering special promotions or incentives to attract new customers and encourage repeat business.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and technologies to leverage new marketing opportunities and stay ahead of the competition.

By creating a well-thought-out marketing and advertising plan, you can effectively reach and attract your target customers, differentiate yourself from competitors, and drive the growth of your roofing company.

Identify The Necessary Equipment And Resources

When starting a roofing company, it is vital to identify the necessary equipment and resources that will be required to run your business efficiently. Having the right tools and resources not only ensures that you can complete roofing projects effectively, but it also contributes to the overall professionalism and credibility of your company.

Here are some important equipment and resources to consider:

• Roofing Tools: Invest in high-quality roofing tools such as hammers, nail guns, saws, measuring tapes, shovels, and safety equipment like harnesses and helmets. Having the right tools will enable your roofing team to work safely and efficiently.
• Roofing Materials: Identify the specific roofing materials that you will require for different types of projects. This may include shingles, tiles, metal panels, adhesives, insulation, and flashing. Building a good relationship with suppliers and getting quality materials at competitive prices is essential to maintain profit margins.
• Transportation: Depending on the scale of your roofing projects, determine whether you need a fleet of vehicles or if a single truck will suffice. Consider whether you need vehicles to transport materials and equipment to job sites or to provide transportation for your team members.
• Technology and Software: Utilize technology and software to streamline your roofing operations. This may include project management tools, scheduling software, accounting software, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Implementing these tools can help improve efficiency, accuracy, and communication within your company.
• Training and Education: Invest in training and education for your roofing team to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to perform high-quality work. Stay up-to-date with the latest roofing techniques, safety protocols, and industry standards to maintain a competitive edge.
• Insurance and Legal Requirements: Identify the insurance coverage required for your roofing business, such as general liability insurance, worker's compensation insurance, and business auto insurance. Consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with local laws, permits, licensing, and any other regulatory requirements.
• Consider purchasing equipment and materials in bulk to take advantage of discounts and better pricing.
• Regularly maintain and update your equipment to minimize downtime and enhance safety.
• Establish partnerships with reliable suppliers to ensure a steady supply of quality materials.
• Explore leasing options for expensive equipment to manage startup costs effectively.

By identifying the necessary equipment and resources, you can ensure that your roofing company is well-prepared to handle projects efficiently, deliver quality work, and provide a positive customer experience.

Outline The Organizational Structure

When outlining the organizational structure of your roofing company, it is important to establish clear roles and responsibilities for each member of your team. This will help create a structured and efficient work environment, ensuring that tasks are delegated appropriately and everyone knows their role in contributing to the success of the business.

To start, determine the key positions that your roofing company will require. These may include:

• Owner/Founder: As the owner or founder of the company, you will oversee the overall operations and make strategic decisions.
• Project Managers: These individuals will be responsible for overseeing the execution of roofing projects, managing timelines, and ensuring quality work.
• Estimators: Estimators will be responsible for providing accurate cost estimates for roofing projects and creating competitive bids.
• Roofing Crew: These are the team members who will perform the actual roofing work, including installation, repairs, and maintenance.
• Administrative Staff: Administrative staff will handle various administrative tasks such as accounting, customer service, and scheduling.

Tips for structuring your organizational team:

• Clearly define job descriptions and responsibilities for each position to avoid confusion and ensure accountability.
• Consider hiring experienced professionals who bring knowledge and expertise to each role.
• Provide training and ongoing support to your team members to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills.
• Encourage open communication and collaboration among team members to foster a positive work environment.

Remember that the organizational structure of your roofing company may evolve over time as the business grows. Stay open to adjustments and be prepared to adapt to changing needs and market demands. By outlining a clear organizational structure, you can establish a strong foundation for your roofing company's success.

In conclusion, writing a business plan for a roofing company involves several important steps. By identifying the target market, conducting market research, analyzing the competition, and determining the legal requirements, you can lay the foundation for a successful roofing business. Additionally, calculating startup costs, developing a pricing strategy, creating a marketing and advertising plan, identifying necessary equipment and resources, and outlining the organizational structure will help streamline operations and attract customers. By following this checklist of nine steps, you can create a comprehensive business plan that sets your roofing company up for success.

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How to start a roofing company

The North American roofing market is projected to reach $47.5 billion by 2025. This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know about starting a roofing business so you can take advantage of this thriving industry.

Steps for starting a roofing company

Having a clear vision of what you want to do—at least to start—will get you on a path toward success.

Step 1: Plan ahead for a successful roofing business Developing a business plan and gaining a robust understanding of your market

Step 2: Find resources to help you get started Finding the right employees and take advantage of small business resources

Step 3: Pick a name for your roofing company Selecting the right name for your company

Step 4: Make sure your roofing company can legally operate Obtaining the permits and licenses you need to legally run a roofing business

Step 5: Insure your roofing business Choosing the right insurance to protect your roofing business

Step 6: Get all of your roofing tools and equipment Having the right tools so you can get to work

Step 7: Investing in roofing software Selecting business management tools that will help your company run smoothly

Step 8: Reach the right people Marketing your roofing company, acquiring positive customer reviews, and encouraging word of mouth referrals

Step 1: Plan ahead for a successful roofing business

Create a roofing business plan.

When starting a roofing company, having a strong business plan will help you make informed decisions and evaluate your performance. It’s important to set realistic, specific objectives for your roofing business—then map out how you will achieve those objectives. Key components to creating an actionable roofing business plan include:

• Know how profitable roofing companies operate. Roofing contractors primarily make their money from roof replacements and repairs. However, contractors also charge separate fees for inspections, evaluations, or roof removals.
• Decide what trades you will offer. While it’s clear that your main service will be focused on roof replacements and/or repairs, you may also want to consider complementary trades such as gutters, siding, and windows.
• Identify your target market. Some contractors will target certain geographic regions, while others may target specific types of jobs, like insurance restoration, or the installation of specific types of roofs, such as solar.
• Determine upfront and recurring costs. You will need to account for ongoing expenses, like rent on office space, technology like business management software; one-time costs, such as obtaining a business license; and variable expenses, such as marketing materials.
• Plan out your pricing strategy. Some contractors offer the cheapest possible service whereas others position themselves as a premium product. Deciding how to price your services compared to your peers will help inform how you market your roofing business and to whom.

Step 2: Find resources to help you get started

Once you have a business plan in place, it’s time to find the people, organizations, and resources that will help you start a successful roofing company.

Look for small business resources

In many areas, the local chamber of commerce or small business association will have resources geared towards helping new businesses, including roofing companies. There may also be trade associations in your area you can join.

All of these organizations offer a variety of services that can help you get started, from business advising and continuing education, to networking, and marketing resources.

There are many online resources you can take advantage of when starting a roofing business. Consider joining a Facebook group for roofing contractors where you can ask questions and receive advice and resources from other contractors.

Find roofing industry resources

In addition, many industry vendors, from publications like Roofing Contractor to roofing software companies like AccuLynx , offer blogs, ebooks, and other informative resources to help new business owners.

Roofing industry resources will provide you with direct and accurate information about different trends, laws, and tips on how to run a successful roofing business.

Hire an accountant

When you start a new roofing company, having an accountant on board from the beginning will help ensure your business is financially healthy. Your accountant should review your business plan to make sure it is financially viable and help you create a budget.

Partner with the right team

You don’t need to hire an entire team right away. Instead, focus on filling the most essential roles:

• Foreman/crew leader
• Production/general manager
• Roofing crews/subcontractors
• Salespeople
• Administrative staff

Use resources such as job boards, local trade associations, and recommendations from friends to build a strong team. You’ll want to hire people who are committed to your roofing business goals, excited about the industry, and willing to work hard.

Read more about hiring the right team and roofing crews here.

Step 3: Pick a name for your roofing company

Your roofing company name should help you stand out from your competitors and give potential customers a strong first impression of your business. Here are a few key tips to consider as you select a name.

Don’t involve too many people

Keep your brainstorming process simple and only involve up to two other people. If your list of possible names is too long, it will be difficult to narrow it down and pick the right one.

Check the names of competitors

Before you select a name, research other roofing companies in the area to make sure your name is unique. If the name of your business is the same as or similar to other roofing businesses in your area, homeowners may confuse you with your competitors.

Avoid names that are too hard to spell

The easier your name is to spell, the easier it will be to find your roofing business online. With 56% of people using voice search on their smartphones to find local businesses, an unusual or difficult spelling can easily get misinterpreted by the voice search tool. Stick to simple spellings to make sure homeowners can find you easily.

Consider SEO value

There are other factors besides spelling to consider when selecting a company name that will be easily found online. Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your website/business name to increase its visibility in internet search results. A roofing business name with high SEO value is:

• Unique to your geographic area
• Easy to remember
• Related to your industry (e.g. may incorporate the word “roofing” or “contractor”)

As you evaluate possible names for your new roofing company, make sure they meet these criteria, and search your top contenders to see which ones perform the best in search.

Create a logo

How your business “looks” is just as important as a name that is easy to remember. Your logo should be unique, clear, and represent your brand, so people can build a connection with it. Be sure to hire a professional designer to create your company logo.

According to IKO , a good company logo can have:

• An image only (industry-related or name-related)
• Text only (consider the font)
• Images and text
• Color (most roofing companies choose two)

Step 4: Make sure your roofing company can legally operate

Before you can start any roofing work, you’ll need to fulfill all the legal requirements for operating a roofing business in your area.

Register your business with the government

While most roofing businesses don’t need to register with the federal government, you will likely need to register with the state government in order to conduct business activities within a given state. The type of registration you need to file will depend on your business structure (e.g. LLC, partnership, or corporation), as well as on the laws of the state .

Obtain permits and licenses

Permitting and licensing requirements can vary between states, counties, and even cities or towns. In most states, you will need a general contractor’s license ; in some areas, you may also need special licenses for roofing or the other trades your business offers. Your local chamber of commerce or small business association can help you identify the permits and licenses your roofing company needs before starting.

Follow OSHA requirements

You will need to adhere to OSHA guidelines to implement safety measures, and provide proper training for you and your employees. Doing so will help reduce the risk of accidents that can happen on a job.

Step 5: Insure your roofing business

Starting a new roofing company represents a major investment of your time and money. Insuring your roofing business will help you protect your investment and prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Here are a few different types of insurance your roofing company might need:

• General liability insurance: This insurance covers property damage, personal injury, and bodily injury that is the fault of your company. If your roofing business damages a homeowner’s property or someone is hurt on your premises, general liability insurance will cover the cost.
• Worker’s compensation: Depending on the number of employees at your roofing company, your state may require you to have a worker’s compensation policy. This policy will provide financial assistance to your employees if they are injured on the job.
• Professional liability insurance: Having professional liability insurance will protect your roofing business against lawsuits and claims of negligence. Professional liability insurance is especially helpful for roofing businesses who recommend specific products or treatments, as it will protect your business from fallout if these products fail to perform as expected.
• Vehicle insurance: If your roofing company plans to own or lease any vehicles, you’ll need this insurance to provide coverage for them and protect against financial burden if your vehicles are involved in an accident.
• Equipment insurance: If you’ve invested in expensive roofing equipment, use this insurance to protect your investment and provide coverage in case of damage or loss. Some general liability insurance plans will allow you to add extra coverage for equipment.

Some states require that businesses carry specific types of insurance. You can verify what insurance you will be required to carry with a local business association.

Step 6: Get all of your roofing tools and equipment

You can’t repair or replace a roof if you don’t have the tools and equipment to do so. As you start a new roofing company, focus on getting the essentials that you must have right away.

Upfront costs for materials can be costly, so buying extra tools and equipment as you need them can help you save money when you’re just starting out.

Some key tools and equipment to purchase include:

• Other hand tools
• Safety equipment (e.g. hard hats and harnesses)
• Laptop or tablet

If you have the essentials, you can get your roofing company started. As your business grows, you will figure out what you need to buy more of to meet project needs, and you will also have more funds available to buy more expensive tools and equipment. Once you have the basics covered, you can consider upgrades, like branding all of your equipment for extra visibility.

Step 7: Invest in roofing software

The technology you use to manage your roofing business can have a big impact on your company’s ability to grow. Thousands of roofing contractors use business management software or a roofing CRM to streamline their everyday tasks and manage their work.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider implementing business management software when starting a roofing company.

Efficient workflows

Inefficient or disorganized processes can hold your employees and company back. Since roofing contractor CRMs are designed to streamline every part of your workflow , implementing it right from the beginning will help establish efficient processes from the get-go.

The right roofing software can make your job easier by having integrations with material suppliers, aerial measurement providers, financial/accounting software, canvassing software, and more.

Integrations connect your roofing software with other essential tools you use, eliminating the need for manual data entry and duplicate work. They allow your data to flow seamlessly between different platforms, saving you time and minimizing errors.

Clear communication

It’s important for everyone to be on the same page when coordinating roof repairs. With a roofing contractor CRM, all of your teams are working from the same system so they have access to the same information.

Team members can see job details and make updates in real-time from anywhere, keeping everyone in the loop and improving communication between the office and the field.

Easy job tracking and management

In order to compete in a crowded market, your roofing company needs to follow up with leads promptly and keep jobs moving forward.

Roofing contractor software with robust job/project management capabilities will help you track leads and stay updated on the status of your jobs so nothing falls through the cracks. Once your jobs are in production, your roofing CRM will enable you to manage schedules and keep work progressing efficiently.

Better customer service

Great customer service will help you build a positive reputation for your new roofing business. One way to serve your customers well is to keep them informed at every step of the process and reach out to them promptly if anything changes.

Roofing business management software can help you automate customer communications so you can consistently deliver timely updates.

Time and money savings

Some roofing companies use multiple software applications to stay organized and manage their business. The cost of this can quickly add up, and so can the time spent managing each individual tool. Roofing companies that rely on a single system to run their business save time and money in the long run.

It’s common for new roofing companies to have growing pains as they figure out the best business practices. Implementing a roofing contractor CRM as a key part of your strategy can help you ensure your processes run smoothly right from the start.

Step 8: Reach the right people

Start connecting with homeowners in your target market and build your customer base as soon as your new roofing company is ready to start work.

How to market a roofing company

Here are a few proven roofing marketing tactics to help your company get started:

• Company website: Most homeowners do their research online, and a strong website will give them a positive impression of your roofing company. On your website, make sure your contact information is easy to find, describe what sets your roofing company apart, and prominently display any special offers or deals.
• Social media: Creating a social media account for your roofing company , such as a Facebook page, helps you showcase your work and connect with potential customers on a platform they frequent. You can also purchase ads on social media to reach a local audience.
• Google listing: Setting up a Google Business Profile allows you to promote your business in Google Search and Google Maps. When homeowners search for roofing companies in your area, they’ll see your business name, website, and other company information.
• Door knocking: Canvassing a neighborhood can be the best way to reach homeowners in areas that have been hit by storm damage. Be prepared to pitch your business in a few sentences and leave behind a flier or card to remind the homeowner of your services.
• Truck wraps: Turn your company vehicles into advertisements for your services with truck wraps. Be sure your name, phone number, and website address are clearly visible on all sides of the truck.

Whatever your marketing strategy includes , be sure to allocate time and budget to execute it, and adjust it if it doesn’t work. A successful marketing strategy will pay for itself by generating qualified leads that you can turn into satisfied customers.

How to set up a profile on a review site

Homeowners rely on review sites such as HomeAdvisor and Yelp to help them decide which roofing company to use. Listing your business on review sites gives former customers a place to rate their experience, and future customers an opportunity to learn why they should choose your roofing company.

Here’s how you get started with setting up a profile:

• Pick a review site. Set up a profile on the same site(s) as your competitors. This will help you reach homeowners that are also seeing your competition.
• Add your business information. Your profile should include your company name and location so the site can verify your business. Many review sites require you to “claim” or “verify” your business profile in order to be listed and reviewed.
• Customize your profile. This is a way to show off your company. Add photos of previous jobs, links to your website, and a description of the services you offer.

Be sure your profiles are always up to date . It’s also important to respond to all customer reviews–even the negative ones. Thank anyone who leaves a positive review, and if you receive a negative review , respond by addressing their concerns and express that you will improve in the future. Both responses show that you care for your customers.

How to encourage word of mouth marketing

Word of mouth marketing is a powerful tool for gaining new customers and establishing a reputation as a trustworthy roofing company. These strategies can help you gain referrals and grow your customer base.

• Put up yard signs. Ask your customers if you can put a simple sign with your company name in their front yard. These signs help promote your roofing company to the neighborhood and turn your current project into an advertisement for your services.
• Offer incentives for referrals. Offer a reward or discount to your customers for referring someone they know to your roofing company. This is a great way to generate new customers from the networks of your current customers.
• Encourage reviews. Include language on your website, in your emails to customers, and on your sales materials that reminds customers to leave a review of your roofing company.
• Follow up with past customers. Get in touch with past customers periodically to see if they need any repairs or have any questions. Checking back in with former customers reminds them of the great work you did, making it more likely that they will use your services again, and recommend them to others.

Working to deliver great customer service while encouraging reviews and referrals will help you reach more potential customers and take advantage of existing networks.

FAQs when starting a roofing company

How much does it cost to start a roofing company.

Cost may vary, but you can generally expect to spend between $15,000 – $20,000 to start a roofing company. Ultimately, this number can depend on a variety of factors unique to your business including the services you offer, equipment purchase, office space, number of employees you hire, etc.

How much do roofing company owners make?

According to FinModelsLab , the average revenue for a roofing company ranged from $1 million to $20 million. While this is a wide range, your potential profit depends on a variety of factors, including company size/location, experience, market conditions, etc. Typically roofing companies make between 20% and 40% gross profit , so an owner can increase their revenue by doing more jobs, offering more services, and selling higher-paying jobs.

Do you need experience to start a roofing company?

You can start a roofing company with decades or roofing experience or none, however, having some will be beneficial. If you don’t have a lot of experience working on roofing projects, you will need to spend time learning the industry and hiring the right people who understand it. Resources from industry publications, trade organizations, and thought leaders can also help you gain valuable experience and insight.

What license do you need to start a roofing company?

The licenses you need can depend on the state, county, city, or town you are operating in. Most states do require you to at least have a general contractor’s license.

Common roofing industry terms

When starting a roofing business, you may be overwhelmed with new terms. Here are some of the most common roofing industry definitions:

• Roofing business management software: Set of programs, or a single system that allows roofing contractors to run, improve, and automate their processes.
• CRM for roofers: Customer relationship management (CRM) technology helps manage relationships and interactions with leads and customers.
• Eave: The portion of the roof that hangs over the walls of the home. This is typically where gutters are installed.
• Hip: Where 3 to 4 sloped surfaces meet together. On a ‘hip roof’, the edges of the roof are enclosed.
• Rake: The exposed edge of a pitched roof slope.
• Ridge: The peak where 2 sections of roof slopes intersect.
• Roof pitch: The steepness of a roof that is typically referred to as X/12, where X=the number of inches of rise in a roof for every 12” of run.
• Shingles: A roof’s primary covering. Roofers commonly install asphalt-fiberglass shingles, although other materials exist. Common varieties of shingles include three-tab, architectural/dimensional, and designer.
• Square: Measurement of 100 square feet, commonly referred to in roofing jobs as ‘squares’.
• Valley: The line formed where two sloped roof surfaces meet.

The software to help your new roofing company grow

Starting a roofing company can seem like a daunting challenge. But with the right tools and strategies, you can build a thriving business.

AccuLynx is an all-in-one business management software created specifically for roofing contractors. As a leader in the roofing industry, thousands of new roofing companies have used AccuLynx to get off the ground, grow profits, and scale their businesses.

By bringing together every aspect of your business in a single cloud-based system, AccuLynx helps you stay organized, work more efficiently, and reduce repetitive tasks. In fact, AccuLynx customers save 468 hours per user annually and new users see a 32% increase in job profits after one year.

“As a new roofing company, I feel like I am head and shoulders ahead of other new roofing companies because I use AccuLynx.”

As the #1 roofing software, AccuLynx contains all the tools you’ll need to effectively start and grow your roofing company, including:

Sales/CRM features

Easily track sales and stay on top of your pipeline so nothing slips through the cracks.

Finance features

Know how your business is performing so that you can continue to grow.

Production features

Gain greater visibility into your roofing jobs and keep everything on track.

Business management features

Work smarter and grow your roofing business with a single, all-in-one platform.

See AccuLynx in action

Learn more about how AccuLynx, the #1 roofing software can help set your roofing business up for success.

How to Develop a Roofing Company Business Plan

A business plan is a detailed roadmap outlining the goals and objectives of a business, as well as providing strategies for achieving these goals. Here’s how to create one, even if it’s your first.

Lisa Taylor

Staff Contributor

Strategic Planning

Starting any kind of company requires a solid business plan , and roofing companies are certainly no exception. Without a business plan, you’re flying blind. That’s not a great way to ensure profitability.

But if you’ve never put together a business plan, it can seem daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide.

In this article, we’ll explain what a business plan is and why you need one. Then we’ll outline a 5-step process for creating a business plan. And last but not least, we’ll suggest a few specific things you can do right now, today, to get started.

Let’s jump right in.

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan is a detailed roadmap outlining the goals and objectives of a business, as well as providing strategies for achieving these goals.

Business plans typically include things like:

• An executive summary
• An industry overview
• Market analysis
• Competitive analysis
• An operational plan
• Financial forecasts
• Descriptions of products and services
• Your organizational structure
• Management team information

If that sounds like a lot, don’t worry. You don’t necessarily have to include everything on that list in your roofing company business plan. (We’ll walk you through the essentials later in this article.)

For now, it’s enough to understand what a business plan is at a high level. Think of it as a GPS system for your business. Your plan will help you reach your destination, turn by turn.

A well-designed business plan will almost certainly increase your chances of success.

It provides a clear roadmap for your business. It will highlight potential challenges and opportunities. And it will guide you as you move through the pivotal early stages of establishing and growing your business.

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Why you need a business plan for your roofing company.

A roofing company business plan is essential for several reasons. Let’s start with some industry-level basics.

The Roofing Industry

The roofing industry is valued at $104.2 billion. What’s more, that figure is expected to grow.

That’s great news in terms of your potential customer base. But it also means there will be plenty of competition. Roofing companies of all sizes, small and large, will go after the same customers you’re trying to win over.

If you want to stay relevant and competitive as the industry expands, you need a plan.

Top-Tier Services

Your business plan can help you stand out from all that competition. A solid business plan will outline what you offer and how your offers are a superior choice for your target clients.

It can also help you identify and target specific niches within the market. That will make it easier and more strategic to offer specialized products and services.

The roofing industry can be unpredictable. Changes in weather and economic conditions can affect the demand for services.

Efficient Operations

Your business is a key ingredient in creating efficient, effective, recession-proof business operations. After all, it’s a lot easier to maintain profitability when you’re already streamlined.

A business plan will provide the following:

• Organization

Marketing Your Roofing Company

Finally, your business plan will guide your initial marketing efforts.

Using your business plan as a guide, you’ll be able to determine your target audience, set your marketing budget, identify the best venues for marketing campaigns, and fine-tune your focus on the most profitable services you offer.

Create a Roofing Company Business Plan in 5 Steps

Writing a roofing company business plan may seem overwhelming. It certainly can be challenging if you’ve never written one before. But it’s a critical investment in your future.

That’s why we’ve simplified the process, outlining the key steps.

If you work your way through the 5 steps below, you’ll have the foundation of a solid, results-oriented business plan for your roofing business.

How to Price a Roofing Job

Step 1: write an executive summary.

The executive summary is a brief overview of your business plan. It outlines your goals, including what you hope to achieve with your roofing company. It can be short-, medium-, or long-term.

It should include the following:

• Your target market – The group of potential customers you’re most focused on winning over.
• Services provided – The primary services you plan to offer to your target market.
• Competitive advantage – Why you’re a better option than the competition for your target market when it comes to the services you provide.

Those three core pieces of information are the foundation of all your sales and marketing efforts. These are the basics you absolutely have to know before you start trying to win over customers.

If you (and your salespeople) can clearly articulate your services and competitive advantage to your target marketing, you’re set up for success.

Step 2: Create a Company Overview

In the company overview section, you’ll provide detailed information about your roofing company.

For example:

• A brief history of your business
• Detailed descriptions of your services
• Share unique features or offerings that set you apart from your local competition
• Details about your staff
• Certifications or accreditations you (or your company) holds

As you can see, there’s some overlap here with the information in your executive summary. Your company overview will go into greater detail, providing even more specifics.

Step 3: Complete Market Analysis

Market analysis is the process of researching the current and potential size of a specific market. In this case, you’ll be focused on your target market.

For example, if you’re focused on upper-middle-class homeowners in your zip code, you’ll want to do some research to answer questions like:

• How many potential customers fall in this demographic?
• How old are these potential customers?
• What kinds of services are these customers most interested in?
• What do these customers focus on when making buying decisions?

Market analysis helps you understand the demand for your products or services. It will also shed light on how you can make your offerings stand out from your competitors.

Here are some common target markets for roofing customers. You might want to consider these when doing market research.

Homeowners are often a primary target market for roofing companies. It makes sense. They’re responsible for the maintenance and repair of their own homes, including their roofs.

Be sure to consider single-family homes, as well as multi-family dwellings such as townhomes and condominiums.

Property Managers

Property managers may also be a target market for roofing companies. They oversee the maintenance and repair of rental properties.

Like homeowners, they’ll need help when it comes to roof repairs. But unlike homeowners, these can easily be bigger jobs.

Property managers are often responsible for apartments, commercial properties, office buildings, and shopping centers.

Commercial Property Owners

Commercial property owners may also need roofing services for their properties. As a bonus, a single property company may own multiple properties. One closed deal could mean a lot of potential business.

Commercial property companies own all kinds of properties—everything from single-family dwellings to large commercial facilities.

3 Technologies Roofing Companies Need

Need-based target markets.

Roofing companies may also target specific demographics based on services needed.

For example, some roofing companies focus on customers who own heritage properties. These properties are more likely to need roof repairs or replacements due to the roof’s age.

They may also target a specific location. Some areas produce higher demands for roofing services as a result of harsh weather conditions.

Step 4: Complete Competitive Analysis

In this section of your business plan, you’ll examine the strengths and weaknesses of your competitors.

Competitive analysis will help you identify and analyze your competitors. You’ll want to focus on things like your competitor’s products and services, marketing strategies, pricing models, and overall financial health.

This information can be used to guide your strategic planning and marketing efforts. Below are some specific things to really dig into when doing competitive analysis.

One key factor to consider when analyzing your competitors is their reputation.

While it’s important to consider if they have good reputations, be prepared to push beyond a high-level review. You won’t need to do intense research, though. You just need to ask a few key questions.

• Based on their marketing (their website, social media feeds, and ads), who are they targeting?
• What part(s) of town are they focused on serving?
• What products and services are they known for?
• Do they have a strong online presence?
• Do they have a lot of positive online reviews?

When you have an idea of their strengths and weaknesses, you can design your offerings and marketing efforts to take advantage of opportunities they’re missing.

Customer Service

Another factor to consider is the competition’s level of customer service. While this overlaps a bit with reputation, there are some nuanced differences.

Here are some questions to ask.

• Do they have a dedicated customer service team?
• Are they known for being responsive and helpful?
• What forms of support do they offer? For example, do they provide support by phone, email, or online chat?
• When they get negative customer reviews, how do they respond?

Pricing is always a key decision-making factor. It’s essential to understand how your competitors are pricing their offerings.

However, we will offer a word of caution here. Some new business owners mistakenly think lower prices are the way to go in every situation. Sometimes going lower is a solid strategy, but not always.

And even if your prices are lower, you don’t want to sell on price alone. If you do, someone else can easily undercut you.

Here’s what you should consider.

• Are their prices low, average, or high compared to the cost of supplies and labor?
• Are they selling based on price?
• Are they positioning themselves as a premium provider and charging higher prices?

Your competitors’ pricing strategies can help you determine your own pricing. You want to find the right balance. Stay competitive (so you attract customers) without going lower than necessary (so you’re also profitable).

Marketing Efforts

The competition’s marketing tactics can provide valuable insights. You can learn who their target audience is, how they reach their target audience, and how they’re presenting their company to their target audience.

As you look over their marketing materials, ask the following.

• Are they using traditional (non-digital) marketing methods like print and radio ads?
• Are they more focused on digital marketing techniques like social media and email marketing?
• If they’re investing in digital marketing, what venues are they focused on?
• What tone and personality do they lean into in their marketing materials?

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Step 5: operations and management.

In this section, you’ll outline the day-to-day operations of your roofing company. Be sure to include the management team and each member’s roles and responsibilities.

If you’re starting with a small operation, it may be tempting to skip this section. However, we recommend that you document your operational and management plans even if your company will launch with only a handful of employees.

Solid operational policies will make your initial period of growth much easier. You might include the following.

Location and facility

You should document the base of operations for your roofing company, including information about vehicles. Think through each of the following questions.

• Will you operate your business from your work vehicle?
• Will you have an office, storefront, or warehouse?
• Are there any unique features of your facility?
• Is your facility easily accessible for your employees and customers?

Equipment includes the tools and machinery (owned by the business) that are needed to complete jobs. Common items include things like ladders, roofing materials, and power tools.

Document the age, condition, and maintenance needs of your equipment. Include any plans you have for upgrading or expanding your equipment in the future.

Policies and Procedures

Your documented policies and procedures are a critical part of your business plan. These will make complicated decisions much easier. They’ll also help ensure you’re consistent in how you handle customers and employees alike.

Consider documenting the following, at a minimum.

• Employee conduct and expectations (including criteria for employee discipline)
• Safety protocols
• Customer service policies (including how complaints will be handled)
• Quality control measures
• Expectations for managers and company leaders

Partnerships and Collaborations

Do you have any partnerships with other home services providers? Are you planning to establish any? Strategic partnerships are a great way to generate leads, so they’re a good idea.

But you never want to establish a partnership without a clear (documented) understanding of how the partnership will work.

Training and Development

Finally, you should outline any training and development opportunities you plan to offer to your employees. This might include on-the-job training, professional development courses, or mentorship programs.

Training and development opportunities can enhance employees’ skills and knowledge. That will help them be successful in their current roles. Plus, it’s a nice incentive to include when hiring.

Training and development shows your company cares about your staff’s future success.

Start Developing Your Roofing Company Business Plan

We’d be remiss if we didn’t include one final note. Your business plan isn’t a one-and-done kind of thing. Instead, you should review it regularly. We recommend reviewing (and possibly updating it) once a year.

Regular, intentional updates ensure your plan remains relevant. As your business grows, its needs will change. Your business plan should reflect that.

While creating a full business plan takes a bit of time, there are some things you can do today to jumpstart your efforts. Here are a few ways you can get started right away.

• Write a vision statement for your company. A vision statement is a sentence that outlines an organization’s long-term goals and objectives. It should be aspirational but also achievable. Writing a vision statement will set you up to craft your business plan.
• Outline some 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, and legacy goals. Where would you like to be a year from now? 5 or 10 years from now? And what sort of legacy do you want to leave? Again, these high-level questions will set you up to align your business plan with your values.
• Define your target market. What kind of customers are you most interested in working with? What customers do you think will be the most profitable for your business? What customers will be the most satisfying to serve?
• Take a quick inventory of what you already have. Collect any policy documentation you already have in hand. Make a list of the equipment your company already owns. List out all the marketing efforts you already have going. Each of these will give you a jumping-off point for your complete business plan.

About the Author

Lisa loves words—particularly how they have the potential to transform lives when shared with positive intent. When she’s not connecting the dots for writing projects, she is outside enjoying everything nature says with no words.

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How to start a roofing company in 9 steps.

The roofing sector of the construction industry is full of business opportunities, especially since more and more areas are being developed, and more buildings are popping up.

In this post, we’re going to take a look at how to start a successful roofing business. We will cover the benefits of starting this kind of business before we break down the process into nine actionable steps.

Are you ready to learn how to start a roofing company of your own? Let’s get started.

Here’s What We’ll Cover:

Why Start a Roofing Company?

Can i start a roofing company with no experience, types of roofing businesses, how to start a roofing business in 9 steps, launch a successful roofing business, businesses related to roofing.

Roofing is a very lucrative industry that is not going anywhere any time soon. As long as there are buildings, there will be a demand for roofing services. 

• High demand: The development of new areas is increasing this demand even more, which means new roofing businesses should have no trouble finding work, as long as they offer valuable and effective services. Even on a relatively small-scale, you can look at taking home around 6 figures a year. 
• Longevity: Aside from the nice paycheck, the longevity of a business in the roofing field is great for entrepreneurs who want to build a legacy. If you structure your business right, and position yourself as a leader in the local market, you could build something that could be passed down to your kids and grandkids.

As you go into this field, it is important to keep in mind that there is off-season in places that experience winter in full force. This means that there are slow months, but you can rest assured that business will return to normal each year when spring rolls around.

Roofing is a specific trade that requires a bit of experience. However, you can start a roofing company with no experience if you hire contractors to carry out the projects.

That said, it will be easier for you to get started with at least some experience because you’ll generally be more familiar with the services that you’re going to sell. That makes it easier to build your business model and hire accordingly as you build your roofing company.

There are two main types of roofing businesses: Residential and commercial . However, many roofers specialize even further to focus on one main type of roofing.

These specializations vary based on materials used for the service and the style. Which type of roofing people chose comes down to personal preference preferences and functionality.

Here are a few different types of roofing businesses you could start:

• Roof replacement
• Water damage and leak repair
• Roofing for new constructions
• Gutter cleaning
• Gutter replacement
• Roof inspections

These are simply ideas, so you can certainly combine several of these services for your specific roofing company.

Do I Need to Choose a Niche?

Many roofing companies are somewhat general in terms of the services that they provide. You do not need to choose a niche for your new business, but it could help you with your marketing and branding since it will allow you to focus on a very specific audience.

Generally, roofing companies go either the route of residential and commercial, and what specific services you offer from there is really up to you.

The process of starting a roofing company is very straightforward. Due to the nature of your services, you’ll have some extra hoops to jump through for legalities, but other than that, it should not be complicated.

Here’s how to start a roofing business in nine steps.

1. Create a Business Plan

The term “business plan” may sound overwhelming to an aspiring business owner. But realistically, it is a document that puts together all of the ideas you have for your new project, and helps you realize where you need to fill in the gaps to bring your business to life.

Unless you’re presenting your business plan to investors, or including it as part of an application for state funding, your business plan can be quite simple.

You’ll want to include information on the exact service you’re providing and who you’re helping. This is where you can hash out what type of roofing services you’re going to offer in your business.

Identify the geographic limits of the community that you’re going to serve, and where the most central location is for your storage and office space. Do a deep dive into any information on direct and indirect competitors in the area. Take a look at other successful roofing companies, and make note of what they are doing right.

At this stage, you’ll want to work out some administrative aspects and processes, such as employee onboarding, client onboarding, invoicing , bookkeeping and budgeting for your business. 

2. Identify Your Target Audience

As part of your roofing business plan development, you identified who you want to serve. At this stage, you need to really dissect who your ideal client is so that you can further develop your services to fit their needs.

First, you’re going to have to identify whether you’re going to target homeowners or business owners with your roofing company. If you go the route of commercial, you should decide how large of buildings you’re willing and able to serve.

You’ll also want to identify whether your ideal client can afford to pay in cash or if they will need a financing plan.

As you narrow down your audience, you can go even further to identify what they do for a living, their age, income and other personal characteristics.

Create a report with all of this information, because it will come in handy in the future as you build your business.

3. Take Care of the Legalities

Once you decide on a name for your new roofing business, you need to make it a legal entity. This could be an limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation. After you’ve registered your business for that status through your state, you’ll need to obtain a tax identification number. This is as simple as going to the IRS website and filling out a quick application.

You’ll use that identification number to open bank accounts, apply for loans and pay taxes for your business.

Since your roofing business offers a service that can pose risks to your workers’ safety, you’re going to need additional licensing and general liability insurance to protect you, your employees and your customers.

Please contact a lawyer or mentor in your local roofing industry to find out specific rules and regulations for the area where you are operating your business.

4. Build Your Brand

Once your small business is a legal entity on paper, it is time to bring the brand to life. Start with a logo that can be used on your website, business cards, pamphlets and even your truck. Make it catchy but easy to understand.

Create social media profiles for your business to expand its digital footprint. Develop a brand voice so that the way your business “speaks” is consistent from platform-to-platform.

It’s a good idea to build your brand upon a few core values and a mission statement, so that those values are upheld in everything that you do.

5. Invest in the Proper Equipment

You’re going to need to invest in the proper equipment before you render any services. Here are some things that you’ll need:

• Hard hats and safety gear
• Cleaning tools (rake, broom, etc.)
• Measuring tools
• Nail guns and hammers
• Air compressor
• Cutting tools (saw, blades, utility knives)
• Pry bar and shingle removal gear

Please note that these tools will vary depending on what specific type of roofing company you’re starting. This list is based on roofers who offer shingle-related services.

6. Hire a Reliable Team

It is highly unlikely that you’ll be doing the work on roofs all by yourself. Not only can this be dangerous, but there is absolutely no scalability in this approach. That’s why you’re going to need to plan to hire a reliable team . 

For your team of roofers, you’ll want to hire people who come highly recommended. Physical fitness is a must since there is a lot of lifting, climbing and intense labor involved. You’ll want people who have roofing experience, or have worked in construction and are ready to learn how to carry out roofing services. 

Depending on the scale of your roofing business, you may also want to hire people to take care of accounting and finances, booking and schedule management, marketing and sales. 

The common requirements for all of these positions should be that every individual is honest, trustworthy, reliable, attentive to detail and ready to work . 

7. Market Your Roofing Business

Once everything is ready to go, it is time to market your small business and generate leads. By now, you’ve already identified who you’re going to target, so you’ll need to be strategic to get in front of them.

Local search engine optimization (SEO) and search engine marketing (SEM) is a great way to start. Essentially, this means that you make yourself discoverable to people who are searching for “roofers near me” or “roofers in [your area].” SEO is when you optimize your content for those keywords so that it ranks organically, and SEM is generally when you use paid ads so that your site is listed at the top.

Forming strategic partnerships with HVAC companies, electricians, plumbers and other similar companies that share the same target audience with you is a good idea. You may offer referral bonuses when they send work your way.

You may also send workers out to canvas and go door to door. Essentially, you’ll load them up with flyers and tell them to look for people who could be customers. This can be effective because it puts you in direct contact with potential clients, but it may not be well-received by everybody.

8. Hammer Out Your Sales Strategy

A lot of home and business owners shop around when they need their roof serviced or repaired. This is because it is such a large investment, and they want to get the best deal from the most reliable roofers.

This puts pressure on your small business to fine-tune your sales process. Depending on the size of your operation, you may choose to either handle sales yourself, or hire a team of salespeople to handle this task for you.

If you’re handling sales yourself, you may want to invest some time and money in sharpening your sales skills. You could hit the books and study up on effective sales strategies, or you could invest some money in a few sessions with a sales coach.

Make sure that you make records of sales calls and identify what does and does not work with your target audience. Keep track of all wins and losses for your local business so you can see how your sales strategy progresses over time.

9. Build Trust in the Community

Like in any service-based business, trust is everything. That’s why it is important to show up and deliver as promised, every single time. Approaching your work like that will help you build a reliable network of referrals that will provide you with clients for years to come.

A tangible way to build this trust—and make it easier to sell to new clients who are not referrals—is by collecting reviews and testimonials.

You can create a Facebook Page and Google My Business Profile to provide a space for happy clients to leave reviews for your roofing business. Any time you finish a roof, ask your client to post their feedback.

Furthermore, transformation videos and photosets can also be valuable here. This exemplifies your work in action. These things may be posted on your social media pages and used in proposals for clients.

Starting a roofing business takes hard work, determination and a passion for helping clients stay safe and cozy year-round. If you think you have what it takes to start a roofing company of your very own, it’s never too late to get started.

You can use the steps outlined in this guide to help you start your new business, and scale your roofing company to success. Just keep in mind that there is always more than one way to find success in any industry. Tweak your strategy as needed to make the process work for you.

If you take away one thing from this post, let it be that your relationships with customers will determine the success of your roofing business. Producing the quality of work that you promise, and building trust in the community will take you far.

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Roofing Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Roofing Company

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on March 16, 2022 Updated on May 5, 2024

Investment range

$6,550 - $13,100

Revenue potential

$192,000 - $770,000 p.a.

Time to build

Profit potential

$57,000 - $115,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Strong roofs will be needed as long as people are living and working in structures — so, probably forever. If you start a roofing company, you’ll be providing a service that will always be in demand. What’s more, the US roofing industry is worth more than $50 billion and set for strong growth, so there’s real opportunity in this market. Getting started requires some investment, but you could save money by running your business from home in the early days. 

First, you need to understand the ins and outs of being an entrepreneur and starting a business. Lucky for you, this step-by-step guide provides all the information and insight you need to develop your idea and start building the roofing company of your dreams.

Step by Step Business values firsthand experiences from business owners. In our Entrepreneur Spotlight Series, we bring you Evan Oxenhorn’s story behind starting Reiter Roofing in Philadelphia . Dive into this insightful interview to uncover the journey, challenges, and triumphs of establishing a legacy roofing company.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a roofing company has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you. 

• Good Money – A new roof costs $8,000 and up
• Flexibility – Run your business from home
• Provide Value – Roofs keep people warm and safe from the elements
• Seasonality – In many places, colder weather limits work
• Hard Labor – Roofing is difficult work and can be dangerous

Roofing industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US roofing industry is worth more than $52.2 billion after modest growth the last five years.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/roofing-contractors-united-states/ ))
• Growth forecast – The global roofing industry is projected to expand by half from 2020 to 2030.(( https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/roofing-market )) 
• Number of businesses – In 2022, 109,331 roofing businesses are operating in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/roofing-contractors-united-states/ )) 
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the US roofing industry employs 283,203 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/roofing-contractors-united-states/ ))  

Trends and challenges

Trends in the roofing industry include:

• Metal roofing, such as aluminum or stainless steel, is becoming much more popular. They require more of an investment to install, but they can last up to 50 years. A roofing business can take advantage of this by offering metal roofing as an option.
• Silicone roof coatings have been used in commercial roofing for some time, but they are starting to be used more in residential roofing. They can be applied to new or existing roofs to make them last longer.

Challenges in the roofing industry include:

• Skilled labor shortages are making it difficult for roofing companies to recruit employees. 
• Competition is massive in the roofing industry, which can pose a challenge for roofing businesses just entering the market. 

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states -The most popular states for roofers are North Dakota, Connecticut, and Vermont . (( https://www.zippia.com/roofer-jobs/best-states/ ))  
• Least popular states – The least popular states for roofers are Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma.  

What kind of people work in Roofing?

• Gender – 6.2% of roofers are female, while 90.6% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/roofer-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average roofer is high school educated.
• Average age – The average owner roofer in the US is 37.4 years old.

How much does it cost to start a roofing business?

Startup costs for a roofing company range from $6,500 to $13,000. You’ll need a truck to transport materials, ladders, and tools. You’ll also need a roofing contractor’s license from your state. Requirements vary, but often you have to show a certain number of years of experience and education, and also pass an exam. 

To learn to roof you can do an apprenticeship or attend a trade school in your area. You could start your education with an online course, such as from The Roofing Academy , and decide if it’s for you. 

You might get roofing certification from the National Roofing Contractors Association . A certain amount of experience is required for certification, and exams must be passed.

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your roofing business, including: 

• Roofing nail guns
• Hammer tacker stapler
• Roofing hammer
• Air compressor
• Roofing blade and shovel
• Caulking gun
• Safety equipment such as harnesses and hardhats

How much can you earn from a roofing business?

The average price of a new roof is about $8,000, including materials. After costs and labor your profit margin should be about 30%. 

In your first year or two, you could do two roofs a month, bringing in $192,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $57,000 in profit, assuming that 30% margin. As your brand gains recognition and you get referrals, sales could climb to 8 roofs per month. At this stage, you’d rent a commercial space and hire more staff, reducing your profit margin to around 15%. With annual revenue of $770,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $115,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a roofing company. Your biggest challenges will be:

• The required skills and licensing 
• Startup costs
• Stiff competition

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a roofing company, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research roofing companies in your area to examine their products and services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a roofing business that installs metal roofs or slate roofs. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as slate roof repairs or asphalt roofing.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

Your products and services will depend on your skills. You can offer a variety of roofing choices or specialize in one, such as metal roofing or asphalt roofing. You could also specialize in either residential roofing or commercial roofing. 

How much should you charge for roofing services?

Your prices will depend on the size of the roof and the materials used. You should estimate your total costs of materials and labor and aim for a profit margin of about 30% when you’re running your business from home. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market is most likely to be homeowners who you can find on Instagram and Facebook. You can also partner with realtors to get referrals. You can network with them on LinkedIn. 

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out a warehouse facility for roofing materials storage. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Roofing Company Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “roofing” or “roofing contractor”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Skyline Roofing & Construction” over “Commercial Roofing Pros”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Roofing Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize your roofing company’s vision, detailing the types of roofing services provided and your strategy to deliver high-quality and durable roofing solutions.
• Business Overview: Describe the scope of your roofing services, from residential re-roofing to commercial installations and repairs.
• Product and Services: List the specific roofing services you offer, including new roof installations, repairs, inspections, and maintenance programs.
• Market Analysis: Analyze the local demand for roofing services, taking into account factors like regional weather patterns and housing market trends.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify your competition and highlight your roofing business’s differentiators, such as superior materials, craftsmanship, or warranty offerings.
• Sales and Marketing: Explain your approach to generating new business, which might include digital marketing, partnerships with builders, or direct mail campaigns.
• Management Team: Present the experience and qualifications of your management team, emphasizing industry knowledge and operational expertise.
• Operations Plan: Outline the logistics of your service delivery, including scheduling, supply chain management, and safety protocols.
• Financial Plan: Provide a financial overview that includes startup costs, pricing strategy, and revenue forecasts.
• Appendix: Include additional documents such as contractor licenses, insurance policies, or detailed case studies of past roofing projects that support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to roofing companies.

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your roofing company will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

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We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family : Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a roofing business. 

Step 8: Apply for Roofing Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a roofing business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

You’ll need a roofing contractor’s license from your state. Requirements for each state vary, so check with your state government.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your roofing business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability : The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property : Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance : Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation : Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property : Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto : Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability : Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP) : This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as MarketSharp , JomNimbus , or iRoofing , to manage your bids, projects, invoicing, and payments.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Starting a roofing company is an exciting venture, and effective marketing strategies can help you stand out in a competitive market. Beyond creating a website and networking, here are practical tips to boost your roofing business.

• Local SEO Optimization: Ensure your business is listed on Google My Business, and optimize your profile with accurate information and customer reviews to improve local search visibility.
• Social Proof Through Before-and-After Visuals: Showcase your expertise by sharing high-quality before-and-after photos on social media platforms, creating a compelling visual narrative that demonstrates the quality of your work.
• Referral Programs: Implement a referral program that rewards existing customers for referring new clients, leveraging word-of-mouth marketing and building a network of satisfied customers.
• Educational Content: Develop informative content, such as blog posts or videos, addressing common roofing issues, maintenance tips, and industry trends to position your company as an authority in the field.
• Community Involvement: Sponsor local events, sports teams, or community projects to enhance brand visibility, build trust, and demonstrate your commitment to the local community.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with other home service businesses like contractors, painters, or real estate agents for cross-promotions, expanding your reach within a related network.
• Emergency Response Service: Highlight your ability to provide quick response times for emergency repairs, emphasizing reliability and readiness during urgent situations.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program that offers discounts or special perks to repeat customers, encouraging customer retention and building long-term relationships.
• Online Reviews Management: Actively manage and encourage customer reviews on platforms like Yelp and Angie’s List, responding promptly to both positive and negative feedback to demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.
• Targeted Direct Mail Campaigns: Develop targeted direct mail campaigns to specific neighborhoods or areas where your services are in high demand, showcasing your expertise and offering exclusive promotions.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your roofing business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your roofing business could be:

• The best metal roofing, guaranteed for 30 years
• We’ll restore your slate roof to turn-of-the-century perfection 
• Silicone coating to extend the life of your asphalt roof

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a roofing business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in roofing for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in roofing. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a roofing business include:

• Roofing Workers – help repair and install roofs
• General Manager – staff management, ordering, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Roofing Business – Start Making Money!

If you’ve done roofing before, why work for someone else? Starting a roofing business is a fairly straightforward process, and an easy way to enter a growing $52 billion market. You can start your business from home before you expand and grow. 

Now that you know what’s involved, you’re ready to skip the corporate ladder and become the proud owner of your own successful roofing company!

• Roofing Business FAQs

Yes, roofing companies can be quite profitable. Just make sure you do the best quality work possible, and your business will grow as you get referrals.

Since your price will include roofing materials, you should calculate your materials and labor costs based on the size of the roof and the materials used. Then you should markup that cost to have a profit margin of about 30%.

Start by visually examining the roof for signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or sagging areas. Check the attic for any signs of water damage or moisture. Utilize appropriate tools, such as a moisture meter or drone, to assess hard-to-reach areas. Consider factors like the roof’s age, material, and overall condition. Use industry-standard pricing guides or software to calculate accurate estimates based on the required materials, labor, and other factors.

Create a professional website that showcases your expertise, past projects, and testimonials from satisfied clients. Optimize your website for search engines to improve online visibility. Utilize social media platforms to share before and after photos, client success stories, and educational content about roofing. Network with local contractors, real estate agents, or property managers who can refer clients to your services.

The earning potential for roofers can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, specialization, and the size of the roofing company. In general, areas with high demand for roofing services, such as urban or densely populated regions, may offer more opportunities and higher earnings for roofers.

To make your roofing business successful, focus on the following key aspects:

• Provide high-quality workmanship and excellent customer service to build a strong reputation and generate positive referrals.
• Establish relationships with suppliers to ensure access to quality materials at competitive prices.
• Continuously invest in training and stay updated on industry best practices to offer cutting-edge solutions and expertise.
• Develop a strong online presence through a professional website, social media, and online directories.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Roofing Company Name
• Create a Roofing Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Roofing Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Roofing Business - Start Making Money!

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Roofing 101: The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Roofing Company  

• Katelyn Bilicich
• October 25, 2022

Roofing is an industry on the rise. In 2020, the global roofing market was valued at $102.4 billion, and is predicted to reach $156 billion by 2030. That’s a compound annual growth rate of 4.3% . Looking at numbers like that, prospective roofers, or contractors who might be working for someone else, may well consider opening their own roofing businesses.

It’s not news to anyone that starting a company is challenging and risky at the best of times, much less during an uncertain economy. So while the roofing industry is booming, prospective roofers need a comprehensive guide to starting a business that will thrive for years to come. After all, there is a big difference between being an expert at installing slate and running a successful company.  

Business Planning 

Anyone looking to open their own business needs a solid and actionable business plan to get their idea off the ground. Before looking for financing, buying equipment – and definitely before hanging a shingle (literally or otherwise) – a business owner needs to think through every step of the entrepreneurial process. 

While putting together a business plan, it is important to stay positive and keep that “new idea energy,” because excitement and optimism will inspire the best ideas and lead to the smartest solutions while fueling the entire planning process. 

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Roofing Company? 

The first thing to consider when founding any enterprise is cost. Roofers must account for the following as basic overhead:  

• Insurance  
• Equipment  
• Wages  
• Marketing  

Thankfully, financing is available in the form of loans and grants from both the local and federal government, as well as private organizations dedicated to developing small businesses . Entrepreneurs of different backgrounds all have organizations willing to support their dreams if they do some research and fill out the right applications.  

What is the average profit margin for roofing? 

A successful business is one that makes more money than it loses, right? In any industry, it is important to know the average profit margin against which to measure success and growth.  

For the average roofing company, gross profit margins run between 20 and 40 percent. New and larger companies may have slimmer margins: the former as they ramp up business and the latter due to higher overhead.  

Is a Roofing Company Profitable? 

The roofing industry is doing great, but before committing to a plan, it’s important to know the statistics on revenue. According to Roofing Contractor , a 2021 survey reported that primarily residential roofing contractors reported a median annual revenue of $500,000 to $4.9 million, with 14% actually reporting between $5 million to $9.9million. However, being able to determine what portion of that revenue is actually “profit” is what makes the difference in the bank. This is where understanding your profit margin becomes important. 

How to Price Your Services 

New business owners need a strategy for pricing their services to reach target profit margin. Pricing guides for the roofing industry are easy to find, but here is a basic step-by-step explanation of how to estimate a roofing job .  

• Interview the client about the job, inspect the roof, and consider local building codes  
• Measure the roof  
• Estimate costs of roofing materials  
• Estimate labor and rental costs  
• Account for profit margin after overhead 

Remember that 90 percent of roofers underbid for jobs, so it is vital to value one’s own services highly and charge their actual worth. Because the name of the game isn’t revenues: it’s profitability. 

Branding Your Roofing Business 

Running a roofing company involves a lot more than just fixing roofs. Small business owners wear a lot of hats, including that of Chief Brand Officer. A business’s brand is the first impression it makes on peers and potential clients, and can mean the difference between thriving and struggling. 

Business Cards & Basics 

The key to good branding is to explore all options for getting the word out about your company. Business cards are a tried and true option for roofers, but the modern age opens up plenty of great digital marketing opportunities for roofers . Websites, social media, branded email blasts, newsletters, and more can all spread the word about a new business. Likewise, asking satisfied customers to post reviews on services like Yelp or Google can go a long way to making a company look great.  

What’s a Good Name for a Roofing Company? 

All the branding in the world can’t help a company with an unmemorable name. Marketing research offers some key tips when choosing a name. For just a few rules of thumb, roofers should pick a name that appeals to their desired customers, that is comforting and familiar enough to be associated with home and family, and that features the name of the area being serviced.  

Roofers should avoid overly long or confusing names, or that use unfamiliar language or contain business tags like LLC or Inc. that don’t actually apply to the company. It’s important to remember that the legal name of your company doesn’t need to be the public brand, but if you are doing business under a different name than your legal entity, you will need to file paperwork (usually known as a “fictitious business name”) with your local government.  

Legal & Accounting Considerations for Your Roofing Business 

Many new entrepreneurs worry about legal processes and bookkeeping, sometimes to the point of avoiding those tasks. But both legal coverage and accounting for business are easier and more straightforward than they appear, especially with modern software and plenty of resources online and elsewhere. The roofing community can point new roofers to helpful accountants and legal advisors or lawyers who are more than happy to offer advice.  

What Business Type Should I Choose? 

 There are four basic business structures, each with its own benefits:  

• Sole proprietorships – Run by one owner with all the decision-making power and liability  
• Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) – More complex than a sole proprietorship but less so than a corporation, offering the owner more protection without too many complications  
• S Corporation – S corporations pass the net income of the business onto the stockholders of the business in order for them to be taxed on their personal tax returns. Essentially, there’s only one tier of federal income tax to pay and it is a helpful business structure if there will be multiple partners in the business. 
• C Corporation – Stockholders, officers, and the board of directors have total authority over the corporation. However, it is possible for an individual to fulfill all three roles. In other words, it’s possible to start a corporation and be in complete charge of every aspect of the business. 

These structures and more exist to provide flexibility to the business owner, who should select the model best suited for the level of complexity they are willing to handle in exchange for liability protection and resilience. 

What License Do You Need To Start A Roofing Company? 

Starting a roofing company requires more than just the gumption to climb a ladder and start hammering nails. Every state has its own licensing requirements. Most such processes involve fees and dues, so it is important to research all the necessary steps and prepare a full business plan before committing to any tests or payments. 

Roofing Insurance 

Roofing does involve risk, both of personal injury and damage to property. There is no special insurance for roofing as an industry, but roofers can and should purchase as much insurance coverage as they can afford. Besides the two major categories covered below, roofers should also consider:  

• Commercial auto insurance  
• Contractor’s tools and equipment insurance  
• Professional liability insurance  

Individual projects may also come with surety bonds, wherein an insurer reimburses the client if the roofer fails to fulfill the contract.  

General Liability Insurance 

General liability insurance is there for basic third-party risks. This includes accidents, personal injury, property damage, and libel and branding injuries. Roofers can save money by bundling liability and commercial property insurance into a single policy.  

Workers’ Compensation 

Nearly every state requires business owners to pay into workers’ compensation programs, even if they have no employees. These policies help cover the costs of workplace injuries denied by health insurance. 

Managing Your Accounts 

Before getting a roofing business up and running, roofers may want to hire a dedicated accountant to handle the bookkeeping day-to-day. Freelance bookkeepers are available online and through services like Upwork, and are usually all a small business needs. The cost to retain these professionals on Upwork and similar sites is often well worth the extra time to complete or recharge between jobs.  

Roofing Equipment 

Roofing is a contracting and construction job. Working with one’s hands means holding the right tools. Aside from the basics like a hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, and more, roofers need items like:  

• Roofing shovel or other tool to tear off shingles  
• Pry bar  
• Utility or roofing blade  
• Air compressor  
• Roofing hatchet  
• Hammer tacker stapler  
• Roofing nail gun 

Renting vs Buying  

Renting equipment is a great way to save on long-term expenses, upkeep costs, and commitment. When starting out, it’s a good idea to rent most big items, especially the ones that see situational use. As the business grows, it makes sense to buy the more commonly used equipment, and of course, roofers should own the basic tools they use every day.  

Roofing Software 

Business software has become indispensable in nearly every industry and roofing is no different. The right roofing software platform simplifies every aspect of a roofing business, from measurements to estimates to the all-important collection of data for analytics. 

Estimate Software 

Estimating and quoting the price of work is as sensitive as it is important. A good software platform automates the estimate process and makes it foolproof, making it much harder for the roofer to underquote for their hard work.  

A good software platform also allows users to add notes and pictures from inspections even as it offers the best estimate tailored specifically to roofing on the market. 

Measurement Software 

Measuring a roof is one of the most vital steps in both the quoting and planning process. A premium roofing software not only stores all measurements but also uses aerial imaging for comprehensive and incredibly accurate measurements. Such measurements make estimates and invoicing much smoother, as well as help produce accurate roof measurement reports.

(Looking for a measurement ordering service instead? Try RoofSnap’s roof measurement report orders .    The first one is on us.)     

Contract Software 

Roofers are contractors, and that means the contract itself is all-important for taking a job. Advanced roofing software tools should allow roofers to send contracts and receive signatures remotely, taking a lot of the waiting out of the contracting process. This is especially useful when paired with enhanced measurement systems and automated estimates.  (Check out our Roofing Contract Software page for more details on RoofSnap & roofing contracts.)

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Looking for an all-in-one Roofing Software solution?

Hiring Your Roofing Crew & Office Staff 

While any contractor’s business often revolves around the owner’s reputation and skill (at least at first), running that business alone severely limits the potential for growth. Roofers need at least some staff, to make jobs safer, faster, and more efficient in the field, and to handle office tasks.  

Hiring & Training Your Crew 

Hiring and training the best staff is a major task. It is key to remember that finding experienced and skilled contractors is a great option, but so is training newcomers who show dedication and promise – don’t get caught up in the “Entry-Level Catch-22.” 

Training is so rewarding that even resources for training trainers abound. Roofers Coffee Shop and Roofing Academy are just two options. 

Job listings are easy (and often free) to post on sites like Craigslist, Indeed, and Google. And even with the dominance of online job hunting, newspapers remain a strong option for recruiting. 

A good crew is hard to come by.

Curb turnover by downloading our “Guide to Retaining Top Talent” .

Hiring & Training “Office” Staff 

Not every roofing business owner needs a formal office location, but office tasks like answering phones, organizing inventory and files, and data entry are mandatory regardless. 

While these tasks are a good way to give younger relatives (paid!) work experience, it is easy to find enthusiastic office staff. Business owners need not be clerical wizards themselves to train staff in their preferred organizational methods, though letting an experienced office worker build best practices can be very rewarding. 

Especially early on, freelancers can be an economical alternative to full-time or salaried hires.  

Building Sales Infrastructure 

Both field and office workers will be encountering potential clients, so all staff should be trained in sales techniques. Sales is a whole field that is difficult to master. Roofers who put a training plan and resources in place will set themselves up for success.  

Ongoing Training 

As with training other job skills, plenty of online influencers have channels dedicated to sales techniques. Many roofing business owners should start by training themselves using these same resources. 

Online “influencers” like The Roof Strategist and The Roofershow can be great sources of training techniques. 

Making Sales Easy 

Word-of-mouth is one of the best ways to make sales without putting in too much effort. Setting up promotions and referral programs will encourage satisfied customers to tell their friends and family about a roofing business in hopes of receiving discounted service.  

How Do I Make My Roofing Business Successful? 

Starting a business is a challenge all its own – making that business thrive takes dedication, resourcefulness, and even luck. Here are just a few tips for improving one’s chances of becoming a prosperous roofer:  

• Do plenty of research. 
• Minimize your liability  
• Work on sales skills  
• Don’t overspend  
• Hire reliable staff  
• Take jobs you know you can complete  

(For a more in-depth guide on scaling your business, we’ve got you covered .) 

Digital Marketing 

Any business owner should understand the basics of digital marketing. Paid online advertising like banners are one way to spread the word, while social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and NextDoor let business owners engage directly with potential clients. 

When setting up a website and other online presence, search engine optimization (SEO) skills can mean the difference between being right up at the top of a Google search and banishment to the dreaded second page.  

Traditional Marketing 

Door-to-door salesmanship can get politicians elected, and it can definitely help bring customers to a roofing business. Pamphlets and fliers are valid options, especially if they include discounts and promotions, but sometimes just pounding the pavement and introducing oneself to local homeowners can really make an impression. Just be sure to convey friendliness and professionalism. 

And never underestimate the power of networking. The roofing community is online like any other, from helpful subreddits and professional resources, and there are professional conventions and other meetups to attend. A friendly attitude toward fellow local roofers can help, even if they’re competitors in the market. It is also vital to cultivate working relationships with other trusted contractors in the area, as satisfied clients are likely to use, for example, their favorite landscaper’s recommended roofer, and vice versa.  

KEEP READING: Roofing Lead Generation: 6 Ways to Get More Roofing Leads

Creating a Great Customer Experience 

Ultimately, there is no better way to run a successful roofing business than to be a great roofer. And a great roofer knows the job is about more than just craftsmanship – professionalism and memorably good customer service are a must. Customers should be satisfied both with the completed project and how they are treated throughout the relationship. 

To offer the best customer service, be sure to communicate openly and honestly, make eye contact, and keep calm at all times. Try whenever possible to see things from the customer’s perspective. 

With the right business plan, staff, marketing, and customer relationships, any new roofing business can get in on the rising fortunes of this thriving industry.  

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How to Start a Roofing Company

Just about every structure requires a roof, whether it is a house, business, school, or government building. Roofers have a consistent flow of work as roofs do not last forever. In general, the typical roof lasts about 15 years. However, roofs require periodic inspections, maintenance and repairs after installation.

Learn how to start your own Roofing Company and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a roofing company by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Roofing Company
• Form your Roofing Company into a Legal Entity
• Register your Roofing Company for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Roofing Company
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Roofing Company
• Get Roofing Company Insurance
• Define your Roofing Company Brand
• Create your Roofing Company Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your roofing company. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Roofing Company Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your roofing company?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a roofing company.

Though a roofing business can be launched from one's home, additional space will eventually be necessary as the business grows. Storage space must be available to house roofing materials. Additional expenses range from trucks for the transportation of materials to an leasing/purchasing an administrative office, paying for high-speed Internet, utilities and labor costs. Liability and workers' compensation insurance premiums must also be paid.

What are the ongoing expenses for a roofing company?

Roofing business owners must pay their employees. Other ongoing expenses include liability and workers' compensation insurance premiums, utilities, Internet, trucking costs and office sundries such as coffee, lunches, cleaning supplies etc. A new truck will likely cost $20,000 or more.  A dumpster rental costs about $350.  Alternatively, you can purchase a dumpster for around $3,000.  In terms of labor, installers usually receive $15 per hour.  Foremen receive around $20 per hour.  Laborers typically make between $10 and $12 per hour.  If you hire an office manager, he will likely make $15-$20 an hour.  Rent for an office/storage space will likely be $1,000 per month.  Budget in another $7,000 for liability insurance, $200 for monthly utilities, $1,000 for office supplies and at least a couple hundred dollars per month for advertising.

Who is the target market?

Roofers tend to favor clients who own property with a flat roof. Roofs with steep angles are much more difficult to work on. Most roofers prefer to do business with individuals who own numerous properties. Establish a business relationship with such an individual and it will likely mean additional projects in the future.

How does a roofing company make money?

Roofers make money in a variety of ways. Some charge for roof inspections/evaluations. A comprehensive roof evaluation requires much more than examining the roof from ground-level with a pair of binoculars. It requires climbing a ladder to the top of the roof and examining the structure's shingles, chimney, soffit, gutters, fascia, and so on. Roofers also make money by performing roof repairs, roof replacements and roof installations on new structures.

Some roofers charge upwards of $100 for a comprehensive roof evaluation. Others offer free roof inspections with the hope that the property owner will lean on them for subsequent repairs/replacements. A roof replacement typically costs between $6,000 and $14,000 depending on the materials used, the size of the roof, the roof's angles and an array of other factors. If a roof is to be replaced, you can charge around $1,000 to tear the old roof off. The cost of roof repairs hinges on the extent of the damage and the type of material to be used for the repair. Be sure to account for additional costs when providing clients with a quote. Such additional costs include fuel, insurance, truck maintenance, advertising, dumpster fees, taxes and so on.

How much profit can a roofing company make?

It is possible for roofing businesses to make a six figure profit in the initial year or couple years of operation. Roofing businesses that are in business for years can make several hundred thousand dollars in profit each year. Expand across counties, states and the nation and your roofing business will have the potential to make millions in profit.

How can you make your business more profitable?

The key to maximizing your roofing business's profitability is to keep material and labor costs down while securing a steady stream of new clients. Establish a reputation as a high-quality roofer and you will eventually be able to charge more than your competitors as customers will be willing to pay a premium for a roof that stands the test of time.  It is also possible to have sideline businesses such as a roofing consulting company. Experienced roofers have an abundance of skills and knowledge that others are willing to pay for. If you own a dumpster and won't be using it on a specific day or week, you can rent it out.  If you pay for office/storage space that you do not use in full, this space can be rented to another business owner.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your roofing company is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a roofing business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

For information about local licenses and permits:

• Check with your town, city or county clerk’s office
• Get assistance from one of the local associations listed in  US Small Business Associations directory of local business resources .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Service Agreement

Roofing businesses should consider requiring clients to sign a service agreement before starting a new project. This agreement should clarify client expectations and minimize risk of legal disputes by setting out payment terms and conditions, service level expectations, and intellectual property ownership. Here is an example service agreement.

Recommended: Rocket Lawyer makes it easy to create a professional service agreement for your roofing business when you sign up for their premium membership. For $39.95 per month, members receive access to hundreds of legal agreements and on call attorneys to get complimentary legal advice.

Certificate of Occupancy

A roofing business can be run out of a storefront. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a storefront :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a roofing business.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a storefront :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for you business’ location to ensure your roofing business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Roofing Company needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Roofing Company.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a roofing company

Many roofers obtain additional clients through word-of-mouth referrals. Please your customers and they will be inclined to recommend your business to friends, family, co-workers and others. Though conventional forms of outbound advertising on TV, radio and newspapers are effective, an inbound marketing push will also help. Key in on search engine optimization efforts by establishing a website with a blog that establishes your business as an authority in your industry. Check out your competitors' prices for roof evaluations, repairs and replacements. Match or beat their prices and customers will eventually gravitate toward your roofing business.

How to keep customers coming back

As noted above, word-of-mouth referrals are a powerful means of attracting new customers. Be sure to mark your company's trucks with your business name and logo so everyone who passes by one of your work sites knows that your crew is doing the job. Aim to exceed customer expectations so they are inspired to return to your roofing business for additional projects as time progresses.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

If you like to work with your hands, desire to be your own boss, and want a consistent flow of work, the roofing business is for you. Aside from making plenty of money, opening a roofing business will provide homeowners and business owners with a much-needed line of defense against the elements. The roofing business requires climbing ladders to access roofs. If you embrace the opportunity to work high in the air on angular surfaces, the roofing business is right up your alley. This business also requires overseeing a team of workers who perform the majority of the manual labor. The best roofing business owners and managers understand how to properly delegate duties, communicate with clarity and lead employees in an effective manner.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a roofing company?

The typical roofing business owner has an incredibly busy workday. They are constantly looking to establish relationships with property owners of all varieties, from business owners to homeowners, apartment complex owners, condominium owners and beyond. Aside from recruiting clients, roofing company owners also search for high-quality, low-cost roofing materials. They ensure an ample supply of these materials are on-hand to meet the demands of each roofing project. Furthermore, roofing business owners assign workers to specific projects to ensure each client's roofing project is completed in a thorough and timely manner.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful roofing company?

If you plan on performing some of the roofing work yourself when first starting out, you must be comfortable working with your hands at high elevations. You should have a mechanical aptitude, be in good physical shape and willing to use your body as well as your mind to complete challenging roofing projects of all varieties. Roofing business owners who elect to remain in a comfortable climate-controlled office must have solid managerial skills. They handle important duties ranging from ordering roofing materials to coordinating logistics, managing work crews and hiring/terminating employees.

What is the growth potential for a roofing company?

Successful, hardworking roofing business owners enjoy unlimited potential for growth. This is especially true of roofers located in urban or suburban areas with large populations. Roofs require plenty of attention and repairs, especially in areas that experience frequent rainstorms, windstorms, snow storms and other inclement weather. The only constraints on a roofing business's growth are a lack of capital to purchase roofing materials and hire personnel. Most roofers find enough clients to expand their business at their desired growth rate.

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Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a roofing company?

The best way to start a roofing business is to learn under the wing of an accomplished roofer. Watch a professional roofer at work, work alongside him, read about roof repair/replacement strategies and hire individuals who have years of experience. Another key component to operating a successful roofing business is pressing the flesh. Get out there and network! Attend industry events, socialize with business owners and spread the word about your roofing company's merits. Of critical importance is your web presence. Build a visually friendly and informative website that features your company's services, examples of prior work etc. It certainly helps to create online content with search engine optimization in mind so prospective clients can find your business with ease.

How and when to build a team

Though you will be able to perform some roof evaluations and repairs on your own in the first weeks and months of your roofing company's launch, you will eventually need to hire a team of roofers. If your business grows, you will reach the point where you manage a team of roofers from the comfort of your office. Key in on experience and work ethic when hiring roofers. You need skilled individuals who aren't afraid of hard work. After all, working high up on an angled roof on blazing hot summer days is not easy. Check each candidate's references and work history to get a gauge as to whether he is cut out for this grueling work.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Franchise opportunity
• National Roofing Contractors Association

Real World Examples

• Michigan Company
• ATL Company 

Further Reading

Have a question leave a comment.

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Roofing Sales Articles

Selling your roofing services to a potential customer is tough. Equipter offers tons of resources to help increase your roofing company’s sales game.

7 Tips for Starting a Roofing Business Plan

Starting a roofing business plan isn’t busy work; it’s the foundation for creating a successful company that takes care of you, your family, and your employees. Think of it as a get-it-done guide. Business plans can even help you obtain funding for equipment investments or expansion. (Find more details in Why a Business Plan Should Be on Your Roofing Biz To-Do List .)

1. Create a vision. 

A formal business plan doesn’t necessarily need to start with a vision, but, in reality, it can be hard to build a company when you’re not quite sure where you’re going or what you as an owner want. Invest time in writing down a vision for your roofing business, a vision that includes a short set of values that define it. At Equipter , those values are Quality, Innovation, Relationships, and Faith.

2. Be realistic.

It’s important to have a vision, but it’s also essential to have a realistic view of time, money, and other resources. For example, always assume business projects, such as an office expansion, will take at least 10-15% longer than expected.

3. Be specific. 

Simply writing “have a fantastic sales year” into a roofing company business plan won’t do a thing to help you achieve that goal. Get rid of vague descriptions and substitute them with specific, measurable goals, such as “increase sales in the Lancaster service area by 20%,” or “finish two additional jobs every week by August.”

4. Do your homework.

Effective business plans are rooted in research. For example, you need to identify and understand your ideal roofing customer profile . You’ll also need to know your competition and their strengths and weaknesses. Going through the competitive analysis process may also help you pinpoint the productivity and marketing tactics that work—and those that don’t. Use the research to hone a business strategy that helps you differentiate your roofing company from other roofers in the area.

5. Tailor the plan, as needed. 

6. Ask for a second opinion.

A second, or even third, point of view can find holes or gaps you may have missed while writing a business plan for your roofing company. Enlist a colleague or an entrepreneur friend to review the plan and make suggestions. If you don’t know anyone able to help, contact your local SCORE office , chamber of commerce, or networking group for a recommendation.

7. Put your plan into action.

All the time and research you invest in a business plan for your roofing company will be wasted if it collects dust. It’s likely impossible to tackle everything on the plan at once without losing your sanity, so begin with a priority list. Five Steps to Turn Your Business Plan into Your Action Plan shares a no-fuss way to get the plan in gear.  

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Table of Contents:

Plan Not to Fail

Get an accountant, establish your costs, set your price, register your business, insure your future, set up shop, round up your equipment, choose your suppliers, hire your crew, train your new hires, sharpen your sales skills.

• Create a Good – Looking Sales Kit

Select Your Method of Payment

Promote your business, words to the wise, how to start your own roofing business while avoiding the mistakes made by so many.

So many roofing companies close their doors before they even get going. Yet, starting a roofing business is not hard to do when you can spot and avoid the pitfalls.

In summary, here’s how to start your roofing business successfully:

• Plan Not to Fail . With all the lists of what to do, what to get and where to get it, how come more new roofing businesses fail than succeed? Avoid error #1. Hire an accountant.
• Know Before You Go . It’s vital to see how much it’s going to cost before you start your roofing business. Only then will you know how much you’ll need to stay afloat and turn a profit. Establish costs and pricing.
• Protect Yourself . Select sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation or LLC (limited liability company). Consult your accountant and your insurance agent. Register, license and insure your roofing business .
• Don’t Overspend . A desk in your spare room, basement or garage and a phone in your pocket will get you rolling. Buy tools only as roofing jobs require them. Ignore new equipment when used will do.
• Recruit Wisely . You want roofers who know at least as much about roofing as you do. You’ll most easily find them in and around roofing supply stores. Hire the best and fire the rest.
• Sell Well. Your future depends on how well you sell. Honing your sales skills at every opportunity is time well spent. The better you are, the bigger you’ll be. Create a great looking sales kit.   
• Promote Without Advertising . There are lots of things you can do before spending on advertising. Entire businesses have been built on truck and lawn signs. Invest in your signage.
• Don’t Bite Off More than You Can Chew . Learn from those who’ve been there, done that. Pursue only low-liability jobs you know you can do profitably. Decline high-risk work.

With all the available online advice, all the lists of what to do, what to get and where to get it, how come more new roofing businesses fail than succeed? The answer, like all truths, is simple. Because nobody points out the pitfalls .

Once you’ve decided to go into the roofing business, the first thing you need to do is avoid the biggest pitfall of all and …

It’s the secret ingredient you need from day one.

Meet with a good accountant, perhaps one referred by a trusted friend, and involve that person right from the start. Then — before you spend a cent on equipment — create a plan that clearly states your business goals and how you intend to achieve them.

You could also contact a business consultant or check in with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) or the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB); but the first thing they’ll likely tell you is, “Get an accountant.”

You have to know before you go.

It is absolutely essential to determine how much it’s going to cost before you start your roofing business. Direct costs like materials and labor are easy enough to figure out, but soft costs such as administrative and marketing expenses must be considered in order to merely break even.

With your accountant, work out the cost of everything:

• Registration.
• Operational expenses, including labor wages and salaries.
• Small website.
• Promotional material, including signage and stationery.
• Administration.
• Commercial premises if other than your home.

Open a business bank account for your roofing company. Job deposit checks can be used to cover material costs as you move forward.

The numbers have to make sense.

With your total costs known, you can now add mark-up for profit. Comparison to local competition might show that some roofing companies are higher priced and some are lower priced than you need to charge. The point is to sell at the price you need to get to ensure turning a profit and here’s where some extra help can make all the difference.

In addition to your accountant, look for a mentor who has been there before you and succeeded. Roofing manufacturers like IKO will be only too pleased to help and they are not in competition with you. On the contrary, it is in their best interest to see you succeed and they have the experience to do precisely that.

Set things up well with the government.

When registering your roofing business, it’s also a good idea to register a “doing business as” (DBA) name. A catchy trade roofing business name can carry far more commercial value than a family name when it comes time to sell in the future.

Decide whether you want to be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation or limited liability company (LLC). Consult with a lawyer in your area to see which entity is best for you.

Register in the U.S  Register in Canada

Get the authorization you need to operate.

Contracting licenses for roofing businesses differ for each jurisdiction. To determine requirements in your area, check with state/provincial authorities.

Local business permits may be required for each municipality you work in. Contact city hall to find out and obtain such permits when needed. Local government bodies might also demand approvals on zoning, planning and safety inspections.

Protect your investment.

Roofing is a rugged business in which accidents and injuries can and do occur. Insurance provides the means to financially protect your company, your employees, your customers and yourself against damage to life and limb, destruction of property and lawsuits.

While you will always need general liability insurance, each state and province have different insurance requirements for roofing contractors. To ensure the protection you need for your roofing company’s security, these are the types of insurance you should examine with your insurance agent:

• General Liability Insurance – Covers damage and injury to parties other than your employees.
• Workers’ Compensation – Covers work-related injuries to employees. Requirements vary from state to state, dependent on number of employees. This is required in all provinces.
• Professional Liability Insurance – Protects your business against lawsuits.
• Personal Liability Insurance – Protects you in case of injury.
• Vehicle Insurance – Protects your work vehicles.
• Equipment Insurance – Protects your investment in tools and equipment.

You don’t need a complete office to start.

A desk, a phone and some basic stationery can get your roofing business rolling. Use the planner function in your phone to schedule customer appointments.

• Set up space in your spare room, basement or garage.
• Install a business phone or record a professional message for your personal phone.
• Add an email address dedicated to your roofing company.
• Order or create Estimate and Invoice forms online.

Never mind new when used will do.

Equipment and tools to start a roofing company will depend on the type of roofing you provide. Residential roofing is cheaper and the easiest way to start. Commercial requires more capital .

Equipment will probably account for the largest portion of your startup costs. So, buy tools as jobs require them and never spend more than you have to during startup. Don’t buy a new truck when an old one will do. You may be able to get a good used one for under $10k.

Here are some basic items you may need:

• Safety harness .
• Hand tools such as a shingle hatchet .
• Power ladder (optional).

Meet all those nearest you and take your pick.

Decide the type of roofing material you want to work with. Asphalt shingles are recommended to begin with; they are the most common and most in demand.

You can purchase builder-grade shingles for quality installation or premium laminated shingles , which typically cost more, but look better, usually offer a longer limited warranty term, and may allow you to sell jobs for more money.

Now talk to the roofing suppliers in your area. Check to see if they’ve got what you need, if there’s a delivery or rooftop charge, that you can buy on credit, and look for special rebates or promotions from manufacturers. Go with the supplier that best fits your needs.

Hire carefully, retain the best.

One of the best ways to hire new roofer employees is to talk to the people who come in and out of supplier stores. You preferably want people who know at least as much about roofing as you do, and this is exactly where you’ll find them. Ads on Craigslist can also pay off. Hire carefully, checking credentials, then keep the best and release the rest.

When hiring employees, you can apply for payroll accounts through the Internal Revenue Service or Canada Revenue Agency website.

Do it while they earn money for you.

By all means train your employees on the job where you can watch and correct them. As their skills improve, so does their value to your business while they continue to make money for you in the process. You will also need to place high importance on safety training.

You’ll find roofer safety issues in the U.S. thoroughly addressed at www.osha.gov . In Canada, the “Working at Heights” Training Course is required for all roofers in Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador, with regulations for the entire country posted at www.fallpro.com .

Your future depends on how well you sell.

You’ll be wearing every hat from director to driver when you first start your roofing business. But your most important role is going to be sales. Honing your sales skills at every opportunity will be time well spent. The better you are, the bigger you’ll be.

Create a Good-Looking Sales Kit

Show what you’ve done in the past.

For sales presentation purposes, keep a record of your customers, the jobs you’ve done, where you did them and ask for reviews with permission to publish. Make an attractive presentation folder containing photos and references that you can show with pride – “before and after” pictures of some roofs you’ve installed can be a great visual sales tool. Create a gallery of best work on your phone or iPad as you go.

Start with cash.

With everything in place, you now need to decide how you want to be paid. Cash and perhaps checks are definitely a smart way to start.

As your business grows, you can appeal to more customers by accepting credit and debit cards. This is easily done by contacting your bank and opening a merchant account. In the US, you might also consider the latest trend of working with a finance company like GreenSky to offer preapproved loans for your customers.

Don’t pay for advertising till you’ve maxed everything else.

To get those roofing jobs coming in, there’s so much you can do before spending money on advertising. Some of the cheapest strategies would involve:

• Well-signed vehicle – big name, big phone number and web address.
• Small mobile phones website, which you can create by filling in online templates.
• Lawn signs — same as your truck signage — for every roofing site.
• Free business listing on Google and other online directories.
• Registering with HomeAdvisor/HomeStars . The more reviews you get, the more customers you attract. Tell prospects “Look us up on HomeStars.”
• Free Craigslist ads.

Your next step up the sales ladder would be to create, print and distribute door-to-door flyers throughout every area in which you work.

Don’t bite off more than you can chew.

• Make your roofing equipment pay for itself before you buy more.
• Pursue only those jobs you can profitably complete.
• Focus on low liability sloped roofs and less on flat roofs, which may require open-flame torches.  

Don’t ignore the off-season.

If you’re going to do business in a four-season climate, figure out how you’ll stay solvent during the downtime. Options to consider include:

• Set aside money to pay off-season expenses and bills.
• Create related work to fill in the gap — e.g., attic insulation .
• Toughen up for four-season roofing , to the extent feasible in your area.

Don’t get caught short for sales tax money.

It’s so easy to use sales tax money as it comes in. But remember, it’s not your money. Wherever you’re required to collect sales tax, you’re going to be required to account for same to the government. If you haven’t got it, you’re in a jam:

• Set up a proper business account for your roofing company.
• Discuss the merits of a set-aside account with your accountant.

As you grow your roofing business, be sure to ask us how to become an IKO ROOFPRO[reg] member and improve your business.

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Roofing Business Plan Sample

Aug.15, 2018

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Table of Content

Do you want to start roofing business?

Do you want to start roofing business ? This is the sort of business whose demand can never subside as every house requires a roof and every roof requires time-to-time maintenance. Although the startup is a bit difficult, however you won’t be at loss provided that you plan your roofing business carefully.

To write an effective business plan , you need an accurate marketing analysis, distinct sales strategy, notable professionals and an accurate financial plan. If you are having a difficulty in making your business plan, you can take help from this sample business plan for a roofing business startup named, ‘Edward Roofers’.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Edward Roofers will be managed and owned by two brothers, Paul Edward and Kim Edward. The business is based on installing, repairing and shingling roofs of residential houses and small offices. Our business, as well as all our workers, are insured and licensed. Our roofing company mission statement is to provide flawless and trusted service to the people of Seattle.

2.2 Management

If you are willing to start a roofing business, you will surely be thinking that  what do i need to start a roofing business . Well, besides the general tools, trucks, and ladder, the only thing that matters, is the expertise and skill of your workers. Edward Brothers have hired licensed and insured professionals and have decided to manage the workers by themselves.

2.3 Customers

Finding out that who can be your possible customers, will guide you in defining your work policies according to their interests. If you are starting a roofing business, then the residents, proprietors, construction contractors and small companies’ owners of the city where your business is located, will be your target customers.

2.4 Target of the Company

Companies’ targets to provide the best roofing service to the people of Seattle, and to generate a good profit within the first three years of launch, as summarized in the following table:

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Paul Edward and Kim Edward are starting a roofing business , named ‘Edward Roofers’ and will be the managers themselves. The two brothers are famous for their coordination with each other and for their quick and successful power wash company. Edward brothers are trusted in the whole Seattle for the value and importance they give to their clients, workers and their work.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

Before thinking that how to start a roofing business , you must be clear that why do you want to start it. Edward brothers have solely started the roofing business because of its rising demand, and to widen their business scales. They believe in earning a profit by giving the customers maximum satisfaction.

3.3 How the Business will be started

Roofing business is more difficult to run successfully than to start. Edward Roofers will be a registered and insured business run by a team of skilled, licensed and insured workers in the management of Paul and Kim. Basic equipment like roofing tools, trucks, ladders, inventory etc. will be bought. The company will make an online purchasing facility to take orders and scheduling times.

The detailed start-up requirements as forecasted by our company’s analysts is given below:

Services for customers

Before starting roofing business , you must decide on the services you will provide your customers. It is not the number of your services that decide the reputation of you and your startup, it is the quality. If you are going to start a roofing business , you should set your services according to your manpower and investment. To compete with your competitors, you must put all your resources in providing the customers with best-quality service and satisfaction.

Edward Roofers will provide the following services:

• Installing Roofs: We have licensed and insured workers with ten-year experience to shingle your roofs with metal or asphalt with architectural shingles available in almost all colors.
• Repairing Roofs: In case, your roof is leaking or in need of replacing shingles from some part, we are there to perform our duty.
• Roof Ventilation: We have intake and exhaust vents and the experts to install them in your roofs for attic ventilation.
• Ice & Water Shields: We have experts to install ice and water shields in your roof to prevent damage by wind-driven ice or rain.

Our work and workers are insured, in case of any damage to your property or any of our worker, the company will be liable to pay the retaliation and no charges will be taken from you.

Marketing Analysis of Roofing Business

If you are starting a roofing business, you must do an accurate marketing analysis in your roofing business plan . Roofing business is an outdoor business, so in your roofing company business plan , you must include the ways by which you can connect to your customers and provide them a fast service in such a busy city. For marketing a roofing business , the best way besides keeping the prices low is to make it easy for your target customers to avail your services.

If you are searching marketing ideas for roofing companies , one of the best roofing marketing ideas  is to provide your customers an easy availability to you. As people usually hesitate to go far off companies to buy their services, so it is recommended to make a website for your roofing company marketing , with an online payment and ordering system. This will help your business flourish, as the reviews of your prior clients can be analyzed by new ones, and people from any corner of the city won’t find hesitation in calling you to their location.

In case you need help regarding your startup, you can take help from a number of sample roofing business plans  available online, as this sample roofing business plan of Edward Roofers.

5.1 Marketing Trends

Roofing business is a type of business which can never experience a downfall, as every building requires a roof and every roof requires timely maintenance. Especially in the United States, roofing business is growing rapidly due to broad economic developments. There are about 100,367 roofing businesses running in the United States, generating a revenue of $42 billion annually. It is reported by IBISWorld that the business has employed more than 260 thousand people and has seen an annual growth of 3.5% during the recent years. So, if you are starting this business due to its rising demand, you must first prepare yourself to survive in so large competition. If you have come up with extraordinary competitive advantages, no hurdle can mitigate the success of your startup.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

An accurate business plan requires an accurate analysis of your potential customers. It is always better to analyze your target customers and identify their needs, to meet their expectations and requirements. Edward Roofers has hired a marketing analyst who has found the following people as his target audience.

5.2.1 Residents: The residents of Seattle, will be our biggest target customers. The residents will avail our services of installing roofs as well as roof ventilation and installing water and ice shields. Moreover, they will require our services of repairing or shingling the damaged parts of their roofs due to wild climatic patterns.

5.2.2 Construction Contractors: Our second biggest purchasers will be the construction contractors. Contractors need a number of people for diverse services while constructing buildings. Roofing and ventilation is the service which is essential in every type of structure, so we are expected to get orders from the contractors as well.

5.2.3 Proprietors & Small Company Owners: Small company owners and some proprietors when are in a need of some construction or repairing work, prefer to get the service done by small yet trusted companies like us. So, we expect to get orders for ventilation or repairing roofs from this category too.

The detailed market analysis of our potential customers is given in the following table:

5.3 Packages Pricing

The people of Seattle are able to pay high for the high-quality services. To provide our customers with the best quality services and the best material we can’t compromise on the prices. So keeping in view our target audience and their demands, we haven’t priced our services low, instead, our prices are almost in the same range as of our competitors.

5.4 Business Target of the Company

Our business target is to become the most trusted and most successful roofing company in the whole of Seattle. We want to serve our fellow citizens by providing them with our reputable service. Besides that, we also have some financial targets, which includes generating at least a profit in the first five months that can balance our startup costs. And growing our business and range of our services to serve a further large audience.

6.1 Competitors

You can never estimate how much does it cost to start a roofing company until you know your competitors and their business strategy . Either you have to come up with extraordinary competitive edges, or you have to keep your prices low in the initial stages for if you want people to avail your services.

Edward Roofers is located in Seattle, where people are financially stable and don’t compromise dollars over work quality. Thus, we haven’t priced our services low, instead, we have come with the unmatched and most valuable competitive advantages. Our business and all our workmen are insured, which means that if any of our workers make even the tiniest mistake, our company will be responsible for its repair. Moreover, if any of our workers get some injury while working, you won’t be liable for any charges. Our biggest competitive advantage is our quick service, and the value we give our customers and their property, only we in the whole market are providing an online booking system for receiving your orders and scheduling time so that you don’t need to come to our office if it is far or if you don’t want to!

6.2 Sales Strategy

If you are looking for starting a roofing business tips , we are telling you the biggest tip which is advertising your business through print & social media by providing different packages in the initial stages, this is the only way of getting the attention of your target customers.

6.3 Sales Forecast

The detailed information about the sales forecast, total unit sales, total sales is given in the following table.

6.4 Sales Monthly

6.5 sales yearly, personnel plan.

Roofing business is a type of business which is totally dependent upon your workers and management system. So, if you are looking for how to start your own roofing business , set your first priority to recruit the right person for the right job. You can take help from many roofing business plan examples like this one.

Edward brothers will manage the business themselves, by hiring the following personnel:

• 8 Warehouse Officers for loading and recording stocks
• 8 Roof loaders
• 1 Accountant for managing finances
• 2 Receptionist for receiving orders
• 2 Persons for receiving orders online or via telephone and managing companies’ website
• 5 General Workers for routine assistance

The following table shows the forecasted data about employees and their salaries for the next three years.

Financial Plan

The success of a startup and the growth of any business depends upon its accurate financial planning and an estimate that how the company will balance the startup costs with the earned profits. Edward brothers have hired the services of a professional financial plan developer to outline the roofing company profit margins over the next three years. The business will be financed by both brothers and is expected to grow rapidly due to the excellent coordination between the two.

Since roofing business isn’t an indoor business, so the major amount will be spent on hiring the expert professionals and buying the best quality material. If you are looking for how to start my own roofing business  or if you need some guidance regarding the financial plan, you can take help from this sample business plan. However, if you are starting your business on a large scale then it will be better to hire a professional to write you an accurate financial plan with exact figures.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 brake-even analysis, 8.3 projected profit and loss, 8.3.1 profit monthly, 8.3.2 profit yearly, 8.3.3 gross margin monthly, 8.3.4 gross margin yearly, 8.4 projected cash flow, 8.5 projected balance sheet, 8.6 business ratios.

Download Roofing Business Plan Sample in pdf

Professional OGS capital writers specialized also in themes such as carpet cleaning business plan , business plans for cleaning , business plan for a junk removal , laundromat business plan sample , pressure washing business ideas , pc repair business plan and many others.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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Roofing Company Business Plan

Starting a roofing company can be a lucrative venture, but it requires careful planning and strategizing. A well-crafted business plan is essential to ensure the success and sustainability of your roofing business.

In this blog post, we will dive into the intricacies of creating a comprehensive roofing company business plan. We will explore the current market trends, key players in the industry, and the importance of understanding customer needs.

Next, we will guide you through the process of creating a business model for your roofing company. This will involve determining your service offerings, implementing effective pricing strategies, and developing an operational plan that maximizes efficiency and productivity.

Once your business model is in place, it’s crucial to develop a robust marketing and sales strategy. We will help you identify your target market, create a unique selling proposition, and explore various marketing channels to reach your potential customers. Additionally, we will delve into sales strategy and forecasting to ensure a steady stream of revenue.

Financial planning is another vital aspect of your roofing company business plan. We will discuss the initial capital investment required, revenue sources and projections, operational costs, and financial projections. This will provide you with a clear understanding of the financial health and growth potential of your business.

Lastly, we will address the importance of risk management and contingency planning. We will help you identify potential risks in the roofing industry and provide strategies for mitigating them. Additionally, we will explore emergency and disaster management, ensuring that your roofing company is prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

By the end of this blog post, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create a successful roofing company business plan. Whether you are starting a new venture or looking to refine your existing business, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the competitive roofing industry. So, let’s dive in and start building a solid foundation for your roofing company’s success.

Understanding the Roofing Industry

The roofing industry plays a crucial role in the construction and maintenance of buildings. Before diving into the specifics of creating a business plan for your roofing company, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the industry as a whole.

Current Market Trends

Keeping up with the latest market trends is crucial for the success of your roofing company. By staying informed about the industry’s current landscape, you can identify opportunities for growth and adapt your business strategies accordingly. Some key market trends in the roofing industry include:

• Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: With increasing environmental concerns, there is a growing demand for sustainable roofing materials and energy-efficient solutions. Customers are looking for roofing options that reduce energy consumption and have a minimal environmental impact.
• Technological Advancements: The roofing industry has seen significant advancements in technology, from drones for roof inspections to software for project management. Embracing these technological innovations can streamline your operations, enhance productivity, and improve customer satisfaction.
• Safety and Compliance: Safety regulations and compliance standards play a crucial role in the roofing industry. Staying up to date with safety protocols and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations is essential to maintain a reputable and trustworthy roofing business.

Key Players in the Industry

Identifying the key players in the roofing industry can provide valuable insights into successful business models and industry best practices. Researching and studying these established companies can help you understand their strategies, customer base, and competitive advantages. Some renowned roofing companies that you can analyze include:

• ABC Roofing Company: A leading roofing company known for its expertise in commercial roofing projects. They have a strong reputation for quality workmanship and outstanding customer service.
• XYZ Roofing Solutions: A residential roofing company that specializes in offering a wide range of roofing options and materials. They are known for their strong customer relationships and efficient project management.
• DEF Roofing Contractors: A well-established company that has successfully expanded its services to include both residential and commercial roofing. They have built a strong brand presence and are recognized for their commitment to excellence.

Studying these key players will provide you with valuable insights into industry trends, customer preferences, and successful business strategies that you can incorporate into your own roofing company.

Understanding Customer Needs

To thrive in the roofing industry, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of your customers’ needs and preferences. This understanding will help you tailor your services and marketing strategies to attract and retain customers. Consider the following factors when analyzing customer needs:

• Residential vs. Commercial: Understand the key differences between residential and commercial roofing needs. Residential customers often prioritize aesthetics, durability, and cost-effectiveness, while commercial customers may have specific requirements for large-scale projects, such as waterproofing and insulation.
• Local Market Analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis of your local market to identify the specific needs and preferences of potential customers. Consider factors such as climate, building regulations, and local competition to determine the demand for different types of roofing services.
• Customer Feedback and Reviews: Pay attention to customer feedback and reviews of both your competitors and existing roofing companies. This will give you insights into areas where customers have been satisfied or dissatisfied, allowing you to tailor your services to meet their expectations.

By understanding the current market trends, studying key players in the industry, and analyzing customer needs, you will be well-equipped to develop a business plan that caters to the demands of the roofing industry.

Creating a Business Model for Your Roofing Company

Creating a strong and effective business model is crucial for the success of your roofing company. This section will guide you through the process of developing a comprehensive business model that aligns with your goals and ensures profitability.

Determining Your Service Offerings

The first step in creating a business model for your roofing company is to determine the specific services you will offer. Consider the following factors when deciding on your service offerings:

• Roof Installation: Decide whether your company will specialize in new roof installations for residential or commercial properties. Consider the different types of roofing materials you will work with, such as asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or flat roofs.
• Roof Repair and Maintenance: Determine if you will provide repair and maintenance services for existing roofs. This can include fixing leaks, replacing damaged shingles, or conducting regular inspections and maintenance to prolong the lifespan of roofs.
• Additional Services: Consider offering additional services that can complement your core offerings. These may include gutter installation and repair, attic insulation, or skylight installation. Assess the demand for these services in your target market.

By defining your service offerings, you can establish a clear focus for your roofing company and position yourself as a specialist in your chosen areas.

Pricing Strategies

Developing effective pricing strategies is essential to ensure profitability while remaining competitive in the market. Consider the following factors when determining your pricing:

• Cost Analysis: Conduct a thorough analysis of your costs, including labor, materials, overhead expenses, and operating costs. This will help you establish a baseline for pricing your services.
• Market Research: Research the pricing strategies of your competitors to understand the average pricing in your local market. Determine whether you want to position your roofing company as a premium service provider or offer more affordable options.
• Value-Based Pricing: Consider implementing value-based pricing, where you assess the unique value you provide to customers and price your services accordingly. This can be based on factors such as quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, or using high-quality materials.
• Pricing Models: Determine whether you will use a fixed pricing model, where you provide standardized prices for specific services, or a customized pricing model, where you assess each project individually and provide tailored quotes.

Strategically pricing your services will not only ensure profitability but also attract customers who perceive the value in your offerings.

Operational Plan

Developing a comprehensive operational plan is essential for the smooth functioning of your roofing company. Consider the following aspects when creating your operational plan:

• Equipment and Tools: Determine the necessary equipment and tools required to carry out your roofing services efficiently. This may include ladders, safety equipment, roofing materials, and specialized tools. Ensure you have a plan for acquiring and maintaining these resources.
• Workforce: Assess your workforce requirements based on the services you offer. Determine the number of skilled roofers and laborers needed to complete projects within the desired timeframe. Consider whether you will hire employees or work with subcontractors.
• Training and Safety: Establish a training program to ensure that your workforce is skilled in the latest roofing techniques and safety protocols. Emphasize the importance of safety in all aspects of your operations to protect your employees and maintain a positive reputation.
• Project Management: Develop an efficient project management system to streamline workflows, track progress, and ensure timely completion of projects. This may involve using project management software, assigning project managers, and implementing quality control measures.

Having a well-defined operational plan in place will help you optimize your resources, deliver high-quality services, and maintain customer satisfaction.

By determining your service offerings, implementing effective pricing strategies, and developing an operational plan, you will lay a strong foundation for your roofing company’s business model. This will enable you to offer competitive services, generate revenue, and position your business for long-term success.

Developing a Marketing and Sales Strategy

Developing a comprehensive marketing and sales strategy is crucial for promoting your roofing company and attracting customers. In this section, we will guide you through the key steps to develop an effective marketing and sales strategy.

Identifying Your Target Market

Before crafting your marketing messages and sales approach, it is essential to identify your target market. Consider the following factors when determining your target market:

• Residential vs. Commercial: Decide whether you will focus on residential roofing projects, commercial roofing projects, or both. Each segment has distinct characteristics and requires tailored marketing and sales strategies.
• Geographic Area: Determine the geographic area you will serve. Are you targeting a specific city, region, or multiple locations? Understanding the local market dynamics will help you tailor your marketing efforts accordingly.
• Demographics and Psychographics: Analyze the demographics and psychographics of your target market. Consider factors such as age, income level, lifestyle, and preferences. This will help you craft marketing messages that resonate with your ideal customers.

By clearly defining your target market, you can tailor your marketing and sales efforts to reach the right audience and maximize your chances of success.

Creating a Unique Selling Proposition

To differentiate your roofing company from the competition, it is essential to create a unique selling proposition (USP). Your USP highlights the unique value and benefits you offer to customers. Consider the following steps when developing your USP:

• Identify Your Competitive Advantage: Assess your strengths, such as exceptional craftsmanship, quality materials, affordable pricing, or outstanding customer service. Identify what sets you apart from your competitors.
• Customer Benefits: Determine how your competitive advantage translates into tangible benefits for your customers. Will they receive a longer warranty, faster completion time, or personalized attention? Clearly articulate the advantages customers will gain by choosing your roofing services.
• Craft Your USP Statement: Combine your competitive advantage and customer benefits into a concise and compelling statement that captures the essence of your value proposition. This statement should be memorable, unique, and effectively communicate the value you bring to customers.

A strong USP will help your roofing company stand out in a crowded market and give potential customers a compelling reason to choose your services.

Marketing Channels to Reach Your Target Market

To effectively reach your target market, you need to identify the most suitable marketing channels. Consider the following marketing channels commonly used in the roofing industry:

• Website and Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Create a professional website that showcases your services, testimonials, and contact information. Optimize your website for search engines to improve your online visibility and attract organic traffic.
• Online Advertising: Utilize online advertising platforms such as Google Ads or social media advertising to reach your target audience. Design compelling ads that highlight your USP and direct users to your website or landing pages.
• Local Networking: Build relationships with local contractors, real estate agents, and property managers who can refer customers to your roofing company. Attend industry events, join business groups, and participate in community activities to expand your network.
• Social Media Marketing: Leverage social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to engage with potential customers, share useful content, and showcase your portfolio. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and recommendations on your social media profiles.
• Traditional Marketing: Consider traditional marketing methods such as print advertisements, direct mail campaigns, and local radio spots to reach customers who may not be as active online.

By selecting the right marketing channels, you can effectively reach your target market and generate leads for your roofing company.

Sales Strategy and Forecast

Developing a sales strategy is essential to convert leads into paying customers. Consider the following steps when developing your sales strategy:

• Sales Process: Define a clear sales process that outlines the steps from initial contact to closing the sale. Determine how you will handle inquiries, conduct site visits, provide estimates, negotiate contracts, and secure signed agreements.
• Training and Empowering Sales Team: If you have a sales team, ensure they are well-trained and equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively sell your roofing services. Provide them with sales materials, training programs, and ongoing support to maximize their effectiveness.
• CRM Software: Implement customer relationship management (CRM) software to track leads, manage customer interactions, and automate follow-ups. This will help you stay organized and ensure no leads fall through the cracks.
• Sales Forecasting: Develop a sales forecast that projects your expected revenues over a specific period. Consider factors such as market demand, historical data, and your marketing efforts. This forecast will help you set realistic sales targets and allocate resources effectively.

By implementing a well-defined sales strategy and forecasting your sales, you can optimize your conversion rates and ensure a steady stream of revenue for your roofing company.

In conclusion, developing a marketing and sales strategy is crucial for the growth and success of your roofing company. By identifying your target market, creating a unique selling proposition, selecting the right marketing channels, and developing an effective sales strategy, you can attract customers, generate leads, and increase your revenue.

Financial Planning for Your Roofing Company

Financial planning is a critical aspect of your roofing company’s business plan. This section will guide you through the key components of financial planning to ensure the financial health and success of your business.

Initial Capital Investment

When starting a roofing company, it is essential to determine the initial capital investment required to launch your business. Consider the following factors when estimating your startup costs:

• Equipment and Tools: Calculate the costs of purchasing or leasing necessary equipment and tools for your roofing operations. This may include ladders, safety equipment, roofing materials, vehicles, and specialized tools.
• Licensing and Permits: Research the costs associated with obtaining the necessary licenses and permits required to operate your roofing company legally. This may include contractor licenses, business permits, and insurance premiums.
• Office and Administrative Expenses: Factor in the costs of setting up an office space, including rent, utilities, furniture, and office supplies. Consider any administrative expenses such as accounting software, insurance, and legal fees.
• Marketing and Advertising: Allocate a budget for marketing and advertising activities to promote your roofing company. This may include website development, online advertising, print materials, and local networking events.

By estimating your initial capital investment accurately, you can ensure that you have the necessary funds to launch your roofing company and cover expenses during the initial stages.

Revenue Sources and Projections

Identifying your revenue sources and developing realistic revenue projections is crucial for financial planning. Consider the following factors when determining your revenue sources:

• Service Offerings: Analyze the potential revenue streams from your various service offerings, such as roof installations, repairs, maintenance, and additional services. Estimate the revenue contribution from each service based on market demand and pricing strategies.
• Projected Sales Volume: Consider the number of projects you expect to complete within a specific timeframe. This can be based on market research, historical data, and your marketing and sales strategies.
• Pricing and Profit Margin: Calculate the average pricing for your services and determine the profit margin you aim to achieve. This will help you estimate the revenue generated per project and overall profitability.
• Repeat Business and Referrals: Take into account the potential for repeat business from satisfied customers and referrals from your existing client base. Building strong customer relationships and delivering exceptional service can lead to recurring revenue opportunities.

By identifying your revenue sources and developing realistic projections, you can set achievable financial goals and track your progress over time.

Operational Costs

Understanding your operational costs is vital for financial planning and ensuring profitability. Consider the following factors when estimating your operational costs:

• Labor Costs: Calculate the costs associated with hiring and retaining skilled roofers, laborers, and administrative staff. Include wages, benefits, payroll taxes, and training expenses.
• Materials and Supplies: Estimate the costs of roofing materials, tools, and supplies needed for each project. Consider fluctuations in material prices and the quantity of materials required for different types of roofing projects.
• Overhead Expenses: Account for overhead expenses such as rent, utilities, insurance premiums, office supplies, marketing expenses, and professional services (accounting, legal, etc.).
• Maintenance and Repairs: Include the costs of maintaining and repairing your equipment and vehicles. Regular maintenance can prolong their lifespan and minimize unexpected breakdowns.

By accurately estimating your operational costs, you can ensure that your pricing structure covers expenses and allows for a reasonable profit margin.

Financial Projections

Developing financial projections is crucial for assessing the financial viability of your roofing company. Consider the following aspects when creating your financial projections:

• Sales Forecast: Utilize the sales forecast developed in the marketing and sales strategy section to estimate your projected revenue over a specific period. Consider market demand, pricing strategies, and your sales efforts.
• Cost of Goods Sold (COGS): Calculate your COGS, which includes the direct costs associated with delivering your roofing services. This includes labor costs, materials, and any subcontractor fees.
• Operating Expenses: Estimate your operating expenses, including overhead costs, administrative expenses, marketing costs, and maintenance expenses.
• Cash Flow Projections: Develop a cash flow projection that outlines the expected inflows and outflows of cash for your roofing company. This will help you anticipate any cash shortfalls and plan accordingly.
• Profit and Loss Statement: Create a profit and loss statement that summarizes your revenue, expenses, and net profit or loss over a specific period. This will provide a clear picture of your financial performance.

By developing comprehensive financial projections, you can assess the financial health and profitability of your roofing company, make informed business decisions, and secure financing if needed.

In conclusion, financial planning is a crucial aspect of your roofing company’s business plan. By estimating your initial capital investment, identifying revenue sources and projections, understanding operational costs, and developing financial projections, you can ensure the financial sustainability and success of your roofing business.

Risk Management and Contingency Planning

Risk management and contingency planning are essential aspects of any business, including a roofing company. This section will guide you through the process of identifying potential risks, developing mitigation strategies, and implementing contingency plans to safeguard your roofing business.

Identifying Potential Risks

The first step in effective risk management is to identify potential risks that could impact your roofing company. Consider the following areas when assessing potential risks:

• Safety Hazards: Identify potential safety hazards for your employees, such as falls from heights, electrical hazards, and exposure to hazardous materials. Implement safety protocols and provide proper training to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
• Weather and Natural Disasters: Evaluate the impact of severe weather conditions and natural disasters on your roofing operations. Consider risks such as storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and heavy rainfall. Develop strategies to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of your employees and projects.
• Material Shortages and Price Fluctuations: Assess the potential risks associated with material shortages or significant price fluctuations in roofing materials. Develop relationships with reliable suppliers and monitor market trends to mitigate these risks.
• Economic Factors: Consider economic factors that could impact the demand for roofing services, such as fluctuations in the housing market, interest rates, or changes in construction regulations. Stay informed about market trends and diversify your customer base to reduce vulnerability to economic downturns.

Mitigation Strategies

Once potential risks are identified, it is crucial to develop mitigation strategies to minimize their impact. Consider the following approaches when developing risk mitigation strategies:

• Safety Protocols and Training: Implement comprehensive safety protocols and provide training to your employees to ensure their well-being and minimize the risk of accidents. Regularly review and update safety procedures to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Insurance Coverage: Obtain appropriate insurance coverage to protect your roofing company from potential liabilities, such as worker’s compensation, general liability, and property insurance. Consult with insurance professionals to ensure you have adequate coverage for your specific risks.
• Supplier Relationships: Establish strong relationships with reliable suppliers to mitigate the risk of material shortages or price fluctuations. Maintain open communication and explore alternative sourcing options if necessary.
• Diversification of Services and Markets: Reduce your vulnerability to economic fluctuations by diversifying your services and target markets. Offering a range of roofing services and targeting both residential and commercial projects can help mitigate the impact of a slowdown in one sector.

Emergency and Disaster Management

Developing contingency plans for emergency and disaster situations is critical to ensure the continuity of your roofing operations. Consider the following elements when creating your emergency and disaster management plans:

• Emergency Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of an accident, injury, or other emergencies. This plan should include evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and contact information for emergency services.
• Business Continuity Plan: Create a business continuity plan that outlines how your roofing company will continue to operate during unexpected disruptions. This may include strategies for remote work, backup equipment and supplies, and alternative project management approaches.
• Data Backup and Recovery: Implement robust data backup and recovery systems to protect your critical business information. Regularly back up your data and store it securely to ensure its accessibility in the event of a disaster.
• Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan to ensure effective communication with employees, clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders during emergency situations. Provide clear instructions and keep all parties informed of any operational changes or delays.

By proactively addressing potential risks, developing mitigation strategies, and implementing emergency and disaster management plans, you can protect your roofing company and ensure the continuity of your operations.

In conclusion, risk management and contingency planning are essential for the long-term success and sustainability of your roofing company. By identifying potential risks, developing mitigation strategies, and implementing emergency and disaster management plans, you can protect your employees, assets, and reputation while ensuring business continuity in challenging situations.