Navigating Challenges
Tariffs, Labor, & Training in the Roofing Industry
by Richard K. Olson, President & Technical Director, Tile Roofing Industry Alliance
(Editor’s Note: Richard K. Olson is president and technical director for the Tile Roofing Industry Alliance. The association represents industry professionals involved in the manufacturing and installation of concrete and clay tile roofs in the United States and Canada, and works with national, state, and local building officials to develop installation techniques, codes, and standards for better roofing systems. Olson can be reached at rolson@tileroofing.org.)
As the fall season approaches, roofing contractors across the country are grappling with three primary concerns: tariffs, labor shortages, and the growing demand for training. These global issues are significantly influencing our economy and the building construction sector, and roofing professionals must quickly adapt to these changing market drivers to stay competitive. Here’s a closer look at how the Tile Roofing Industry (TRI) Alliance and the industry are responding to these challenges and what contractors can do to prepare for the future.
Tariffs: The Greatest Unknown
Tariffs are the most significant unknown factor currently affecting the steep slope roofing markets. With ongoing negotiations between the United States and countries like China, Mexico, and India, the roofing industry faces significant uncertainty. The complex web of tariff amounts, implementation timelines, and product-specific tariffs continues to evolve, leaving manufacturers, distributors, and contractors grappling with ever-changing regulations. Roofing professionals are bracing for both short-term disruptions and long-term adjustments in the way materials are sourced and priced.
The United States roofing industry depends heavily on a steady supply of materials to meet the demand for new construction and roof replacements. The immediate effects of tariffs are most acutely felt in the fluctuation of material prices. Roofing materials such as raw products, fasteners, adhesives, and even finished goods like flashings, sheathing, and membranes are often imported from countries that are directly impacted by tariff policies.
The increased cost of goods can potentially lead to delays in projects, as roofing contractors may be forced to wait for material deliveries or find alternatives that are similarly priced but harder to source. Manufacturers and distributors also face challenges in absorbing or passing on these costs while navigating complex customs and shipping logistics. In the short term, roofing contractors may have to deal with erratic material availability leaving them uncertain about how much to budget for a job or how to communicate these changes to clients.
The longer-term implications of these tariffs could lead to significant shifts in the global supply chain. One possibility is the transition toward more domestically produced roofing materials. In response to trade tensions and the unpredictable cost of imports, some manufacturers are already sourcing raw materials from within the United States or other tariff-free regions. Over time, this could help stabilize the supply chain and reduce dependence on imports.
Labor Shortages: A Growing Concern
Labor shortages are another significant challenge for the roofing industry. As immigration issues remain unresolved, the roofing workforce, particularly migrant workers, is facing substantial barriers. The roofing industry depends heavily on this segment of the workforce, and without a resolution, there is a real risk of reduced productivity.
The TRI Alliance, in collaboration with the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association, National Roofing Contractors Association, and other partners, is actively advocating for legislative solutions to address this issue. However, the need for more workers in the roofing trade goes beyond immigration reform. There is a growing push for greater investment in trade schools that focus on roofing and construction-related skills.
Trade schools offer a practical, low-cost path to high-wage careers, which is essential in industries like roofing. By shifting focus away from four-year degree programs and emphasizing trade education, we can help fill the labor gap and ensure the roofing industry has the workforce it needs to thrive in the future.
Training: Meeting the Demands of a Changing Market
With the evolving landscape of the roofing industry, training has become more critical than ever. The TRI Alliance has seen a significant increase in requests for training in proper installation techniques, understanding building code requirements, and performing maintenance evaluations. As extreme weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and hailstorms become more frequent, the demand for roof repairs and retrofits is growing rapidly.
Roofing professionals must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet these new challenges. Proper training is essential to ensure that roofing systems are installed and maintained correctly to withstand extreme weather conditions. Steep slope roofing systems require specialized knowledge to ensure they are providing long term performance, durability, and increased resiliency.
The Role of the TRI Alliance
The TRI Alliance plays a pivotal role in helping roofing professionals navigate these challenges. From providing training resources to advocating for solutions to the labor shortage, the TRI Alliance is working to ensure that the roofing industry remains resilient in the face of uncertainty.
As part of its efforts to support contractors, the TRI Alliance is working to expand its training programs to include a virtual library of courses on proper installation, code compliance, and maintenance. The organization now provides a comprehensive directory of TRI member-certified contractors, helping building owners find more qualified professionals who meet the highest standards in the industry.
As the roofing industry faces an uncertain future, contractors must remain flexible and prepared to adapt to changing market conditions. The TRI Alliance is committed to helping contractors navigate these turbulent times by providing valuable resources, training, and advocacy. Together, we can ensure that the roofing industry remains strong, resilient, and ready to face the future. By working together, staying informed, and investing in workforce development, we can adapt to the evolving market and continue to thrive. Let’s work together to ensure the future success of the roofing industry.
