Solutions
Helping to Provide Answers to Difficult Questions
Yes, there’s no doubt about it; the Western roofing industry has stabilized and is growing, in some regions more than others. Contractors, meanwhile, have noted that due to the ever-present labor shortage, they hadn’t been operating at full capacity. It seems that demand has been out stripping supply.
However, the problems in the roofing industry continue to compound as usual. In addition to concerns about labor shortages and material availability, contractors have watched prices of roofing materials continue to soar. Submitting a bid today for a job that’s months down the road is a roll of the dice. If you use current material prices you can virtually guarantee that you’ll experience serious financial hardship when hard material costs are included. Most contractors have built-in contract clauses protecting themselves from these outrageous material price increases, as well as other variables beyond their control. Then, once you’re awarded the job, can you get the required material and enough qualified people to work the job?
What can you do to learn to navigate these treacherous waters? The Western States Roofing Contractors Association annual Western Roofing Expo is right around the corner, September 28-30, in Las Vegas, Nevada. One of the major benefits from attending any convention is the camaraderie and interaction with your peers. What are they doing? What are their successes and problems? How would they handle similar situations to yours? Most will gladly share information about what they have learned or how they are handling issues in their area.
Talking directly to the manufacturers can also offer valuable insight into which direction the market is headed. New materials, products, methods, or equipment can make your business run more efficiently and profitably. The manufacturers and suppliers will be out in force on the exhibit floor.
The seminars at the Expo this year are designed to help you solve problems before they arise and keep your business in the black. Everything from current political and legal issues, to succession planning, to OSHA inspections, to safety will be addressed in the seminars.
One of the best aspects of the convention is the camaraderie of fellow roofing contractors. It’s a chance to exchange ideas and possible problem-solving techniques. It’s also a chance to get further involved in the industry. But it’s not all seminars and exhibits. There’s also the golf and clays tournaments, the Davis Memorial Foundation Auction, and of course, the shows and fun of Las Vegas itself. With your experience, the support of local associations, and the knowledge gleaned from conventions like the upcoming Western Roofing Expo, you’ll be set to prosper. This will be an experience you won’t want to miss. Hope you can make it.
Editor
Marc Dodson
