Author: Dan Stout | August 8, 2023

If there's one phrase that has the potential to tank your roofing company, it's "this is the way we've always done it." It's no secret that avoiding change and new technology can quickly put you behind the curve in jobsite efficiency and customer retention. But it's also difficult to keep up with the constant stream of advanced roofing technologies and run a business at the same time. So, how do you know when to adopt new technology, and when to stick by the old-school techniques that have gotten you this far?

Knowledge Is Key

One way to start learning about changes to the industry is through continuing education. Just as you constantly stay up to date with code requirements and labor laws, you should have a rough idea of new technology that will impact the roofing industry. You have to be aware of what's coming down the road before it affects your company. However, that doesn't mean you have to embrace every new development. Let the tech experts do the hard work of sorting through all the new technologies.

The trick is to rely on advisors who understand both tech and roofing. Talk to other professionals and make use of available training from organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association. There's no shortage of resources out there for a roofer who wants to keep learning.

Timing Is Essential

If you're old enough to remember when VCRs, personal computers and cell phones made their debut, chances are you remember the sky-high pricing and bare-bones features that came with them. That's fine for early adopters who want bragging rights, but professionals are better off waiting until the technology's second-generation hits the market. The cost has most likely dropped and bugs have been removed, but the technology is still new enough to give you a competitive edge.

Low-Hanging Fruit

When you take an honest look at your company, chances are you can identify areas where you excel and others where you struggle. When considering where to invest your time and hard-earned dollars, focus on areas where improvement is needed.

If your customer communication is phenomenal, maybe you don't need a web-based portal for payments. On the other hand, if your crews are always returning to the shop because something essential was left behind, then maybe it's time to consider tracking your tools with an RFID system.

One easy improvement to make to your business is to invest in tech that lets you spend less time at a desk and more time on the jobsite. Working with a distributor that offers services like Beacon Pro+ for online ordering, online bill pay and delivery tracking can help you reduce administrative work (without a steep learning curve or a computer science degree).

Customer-Facing Tech

Some roofing technology mostly benefits you and your team, but some provide visibility to the customer. In those instances, it's possible that your tech investment can pull double duty as a marketing tool.

Whether it's a portal that streamlines communication, paperless financing options, or an energy-tracking app that shows when an upgrade has paid for itself, customers love tech that gives them more control over their investment. Your sales team can use that to help you stand out from the competition.

On the flip side, some tech advancements may be purely for back-office use. They might help your bottom line, but they won't necessarily boost your marketing presence.

Tracking advanced roofing technologies should continue as long as tech companies and manufacturers keep rolling out new products. Sooner or later, something will come along that revolutionizes your roofing business. Remember, it's always better to be prepared before the revolution comes.