The roofing industry is evolving rapidly. New technology, labor challenges, and changing customer expectations are forcing contractors to rethink how they run their businesses.

On a recent episode of The Roofer’s Helper Podcast, filmed at RoofCON in Oklahoma City, JT Ulyatt, CEO of Maven Roofing, shared insights on some of the biggest challenges roofing companies face today.

Topics discussed with Richie Rossouw from Thunder Media included roofing CRM software, technology overload, workforce development, and the future of roofing company leadership.

For contractors trying to scale a roofing business, the lessons from this conversation provide valuable guidance.

The Problem of Technology Overload in Roofing Companies

Many roofing contractors rely on multiple software tools to run their businesses. These systems often include:

• CRM software

• estimating platforms

• production management systems

• scheduling tools

• communication apps

• accounting software

While these tools are designed to improve efficiency, they often create the opposite effect.

Over time, roofing companies end up with a patchwork of disconnected systems, which can lead to:

• difficult employee onboarding

• poor communication between departments

• slower sales processes

• operational inefficiencies

During the interview, Ulyatt explained that onboarding a new employee sometimes required learning six or seven different apps just to start working.

This complexity created unnecessary friction for both office staff and field crews.  The found a solution for their company by using Zuper.

The lesson for roofing companies:

More technology does not always equal better systems.

Why Simple Roofing Business Systems Scale Better

One of the most important principles discussed in the interview was simple:

“The complex doesn’t scale.”

Many roofing companies attempt to solve problems by adding more software or tools. However, every additional system creates more training requirements and more opportunities for mistakes.

Simplifying operations can often deliver greater benefits than expanding technology stacks.

For roofing contractors trying to grow their businesses, this means focusing on:

• streamlined processes

• integrated systems

• clear communication workflows

• easier onboarding for new employees

The goal should be to make it easier for teams to serve customers rather than forcing them to manage complicated technology.

The Amazon Effect and Customer Expectations

Customer expectations in home services have changed dramatically over the past decade.

Companies like Amazon have trained consumers to expect:

• faster response times

• clear communication

• predictable timelines

• seamless service experiences

This trend, often called the Amazon effect, is now influencing the roofing industry.

Homeowners increasingly expect contractors to provide the same level of service and efficiency they experience in other industries.

According to Ulyatt, roofing companies must find ways to balance three critical factors:

• speed

• quality

• price

Businesses that can align their systems and workforce around these three elements will have a major advantage in the market.

Why Labor Strategy Is Critical for Roofing Companies

One of the most debated topics in roofing is the labor model.

Many contractors rely heavily on subcontractor crews. While subcontracting can help companies scale quickly, it can also create challenges in maintaining consistent quality.

Ulyatt emphasized that companies seeking long-term growth must invest in their workforce by:

• developing internal training programs

• building strong company culture

• creating clear career paths

Without control over labor and training, it becomes difficult to deliver consistent results for customers.

This is why many forward-thinking roofing companies are reconsidering their labor structures and focusing more on workforce development.

Roofing Needs Better Career Paths for Installers

Another important point raised in the conversation is the lack of focus on installer career development.

Industry conferences and coaching programs often focus heavily on:

• sales training

• marketing strategies

• lead generation

• roofing CRM tools

However, very little attention is given to training and developing installers.

This creates a major gap in the industry.

Roofing companies that invest in installer training can benefit from:

• improved workmanship

• stronger employee retention

• better company culture

• higher customer satisfaction

For the roofing industry to attract long-term talent, it must treat installation work as a professional career path rather than temporary labor.

Recruiting Veterans into the Roofing Industry

One strategy Maven Roofing has embraced is recruiting military veterans into roofing careers.

Each year, thousands of service members transition from military service into civilian life. Many of these individuals bring valuable skills that translate well into roofing and construction.

Veterans often possess:

• strong leadership ability

• discipline and reliability

• problem-solving skills

• experience working in high-pressure environments

By creating training opportunities for veterans, roofing companies can help fill labor gaps while offering meaningful career paths.

This approach benefits both the individuals entering the industry and the companies hiring them.

The Next Generation of Roofing Company Leaders

The roofing industry is also experiencing a generational shift in leadership.

Younger roofing company owners are increasingly focused on:

• operational efficiency

• better systems and workflows

• workforce development

• technology integration

At the same time, larger companies backed by private equity often face challenges managing labor and maintaining company culture.

According to Ulyatt, the next decade could see a major divide between companies that prioritize innovation and leadership development and those that struggle to adapt.

Contractors who invest in people, systems, and long-term strategy will likely emerge as the leaders of the next generation of roofing businesses.

Key Takeaways for Roofing Contractors

For roofing business owners looking to grow their companies, several important lessons emerge from the conversation.

Simplify Your Technology

Avoid stacking multiple disconnected tools. Focus on systems that streamline operations.

Invest in Workforce Development

Training and leadership development are critical for long-term success.

Create Career Paths for Installers

Roofing companies must treat installation work as a professional trade with advancement opportunities.

Focus on Customer Experience

Modern homeowners expect faster communication and more transparency.

Build Systems That Scale

Processes should make work easier for employees rather than more complicated.

Final Thoughts

The roofing industry is changing quickly.

Technology, workforce dynamics, and customer expectations are reshaping how successful roofing companies operate.

The insights shared by JT Ulyatt highlight a simple but powerful idea:

Great roofing companies are built on strong systems and strong people.

Contractors who simplify operations, invest in their workforce, and focus on long-term leadership will be best positioned to succeed in the years ahead.