How to Grow a Roofing Business and When to Hire a COO
| A Contractor's Guide on How to Grow a Roofing Business and When to Hire a COOGoing from crew leader to company owner is a big leap. At first, you're on the roof, managing jobs, and talking to clients. But helping your commercial roofing business pick up sometimes means stepping away from the ladder and building systems that run without you.That’s where strategy—and sometimes a COO—comes in. This blog breaks down how to grow a roofing business, when to bring in help at the executive level, and what it takes to lead like a true business owner. Whether you’re building momentum or ready to scale, read on.The Stages of Roofing Business GrowthEvery successful company passes through growth stages. Understanding them helps you plan ahead instead of playing catch-up.Survival Mode: You're doing the work and wearing every hatStability: You’ve got a crew, steady jobs, and basic processesScalable Structure: Systems are improving, and new leaders emergeGrowth Leadership: You’re focused on sales, vision, and partnershipsExit or Expansion: You’re building value for the long-term or a future sale Knowing how to grow your roofing business means thinking two stages ahead, not just surviving today.Building a Foundation for Scalable GrowthBefore you think about a COO, you need a business ready to scale. That means documented systems, roofing business management software, clear team roles, and a strong handle on your numbers. Use tools for roofing lead generation, job tracking, and crew coordination. Put your time into vision, not daily chaos.Key Areas That Limit Growth Without a COOMany roofing businesses hit a ceiling. Not because they can’t sell, but because operations can’t keep up. Common bottlenecks include:Disorganized scheduling or job flowPoor communication across teamsInconsistent customer experienceOwner burnoutMissed opportunities in marketing roofing business strategiesSigns You’re Ready to Hire a COOHiring a COO doesn't mean stepping away—it means stepping up. So, how do you know when it's time? Look for these red flags:You’re the bottleneck in every decisionFirefighting takes up your whole dayYou’ve got more leads than you can handleGrowth is inconsistent despite strong demandYou're preparing for a sale and need a leadership teamHiring or Promoting: Internal vs External COOsSometimes the best fit is already on your team. Other times, you’ll need someone new who brings a fresh perspective. Internal hires know your culture. External COOs often bring expertise from other industries. Whoever you choose, make sure they align with your vision and values. This person will help shape the business long after the roofing contract is signed.Lead Your Business with ConfidenceYou’re building more than jobs. You’re building a legacy that doesn’t rely on your daily grind to thrive. If you feel like you’ve hit a wall or you're struggling to find time for the big picture, you’re in the right place. RoofCON is here to help you break through. From leadership playbooks to roofing trade shows and mastermind sessions, we offer the tools and insights to scale on your terms. Whether you're building your first roofing referral program or eyeing a future exit, we’ve got your back.GET STARTED | |