What happens when roofing suppliers begin owning roofing contractors? And what should residential roofing companies consider before entering the commercial market?

In Episode 116 of Law & Mortar, Trent Cotney and John Kenney discuss vertical integration in the roofing industry following recent acquisition activity and the concerns contractors are raising about purchasing materials from suppliers that may also own competing roofing businesses.

John shares his perspective on why roofing does not always fit traditional consolidation models and how these changes could create opportunities for independent, family-owned roofing companies.

The conversation also examines current commercial roofing market conditions, including pricing pressure, trucking shortages, fuel surcharges, and rising construction costs. Contractors need to understand how these pressures affect estimating, purchasing, and profitability before committing to projects.

The episode concludes with a listener question from Garrett, a residential roofing contractor considering commercial roofing. John and Trent discuss why entering commercial work requires more than adding another roofing system to your services. It requires different estimating practices, project management processes, contractual considerations, and an understanding of the risks associated with commercial projects.

Topics discussed:

• Vertical integration and consolidation in roofing distribution and contracting
• Contractor concerns about supplier-owned roofing companies
• Opportunities for independent and family-owned contractors
• Construction cost increases, freight expenses, and material pricing
• The differences between residential and commercial roofing operations
• Why residential contractors should begin with smaller, manageable commercial projects
• The risks of competitive bid work and complex HOA or condominium projects
• Building the right processes before expanding into commercial roofing

Whether you're evaluating changes in roofing distribution or considering expansion into commercial work, this episode offers practical perspectives on protecting your business and making informed decisions.

Connect with the Hosts

Trent Cotney – Construction Attorney & Partner, Adams and Reese LLP
Nationally recognized construction attorney serving the roofing and construction industries.

🌐 www.adamsandreese.com

John Kenney – CEO, Cotney Consulting Group
Helping roofing contractors improve operations, profitability, estimating, leadership, and business performance.

🌐 www.cotneyconsulting.com

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