How to Kickstart a Roof or Gutter Business

By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter. 

Why and how you should invest in a portable rollforming machine to start your business. 

It doesn't matter what industry you're entering, taking the leap and starting a new business can be intimidating. However, starting a gutter installation, “chop and drop” supply business or metal roof contracting business can be surprisingly straightforward. 

One of the biggest draws of the gutter and roofing industry is that there are few barriers to entry, meaning that not a lot of people or supplies are required at the beginning. Additionally, as the owner of a gutter or roofing business, you have a lot more independence and control, as well as financial freedom. 

The key to success in this industry is having the right equipment for production, like a portable rollformer. One of the first steps of starting such a business is to buy or finance a portable rollformer. Read on to learn why you need a portable rollforming machine and the options that you have as a new business. 

Why you need a portable rollforming machine 

Owning your own portable rollforming machine allows you to gain more control of your business and projects. Making this purchase helps you avoid getting stuck waiting for products to be fabricated and shipped from suppliers and leaves you less vulnerable to delays and incorrect or damaged orders; owning a machine cuts out the middleman. 

Better control of your own inventory is another huge draw of owning a portable rollforming machine as it allows you to rollform the panels or gutters that you need when you need them. This reduces on-the-job waste that is common with prefabricated panels and gutters that need to be cut to fit a structure. Save on material costs by cutting panels or gutters the correct length.  

Owning a rollforming machine puts money directly in your own pocket. Instead of having to pay factory supplier, you will be in charge of the majority of your project and increase your own bottom line. 

A rollforming machine retains much of its original value. As your business grows and you decide to upgrade your original equipment you can sell the used machine and still make money off of it. While this machine is an expensive initial investment, a rollformer can often pay for itself in a few installation jobs. 

Buying a portable rollforming machine 

Option 1 - Buying a new machine 

Pros: 

• You own the machine 

• You get the original warranty 

• Machine training often accommodates new machines 

•  A huge selection of accessories and add-ons for machine customization 

Cons: 

• Higher initial cost 

• You will be responsible for all maintenance adjustments and repairs 

Option 2 - Buying a used machine 

Pros: 

• Less expensive 

• A good alternative for those without a lot of initial cashflow 

• Gets the job done 

Cons: 

• You are not the original owner of the machine 

• Warranties might not be transferable 

• Necessary parts or accessories may not be available or included with the purchase 

Option 3 - Financing a machine 

Pros: 

• You can manage your initial cash flow. 

• You can finance a brand-new machine 

• Usually these are leased to purchase so you will eventually own the machine 

• You can receive tax advantages 

• This can help you determine your company's profitability 

Cons: 

• You might not be able to finance if you have bad personal credit 

• You may end up paying more in interest payments 

Option 4 - Renting the equipment 

Pros: 

• No significant investment, just rental cost 

• Low risk as you don't have to pay for maintenance repairs or anything beyond the rental cost 

• Allows you to rollform the products that you need 

Cons: 

• You do not own the machine 

• You're subject to the availability of the machine 

• Your machine options could be limited, especially with metal roof panel machines 

Conclusion 

Starting a new gutter or metal roof business is an exciting step towards a new future. Not only will you have the opportunity to make lots of money, you will gain control and independence in a growing industry. Take the first step towards having your own successful gutter or metal roofing business and get a portable rollforming machine today. 

Learn more about New Tech Machinery in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit www.newtechmachinery.com.