Secrets to Success in Roofing: Hiring, Grit and Community Involvement

By Adam Cabrera. 

Roofing expert Lori Swanson offers wisdom for aspiring roofing professionals. 

In a recent episode of Stories From the Roof hosted by Heidi J. Ellsworth and Megan Ellsworth, Guardian Roofing President Lori Swanson takes listeners on a remarkable journey through her life in roofing. As a second-generation roofer who grew up helping at her father's roofing company, Lori knows the industry inside and out. Here's some of her advice for those just starting out. 

One of the key takeaways from Lori's conversation was the importance of understanding the various aspects of running a roofing business. Whether it's knowing the legalities or focusing on numbers, Lori stressed that these fundamental principles are the backbone of a successful business venture. 

Lori emphasizes the value of knowing the financial side of the business. “It's great to do a lot of business, but are you making any money? Are you covering your overhead expenses?” she says. This, along with surrounding oneself with partners who understand the legal aspects and having a robust marketing team, forms the trifecta of a strong roofing company. 

But Lori's wisdom extends beyond the boardroom. Her advice also focused on the qualities that make up the right team for a roofing business. She highlights the importance of hiring the right people, those who are resilient, persistent and able to overcome challenges. As she puts it, "We hire for grit." 

Lori's insights are not limited to business strategy. Her dedication to community service and giving back are prominent. She believes that success is incomplete without giving back and contributing to the community. “I know that we've had a lot of help along the way and just helping others in need is really important,” she says. 

With a career spanning over three decades, Lori’s story is inspiring and an insightful perspective on success in an essential and dynamic field. 

For more stories and insights from Lori, listen to the full Stories From the Roof episode.