How data, speed and ownership changes are reshaping roofing

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Roofing is moving faster as technology, consolidation and customer expectations reshape how contractors compete. 

This episode of Roofing Road Trips® brought together Steve Little of KPost Roofing & Waterproofing and Dave Harrison of Dave Harrison Consulting for a discussion centered around the state of the industry. The two shared their thoughts about the rapid change, shifting ownership models and the growing role of data in roofing today.  

What stands out most about roofing today? 

Steve shared, “I think it's transitioning at a rapid pace. There are so many things that are happening just in the technology of the roofing products and the demands of building codes that Mark Graham at the NRC does such a great job taking care of our industry, working with the manufacturers, technical departments and things like that.” 

The roofing industry is navigating several major shifts at once. Product innovation, changing code requirements and manufacturer collaboration are all influencing how contractors plan, communicate and deliver work. For roofing companies, staying current is no longer just about keeping up with new materials. It also means understanding how technical standards, compliance expectations and industry partnerships affect day-to-day operations. 

How is the contractor’s role changing? 

“The industry is fundamentally changing rapidly. In the past, the question was: Can we put on a new roof, or can we replace the existing one? Now, roofing is starting to look more like a software company than a traditional roofing company because it’s not just about the roof anymore,” said Dave. 

Contractors are being asked to think beyond installation and replacement. As customers expect more transparency, faster answers and stronger asset management, roofing businesses are becoming information-driven service providers. Data, documentation and technology platforms are becoming central to how companies manage relationships, reduce risk and prove value before, during and after a project. 

How has the pace of business changed for roofing contractors? 

Steve noted, “I’m comfortable with saying the speed of business is doubled in the last ten, and I see it doubling again in the next three.”  

The rapid acceleration is putting pressure on every part of a roofing company, from estimating and operations to workforce development and customer communication. Companies that once had more time to adjust to market changes are now working in an environment where decisions, responses and expectations move much faster. Adapting to technology, labor challenges, customer demands and information management has become an immediate business requirement rather than a long-term strategy. 

The future of roofing competition 

As roofing continues to change, Steve and Dave point to an industry where success will depend on speed, adaptability and the ability to use information well. Technology and ownership changes are reshaping how contractors compete, but the larger challenge is operational: roofing companies must be ready to make decisions faster, manage more complexity and deliver value beyond the roof itself. 

Listen to the entire podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how data, speed and ownership changes are reshaping roofing!