Storms Benefit Area Roofers

The rough economy has hit many companies and sent them on a downslide this year, but not the St. Louis roofing industry. The Good Friday Tornado & Storms, in addition to the Joplin Tornado, has boosted the business of the area's roofing contractors and suppliers.

According to Eric Kirberg, Vice President of Kirberg Roofing and RSCA Board Member and Past President, "Times have been tough for many companies today, but we're different, we're hiring! Overall we have had steady business growth this year."

Other RSCA members (Roofing & Siding Contractors Alliance, Inc.) echo the same sentiment. "We are a part of the rebuilding process throughout the St. Louis area and greater Missouri. There is a demand for skilled roofers in the area, we are always looking to add new qualified craftsman," said Jason Shupp, President of Ferguson Roofing and RSCA 2nd Vice President. Shupp further added that he has increased his skilled roofer staff by 20% and hopes to continue this level of growth in the future.

Brent Wiley, Sales Manager at RoofersMart, Inc., a roofing materials supplier, and RSCA Board President, also noted they have increased their staff, mostly in the area of shingle delivery and warehouse personnel, to meet the demand of its roofing contractor customer.

The rebuilding process has been steady throughout the state, beginning with Lambert Field Airport and following through to many other businesses and homes. Kirberg added, "Although the recent storms created a demand among area roofers and contractors, the increased business is not all due to the storms. The harsh winters, along with the hot summers we typically experience in the Missouri area usually take a toll on roofs."

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