Keep up with trends in roofing and siding material It may not feel like part of your job description, but knowing if the trend is moving toward asphalt shingles or vinyl roofing materials is important to your business.

I recommend:  Following trends in the marketplace at sites such as Builder.com takes just a few minutes each day. Let contractors and homeowners know what you have in stock by attending home shows in your area.

Sell accessories for your roofing and siding materials that other suppliers do not carry Standard exterior siding and roofing materials are easy to find. To set yourself apart from the competition, carry products that other stores would have to special order.

I recommend:  Trigger clips are a unique way to hang cement siding that lowers labor costs and prevents damage to the siding. Insulation such as that offered by Prodex provides soundproofing and insulation as well as ease of installation. There may not be a large demand for specialty items, such as aluminum and copper shakes, but if a homeowner wants them, they will want to see them before they order.

Look beyond local access of roofing and siding material It is common for local companies to purchase their roofing and siding material from the same suppliers. While convenient, it limits your ability to stay competitive. Establish relationships with several suppliers. When a customer or contractor comes in with a specific request, if you do not have it in stock, you will have a contact.

I recommend:  Cedar Valley is a supplier of cedar panels that provide the look of shingles, but are much easier and less labor intensive to install. Buffalo Lumber stocks redwood, cedar and knotty pine wood siding. CentainTeed has a user friendly website if you are interested in stocking fiber cement siding.