June 2017
The Value of Industry Associations for Roofing Contractors
by Rachel Garcia, Marketing Event Coordinator, Malarkey Roofing Products – originally posted May 31, 2017
For busy roofing contractors, devoting time to an industry association may be placed far below the daily tasks to maintain a business. Yet many of these organizations are comprised of other contractors that have similar concerns and schedules, so they are created to benefit a business, not deter from it. In fact, there are many benefits to joining an industry association, and great value in participation.
Not only is there value for individual members in associations, but also for the roofing industry collectively. Participation is a valuable investment for any roofing company, large or small. Industry organizations are founded, and funded, by everyone involved roofing: manufacturers, contractors, suppliers, architects, and specifiers. Each group is vital to the industry and have a significant impact on the other businesses.
Malarkey Roofing Products works with a variety of industry groups, and in many capacities. Associations bring us together to discuss the latest advancements in the roofing industry and more. Participants from all aspects of the industry have a chance to share their perspectives about various roofing topics. From these conversations, everyone learns from one another, helping to inform future decisions. Whether a company participates in all the events or not, membership dues fund research and development of the industry.
Members can utilize all the benefits and resources available with your membership. Whether a local, regional, or national association, each has something unique to offer. Some of the many benefits that can help businesses include, but are not limited to:
Safety and legal advice – Rules and regulations are constantly updated, and it can be difficult to keep up with these changes. Look to a trusted association for a guide; most associations even allow members to email or call with legal and safety questions. There are also affiliated safety programs that can provide current information regarding health and safety in the industry as well.
Technical bulletins – As companies continue to innovate and launch new products, it’s important to stay educated on best practices. With these industry publications, members can readily learn from other projects and experiences.
Business management resources – Various warranty, employment, and operational forms are often offered through member portals. Members have access to logos and badges for co-branding, and the association will also have members listed in their online and printed directories. These tools add credibility to a business, and shows commitment to the continued development of the roofing industry.
Annual educational conferences – Conferences pack a significant amount of information in a very short period of time. They serve as an opportunity to come together as an industry and learn from each other. What’s working, what’s new, what’s not working; members are able to pick and choose educational sessions and spend some valuable hours walking the trade show floor. They are also an opportunity to check in with manufacturers and suppliers. Come with questions, concerns, and success stories.
Roofing industry associations also advocate for members. More than just a certificate or badge, being a member is an investment in partnership. As an industry, it is beneficial to meet, continue to innovating, and improve practices. In addition to the many benefits these groups provide in exchange for dues, they are contributing together, to the future of roofing.
Thank you to Malarkey Roofing Products for the above blog post. The original content was posted to the Malarkey Roofing Products site and can be found here.