Composite products open new paths for contractor growth

By Jesse Sanchez.

New composite stone, shake and brick options give roofing contractors opportunities to expand their exterior services.

Roofing contractors looking to diversify their businesses may already have an opportunity waiting on the exterior of the home. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips® with host Heidi J. Ellsworth, Tando Composites President and CEO Ralph Bruno discussed how composite exterior products can help contractors broaden their offerings and create new opportunities with homeowners. Pointing to a shift he has seen across the industry, Ralph observed, “We’ve noticed a real trend both at PEPA and in my career that most roofers are now getting into siding and other exterior products.”

Ralph brings experience developing new product categories from his previous work with Trex and AZEK Building Products. At Tando Composites, he sees similar potential in products designed to replace traditional exterior materials while giving contractors installation options that fit their existing skills.

Tando Stone, for example, is designed as an alternative to mortar-applied stone veneer. Ralph explained that its installation can open stone applications to roofing and siding crews, noting, “It installs like traditional siding. It’s super lightweight.” He also said the product doesn’t absorb moisture and can be installed in ground contact, providing another option for contractors looking to add mixed-material designs without relying on specialized masonry labor.

Beach House Shake addresses natural cedar shingles, which Ralph said can discolor, cup and crack over time. The composite alternative is designed to preserve the appearance of cedar while reducing those maintenance concerns. Tando is also bringing the composite approach to brick, with products intended to help contractors address affordability and labor availability while expanding the types of exterior work their crews can perform.

For contractors considering that expansion, Ralph recommended starting with the suppliers they already work with and asking about stone and shake alternatives. Emphasizing the accessibility of the installation process, he said, “It’s a super easy install for our roofers and siders.”

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how composite exterior products can help roofing contractors diversify their services and create new opportunities for business growth!