Let's be real - running a roofing company is tough work. You're constantly juggling jobs, dealing with materials shortages, and trying to stay ahead of the competition. But here's something I've learned after 20 years in the trade: Your best customers are already working for you... they just don't know it yet.

I'm talking about the homeowners who were thrilled with your work. The ones who thanked you for showing up on time. The families who appreciated you cleaning up every last nail after the job. These people would happily send business your way - if only you'd give them a little nudge. Let’s talk in detail why marketing for roofers is non- negotiable:

Why Referrals Beat Advertising Every Time

Remember old man Thompson down the road? He's been roofing since the 80s and still gets all his work through word-of-mouth. No website. No social media. Just a truck, some tools, and a reputation for good work. There's a lesson there.

Here's why referrals work better than ads:

Trust comes built-in- When your cousin recommends a roofer, you don't question their prices or skills
Zero marketing costs- No paying Google $50 per click
Better quality jobs- Referred customers are easier to work with
It never stops working- Good work today means calls next year

How to Get Customers Begging to Refer You

Step 1: Earn the Right to Ask for Referrals

Last summer, my neighbor hired a crew to replace his roof. They showed up late, left debris everywhere, and botched the flashing. A week later he got an email: "Like our work? Refer us to friends!" Yeah... that didn't happen.

Before you ask for referrals, ask yourself:

Did we show up when we said we would?
Did we clean up properly?
Would I want this crew working on my mom's house?

Action Tip: Next job, take 10 extra minutes to sweep the driveway and wipe down the gutters. Those little touches get remembered.

Step 2: The Art of Asking (Without Being Pushy)

Here's how I ask for referrals without making it awkward:

When handing over the final invoice, I'll say:
"Mr. Johnson, we really appreciate you trusting us with your home. If you know any neighbors who might need roofing help, we'd be grateful if you'd keep us in mind. Here's a couple extra cards if you need them."

Then I shut up. No pressure. No forms to fill out. Just planting the seed.

Step 3: Make It Worth Their While

People are busy. Sometimes they need a little incentive to take action. I offer two options:

The Simple Thank You
- Handwritten note after the job
- $10 coffee gift card with "Thanks for your trust!" written on it
The Referral Bonus
- $100 cash for any referral that turns into a job
- $50 gift card to Home Depot (roofers' favorite store!)

Pro Tip: The bonus doesn't have to be huge. It's the gesture that counts.

Real World Example: How Dave Tripled His Business

Dave, a roofer from Ohio, was struggling to get consistent work. Then he tried this:

Started sending a thank you pizza to every customer's house the night the job finished (cost him $15)
Included 5 business cards with the pizza box saying "Share with neighbors!"
Called every customer 6 months later to check on their roof

Result? He went from 15 jobs a year to over 50 - mostly from repeat customers and referrals. Total marketing for roofers cost? Less than $1,000 annually.

Common Mistakes in Marketing for roofers

I've seen good roofers mess this up by:

Waiting too long to ask- Ask when they're happiest (right after job completion)
Making it complicated- No referral codes or online forms needed
Forgetting to follow up- A simple "How's your roof holding up?" call months later keeps you top of mind

Your Action Plan (Starting Today)

Pick your next 3 jobsto test this on
Do knockout work- Be the crew they'll remember
Ask naturallyat the end like we discussed
Follow up in 6 monthswith a quick check-in call

That's it. No fancy systems. Just good work and genuine relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions About Referral Marketing for Roofers

1. Do I really need to offer a reward for referrals?

Not always, but it helps. Some customers will happily refer you just because they loved your work. Others need a little nudge—even a $25 gift card can make them more likely to spread the word.

2. When’s the best time to ask for a referral?

Right after the job is done, while they’re still excited about their new roof. If you wait too long, they might forget how great your service was.

3. What if I ask and they say no?

No big deal! Just smile and say, "No problem—if you think of anyone later, we’d still appreciate it." Don’t push. A polite ask is enough.

4. Should I ask for online reviews too?

Absolutely! A Google or Facebook review is like a public referral. Right after the job, say:
"If you’re happy with our work, we’d really appreciate a quick review—it helps other homeowners find us!"

5. How do I track who referred a new customer?

Keep it simple:

Ask new customers, "How’d you hear about us?"
If it’s a referral, jot down the referrer’s name in your book.
Send them their thank-you gift once the job is booked.

6. What’s a good referral reward?

Something small but meaningful:

$50–$100 gift card (Home Depot, Amazon, local restaurants)
Discount on their next service
Cash ($50–$100 per referral that books)

7. How often should I follow up with past customers?

At least twice a year:

3–6 months after the job– Quick check-in ("How’s your roof holding up?")
Before storm season– Offer a free inspection

8. What if a referral complains about my work?

Fix it—fast. A happy customer might refer 5 people, but an unhappy one could cost you 10. Always make it right.

9. Can I automate referrals?

A little. You can:

Set up an email thanking them and mentioning your referral program
Use a simple referral form on your website
But nothing beats a personal ask.

10. How long until I see results?

Some referrals come right away; others take months. But if you keep asking, the jobs will keep coming. Most roofers see a big difference within 6–12 months.

Final Thought

In this age of digital everything, the old ways still work best. Do quality work, treat people right, and don't be afraid to ask. The roofers who thrive aren't always the ones with the flashiest ads - they're the ones whose customers become their sales team.

Now get out there and turn your happy customers into your best marketing for roofers strategy. The phone will start ringing before you know it