Residential Roofing, Insulation, Gutters and Skylights

Larry's Story
Beginning my business was a true leap of faith. I had a daughter starting college and a son in high school. Finances were tight, but I knew this was what I should be doing. I grew up in a roofing family, took a break to learn how businesses operate, then began my own at the age of forty-three. Scared, yes. Determined, yes. Stubborn to succeed, even more so!

Back then contractors weren’t the most upstanding individuals. I recognized a need for a reputable roofing contractor in the Puget Sound area. So began my journey.

Literally, I was a one man show—truly, one man, one ladder, and one truck. The details of how the job was going to actually be played out never bothered me. I knew that if I didn’t do what I said I was going to do, I would be seen like the other failed contractors…full of empty promises. That is not how I wanted my company to be viewed, simply because that is not how I run my personal affairs.

I started my shop in an “A” frame cabin that sat along 1-90 in Issaquah. Now, in its place sits a Chevrolet dealership. My long-time friend designed my sign that stood in front of my first office (that very logo still exists). I had it all in place and was ready to go.

Yep, everything was in place…but I needed to get that phone ringing. I remember staring at the phone, willing it to ring; knowing full well that someone would call. But having the expectation that it should ring more! I had a lot of time to think about how to execute myself in the beginning. How did I want my customers to view my service while considering prospective clients, as well. Even today, I feel the same way as I did back then, I want customers to think of my company as my friends see me—hard working, honest, and reliable. Not much has changed.

Beginning a business is tough. My stories are endless. From being called at 11PM one evening to pick up 5 nails in someone’s grass from the tear off that day to receiving my first plate of cookies from a young family who was pleased with what my company did for them.

It’s about treating people fairly—you know the golden rule: Do unto others as they would do unto you. I taught my children that and I treat my employees that way. And every customer who walks though my door.

I love what I do because I do what I love. To me, there isn’t anything better than looking at a job well done…and I get to do that regularly.