Episode #304
EP 304. How to Build a Roofing Company That Can Run Without You and Eventually Sell
In this episode, I sit down with Erick Loden , former owner of Dave Loden Construction and host of From The Ground Up Show , to unpack his journey of buying, growing, and eventually selling a roofing company . Erick takes us through his experience growing up in his family's roofing business, eventually taking over the company , and learning what it really takes to transition from working in the business to building something that can operate beyond the owner . He shares how the company grew from approximately $1.2 million in annual revenue to $10 million , including the systems, processes, and focus on growth that helped take the business to the next level. We also talk about the importance of documenting what you know, creating repeatable processes, and developing a leadership team capable of carrying the business forward. Erick also gives us an inside look at the process of selling the company , including conversations with multiple private equity firms , the challenges that came with those negotiations, and the decision to ultimately pursue an internal sale with members of his team and their families. One of the biggest lessons throughout the conversation is that building a valuable business requires more than increasing revenue . You have to create something that can function without you —and give yourself the freedom to step away from the day-to-day operations . Toward the end of the conversation, Erick shares what life looks like after the sale , his continued advisory role with the company , and how his experience ultimately inspired him to launch From The Ground Up Show to share the stories and lessons of other entrepreneurs. If you're a roofing contractor looking to grow beyond the owner-dependent stage, build stronger systems, create a leadership team, or eventually position your company for an exit , Erick's story offers a firsthand look at what that journey can actually look like.
