What is the Position of Roofing Suppliers in 2024?

As the construction industry in Great Britain continues to evolve, the position of roofing suppliers in 2024 faces both challenges and opportunities. The NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) is the UK’s largest trade association for the roofing industry, with over 1,200 members researching the UK roofing suppliers market. In this research, it shows the current situation in the roofing material market, challenges, and opportunities.

Main source: Roofing contractors survey: Rising demand, late payments and sustainability in procurement

Challenges Faced by Roofing Suppliers

Increasing workload and employment level

Analyzed the Q4 of 2023, 27% of roofing companies reported an increase in scope of work, while 12% reported a decrease. Also compared a 2022 year, 37% of companies report an increase, while 17% report a decrease.

At the same time, 32% of firms report a decrease in service requests, while 24% report an increase. It means that companies will have less workload in a few months.

Also increases employment level: 19% of companies increase their staff, while 11% decrease. Also, 26% of companies increased use of contractors, as opposed to a 16% decrease.

Late payment

Payment delay continued to be the main problem. Only a third of workers get a salary in 30 days, and there is no difference between short-term and long-term contracts.

Private sector influence

Allan Wilen, Glenigan’s economic director, said: “Roofing contractors’ workload continued to improve during the final quarter of 2023, with commercial and domestic repair, maintenance and improvement particular bright spots.”

Despite a low increase in the private sector, building new houses leaves much to be desired and is roofing suppliers’ main reason for fear.

Opportunities for employment

General sector increase and popularization of sector influence positively for employment possibilities. It concerns both pitched and flat roofing. The new generation coming into this sector helps replace retirement workers and opens new opportunities, like solar PV development, rainwater management, etc.

Read also: Russell Roof Tiles became production of its first PV solar panels