Why roofers are expanding their services beyond the roof

By Jesse Sanchez. 

More contractors are embracing siding offerings — and metal is leading the charge. 

The roofing industry is experiencing a notable shift as contractors look beyond shingles and slopes to seize new opportunities in siding. One key driver behind this expansion? Metal siding. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth explores this growing trend with Melissa Dunson, director of marketing at Central States Manufacturing and industry veteran Chris Morris. 

“It has been an interesting phenomenon,” said Melissa. “How many roofers, if they're going to offer another product that they install, siding is that product.” 

Their conversation focused on the growing momentum behind metal siding and why roofers are uniquely positioned to capitalize on this trend. As Chris puts it, "Typically a want chases a need. So, you want the siding, you need the roof." That natural pairing is giving contractors a way to increase revenue and offer a more complete exterior solution without straying far from their core competencies. 

This crossover isn’t just anecdotal. According to Chris, research backs up the strong connection between roofing and siding. “You’ll see a lot of painting and things that go right after [roofing jobs],” he noted. “So, what roofers had noticed was that, ‘hey, there’s another crew coming right behind me… How can I get bigger share of wallet from the homeowners?'" 

The benefits aren’t just for the contractor. Homeowners increasingly expect cohesive, durable exteriors — something metal siding delivers in spades. Melissa pointed out that many customers already think about siding when replacing a roof, especially after storm damage. “If you see somebody and they have hail damage or they have wind damage on their roof,” she said, “get off the roof and walk around and see if there's additional damage to the siding.” 

Durability and low maintenance are major selling points. “It’s a naturally non-combustible material,” Chris said of metal, highlighting its resistance to fire, pests and rot. The aesthetic limitations of metal siding, once a major barrier, are also fading thanks to advances in digital printing and finishes that mimic real wood with stunning accuracy, like the new Board and Batten product from leading metal manufacturer Central States 

For roofers, the shift isn’t just practical; it’s strategic. With more homeowners researching siding options on their own, contractors who stay ahead of the curve with innovative materials and complete exterior solutions are more likely to win trust and business. 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about how new products like Central States' board and batten metal siding are shaking up the market and why more contractors are adding siding to their services!