Become a Master of Time Management: Tips from a Roofing Company Owner

Time management is no easy task, but when running a business—especially a roofing business—it can be one of the most powerful techniques for maximizing productivity and profitability.

Between office responsibilities, meetings with clients and employees, administrative tasks, and fieldwork, your attention is often required to shift abruptly. You may even need more time in the day and lose out on more opportunities. Managing your time with a few mindful techniques can help fundamentally improve your business efficiency.

‍

Time blocking: a secret weapon for roofing business owners

Time blocking is allocating a dedicated time slot for specific tasks throughout the day. For many small businesses like roofing companies, there are likely a variety of tasks in day-to-day operations. However, these tasks are similar between jobs and, therefore, perfect for time blocking.

With time blocking, you'll enjoy less time wasted and less stress. Effective scheduling and planning through time blocking can be the tool you need to take your business to the next level.

To give you an example of how it works, here’s the schedule I use  to boost productivity:

Morning Routine (5 AM to 6 AM):

It's crucial to start your day with integrity and discipline. Use this period of the day to wake up, gather your tools (both figuratively and literally), and mentally prepare yourself. Engaging in morning activities that place you in the right headspace is of the utmost importance, as that headspace will carry over throughout the rest of the day.

Depending on what type of morning person you are, your routine may involve exercising, meditating, focusing on spiritual growth, or simply enjoying your coffee in a period of mindful intention. Either way, it's important to set a routine that sets a positive tone for the day's work.

Administrative Work (6 AM to 10 AM):

Now to begin the real work of the day. At this point, it's important to check in with your crews to make sure material has been delivered, jobs are getting started, and solve any potential issues before they become a problem. It's also an ideal time to focus on writing estimates, responding to emails, and managing paperwork.

Since you'll typically face fewer interruptions at this time, the 6 am-10 am period allows you to dive deep into some of these important administrative tasks, put your blinders on, and get them done. Furthermore, getting more 'tedious' tasks while you're fresh and full of energy allows the rest of the day to feel more manageable.

Roof Inspections (10 AM to 12 PM):

As a roofing contractor, it's no surprise that roof inspections are an important part of the job. Since lighting conditions are typically best in the morning, dedicating time between 10 am and noon is an excellent idea for conducting your necessary inspections.

It's a good idea to give yourself room for both early and late inspections since some customers may need to perform them on-site with you once they're done working. However, any commercial inspections or those that don't require an afternoon visit are best done in the morning.

Lunch Break (12 PM to 1 PM):

Even owners need to eat! Don't forget to allocate time to fuel yourself and recharge. While you may not need a full hour, having this time slot available ensures you have the flexibility to take your lunch without disrupting your workflow.

To maximize your time, consider preparing meals to avoid relying on fast-food restaurants and waiting in line.

Internal Meetings or Client Consultations (1 PM to 2 PM):

Use this time to meet with your team and ensure everyone is on the same page. Effective and clear communication between you and your team is crucial in operating a successful business, whether addressing client concerns, discussing project details, or performing client consultations.

Try to schedule this work around 1-2 pm, as midday meetings are more productive as everyone is already energized.

Project Work (2 PM to 4 PM):

Now it's time to return your focus to ongoing project work. Check in with your team about marketing efforts, monitor your company's progress, and ensure everything is running smoothly. Figure out where your door knockers will be, and monitor the work performed that day.

Staying focused during these hours will help boost productivity, especially during critical production moments when you must make quick decisions or put out potential fires. For instance, you'll want to be on the ball should your foreman let you know you're short of shingles so that you can contact the supplier before they close for the day.

Administrative Tasks (4 PM to 5 PM):

Allocate a second block of administrative work time to wrap up loose ends and set yourself up for the following day's work. This is also an excellent period for self-education, such as staying updated on the latest roofing techniques, attending webinars or workshops, or researching new products and marketing methods.

Investing in your skills and personal development is a great way to boost your future productivity and keep your business ahead of the curve.

Time for Personal Life (6 PM onwards):

Life isn't all about work, and it's important to work your "off switch" into your calendar. At 6 pm, stop working and focus on your personal life. If you have a family, spend quality time with them and be present. There are never enough hours in the day to accomplish everything, so it's crucial to outline time when the people that matter most in your life get the attention from you that they deserve.

Prioritizing your loved ones and maintaining a healthy work-life balance will bring you joy and energy and ensure long-term success.

Remember, time blocking is an art, and this schedule is simply a guide based on my routine. You'll need to tailor it to your own needs and the specifics of your business. Bringing predictability to the chaos of roofing work is the key to success, and time blocking is a great way to do just that.

‍

Built For Roofers, By Roofers: Contact SquareDash Today for More Operations Funding Information

SquareDash is built for contractors, by contractors. We are in this business with you and understand how difficult it can be to manage your accounts payable when your operating expenses diminish your cash reserves. You need more money to make ends meet.

Our number one goal is to help you focus your cash flow so that you can actually get to profitability. Regardless of your business's financing activities, remember that you will only see growth if you focus on your cash flow.

Contact the SquareDash Sales Team at 214-740-6148 to learn more about how SquareDash can revolutionize your cash flow and account management and propel your roofing business forward.