Arizona’s Roofing Labor Shortage Crisis: Why Finding Quality Contractors During Peak Demand Has Never Been Harder
Arizona homeowners facing roof repairs or replacements in 2024 are confronting an unprecedented challenge: the number one challenge for contractors remains difficulty finding the right amount of labor, with roofing companies continuing to compete with a small labor pool making it hard to find skilled labor at anything less than premium pay. This crisis has reached critical levels, with 90% of U.S. roofing contractors facing labor shortages during the past year, with the West being the region most severely affected by a lack of skilled workers.
The Perfect Storm: Why 2024 Is Particularly Challenging
Several factors have converged to create what industry experts describe as a perfect storm for Arizona’s roofing market. Finding the right amount of labor is going to be especially hard this year as roofs made during the housing boom before the 08 recession are due to be replaced, with a roof in Arizona typically lasting for twenty years, meaning we expect a large number of requests for roof repairs and replacements.
The situation is further complicated by Arizona’s extreme climate challenges. Last year’s heatwave drastically affected the industry’s ability to do jobs, with 31 straight days of 110 degree or higher temperatures, and heat is expected to remain a massive challenge in 2024. This has forced contractors to limit working hours, reducing overall productivity when demand is highest.
Peak Demand Season Pressures
Arizona’s peak roofing season coincides with some of the most challenging working conditions in the country. The summer season runs from May through October billing cycles, with peak energy demand occurring from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. During this period, Arizona utilities experienced higher-than forecasted peak demands, with temperatures reaching 117-118 degrees in Phoenix.
The labor shortage has forced most roofing companies to need around 10 percent more staff this year, but finding qualified workers remains nearly impossible. Labor shortages in the roofing industry are causing project delays, increased wages, and quality concerns in 2024, as construction demand rises and finding skilled workers has become increasingly difficult.
How to Secure Quality Contractors Despite the Shortage
For homeowners seeking reliable roofing services, timing and preparation are crucial. When searching for a Roofer near me, consider these strategies to secure quality contractors during peak demand:
- Book Early: Roofers are going to need to prepare for a busy Spring and Summer, with roofing company owners needing to keep pay and benefits up to entice competent roofers and load up on materials
- Verify Credentials: Ensure contractors have proper Arizona licensing and insurance
- Check References: Quality contractors maintain strong reputations despite high demand
- Understand Pricing: Roofers lead Arizona construction in wage growth, with some jobs up over 45% in five years amid ongoing labor shortages
Technology and Innovation as Solutions
Progressive roofing companies are adapting to labor shortages through technological innovations. Technology integration, including automation and roofing technology such as drones for roof inspections and robotic equipment for material handling, are helping companies improve efficiency despite labor shortages. Drones are increasingly being used for roof inspections, reducing the need for workers to physically climb onto roofs.
Roofing All Stars: Meeting Arizona’s Challenges Head-On
Companies like Roofing All Stars in Maricopa County understand Arizona’s unique challenges. Your roof is the first line of defense against 115-degree summers and intense monsoon downpours, with materials specifically tested for Arizona conditions and proven installation techniques backed by a 25-year workmanship warranty.
Roofing All Stars addresses the labor shortage by focusing on quality over quantity, maintaining their own trained crews rather than relying on subcontractors. With their commitment to quality and durability, customers can rest assured that roofs will withstand the harshest weather conditions year after year, prioritizing both strength and aesthetic appeal.
Planning for Success in a Challenging Market
The Arizona roofing labor shortage shows no signs of immediate relief. Although 77% of construction contractors have a hard time filling salaried or hourly craftworker positions, 69% still plan to increase staffing to meet demand, with 20% saying it will become more difficult to hire in 2024.
For homeowners, this means planning ahead is essential. Consider scheduling roof inspections during off-peak months, maintaining your existing roof to extend its lifespan, and building relationships with reputable contractors before emergency situations arise. Energy bills decrease with reflective roofing materials that reduce cooling costs, storm damage resistance increases through proper installation and quality materials selection, and family safety improves with structurally sound roofing that withstands severe weather events.
The combination of extreme weather, aging roofs from the pre-2008 building boom, and persistent labor shortages makes 2024 a particularly challenging year for Arizona homeowners. However, by understanding these market dynamics and working with established, quality-focused contractors, homeowners can still secure the professional roofing services they need to protect their most valuable investment.