Top 7 Tips To Keep Your Cash Flow Flowing.
Tackling A Small Business’ Biggest Challenge.
For many small roofing businesses, lack of work isn’t the biggest challenge … cash flow is. At Marco, we talk with roofers all the time that have a full schedule, a hardworking crew, and a solid reputation, yet still feel stressed about paying suppliers, covering payroll, or investing in growth.
So how can you make the leap from simply surviving to long-term success? Here are seven practical, real-world tips to help you keep money moving in the right direction.
1. Require Deposits—And Stick to It. One of the fastest ways to improve cash flow is to stop fronting the entire job cost. Materials, permits, and labor add up quickly. A clear deposit policy protects your business and sets professional expectations.
Many successful roofers require 30–50% upfront before scheduling. Homeowners are accustomed to this, especially when it’s explained clearly: the deposit secures materials and locks in the crew. If you occasionally make exceptions, they’ll quickly become the rule—and your cash flow will suffer.
2. Invoice Immediately, Not “When You Get Around to It.” Delaying invoices is essentially giving out interest-free loans. As soon as a job milestone is hit—deposit received, job completed, or inspection passed—send the invoice. Use simple invoicing software or even templates if needed. The key is speed and consistency. The sooner the invoice goes out, the sooner the clock starts on getting paid.
3. Tighten Up Your Payment Terms. If your invoices say “Net 30,” expect to wait 30 days—or longer. For small roofing businesses, that delay can be painful.
Instead, consider shorter payment terms like Net 7 or Net 10. Make sure to have clear late payment language and consider small incentives for quick payment. Remember, clarity matters. Customers are far more likely to pay on time when expectations are clearly communicated upfront.
4. Separate Business and Personal Finances. This may sound basic, but it’s one of the most common mistakes small contractors make. Mixing personal and business funds makes it nearly impossible to know how healthy your company actually is. Separate accounts help you track true job profitability, plan for taxes, and avoid surprise cash shortages.
5. Watch Material Costs Closely. Roofing margins can disappear quickly when material prices fluctuate. Build a buffer into your pricing and avoid underbidding just to win work. Develop strong relationships with suppliers and stay aware of price changes. In some cases, locking in materials early—even before the job starts—can protect both your profit and your cash flow.
6. Build a Cash Reserve. A slow month, weather delays, or a late-paying customer can throw your finances off fast. A cash reserve acts as a safety net.
Aim to gradually set aside one to three months of operating expenses. You don’t need to build it overnight. Even small, consistent contributions make a difference over time.
7. Don’t Grow Faster Than Your Cash Can Handle. Growth sounds great, but rapid expansion can strain cash flow. More jobs mean more upfront costs—materials, labor, trucks, insurance—before payment comes in. Make sure your cash flow can support growth before adding crews or taking on larger projects. Sustainable growth beats fast growth every time.
Remember, cash flow isn’t about cutting corners, it’s about running your roofing business intentionally. With clear policies, better systems, and disciplined habits, you can reduce stress, protect your profits, and build a business that lasts.
To learn more about Marco, visit www.MarcoIndustries.com. To contact Marco directly, you can email or call 1-800-800-8590.