A strong work ethic, combined with a passion for small business entrepreneurship, fuels Nick Zavala’s early career success in roofing.

How long have you been in the roofing industry, and how did you get your start?

NZ: I never set out to be in the roofing industry, but like many great careers, my journey found me. As the son of an immigrant, I had a front-row seat to what hard work and small business ownership really meant. With a background in custom home building and carpentry, I developed a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. It wasn’t until my best friend convinced me to make the leap into roofing and remodeling that I truly found my calling. American Home Contractors has been in business since 1986, and I’m proud to carry that legacy forward as a second-generation leader.

What are a few reasons why your company is successful?

NZ: Our success comes down to four key factors:

• Staying ahead of industry trends — We are constantly adapting to changes in the industry, whether that’s new materials, installation techniques, or tech.
• Focusing on the customer experience — We believe in transparency, education, and delivering the highest-quality workmanship.
• Hiring and developing great people — A strong team is the backbone of any great company. We invest in our employees and provide growth opportunities.
• Leveraging technology — From project management to customer communication, we use technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

Our partnership with Infinity Home Services has also been a game-changer. Since joining forces, our business has doubled its revenue. IHS has provided invaluable support, allowing us to focus on what we do best — serving our communities with integrity and excellence.

Nick Zavala shared insights and knowledge at the Young Guns meetup during the 2024 Best of Success conference.

What are the big challenges in your particular market, and how is the company addressing them?

NZ: The roofing industry is incredibly competitive, and homeowners today have more options than ever. To earn their trust, we focus on meeting them where they are by providing clear, upfront pricing and a straightforward process. By offering a full range of exterior services, we can be a reliable contractor beyond just roofing. At the core of it all, we stay committed to evolving with customer needs while [focusing] on quality, education, and doing right by homeowners.

Do you see your age as an advantage or disadvantage in this business? Why or why not?

NZ: I see my age as a big advantage. I have the time, energy, and drive to push innovation, grow our team, and expand the business. At the same time, I’ve always been an old soul, working closely with mentors who have decades more experience than me. That’s been huge in helping me learn the business the right way. Being able to relate to and work across generations, whether it’s industry veterans or the next wave of talent, gives me a unique perspective.

What did you get from attending the Young Guns meeting at Best of Success?

NZ: It was an incredible opportunity to network and learn from some of the best minds in the industry. The experience reinforced my belief that the future of roofing is in good hands. We have a strong group of young, innovative leaders ready to elevate the industry.

What’s next? What are your future plans for the business?

NZ: We’re growing, and expansion is definitely on the horizon. We’re focused on [raising] the bar in the industry, whether through better customer experiences, new service offerings, or embracing the future with solar roofing.

You’re a strong advocate for solar. What role does it play in your company’s future?

NZ: Solar plus roofing is the future. Homeowners shouldn’t have to choose between a high-quality roof and a cutting-edge solar system. They should get both seamlessly integrated. We are pioneering the next generation of solar roofing solutions to ensure homeowners get the best of both worlds. As the industry evolves, we’re committed to leading that shift and making solar-integrated roofing the new standard.