New York-based Wolkow Braker, a large commercial roofing services firm, announced earlier this month that it acquired operational control and the exclusive management of Metalmaster Roofmaster, a significant commercial roofing and architectural sheet metal contractor in the Chicagoland area. 

In a news release, Wolkow Braker described the pairing as a “leadership consolidation [that] brings together two multi-generational, family-run businesses with shared values and a strong reputation for excellence in craftsmanship, safety, and service.”

Adding Metalmaster Roofmaster, ranked No. 50 in Roofing Contractor’s 2023 Top 100 Roofing Contractor firms, with reported revenue of $44.2 million, under Wolkow Braker's management, significantly enhances Wolkow Braker's operational capacity, the company noted.

Wolkow Braker said the addition of Metalmaster Roofmaster’s sheet metal fabrication and installation capabilities, in particular, positions the firm to better serve clients across commercial, industrial and institutional sectors from the East Coast to the Midwest. 

"Metalmaster Roofmaster has long been recognized as an industry leader, especially for their outstanding work in architectural sheet metal," said Scott Wolkowitz, president and CEO of Wolkow Braker. 

"This opportunity represents more than just a business transaction — it's a union of two family businesses with deeply aligned values and cultures,” Wolkowitz added. “Together, we are poised to offer an even higher standard of service and craftsmanship to our clients."

Founded in 1977 and based in McHenry, Ill., Metalmaster Roofmaster is recognized for its precision in sheet metal fabrication, expert installation teams and long-standing client relationships. The company recently transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), underscoring its commitment to empowering employees and fostering a shared sense of ownership and pride.

Dan Smeja, previous principal of Metalmaster Roofmaster, said the transition to an ESOP was an important investment vehicle bequest for his employees, whose hard work helped make his company so successful. 

"In an era when business relationships often feel transactional, it's truly refreshing to partner with a company that puts people and customers first, and with the ESOP in place, joining forces with Wolkow Braker makes this transition even more exciting for our employees," Smeja said.

Wolkow Braker and Metalmaster Roofmaster will maintain a presence in New York and Chicago, offering a suite of roofing and sheet metal solutions — from design and fabrication to installation and service. The companies will continue to use union fabricators and installers and said clients can expect a seamless integration with added benefits from the expanded operational footprint and technical capabilities.

Wolkow Braker, founded in 1944, is based on Long Island and provides services to New York's construction industry. The company has built a reputation as a premier roofing, sheet metal and waterproofing organization across the New York tri-state area.

For more information, visit wolkowbraker.net.