3 min read

Ten years ago this month, Brandon Aiken of Sanford launched a dream. He was 22 years old, sitting on the floor of his living room as his 1-year-old daughter crawled around, realizing his long-held thoughts of opening a business were now fueled by something deeper.

Taking the next step was no longer optional — it was a life mission.

“I was mostly house painting back then,” he said during an interview. “Back then, I didn’t even have a truck. I had a Jeep and decided if I bought a trailer, I could start doing jobs.”

Startup logistics were cumbersome, but Brandon had years of experience at that point from working with his father to “fix and flip” homes. He had inherited a strong work ethic, aptitude for the trades and a knack for communication, and decided that roofing had the most appeal.

Roofing offered the perk of seeing fast results while helping protect his customers’ most valuable investment. He would — and still does — happily take on all types of construction jobs, but roofing is the most satisfying work to him.

“It’s definitely hard work, but it’s a crucial area that’s extra stressful for home or business owners because most people don’t, and shouldn’t, go up there,” he explained. “It’s also rewarding because every roof is different and requires problem-solving. There’s a lot of detail in some roofs, which makes the job interesting.”

Photo provided by B’s Roofing & Construction, LLC.

“What matters most to me is reputation. This business was built one customer at a time, and trust is everything in this industry. My goal has always been to treat every home like it’s my own and to build a company that people can rely on for the long term.”

Brandon Aiken

Today, B’s Roofing and Construction, LLC has expanded to include framing, siding, general contracting, painting and custom finishing work. There are 10 full-time employees, and the company team grows as large as 25 when multiple projects are in progress.

Brandon is also a certified installer of the top three shingle brands made in the country: GAF, CertainTeed and Tamko. He is also certified as a Velux Skylight and Sun Tunnel installer. Although certifications are not required in Maine, having them allows his company to offer stronger warranties backed by the manufacturer. They also show his commitment to staying on top of new technology and industry developments.

Roofing Advances from the Past Decade

As seen by Brandon Aiken

Looking to replace or repair your roof? If you haven’t done anything in at least 10 years, new materials and technologies will make it better than ever.

• Improved underlayment. Roof underlayment is a protective barrier between the roof deck and outer roofing material. It prevents water intrusion while enhancing the roof’s durability.
• Improved architectural shingles designed for stronger wind resistance
• Better ventilation technology
• Digital measurement tools like drones for aerial roof reports
• More energy-efficient roofing systems

One example is investing in technology and processes to help prevent growing pains. Another is an instant roof estimator that provides a ballpark cost of your roof replacement within a minute. Brandon is quick to point out that discussing the project may allow him to flex his problem-solving skills and offer more cost-effective ideas.

When asked how he keeps himself from being spread too thin, he said he is determined to control the business’s growth so that every project gets the attention it deserves.

“I stay involved in every project, but it’s more about accountability than control,” he explained. “I’m building a great team, and trusting them is essential as the company grows.”

Photo provided by B’s Roofing & Construction, LLC.

The most recent ladder rung Brandon has climbed is the addition of a new showroom on his property in Sanford, which will welcome people to handle materials and discuss their potential projects face-to-face with Brandon.

Before the interview ended, Brandon shared a picture of his now 11-year-old daughter wearing a pink tutu and a bright smile as she was about to hit the stage for a dance recital. Based on the last 10 years, it’s clear his mission to keep climbing higher is well intact.

B’s Roofing & Construction, LLC serves businesses and homeowners within 60 miles of Sanford. Visit the new showroom at 88 Alfred Rd., Sanford, and learn more at bsroofingandconstructionllc.com