Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd is a company recognized for excellence in roofing services on the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. Twenty-five of the 45 years in business have been in the Powell River area, managed by local resident Ward Morcan.
"We are an RCABC [Roofing Contractors Association of BC] company in town and we are fully insured, including for hot-work," explains Morcan. "We provide services for both businesses and homeowners."
Nelson Roofing covers the entire Sunshine Coast, all the way from Gibsons and north to Bliss Landing, including Savary Island and some more remote islands.
The company's edge? First-class metal roofing, torch-on and shingles, and a professional, fully Red Seal-certified workforce.
"Locally we have been involved with some larger projects, including apartment buildings, seniors housing, grocery stores and, most recently, the Town Centre Mall and Winners."
Having a metal roof installed on a home or commercial building simply makes sense, given the Sunshine Coast's wet climate, he adds.
"We're seeing a lot more interest in metal roofs; they have a longer life expectancy and they're better for the environment, because one roof will outlast two or three shingle roofs. They're more resistant to weather conditions."
Morcan says being a certified member with the Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia (RCABC) demonstrates a commitment to industry standards and quality workmanship.
"We have highly skilled employees who are trained to install the different types of roofing products," he adds. “We can tailor a roof to meet our clients’ needs.”
Not only is Nelson Roofing a homegrown, Canadian company, it is also a big employer in town, offering training and an apprenticeship program.
"Everybody we hire is given the opportunity after 90 days to sign up with our apprenticeship program. Once completed this gives them their Red Seal Certification.”
Morcan navigated his way through construction as a young worker, became involved with roofing and completed his Red Seal certification in 1997.
"I've been involved with roofing, meeting people and helping customers make educated decisions for over 25 years."
Nelson Roofing provides a free estimate for customers and, from the very beginning, from the estimate to going over the scope of the work and roof options, works with the customer to make sure the quality and standards are there.
“Once we receive the job, the project managers are involved from the start to the finish, and there's constant communication with each site foreman. We ensure the highest level of workmanship is provided and are in compliance with company, manufacture and industry standards.”
Morcan has advice for anyone thinking about signing a contract with any company.
“Check valid references, and make sure they have insurance for the work they are proposing, as well as WorkSafe coverage. Your roof is a large investment.”
For anyone looking to build a career in roofing, Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal is a unionized company (Local 280 and Local 276) offering excellent wages and benefit packages. Entry-level employees are supported while working toward Red Seal certification or becoming a ticketed journeyman. Applicants can apply at nelsonroofing.com/employment-opportunities.
For more information, call 604.485.0100.
