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Published on:

30th Oct 2024

Safety and Success in Roofing: Melvyn Scofield on Trades and Financial Planning

On this episode Melvyn Scofield dives into roofing safety, industry changes, and financial planning. They highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and share insights on career paths and earning potential in roofing.

We're diving deep into the challenging yet rewarding world of roofing with our esteemed guest, Melvyn Scofield . From the importance of safety protocols and proactive maintenance to significant industry shifts and the financial intricacies of roofing work, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.

Melvyn shares his journey from Brazil to becoming a dedicated roofing professional in the U.S., emphasizing the importance of personal fulfillment, continuous self-improvement, and educating both customers and fellow tradespeople. We'll explore everything from the rising costs and material quality changes in the roofing industry to overcoming challenges like worker availability and emergency repairs.

Whether you're keen on the economic impacts of career trades, seeking advice on home maintenance, or interested in the lucrative potential of sales within the roofing sector, this episode has something for everyone. So, tune in, and let’s rediscover the lost art of skilled trades!

Melvyn Scofield's Bio

Melvyn Scofield is a dedicated professional who understands the importance of safety in the workplace. With a career that often involves taking significant risks, such as inspecting roofs on two-story houses, Melvyn prioritizes the use of proper equipment to ensure his own safety as well as the safety of others. Juggling between six to eight appointments daily, whether during storm seasons or retail projects, Melvyn consistently demonstrates a commitment to careful and responsible practices in his field.

Melvyn Scofield's Social Media

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvynscofield/

Timestamped overview:

00:00 Building costs rose; materials quality decreased.

03:26 Roofing costs increased due to inflation, shortages.

06:59 Track expenses; many overlook deferred costs.

12:05 High roof pitch requires more safety precautions.

13:23 Safety and liability in professional settings matter.

17:59 Hispanic workers in Iowa take more risks.

21:21 Started cleaning sites, became roofing expert.

24:33 Aspiring project manager in roofing and sales.

27:09 Sales can be more profitable than CEO roles.

33:08 Invested in sales coach to improve myself.

33:49 Continuous self-improvement for personal and collective growth.

37:20 Join Trades Movement newsletter for valuable insights.

5 Keys that Listeners Will Learn

Safety First:

  • Discover the proper safety measures in roofing, the use of essential equipment, and why worker safety is paramount in skilled trades.

Roofing Costs & Trends:

  • Learn about the rise in roofing costs, how inflation and supply chain disruptions affect these costs, and the importance of budgeting for home repairs.

Material Insights:

  • Get the lowdown on various durable roofing materials like lifetime vinyl siding and cement board that can enhance your home's value and longevity.

Proactive Maintenance:

  • Understand why regular inspections and a ‘Roofing Savings Account’ can save you from unexpected, costly repairs.

Behind the Scenes:

  • Step inside Melvyn's journey from being a laborer to mastering roofing sales and management, offering valuable lessons on perseverance and self-improvement.

Roofing safety, storm season roofing, Lost Star of the Skilled Trades podcast, Andrew Brown, Melvyn Scofield, skilled trades careers, roofing industry changes, roofing material durability, roofing cost increases, proactive home maintenance, roofing inspections, financial planning for home repairs, durable roofing materials, lifetime vinyl siding, financial spreadsheet for home repairs, Roofing Savings Account, trades worker safety, OSHA guidelines, roofing risk management, insurance for roofing work, self-education in trades, overcoming sales rejection, mentorship in trades, reinvestment in career, LinkedIn for roofers, trades cultural safety norms, career path in roofing, COVID-19 impact on trades, 1099 contractor in roofing, roofing sales potential, commercial roofing projects.


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About the Podcast

The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades




Welcome to The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades, the ultimate podcast dedicated to celebrating and exploring the world of skilled trades. Hosted by Andrew Brown, a passionate advocate for the trades industry and co-founder of Toolfetch, this podcast is your go-to source for knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice. Andrew brings a unique perspective shaped by years of hands-on experience, entrepreneurial success, and a deep commitment to elevating the trades.





Dive into the fascinating and ever-evolving world of skilled trades, where creativity, problem-solving, and dedication come together to build the world around us. From carpentry and HVAC systems to electricians, plumbers, millwrights, and beyond, every episode uncovers the grit, determination, and artistry that define the people behind these essential professions.



Andrew’s journey began with a life-changing moment on September 11, 2001, when he worked alongside tradespeople, first responders, and community helpers at Ground Zero. This experience inspired him to dedicate his life to advocating for the unsung heroes of the trades. Through his company Toolfetch, Andrew has helped provide tools, equipment, and resources to industry professionals worldwide. Now, through this podcast, he continues his mission to spotlight the craftsmanship, hard work, and dedication of tradespeople everywhere.




Each episode features in-depth interviews with industry experts, seasoned professionals, and rising stars in the trades. From contractors and electricians to HVAC specialists, plumbers, carpenters, and more, listeners will gain insider knowledge about the skills, tools, and strategies needed to thrive in these essential fields. Andrew also speaks with educators, advocates, and business leaders who are working to inspire the next generation of tradespeople, offering a fresh perspective on the value and opportunities within the trades.




At its core, The Lost Art of the Skilled Trades is more than just a podcast — it’s a celebration of a culture built on pride in craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to excellence. In a time when traditional career paths are overemphasized, this podcast shines a light on an alternative: rewarding careers in skilled trades that offer creativity, financial stability, and the satisfaction of building something tangible.




Whether you’re a seasoned trades professional, an aspiring craftsman, or simply curious about the industry, this podcast is your ultimate guide to the untold stories and secrets of success in trades like refrigeration, building, plumbing, and construction. Join Andrew Brown as he celebrates the artistry, resilience, and innovation of the skilled trades — and inspires a new generation to pick up the tools that keep our world running.




About Andrew Brown

Andrew Brown is a fervent advocate for the skilled trades and is dedicated to addressing and then fixing the trades shortage gap. Through platforms such as social media, podcasts, and live events, he tirelessly promotes the benefits of the trades to students, parents, and educators. For over 23 years Andrew along with his co-founder has built one of the country’s largest on-line tools and equipment eCommerce companies - Toolfetch - focused specifically on the Industrial & Construction Supply Industry.




Follow Andrew Brown

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Toolfetch

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown

Website: https://www.toolfetch.com




About your host

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Andrew Brown