When challenges arise, innovators see an opportunity. That’s exactly what Matt Burkholder did when his employer downsized after a decade in construction. Instead of letting that setback stop him, he launched Premier Roofing and Construction in Nappanee, Indiana, in 2011. Today, Premier Roofing is known for its top-notch metal forming work and genuine, long-lasting relationships. This is the story of their success.
Seizing the Opportunity
In 2011, armed with a decade of experience, Matt turned a difficult moment into a fresh start. While established companies were fully booked and demand for roofing and metal forming was high, he saw a gap in the market. Starting as a post-frame builder and roofing contractor, he built his reputation by focusing on quality work and excellent customer service. Matt believes that success in construction relies on using the best materials, tools, and equipment—and on cultivating solid relationships with customers and suppliers.
Investing in the Right Equipment
As Premier Roofing’s projects grew in size and complexity, so did the need for advanced, reliable equipment. One of the first major investments was a New Tech SSH roll former. Matt and his team found that New Tech Machinery produced some of the best, most user-friendly roll formers available. Although the investment was significant, producing panels in-house quickly paid off by reducing costs and ensuring material availability.
By 2013, Premier Roofing had added a second New Tech machine and a used Jorns 21’ folder. As demand increased, they expanded further with a third New Tech machine in 2015. In 2016, after moving to a new facility, the company added a Variobend long folder and a CIDAN cut-to-length slit line, which boosted production efficiency. In spring 2022, they expanded the shop by 12,000 square feet and installed an MRS Titan 36” exposed fastener panel line. Every new machine—from the SWI slitter and recoil line to equipment from Guttermaster, CIDAN, Eastside Machinery, JM Machine, and Heartland Equipment—was selected for its advanced features and strong manufacturer support.
For Premier Roofing, cutting corners on equipment is not an option. High-quality machinery is the backbone of efficiency and excellence, helping to keep prices competitive and ensuring that every product meets customer expectations.
Building Authentic Relationships
Matt understands that quality equipment is only part of the success equation. Equally important is building strong relationships. Early in his career, he learned that not all steel is the same. After testing various suppliers, he discovered that some steel worked better on his machines and produced smoother, higher-quality panels. Today, Premier Roofing uses steel from trusted suppliers like United Steel Supply and Coated Metals Group. Matt advises others in the roll-forming business to choose reputable steel suppliers—quality materials are essential.
This commitment to excellence extends to every part of the business. Premier Roofing uses top-tier coatings such as Kynar and Sherwin-Williams Weather XL, and sources fasteners from companies like Direct Metals Inc., Atlas Building Products, Levi’s Building Components, and Wildcat Fasteners. When choosing partners, Matt looks for not just a quality product, but also rapid service. “Quality and service are the most important parts of any business relationship we have,” he says.
The company also values strong support from its equipment suppliers. Whether it’s quick assistance from New Tech for roll formers, dependable service from Variobend for trim folders, or fast support from SWI, having responsive partners is crucial—especially when equipment downtime can cost valuable time and money.
Innovating for Contractors
Innovation at Premier Roofing goes beyond purchasing new equipment—it’s about finding better ways to work that benefit both contractors and customers. For example, noticing that some contractors hesitated to use standing seam roofing because it seemed too complicated, Matt’s team developed a user-friendly trim system. After extensive testing both in the shop and on job sites, the new trim system simplified installation, reduced errors, and improved overall performance.
Another innovative idea was offering enclosed roll-forming trailers. These mobile units allow roofers to produce custom panels directly on the job site without rental fees—roofers only pay for the coil, trims, and supplies they use. This on-site roll forming service accelerates projects and reduces logistical challenges.
A Focus on Quality in Every Detail
At the heart of Premier Roofing is a deep commitment to quality. In his early days, Matt tried saving money with lower-quality equipment, but he soon learned that investing in the best tools saves time, money, and stress in the long run. Reliable equipment has allowed the shop to run smoothly and deliver components that meet high standards.
This commitment also applies to materials. While smaller coils were sufficient at first, the business’s growth led to investing in a recoil line capable of handling larger coils, resulting in significant cost savings and efficiency gains. Every strategic decision—from making panels in-house to owning a trim folder—has been a step toward delivering outstanding products.
Family-Oriented Culture, Prime Customer Service
Premier Roofing’s success is also built on its people. What began with just two employees has grown into a tight-knit team of eight full-time staff members, supported by skilled subcontractors. Matt credits his dedicated team for the company’s achievements: “God has richly blessed us and our employees are phenomenal. They have been a huge part in making our business successful.”
The company treats every customer like a partner, focusing on the details that matter—whether it’s installing a 36” exposed fastener panel or a custom-designed PlatinumX4 panel with a unique look. As Matt advises, “Always treat your customers as if they are right and put your best quality into every project.”
Premier Roofing offers a diverse range of products, including steel roofing, siding, plank siding, soffit, trims, and commercial guttering. Signature products like the PlatinumX4—a four-rib panel with a unique striation design for added strength and style—and wood-look plank siding demonstrate the company’s commitment to both function and design.
Embracing New Technology
Keeping up with technology is key to staying competitive. Initially, Premier Roofing outsourced trim bending until Matt realized that owning a trim folder would be a game changer. “I wish I had bought a trim folder sooner,” he admits. In-house trim bending not only saves money but also ensures that every piece is made to high standards. Now, the trim folder is as critical as the roll former, and the company is even exploring the addition of a double folder to further boost efficiency.
Strong Supplier Partnerships
In metal forming, reliable suppliers make all the difference. Premier Roofing’s long-standing partnerships ensure that the company consistently receives quality materials. Similarly, trusted equipment manufacturers provide prompt support when needed. “With any of our major equipment suppliers, a phone call is all it takes to get help,” says Matt.
These partnerships not only keep day-to-day operations running smoothly but also encourage the company to explore new technologies and products, knowing that expert support is always available.
Custom Solutions and Mobile Roll Forming
Flexibility is at the core of Premier Roofing’s business model. The company offers custom solutions like enclosed roll-forming trailers that allow roofers to produce panels on site. This service eliminates the wait for factory-delivered panels and reduces rental fees, as contractors only pay for the supplies they use. With a fleet of seven portable roll formers, Premier Roofing can efficiently serve residential, agricultural, and commercial projects.
In addition to roofing panels, the company supplies a variety of fastener systems—such as the 1 and 1½” fastener flange, the 1¾” snap lock, and the 2” mechanical seam—along with the necessary tools from trusted names like Roll Former LLC, Malco, and Wuko. These offerings ensure that every roll-forming trailer is equipped to deliver quality results.
Business Advice
After more than a decade in the industry, Matt has learned many valuable lessons. His top advice for newcomers is to invest in quality equipment from the start. “Had I known everything I know now, I would have bent our own trim from the beginning,” he reflects. Owning a trim folder pays for itself quickly and saves time and money compared to outsourcing. Matt also stresses the importance of balance. Running a business is demanding, but it’s vital not to let work consume your personal life. “If you have a family, make sure business doesn’t consume all your time,” he advises. A balanced life helps you make better decisions and build lasting relationships.
Looking Ahead
Today, Premier Roofing operates with a dedicated team of eight full-time employees and several subcontractors. While the current size meets their needs, Matt is always looking for ways to improve efficiency. The company plans to move into a larger facility within the next two years and add more advanced equipment to maintain peak performance. Despite these growth plans, Matt remains humble. “We never imagined we’d get to where we are,” he reflects. Premier Roofing has become a trusted partner for contractors and a leader in metal forming innovation. Their future goals are clear: continue delivering the best steel roofing, siding, trims, and other products, all while investing in reliable equipment and maintaining strong relationships.
In Conclusion
Premier Roofing’s journey is a story of hard work, smart investments, and genuine relationships. From its start in 2011 to becoming a respected industry leader, the company shows that success comes from using quality equipment and building strong partnerships. For anyone in the metal forming and roofing industry, their story offers a valuable lesson: invest in the best tools, choose reliable suppliers, and always put the customer first. Every decision—from buying advanced machinery to nurturing supplier relationships—shapes the future of your business. As Matt puts it, “Our equipment and relationships have been the backbone of our business. They’ve helped us overcome challenges, delight our customers, and build a company that has exceeded our expectations.” With this philosophy, Premier Roofing is poised for even greater achievements in the years ahead.
Remember, when you invest in quality equipment and build real relationships, you’re building a legacy. Good business is about excellence, attention to detail, and genuine care for people, and that’s the kind of success that lasts.
