Beginnings

As told by Tom Ware, Founder/President

After working my way up through the ranks in the meat business, I wanted to start a big business of my own. My venture was going to be in the maintenance business, but I thought it would be too difficult to keep the necessary manpower required.

I was searching for something I could manufacture repetitiously. By good fortune, I discovered a roofing system called Gregg Steel Shakes. I knew immediately, I could use this for the vehicle to build a successful business which could one day lead its industry. So, in 1988, I started Hy-Grade Steel Roofing System.

As with all great discoveries, I was excited! I soon realized that I would have to make numerous changes to the system, to make it the very best in the marketplace. I started by making the product more installer-friendly to ensure quality completions. It next became imperative to source and use only the best coatings for our solutions, while solving the challenges of expansion and contraction.

Next, I had to build a dynamic team of best-in-field installers and sales representatives who would become solution experts. I knew if we were going to create be a strong and reputable company, we had to back everything we did!

In the beginning this was a one man show, but I am proud of the company we have worked so hard to become. I am even more excited about where we are about to go…