When I interviewed Top Job Roofing and Construction co-owners Steve Ridinger and Zeb Lewter last September, they already had experience with “community building” that went beyond putting physical roofs on people’s homes or businesses. They understood the value of giving back, (or paying it forward, depending on your frame of reference,) and early on demonstrated that commitment to their hometown. In 2014, after what then had been our most recent round of damaging twisters, Top Job was putting tarps on peoples’ houses whether or not the homeowner signed a contract with them to have their roof or property repaired. Why? “We love Athens and Limestone County,” they said, “and that’s just what you do.”
They have made their presence known in the area through both the outstanding service they give their customers, as well as their level of community involvement. Top Job was a Silver Sponsor of the 2015 Home and Garden Show. They are members of the Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. They are part of Keep Athens Limestone Beautiful. They also joined the ranks of local businesses who have invested in our local schools and students.
When Steve and Zeb talk about the importance of producing and shopping locally, they are pleased to have their customers know that every shingle they bring to the job is made here in Alabama. They are also sponsors of a local legend, WKAC’s Sick Call, heard every morning from 8-8:30 on AM 1080. I learned about the history of Sick Call from Jay Hudson, who co-hosts the show with his son, Corey. Sick Call has been heard in our area continuously since 1953, and Jay has been on the air as a host since 1973. It is the kind of radio talk show that normally would only be popular in a small town, except that it has an industry documented listening audience of over 200,000, reaching well beyond Athens. It covers everything from obituaries, anniversaries, birthdays, community calendar events, and makes folks aware of those who are sick and need prayer. They also mention the menu for the day at various service outlets that have meals available. It is not at all uncommon to hear Jay say, “Sponsored by our good buddies down at…,” and many of the sponsors have been a part of the program for 30-40 years. Jay says Sick Call is a lifeline for shut-ins, and Zeb and Steve say they have gotten a lot of jobs through advertising on the program.
Another way Top Job serves our community is through the efforts to which it has gone in order to get the best possible industry ratings and finance options for its customers. This spring, Athens Now announced that Top Job was awarded the Master Elite certification by GAF, the largest roofing manufacturer in America. Only 2% of all contracting and roofing firms have been granted this certification, and in Limestone County, Top Job is the first and only. It is an “invitation only” designation, subject to strict scrutiny, investigation and guidelines, and one of the highest awards in the industry. With the Master Elite classification, Top Job can offer the Golden Pledge Warranty on certain materials as well as the job itself, all of which is good for 25 years. In addition, the warranty on some roofing systems lasts for 50 years.
“GAF looked at our work record, checked our supply companies, credit, and made sure we never cut any corners,” said Steve. Zeb also mentioned that Top Job is now in a position to offer financing for jobs up to 55 thousand dollars. “One company does not run a credit score, and one company does. The interest rate is 12%,” he said. Steve was quick to add that “12 months is same as cash.”
My husband and I knew when we moved into our house that it would not be long until the roof would need to be replaced, and that time is now. After our interview, I explained our situation to Steve, and was truly impressed with his knowledge of our area, the year and type of construction of our house, and his ability to explain our options for getting the job completed. We set up an appointment to do an estimate, and very soon the Top Job crew is coming to my place. I’m sure it will go well, and would like to say thank you to Top Job for “putting more than a roof” over our community.
Top Job Roofing and Construction
803 South Jefferson St Athens, AL, 35611
256-232-5559
www.topjobroofinginc.com
They are also on Facebook and Twitter
By: Ali Elizabeth Turner
