We were lucky to catch up with Brigitte Delhagen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Brigitte, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

When the idea for Reefside Roofing first started forming, it didn’t come from a perfectly planned business strategy. It came from being in the industry and realizing that things could be done better — with more transparency, better communication, and a higher standard of care for homeowners.

At first, it was just a thought: What if I built a roofing company that focused on doing things the right way?

But once that idea took hold, it was hard to ignore.

The first real step was figuring out what it would actually take to become a licensed contractor in Florida. I started researching contractor schools, licensing requirements, and the qualifications needed to sit for the state exam. That kicked off months of studying — nights, weekends, whenever I could carve out time.

Eventually I qualified to take the test, passed, and earned my State Certified Roofing Contractor license. That was the moment the idea started becoming real.

But getting the license was only the beginning.

The next phase was learning how to actually build a company from the ground up. I had to figure out things like registering the business, setting up insurance, opening business bank accounts, getting the right software, building relationships with suppliers, and creating systems for estimating and managing projects.

Every step felt like a new puzzle to solve.

Some days were spent researching vendors and materials. Other days were about meeting with insurance agents, accountants, or attorneys to make sure everything was set up correctly. There were a lot of late nights learning things most people never think about — permitting processes, compliance requirements, supplier accounts, and the operational side of construction.

At the same time, I was building the identity of the company — the name, the branding, the vision for what Reefside Roofing would represent in our community.

Then came the moment every new business faces: getting the first jobs.

That meant putting myself out there, building relationships, networking, and earning trust. Roofing is an industry where reputation means everything, so every project mattered. Every homeowner interaction mattered.

Slowly, job by job, Reefside Roofing began to grow.

Looking back, the process wasn’t one big leap — it was a series of small, determined steps. Researching, studying, licensing, building systems, forming relationships, and then consistently showing up and doing quality work.

What started as an idea eventually became a real company because each day I focused on the next step in front of me.

And that’s really how Reefside Roofing was built — one decision, one relationship, and one roof at a time. 🏠🌊

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Brigitte Delhagen, and I’m the Owner and State Certified Roofing Contractor behind Reefside Roofing, a Florida-based roofing company built on the belief that homeowners deserve transparency, professionalism, and a contractor they can truly trust.

My journey into roofing wasn’t a straight line — and that’s part of what shaped the company I run today.

Like many entrepreneurs, I didn’t grow up dreaming of owning a roofing company. My path into the industry developed through hands-on experience and exposure to the construction world, where I quickly saw how critical roofing is to the safety and protection of a home. But I also saw something else: homeowners were often left feeling confused, overwhelmed, and unsure who they could trust.

Roofing projects typically happen during stressful moments — after storm damage, when a roof is failing, or when homeowners are facing large unexpected expenses. I realized that what people often needed most wasn’t just a contractor. They needed someone who would guide them through the process with honesty, clarity, and professionalism.

That realization was the spark that eventually led to the creation of Reefside Roofing.

Once the idea took hold, I committed fully to learning the industry from the ground up. I enrolled in contractor school, studied extensively, and worked through the rigorous process required to become a State Certified Roofing Contractor in Florida — one of the most demanding licensing processes in the construction industry.

Earning that license was a pivotal moment. It meant I wasn’t just participating in the industry — I was building something of my own.

Today, Reefside Roofing provides roof inspections, roof repairs, and full roof replacements, helping homeowners protect one of their most important investments: their homes. Our approach is rooted in education and transparency. We take the time to walk clients through the condition of their roof, explain their options, and help them make informed decisions about repairs or replacement.

Roofing can be complex — permits, inspections, materials, warranties, insurance considerations — and our goal is to make that process clear and manageable for homeowners.

One aspect of my journey that often surprises people is that women make up less than one percent of roofing professionals nationwide. Rather than viewing that as a barrier, I saw it as an opportunity to carve out space in an industry where strong leadership and fresh perspectives are always valuable.

I’m proud to be involved with National Women in Roofing, where I’ve built relationships with incredible women across the country who are helping shape the future of the industry and encouraging more women to pursue careers in the trades.

But more than anything, what I’m most proud of is the culture and reputation we’re building at Reefside Roofing.

For us, roofing isn’t just about installing materials. It’s about protecting families, homes, and the investments people work so hard for. Every project represents someone trusting us with one of the most important parts of their home.

That responsibility is something we take very seriously.

The foundation of Reefside Roofing is simple: do things the right way, communicate clearly, and treat every home like it matters — because it does.

My hope is that when people hear the name Reefside Roofing, they think of a company that stands for integrity, professionalism, and quality work that homeowners can rely on.

Because at the end of the day, a roof is more than shingles and nails — it’s protection, peace of mind, and a promise that the home beneath it is safe.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building our social media presence for Reefside Roofing has never been about chasing followers — it’s been about building real relationships in the community we serve.

From the beginning, I approached social media the same way I approach business: with authenticity and consistency. Instead of focusing only on promotions, we focused on showing the real work we do every day — sharing completed projects, educational tips about roofing, behind-the-scenes moments on job sites, and updates about what we’re doing in the community.

One thing I learned quickly is that people don’t just want to follow a business — they want to follow people they trust.

That’s why community involvement became such a big part of our presence both online and offline.

Joining our local Chamber of Commerce was one of the best decisions I made early on. It gave me the opportunity to meet other business owners, build relationships, attend events, and become part of the local business community. Those connections naturally translated into support on social media as well, because when you build genuine relationships offline, people are much more likely to engage with and support your business online.

Networking groups and community organizations also helped expand our reach in an authentic way. When you collaborate with other local businesses, share each other’s work, and support each other’s efforts, your audience grows naturally.

Another thing that has been important to us is showing that Reefside Roofing isn’t just a company working in the community — we’re part of the community.

For example, we adopted a mile of the Pinellas Trail, which is something I’m really proud of. It’s a small way for us to give back and help keep one of the most beautiful and heavily used outdoor spaces in our area clean and maintained. Moments like that are worth sharing on social media because they reflect what your business actually stands for.

My advice to new business owners trying to grow their social media presence is simple:

First, focus on consistency over perfection. You don’t need the most polished content — you just need to show up regularly and share what you’re doing.

Second, be part of your community. Join your Chamber of Commerce, attend local events, support other businesses, and get involved in community initiatives. Those relationships will always matter more than algorithms.

Third, remember that people connect with stories, not just services. Share the journey, the challenges, the wins, and the impact your business is making.

Social media works best when it reflects real life.

For us, it’s not just a marketing tool — it’s a way to stay connected with the community we’re proud to serve. 🌊🏡

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of new clients for Reefside Roofing has consistently been referrals and relationships.

Roofing is a business built on trust. When someone needs a new roof or a major repair, they’re not just making a purchase — they’re trusting someone with one of the most important parts of their home. Because of that, most homeowners want to work with a company that someone they know already recommends.

A large portion of our new clients come from past customers referring us to friends, family, and neighbors, which is something I’m incredibly proud of. When someone is willing to put their name behind your work, it means you did the job the right way.

Networking has also played a huge role in our growth. Being involved in organizations like our local Chamber of Commerce and professional networking groups has allowed me to build strong relationships with other business owners and professionals in the community. Those relationships often lead to referrals because people feel confident recommending someone they know personally.

Another important source of new clients has been community visibility. When people see our work around town, follow us on social media, or see our involvement in local initiatives — like adopting a mile of the Pinellas Trail — it helps build familiarity and trust with our brand.

Ultimately, the biggest driver of new clients for us is reputation. When you focus on quality work, clear communication, and taking care of your customers, word travels quickly.

That kind of organic growth is the strongest foundation a business can have, because it’s built on real experiences and genuine relationships within the community. 🌊🏠

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.reefsideroofing.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reefsideroofing/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Reefside-Roofing-61572414130454/