Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I just started my business, which is mainly a roofing company, but I specialize in storm damage restoration.  One of the key selling points to my service is that I have the knowledge and experience to get a lot of roofs approved through insurance that other contractors can`t.

The main purpose of the site is for information.  Almost all visitors to the website will get there because I knocked on their door and spoke with them, or left my business card.  At least for now I`m not too concerned with SEO or anything of that nature, though I may in the future.  As far as I`m concerned it`s a much more efficient use of my time to just knock on doors.  There`s no better way to get business!

So check it out and let me know what you think.  I designed in myself, so it`s pretty basic, but gets the job done.

www.cicadaroofing.com

The site is a good start, it`s simple which is all you really need for something like this. Personal opinion: not into the name or the logo. I don`t want to think about bugs when I am looking for a roofer, I can`t draw the connection there, makes you look less professional.

The two images you have on the side should probably switch every page to liven the site up a bit, and show off your work. The home page has A LOT of text that people are probably not going to read. You can accomplish the same with some graphics that says the same in seconds rather than minutes or not at all.

A photo gallery is a MUST for your business. People want to see results, before/afters etc that they can relate to and feel more comfortable with. I know it says coming soon, but get it done. I can help you implement a really professional photo gallery that will greatly enhance your site. Also, sprinkle testimonials throughout the site. People want to see what others have said about your services.

It`s a good start, especially for a do it yourself. Good Luck!!  look me up if you want to take the site to the next level!

Yeah the reason for no gallery or testimonials is that I just started and don`t have any yet!  I just got a roof approved this morning, so I will have at least that one up soon.  Trust me, those will be up asap!

As far as the name, it is a tribute to my father, who passed away from cancer when I was 11.  He was part of a racing team called Cicada Racing (if you find the 1975 Indy 500 program you will see the car he designed pictured, unfortunately under the "did not qualify" section).  One thing I liked about the name and logo IS the fact it doesn`t relate to roofing.  It`s something different and unique, not something bland, unoriginal and boring like many, many other roofing companies out there use!  People will remember my business card, it is bright and colorful, and has a big Cicada on it!  I do however think some folks may mistake me for an exterminator!

I agree with the two images on the side.  I didn`t really know what to put there.  I`m thinking as I get testimonials I can put those up in that section, as well as other photos of work, etc, that can change with each page.  I would also like to include the BBB logo, but unfortunately I must be in business for at least 1 year before they will grant me accreditation.

I appreciate all the feedback!

Good point mmdona on the lifespan of a cicada. Also good points huntstyle on using that name. I would be concerned with the exterminator factor, but you have roofing right there in the name, so if it pops into your head for a sec, it shouldn`t last long.

In addition to what others said, I`d add some kind of a certificate graphic saying something about your key selling point. May be something like "Your roof approval through insurance Guaranteed or ..."