When it comes to commercial and residential roof repairs and recovery, ‘91 DeVry University alumnus Wally Anderson has a long-lasting solution. A simple, cost-effective product that ultimately took him from a small business owner to owning and operating five franchises in Western Canada.
When Anderson first noticed the product—Gaco silicone, a waterproof membrane designed to protect and extend the life of an existing roof surface—it looked like an abandoned paint can sitting off to the side at a wholesale supplier.
“A simple inquiry changed my life. I realized in that moment the [silicone] product I asked about was the perfect long-term solution to repairing roofs, so I started using it right away and stopped using shingles,” said Anderson. “I checked around and couldn’t find anyone else who was using it. I couldn’t believe it!
Before finding his passion for his current line of work, Anderson explored a variety of career paths, first as a life insurance broker and later in computer repairs and sales. Neither satisfied him, so when a neighbor asked if he would help with a home siding project, Anderson agreed. After the project ended, he continued installing siding for another eight years before becoming an entrepreneur and starting his own business replacing rooftop shingles for residential homes.
After spending five years using heavy asphalt shingles, Anderson found the Gaco silicone product that he now solely uses with clients.
“Because the natural properties of silicone are flexible, it moves with the roof as buildings shift and settle—it doesn’t crack or peel for at least 50 years,” said Anderson. “It’s economical, requiring no additional cost for a tear-off, and lessening the impact on landfills. It’s the perfect solution to repairing most roofs.”
Anderson had covered a lot of ground in his professional career, but today, with five franchisees, his businesses are growing strong in the Northern Calgary market. Being able to offer a 50-year limited warranty on materials and a 10-year warranty on labor, with little to no overhead, Anderson knew he found a sustainable business opportunity.
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