The commercial roofing industry is in the midst of profound transformation. A surge in large-scale construction projects, the growing demand for energy-efficient solutions, and the rapid rise of data centers are reshaping expectations for contractors. At the same time, extreme weather events are testing the limits of infrastructure, while safety, compliance, and insurance costs weigh heavily on companies and clients alike. Add to that the consolidation wave of private equity firms purchasing long-standing family contractors, and the result is a sector caught between opportunity and uncertainty. For property owners, facility managers, and community businesses, the stakes are high. A roof is more than just a building component—it is a shield against disruption, a safeguard for investments, and, in many cases, the difference between business continuity and devastating loss. Yet too often, companies struggle to find roofing partners who provide not just technical expertise but also reliability, culture, and long-term commitment.

This is where Burns & Scalo Roofing, a family-owned firm based in Pittsburgh, stands apart. With a legacy stretching nearly 70 years, the company has built its reputation not only on craftsmanship but also on an unwavering focus on people, safety, and trust. Whether responding to an emergency, managing warranties, or planning for future growth, Burns & Scalo has positioned itself as a reliable partner in an industry where dependability is often scarce. That commitment was tested in dramatic fashion when a record-breaking storm ripped the roof off Fiori’s Pizzaria, a Pittsburgh landmark. The damage made headlines across the city, forcing the business to close and leaving its owner fearing permanent loss. Burns & Scalo responded immediately, mobilizing a team of 20 workers who secured a temporary roof and rebuilt critical structural elements within 24 hours. The shop reopened in less than three days. “The best pizza in Pittsburgh deserves nothing less than the best roofer,” says Johnny Scalo, Senior Vice President, Burns & Scalo Roofing. “I’m incredibly proud of our team for going above and beyond to get this place dried-in and fully operational in under three days.”

The story captured the attention of the mayor and governor and resonated deeply with the community. But for Burns & Scalo, the effort was less about publicity and more about principle: no client, no matter how small, should be left behind in their moment of crisis. This philosophy underpins the company’s approach to every project. Beyond construction, Burns & Scalo has created a dedicated roof asset management team, ensuring clients have ongoing support throughout the life of their roof. From helping owners navigate manufacturer warranties to providing round-the-clock emergency services, the company emphasizes long-term partnership over transactional relationships. “When urgency hits, you’re going to go straight to the team you trust,” explains Julianna Everly, Marketing Specialist, Burns & Scalo Roofing. “That trust is something we work to earn every day—and protect once we have it.”

Elevating Standards in Roofing

Trust also extends to safety, a cornerstone of the company’s operations. In a field known for its hazards, Burns & Scalo has established industry-leading standards, going so far as to form a self-insurance group, RCCS (Roofing Contractors Committed to Safety), alongside two dozen peers. This decision has reduced costs, improved accountability, and cemented a culture where safety is seen as an obligation to both employees and their families. “Safety starts with caring about your people,” said Jack Scalo, President & CEO, Burns & Scalo Roofing. “It’s not just about sending our team home safe—it’s about their families too. That’s the deep sense of responsibility we carry.”

As the industry shifts, many family-run contractors are being bought out by private equity firms. Clients are left wondering whether those firms will still be around in a decade to service their warranties or honor commitments. Burns & Scalo offers a rare reassurance: it is not for sale. Succession is well underway from Jack Scalo to his son Johnny Scalo, supported by a strong leadership team and an advisory board that helps guide long-term strategy. “The way we think is only long-term,” Johnny emphasizes. “We would sacrifice short-term benefits if they don’t align with the legacy and sustainability of our business.”

Johnny builds on that philosophy by highlighting the company’s growth focus: “We are absolutely focused on succession and geographic expansion, particularly into high-growth sectors like data centers. Our ability to deliver safety, scale, and integrated services positions us as a trusted partner for some of the most complex projects in the country.”

This long-term orientation has shaped Burns & Scalo’s evolution into a multi-faceted service provider. Today, the company operates seven business units, offering roofing, metal wall claddings, solar installations, and a more streamlined process for clients who want fewer subcontractors and greater accountability. Their “one throat to choke” model ensures efficiency, reduces risk, and creates a seamless experience for clients managing large, sophisticated builds. Yet the company insists its growth is measured, not reckless. Strengthening its sales organization, maximizing the potential of existing services, and expanding geographically remain strategic priorities. Burns & Scalo’s measured approach underscores their belief that sustainable success comes from balance—between innovation and tradition, scale and service, ambition and culture.

And culture, perhaps more than anything, is what sets Burns & Scalo apart. Recognizing that people are the backbone of its success, the company formed a Culture Committee to create meaningful connections across business units and to support team members beyond the workplace. Events like Pirates games, amusement park outings, and family picnics reinforce a sense of belonging and acknowledge the sacrifices families make when employees dedicate themselves to the company. “Culture is number one to us,” says Johnny. “At the end of the day, we’re in the people business. If people enjoy where they work and feel supported, retention follows naturally. That’s why we make sure both our teammates and their families feel valued.”

The results are striking; more than 70 employees have celebrated over 15 years with Burns & Scalo, a rarity in today’s workforce. Programs like CLIMB, a two-year mid-level management learning initiative, and executive development opportunities through national institutes further illustrate the company’s investment in its people. For Burns & Scalo, developing leaders internally is as important as completing projects externally.

Nearly seven decades after its founding, Burns & Scalo Roofing continues to set the standard for what a family-owned contractor can achieve. By putting people first, prioritizing safety, and embracing long-term vision, the company has built more than roofs—it has built trust across communities and industries. From saving a beloved pizza shop to delivering complex data center projects, the company demonstrates daily that it is both a local partner and a national player.