Building Success with Michal Zugaj: The Zooguy Renovations Story
Michal Zugaj immigrated to the United States from Poland in 2004. He originally studied physical education but found his passion in construction. Starting with vinyl siding, he quickly realized roofing was a more stable trade and shifted his focus there.
Zooguy Renovations began in 2006 and has grown steadily despite challenges like the 2008 housing crash and the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the company focuses mostly on commercial roofing projects, including flat, steep, historic, and metal roofs. They also fabricate metal parts in-house, giving them a competitive edge.
This in-house fabrication allows Zooguy to control quality and speed, avoiding delays from outside vendors. Michal explained that this has helped them offer better service and quicker turnaround times. The company’s growth is mainly driven by referrals, which Michal says is the best way to build a strong customer base.
“Be ready for the opportunity when it comes, and then grab it.” ~ Michal Zugai
Michal shared that his team now has about 10 people, including office staff and field workers. Recruiting and retaining skilled labor is a challenge in the industry. To keep good workers, Michal focuses on taking care of his team and offering steady work, including diversifying into waterproofing and garage traffic coating to stay busy year-round.
The company’s location in Roselle Park, New Jersey, was chosen because Michal had family support there when he first arrived. He values the Polish community that helped him get started and now enjoys helping new entrepreneurs. Michal encourages others to work hard for themselves and to be ready for opportunities.
For contractors looking to grow from a small business to a larger team, Michal advises being ready to handle current work, always looking for new opportunities, and finding a unique selling point. He emphasizes that being different is better than just being better because it helps stand out in a crowded market.
Michal’s story shows how dedication, innovation, and strong relationships with customers and employees can build a successful contracting business. Zooguy Renovations continues to expand, focusing on commercial roofing and metal fabrication to maintain stability and growth.
Michal Zugai, Zooguy Renovations LLC Contact Info:
ZooguyRenovationsLLC.com
ZooGuyRenovations@gmail.com
(908) 220-0845
Topics Discussed
Immigrant Entrepreneur:
Michal Zugaj moved from Poland to the US and built a successful roofing and renovation business.Pivoting Through Market Changes:
Zooguy Renovations shifted from siding to roofing after the 2008 market crash for more stability.In-House Fabrication:
The company stands out by fabricating metal roofing materials themselves, offering faster and better service.Commercial Focus:
Most of Zooguy’s work is now commercial, providing bigger projects and more stability.Team Retention: Michal keeps his team together by taking care of them and finding work for them year-round.
Community Connection: The business has strong ties to the local Polish community and supports new entrepreneurs.
Unique Selling Proposition: Zooguy Renovations leads with what makes them different, helping them win more business.
