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Tom Rhoads: Roofer for Life

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SAN RAMON — When Tom Rhoads first got involved in the roofing industry, he was merely looking for a way to supplement his income…little did he know it would lead to a lifelong career. “I was 18 years old, working at a grocery store, when my hours were unexpectedly cut back,” he remembers. “To make ends meet, I started working with my neighbor, who was a roofer. I always liked being outside, so the work really suited me, and I ended up sticking with it. After a couple of years of training, I struck out on my own, and 32 years later, I’m still at it.”

Today, as owner of Roof-Life Construction, Tom says his favorite part of his job is the opportunity to make a positive impact. “We do a lot of energy-saving measures like installing solar panels and improving roof ventilation. Besides helping our clients save money on their energy bills, we’re also able to help the environment, so it’s very rewarding.”

Tom is a resident of Dublin, where he lives with his wife, Sheila. Outside of work, he likes to spend as much time as possible immersed in the great outdoors. “We have a cabin near Yosemite National Park, so we spend a lot of time up there, hiking and enjoying nature,” he says. Tom also enjoys playing volleyball at the beach and coaching soccer at Dublin High School. Additionally, he takes time to keep up with his and Sheila’s three children. “One of my sons is currently attending the University of Reno, another is at Arizona State and my daughter will be starting at UC Santa Barbara this fall.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Tom says he’d tackle some long-deferred home projects. “I’d probably get started on my to-do list. I have quite a few projects around the house that need to be done, so if I stopped working, I’d finally have some time to get to them.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?
A: The San Francisco Giants, the San Francisco 49ers and the Golden State Warriors.

Q: Music or talk radio?
A: Music.

Q: What’s your favorite style of music?
A: Rock. I also like rhythm and blues.

Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Pizza.

Q: What was your favorite Halloween costume as a child?
A: G.I. Joe.