In Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the roofing and home maintenance market has been divided sharply by age. After years of steady demand from homeowners of all ages, it is now residents 55 and older who are driving most major projects, while younger buyers are largely stepping back. Whether it makes sense to invest in your home today depends heavily on which side of this divide you’re on.
Adrian Ferreira, supervisor at Ferreira Company and a veteran of more than 20 years in the roofing business across Bristol and Plymouth counties, sees the shift firsthand. Most of his current clients are older homeowners. “The older generation is financially stable and ready to spend,” Ferreira says. “The younger generation — 25 to 35 — we’re just not doing much business with them right now.”
Older Homeowners Driving Demand
Homeowners over 55 are moving forward with roof replacements, waterproofing, and even some commercial projects at a pace equal to or faster than last year. In contrast, younger buyers are delaying everything from new additions to garage builds, often citing budget constraints.
Ferreira’s revenue has held steady year over year, but the composition of his client base has changed. Seventy percent of his projects now come from homeowners, with landlords, commercial clients, and insurance-related repairs each accounting for about 10 percent. The majority of those homeowners are retired or nearing retirement and have the liquidity to act quickly.
Projects that were once common among younger buyers — new bathrooms, second-story additions, and garage expansions — have become rare. Ferreira notes, “I’m seeing a lot less new construction or additions. People are either replacing what they have or not touching it at all.”
Why the Market Split Now
Several factors explain why older homeowners are investing while younger buyers are holding back.
First, older homeowners typically have significant home equity and retirement savings. Many bought their homes decades ago at lower prices, have paid off their mortgages, and have benefited from years of appreciation. They are less affected by high interest rates or rising costs and are prepared to invest in necessary upgrades.
Second, younger buyers are feeling the pressure of higher mortgage rates and tighter budgets. Many are still paying off student loans, managing childcare expenses, or saving for a down payment. For these homeowners, large-scale home improvements are often unaffordable when monthly expenses already stretch their finances.
Third, the types of projects have shifted. Older homeowners are prioritizing maintenance and upgrades that protect their investment — such as roof replacements, waterproofing, and structural repairs. When younger buyers do invest, they tend to focus on lower-cost, do-it-yourself projects or minor cosmetic updates.
Pace of Projects
Older homeowners are making decisions quickly. Ferreira says his clients in the 55-plus range often move forward within days of receiving an estimate. They know what they want, have done their research, and are ready to proceed.
In contrast, younger buyers are slower to commit, if they move forward at all. The hesitation is not about trust or contractor quality, but about cash flow and financial timing. Many are choosing to wait, hoping for better conditions or greater financial stability before taking on major repairs.
For Homeowners and Landlords
For Homeowners Over 55: If you have been delaying a roof replacement or major repair, now is an opportune time. Contractors have availability, and you face less competition for scheduling. Waiting until leaks or visible damage appear often leads to more costly structural repairs. Preventive action now can save money and protect your home’s value.
For Younger Homeowners: If a major project isn’t financially feasible, focus on preventive maintenance. Simple tasks — such as cleaning gutters, sealing roof flashing, and checking for attic moisture — can extend your roof’s lifespan and delay the need for a full replacement. If you plan to sell soon, prioritize repairs that matter most to buyers and insurers: roofs, foundations, and anything impacting safety.
For Landlords: Long-term tenants, especially older renters, are more likely to remain and accept moderate rent increases when properties are well-maintained. Investing in the roof and building exterior now can prevent expensive emergency repairs and minimize disruptions to tenants.
Why This Matters
The divide in the roofing and maintenance market is a direct response to current economic conditions. Rising interest rates and higher costs of living have made younger homeowners more cautious, while older homeowners, often less affected by these pressures, continue to invest in property upkeep. Contractors are adjusting to this new mix of clients, and the trend is likely to continue as long as financial pressures on younger households persist.
In Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the home maintenance and roofing market is now defined by homeowners’ financial position and age. Those over 55 are investing to protect and improve their homes, while younger buyers are waiting for more favorable conditions. “The 55-and-above crowd understands the value of a safe, well-maintained home,” Ferreira says. “They want to feel secure, and they’re willing to pay for it.”
For anyone deciding whether to invest in home maintenance this year, understanding where you fit in this new landscape can help you make the right call — whether it’s moving forward with a big project or focusing on essential upkeep until conditions improve.
About the Expert: Adrian Ferreira is a Supervisor at Ferreira Company, serving Bristol and Plymouth counties in Massachusetts and the Providence area in Rhode Island. He specializes in residential and commercial roofing, waterproofing, and building maintenance.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. The views and opinions expressed herein reflect those of the individuals quoted and do not represent an endorsement of any company, product, or service mentioned. Readers should conduct their own due diligence and consult qualified professionals before making any investment decisions.
