Details

James L. Seagraves

  • Seagraves, president of Simpsonville, S.C.-based JVS Inc. Roofing Contractors, with his wife, Gwen, aboard the Seadog in Chicago.

Professional Roofing: What is the most unusual roofing project you've performed?
Seagraves: My 22-member crew installed 350 squares (3150 m²) of Vermont slate on the Greenville Water System office, Greenville, S.C. The most unusual part of the project was connecting the building's two turrets with the rest of the building's roof system.

Why did you become a roofing contractor?
I intended to go into law enforcement when my friend and mentor Alfred Moore asked whether I would be interested in the roofing business. I have been hooked for more than 30 years.

What was your first roofing experience?
I worked on a built-up roofing crew during summer break while I was in high school.

What are your favorite items on your desk?
Photographs of my family because it is very important to me.

What do you consider your most rewarding experiences?
Starting a roofing project from the beginning and seeing it completed.

What was your first job?
I had an afternoon paper route when I was 14 years old. I earned $6 per week.

What is your favorite vacation?
Going to New York City to see the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

What do you consider a waste of time?
Waiting for people who are late for appointments.

What are your best and worst habits?
My best habit is seeing projects through to completion. My worst habits are accepting too many projects and being a workaholic.

What is your biggest pet peeve?
Redoing things that should have been done right the first time.

What is your favorite stress reliever?
Traveling with my wife, Gwen.

What are the most challenging aspects of your job?
Listening to and solving problems for customers and employees.

What is your roofing industry involvement?
JVS Inc. Roofing Contractors is a member of NRCA of which I am a director and chairman of the Residential/Steep Contractor Committee and Community Service Committee. I also am a past president of the Carolinas Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association.

People would be surprised to know ...
I love animals and care for my diabetic Dalmatian, Brandy, by giving her daily insulin shots.

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