Our Company History
Founded in 1971 by Waldo Ariail & Billy McDowell, the roots of our company began in the drywall business. Branded as the Preferred Group, several construction divisions were brought under the Preferred name and have flourished. We are Veteran owned and operated with ties to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and Firefighter community. Our family business has spanned over 40 years with a foundation based on the belief in God, Community and Public Service.
Waldo Ariail – Founder
Waldo has been in the construction business since 1971. He has always instilled in team members that customers deserve our best efforts, and that quality counts on every project, large or small. Waldo passed away in September 2018 at 82 years old and left a lasting impression on all of our organization as well as so many people that he crossed paths with. One will never meet a man with greater compassion and love for his employees and people in general. Waldo demanded excellence and continually demonstrated his commitment to this until the end. He is sorely missed.
Craig Ariail – President
Craig started working for his father, Waldo, when he was 16 years old. After Billy’s passing, he stepped into the partnership and eventually took the reins from his father. During this time, Jake Fulmer joined the team and the two became partners. Craig is a second generation expert experienced in Drywall, Building, and Roofing and is now Co-President of Preferred Roofing, along with the other Preferred Group companies. Since then, Craig and Jake continue to carry the quality legacy and have successfully maintained the same relationships over the years established by Waldo and Billy. Approximately 60% – 70% of our annual business revenue is from returning customers and referrals.
Jake Fulmer – President
Jake is also a second generation expert in the construction business and started his own company in 1983 making him known as the “Go To” contractor providing commercial construction throughout Jacksonville. Jake’s success in the field of construction has been fueled by client recommendations and basic “Word of Mouth” marketing. He brought that success when he became partners with Craig in 1993 and is now Co-President of Preferred Roofing along with the other Preferred Group companies. With a combined 70+ years of experience Jake and Craig continue to gain business based on client recommendations and customer satisfaction.
Mark Jones – COO 
Mark worked for Waldo, along with Craig, in 1983 prior to enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. After a 21 year career in the Marine Corps, Mark moved into corporate training and development with a Fortune 500 company based in New Jersey. Later in his tenure he managed the Florida corporate sales team while attending grad school. When the opportunity to work with Waldo and Craig at The Preferred Group as the COO was presented, Mark accepted the position. Mark is now Vice President of Preferred Roofing and COO of the other Preferred Group companies.
Preferred Roofing Guarantee
A new roof is an investment that should last your home or business for many years to come. Proper and careful installation along with the use of high-quality, durable materials ensures a well-constructed roof that can withstand the elements. Preferred Roofing has extensive experience in all facets of commercial and residential roofing to include tile, slate and metal. As a GAF Master Elite contractor, we are the choice of customers that want a lifetime guarantee on the roof and labor. Our commercial certifications include Hydro-Stop, Mulle Hide and Duro-Last.
How can you make sure you get top-value and a superior roof? It’s important to choose an expert roofing contractor who will work with height standards from start to finish. Preferred Roofing has been in the roofing business for over 40 years and always works with detailed care to complete every job!
We’re a member of the National Roofing Contractors Association of America and a Master Elite Contractor with GAF. We also hold certification for the Top of the House Construction for best industry practices. We continually stay abreast of the latest industry news to deliver unparalleled service.
