While working for a sheet metal shop in Wisconsin, Les Pratt sought to advance his career. During an interview with a potential employer, he quickly developed a rapport with the company’s owner. Impressed by Les’s ambition and strong work ethic, the owner chose not to hire him—instead, he extended a rare opportunity. He encouraged Les to find a business they could co-own.
Les discovered Southern Sheet Metal, a small operation that had been producing various metal products since 1959. In 1965, Les and his wife Janet purchased and incorporated the company. They relocated from Madison to Fort Lauderdale to build the business, while the partner remained in Wisconsin to manage his existing enterprise. Over time, the Pratts acquired full ownership of Southern Sheet Metal.
Under their leadership, the company specialized in fabricating and installing roof edges, gutters, downspouts, and other roofing accessories. Eventually, they expanded into wholesale distribution of additional roofing products. In 1982, they opened a second branch in Boynton Beach. With the support of family, friends, customers, employees, and suppliers, Les and Janet ran a thriving business for many years.
In 2004, the Pratts welcomed a new generation of leadership by partnering with their daughter Nancy and her husband, John Aiello. Nancy, who began working at the company in 1985, brought deep experience and dedication. John joined the team in 1998, bringing over two decades of management experience, with a focus on construction and production operations.
Today, Nancy and John continue to grow the family business with their daughter Taylor and son-in-law Caige, while upholding the same high standards and values customers have come to expect. By expanding product lines to include reflective roof coatings and metal roofing, updating equipment, leveraging modern technology, and hiring and retaining top-tier staff, Southern Sheet Metal continues to provide unparalleled service and workmanship in the industry.
With 67 years in the metal fabrication industry, we've seen every challenge and solved every problem. Our expertise helps you avoid costly mistakes and complete projects efficiently. When you need technical guidance or creative solutions, our knowledgeable team provides answers based on real-world experience.
Our extensive warehouse stocks hundreds of items, eliminating backorders and project delays. We maintain deep inventory levels of fast-moving products while sourcing specialty items quickly through established supplier relationships. Same-day availability on most standard items keeps your crews working.
Our skilled fabricators transform raw materials into precise components that meet your exact specifications. Using state-of-the-art equipment and time-tested techniques, we deliver consistent quality whether you need one custom piece or thousands of production items.
We measure success by the long-term relationships we build. Many customers have trusted us for decades, passing our name to the next generation of contractors. We earn this loyalty through consistent performance, fair pricing, and genuine care for your business success.
We provide competitive wholesale pricing without hidden fees or surprise charges. Our quotes include all costs upfront, helping you bid accurately and protect your margins. Volume discounts and contractor terms support your business growth.
Our team includes industry experts who understand your challenges. We provide technical assistance with material selection, installation methods, and code compliance. When questions arise on the job site, one call gets you answers.
We're not just order-takers—we're problem-solvers. When standard products won't work, we develop custom solutions. Our goal extends beyond completing transactions to building partnerships that strengthen your business.
Vice President & President / Owners
Boynton Beach Shop Manager
Manager
Boynton Beach Branch Manager
Operations Manager
Oakland Park Shop Manager
Eddie, Pierre, Caige, Kenny, Peter, Alex, Ernie, John
Nancy, John, Carlos, Yiladaire, Jocemy, Courtney, Kane, Don, James, John, Taylor
