Stick With Your Manufacturer for a Smooth Installation Process
Welcome to another issue of the Executive Report, our newsletter updating you on sales, marketing, and installation in residential metal roofing. In our last issue, we covered competitive advantage and how it defines your business’s success. In this issue, we’ll focus on how to make the installation process hassle-free.
Before an installation, prepare the relevant information. As you get in touch with your metal roofing manufacturer, have plans and detailed drawings of the roof ready. Work with them to identify the roof’s difficult areas− especially areas requiring custom flashings.
Let the manufacturer create a materials list
When working with a manufacturer to get materials, lean on their expertise. By analyzing satellite imagery and drawings of the roof, they can create a materials list well-suited for their products. Here at Isaiah Industries, we have team members skilled in creating materials lists for our wide range of metal roofing options.
Find an experienced crew or find training
As each brand of metal roofing differs, so does the process for installation. Before installing any metal roof, consult the manufacturer for instructions. Many companies have recommended tools for their products and may be partnered with suppliers to provide them at a discount. Training may also be available for each roofing system.
Hold a pre-construction call
Pre-construction meetings are common in contracting, but as Covid-19 continues to be a concern, try pre-construction calls. By holding a call, conference or video, you can be prepared for anything a job can throw at you. During the call, connect with your manufacturer and receive manuals or instructional videos for installation. Safely go over the details of the job and meet the people you can bring questions to.
Send photos to the manufacturer for review
During the installation, monitor complex or challenging areas of the roof. Snap pictures and send them to your manufacturing contact. Sharing problem areas through pictures or videos enables precise feedback. At Isaiah, we are available by phone, email, or video call to analyze your roof and provide you answers. While every manufacturer may not offer this, take advantage of it when available.
Get the manufacturer involved with special flashings
Every roof has different geometry, and some are more cut up than others. Depending on the job, you may need special flashing you can’t easily fabricate. If this happens, contact your manufacturer to collaborate on a high-quality custom flashing right for your needs.
Facilitate contact between the customer and manufacturer
As the job comes to a close, put the customer in contact with the manufacturer. Use your relationship with both parties to start a conversation for everyone’s benefit. Your customer will get another connection for their new metal roof, and they can register their manufacturer’s warranty.
Throughout the installation, get in touch with your manufacturer for expertly-made materials lists, installation help, video and instruction manuals, advice on complex roof areas, and custom flashings. Sticking close to your manufacturer will help things move smoothly, even if problems occur.
Todd Miller has spent his entire career in the metal building products manufacturing industry. He is president of Isaiah Industries, an organization recognized as one of the world’s leading metal roofing manufacturers. Todd is currently Vice President of the MRA (Metal Roofing Association) and a Past Chair of MCA (Metal Construction Association). Through his website, he strives to raise the bar on standards and practices to provide property owners with the best possible products for successful roofing projects.
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