There’s no doubt as to how important it is to get a roofing supply order right the first time. Don’t order enough supply, and it’ll lead to customer disappointment and a delayed timeline. Order too much product, and you’ll be sitting on excess inventory (or worse, throwing it away).
And it’s not just inventory that’s the problem. Metal roofing orders involve so much more than choosing panels and colors. Measurements need to be precise, and let’s not forget about panel specifications, accessories, production time, and the time it takes to get products from point A to point B.
Thankfully, metal roofing orders can be much easier when you ask a few simple questions up front. In this article, our team at Upstate Metal Supply will share what to ask and why it matters.
What Panel Profiles Are Available for This Project?
We suggest starting with a conversation about the roofing system itself. Every project should be viewed as unique because different projects may call for different panel profiles based on the following:
- Building type
- Roof slope
- Project specifications
- Installation method
For example, you may be deciding between standing seam and exposed fastener panels. Ask your supplier which profiles they manufacture or carry and whether they meet your project requirements. Confirming these details before you order can help you avoid purchasing panels that aren’t right for the job.
What Gauges, Finishes, and Colors Can I Order?
Next come the gauges, finishes, and colors. And this is absolutely not a place to skimp or rush through. Get the wrong color, and you’ll quickly find yourself in a bad place when you have to tell your customer their project is delayed.
Before ordering, confirm which gauges, paint systems, finishes, and colors your supplier has available. Some projects may already have specifications set by the architect, builder, or property owner, leaving little room for substitutions. Also check product availability before making promises to your customer. A quick conversation now can prevent an unwelcome surprise when it’s time to place the order.
Can Panels Be Cut to the Lengths My Project Requires
As we shared earlier, no two projects are ever the same. That’s why the whole concept of measure twice and cut once is so prominent in the construction space.
Ask whether your supplier can cut panels to the specific lengths your project requires. Ordering properly sized panels can reduce on-site cutting while limiting leftover scrap. Before submitting your order, confirm any minimum or maximum panel lengths and double-check every roof measurement.
Which Trim, Fasteners, and Accessories Do I Need?
Clearly, your panels are only part of your order. You also need to account for those smaller details. Depending on the roofing system and project design, your order may also include:
- Closures
- Eave and rake trim
- Fasteners
- Ridge caps
- Sealants
- Underlayment
- Valley flashing
Talk through the complete project with your supplier before placing your order. This gives you a chance to confirm quantities, check that components are compatible with your roofing system, and catch anything you may have missed.
What is the Current Production or Lead Time?
Creating an accurate project timeline is a non-negotiable in this industry. Your project plan needs to account not just for how long the work will take, but how long it will take to get the supplies in the first place.
Ask about current production times before committing to an installation date. Timelines can vary dramatically based on your order size and unique project specifications. Confirm when materials will be ready for pickup or delivery. And remember that custom panels, specific colors, or specialty components may require additional production time, too.
How Will My Materials Be Packaged, Picked Up, or Delivered?
Don’t overlook how your materials will get to the jobsite. Ask about:
- Pickup procedures
- Delivery availability
- Scheduling
- Packaging
- Any special considerations for handling long panels
You’ll also want to ask what equipment your crew might need for unloading if the delivery company doesn’t unload the materials for you.
Before your delivery day, choose an appropriate location to store materials until installation begins. Some business districts and residential areas have very specific requirements that you’ll want to know about ahead of time.
And finally, when your order arrives, check it against your paperwork and inspect the materials. If anything is missing, incorrect, or damaged, report it to your supplier right away.
Your Metal Roofing Order Checklist
We covered a lot, so we created a quick checklist to help you make sure you don’t miss anything the next time you place a metal roofing supply order.
Here’s what to confirm:
- Panel profile matches the project requirements
- Gauge, finish, and color are correct
- Panel lengths match your measurements
- Trim, fasteners, and accessories are included
- Production and lead times fit your project schedule
- Pickup or delivery details are confirmed
- Unloading equipment and crew are ready
- Jobsite storage space is prepared
A few extra minutes spent reviewing your order now could save hours of frustration later.
Get the Details Before Placing Your Next Order
We’ll be upfront that working with an experienced metal roof supplier in Greenville, SC, can make a world of difference in making sure you get your order right the first time. At Upstate Metal Supply, we’ll review your order closely and help make sure you have checked all the boxes.
From panels and trim to fasteners and accessories, we can help you get the materials you need for the job ahead. Contact our team today to talk through your next project and place your metal roofing order.