As a roofing contractor striving to grow your business, you will inevitably invest in a wide array of processes and systems; such as payroll, accounts, sales and IT, to name but a few. This is done because the benefits of these systems and processes are understood and appreciated. However, when it comes to investing in a ‘whole roof’ system, the opposite can sometimes be true. The benefits that a ‘whole roof’ can bring to your business and your customers can often go unnoticed or unappreciated.
Many of you will have your own tried-and-tested methods of working, and you may believe that a whole roof system is not right for your business. After all, it can be challenging to explain to customers why they should invest in these systems when competitors can quote less complete systems comprising of different components from a variety of manufacturers and suppliers that can sometimes work out cheaper. However, as more and more contractors are beginning to recommend them, learning more about the benefits of a ‘whole roof’ system may open your eyes to a new approach and, in doing so, how they could help your business grow even more. So, let’s explore the benefits further:
A total solution: A whole roof system does exactly what it says on the tin. It provides all the components necessary for the roof, pitched or flat – from one single – all-encompassing source. For pitched roofs, the usual components include ventilation, insulation, coverings, and fixtures and fittings.
For flat roofs, as you would expect to find included are; vapour control, insulation, waterproofing, access and all outlets and fittings. To ensure the ultimate structure, every system is tailored to meet the specific needs of your project; adhering to budget, design, building performance, and even aesthetics parameters.
Less hassle
Using a whole roof system takes away the hassle of identifying, ordering, scheduling, administering, self-sourcing, calling-off, receiving, and paying for all of the different components from a wide variety of suppliers – which is no small task. Instead, it leaves you with a cohesive supply chain that is simple and easy to manage.
Compatibility: With a whole roof system, you can rest assured that all components have been developed and documented by one manufacturer. Individual components will be guaranteed to be compatible and interface well with each other. Whilst one manufacturer’s product may seem no different to the rest, there can be compliance and performance issues if certain components do not function to the same standard as others. By specifying a whole roof system, you reduce the risk of this happening, as the compatibility of all the components from colour match, to sizing, fitting and correct fixings, is guaranteed by the actual manufacturer / supplier. All compliance documentation is available and accessible too.
Hence, when designing a whole roof system, a reputable supplier will take into account a variety of factors including; wind uplift calculations for membranes and insulation boards, thermal U-value calculations and interstitial condensation risk analysis, as well as checking compliance with the relevant code of practice, single ply guidelines and warranties.
In addition to its comprehensive and quality design, a whole roof system brings added reliability by way of system / product warranties, with workmanship guarantees sometimes being offered by trained installers working to rigid specifications. This brings peace of mind for everyone involved.
Time saving: With a whole roof system, you can save time and your business can enjoy improved efficiency through ‘On time in Full’ (OTIF) deliveries / one delivery from one single supplier – that will require only one scheduled payment. You will also benefit from ease of ordering, improved purchasing terms due to the size of order plus any loyalty discounts, and additional warranty benefits from certain suppliers. Also, should there be any issues with the system, there would only ever be one point of contact to deal with. The time saved on product research and locating stock for multiple products is immense, leaving you free to do what you do best.
Whole roof life
Whilst by now many of you will appreciate what a whole roof system has to offer, you may still be deterred regarding cost. However, they are not necessarily always the most expensive option, particularly when the whole roof life is taken into account. A good whole roof system will give comprehensive details and instructions on how to care and maintain the roof, thereby increasing the longevity of both the roof and the building.
It can be difficult switching from one method of working to another, however with the help of a specialist manufacturer or supplier that will do all the leg-work on your behalf, you can submit your specification and then simply concentrate on completing the project. A ‘whole roof’ approach could be a great way to help your business grow.
