How architects can tap into the expertise of their metal roof manufacturer, part 4

In my fourth and final post on this topic (at least for now), let’s look at the importance of enforcing the detailed specifications the roof manufacturer provides.

Enforcement of the specifications is critical.  It bears repeating that it does no good to have well written specifications if you do not make sure that both the manufacturer and the roofing contractor follow them.  And we know that not following specs can have an adverse effect on the manufacturer’s warranty.

Make sure to carefully check the submittal documents for strict adherence to the specifications. Review the sample weathertightness warranty to ensure that it gives the manufacturer responsibil­ity for roof performance beginning on the date of substantial completion. Review documents indicating the roofing contractor has applied for and received warranty review and acceptance from the manufacturer for the project. Roofers don’t always let manufacturers know a weathertightness warranty will be required when they are purchasing the roofing materials. This means that at the end of the job, the manufacturers could refuse to provide one.   Also, submit documents that confirm the roofing contractor’s foreman has been certified by the roof manufacturer to work on the project. This is the best way to ensure that the roofing crew understands the proper installation techniques for the roof system being used.

Make sure that the pre-roofing conference is attended by all required persons, including any trades whose work will interface into the roof system. This work must be coordinated with the roofing contractor to en­sure compliance with provisions of the weathertight­ness warranty.

Make sure you know when the roof is to be inspected, and review the inspection report before ap­proving payments involving roof installation.

Remember, if you don’t enforce your specifications, you are giving your contractor an opportunity to cut corners due to laziness or apathy. Inconsistent application of the specifications may not be discovered until the project is completed and the contractor paid. By then it’s too late, and the architect may find him- or herself in serious hot water.

Architects have ultimate authority and control of the roofing process, but must rely on others to ensure that the roof is prop­erly installed. Roof manufacturers like MBCI are invested in having their products properly installed and the end user satisfied. But they don’t have much control over the use of their product once it’s purchased and installed.  If the architect invites the manu­facturer into the process, its expertise can be exploited

Metal roofing is a valuable option, and common problems can be eliminated when roof manufacturers are involved as a key resource in the planning stages of a roof construction.

So do yourself a favor—include MBCI in this process to ensure the end result is a roof that is aesthetically pleasing and provides years of reliable protection and performance.