Roof takeoffs part 3: Digital measuring options

By Central States.

Learn how to use digital tools to measure a roof while keeping your boots on the ground.

This is the third and final part of our three-part series of articles focusing on the roof takeoff process. If you haven’t read them already, make sure to check out part one, which covers the importance of this phase of the roofing project, and part two, which goes over the traditional ways of collecting measurements to make your estimates.  

Today, the Central States Manufacturing experts are taking a look into an alternative route for getting measurements — digital programs! These have grown in popularity in the last few years as more easy-to-use online options have emerged. When used correctly, these digital roof measurement and estimation programs can save you both time and money during the roof takeoff step.

Digital measurement tools

Digital measurement tools, such as drones or satellite-based software like EagleView, Hover, etc., have become increasingly popular due to their safety, speed and accuracy. These digital tools use advanced imaging and mapping technology to create detailed, high-resolution 3D models of roofs, enabling highly accurate measurements without requiring a ladder or physical presence on the roof.  

As a benefit to Central States customers, we have partnered with Sherwin-Williams to provide Roofing Passport to contractors to quickly create a roof takeoff without ever having to leave your office. Additionally, Central States customers can request metal roof takeoff and material lists from their sales team. We have a dedicated team of individuals across our locations who run takeoffs through Roofing Passport and other digital tools, as an extra service to our customers.

These digital tools typically can create a takeoff for you in just a few steps. For example, in Roofing Passport, you would do the following:

• 3D view from digital measurement tool
• Register for Roofing Passport
• Log in and enter the job details to the EagleView lookup or Roofing WRX (drawing / schematic submission)
• When measurements have been received, log into the site and edit panel selection, color, trim and other accessories to customize the job
• Save the job and download the outputs (project quote form, drawings/layouts and Central Link file for ordering)
• Present the quote to the customer, close the sale and place your order with Central States.

Although these digital measurement tools are highly accurate, and continuously improving, we always recommend double-checking the software data with real measurements, especially if there are unique or complex areas that could require manual adjustments. Before ordering material, you should perform manual measurements of the project as explained in our previous article.

Pros and cons of each measuring method

Manual method

Pros include:  

• It is accurate
• You have confidence with your own eye and tape measure
• There is the opportunity for final visual inspection of the roof for rot, wear and damage as well as obstacles and obstructions
• Overall, it is low cost – just the time it takes
• You get the opportunity to confirm job details with your customer, in person

Cons include:  

• Complex roofs can take a lot of time to measure by hand and lead to more chances for missing a portion or needing to return to the home
• You must draw your own layout and renderings
• You must create your own cut list to order products
• There are always safety risks about walking on the roof, especially in any type of inclement weather
• With measuring by hand comes potential for human error
• There is a learning curve to complete with accuracy
• Getting on the roof and moving around variety of slopes can lead to physical strain

Digital method

Pros include:  

• It is quick and efficient
• The tools are easy-to-use
• There is nominal cost compared to time saved
• It can be highly accurate with some guarantees (depending on the vendor chosen)
• You have the ability to stay in the office with less travel
• There is a complete 3D rendering of the roof and layouts provided
• You receive a complete cut-list provided for quicker ordering – for Central States customers, you get a cut-list with all SKUs that we sell in a format that can be uploaded into our Central Link customer portal or emailed to your salesperson for quick ordering.
• The programs create state-of-the-art system with visualizations to impress clients and close more deals
• This can be used in new construction, re-roofing or renovation projects
• It works for both residential and commercial
• Additional considerations like labor, freight and other material add-ons can be placed into the tool and included in your final quotes
• You get a neat project quote for your customers
• There is a printable roof sheathing layout, full roof layout and roof cut sheet

Cons include:

• It requires a computer or tablet (not recommended on mobile phones)
• It is still recommended to validate with some manual measurements before final order placed
• You need computer access and basic know-how required for systems

No matter which option you choose, it is important to take care during the roof takeoff phase. Making sure you’ve collected information about the roof and the customers’ vision and ideas is key to having a successful project that stays on budget and on time.  

Original article and photo source: Central States