Turning specifications into successful metal projects

By The Coffee Shops™ 

Success starts long before crews arrive onsite. 

Early collaboration may start with architects and manufacturers, but successful metal projects depend on bringing contractors into the conversation before construction begins. 

In a recent MetalCast™ episode, Heidi J. Ellsworth continued her conversation with Mercedes Harris, architectural marketing manager from Western States Metal Roofing (WSMR), focusing on how coordination between architects, manufacturers and contractors helps reduce challenges later in the building process. 

According to Mercedes, Western States Metal Roofing's role begins long before a project reaches the jobsite. "Our role typically begins as a technical design partner in the early specification phase," she said. 

That support includes helping architects select panel profiles, reviewing design intent and providing technical resources. Mercedes explained that her team regularly shares CAD details, specifications, drawings and project manuals while discussing factors such as gauge, substrate and coating options. Sample reviews are also a significant part of the process. "Seventy-five percent of our week, we're having a sample meeting, comparing and contrasting different colors," she said. 

Because the company manufactures its own products, the team can help architects understand how designs will translate from concept to construction. "We can have really detailed conversations about what's feasible, how certain profiles will perform and how details will translate from drawings to fabrication to installation," Mercedes explained. 

That knowledge becomes even more valuable when contractors join the process early. Mercedes emphasized that communication among all project stakeholders helps align expectations before work begins. "Communication is key and the more that we're communicating early on in the design process, the easier it will be for everybody," she said. 

Early coordination can also help minimize costly disruptions once construction starts. Mercedes noted that involving manufacturers during design allows project teams to ensure panel profiles, attachment systems and detailing are properly aligned before installation. "It really reduces improv on the field. It minimizes change orders. It helps keep the schedules on track," she said. 

For Mercedes, the goal is straightforward: bring architects, manufacturers and contractors together as early as possible so projects move from design intent to finished installation with fewer obstacles and better results. 

Listen to the entire podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about architect, contractor and manufacturer collaboration in metal construction.