No matter what kind of industry you’re in, your facilities protect the people working inside them and the valuable assets necessary to keep the business operating — inventory, equipment, critical infrastructure and more.
High performance of your facility’s roof obviously is essential. But that roof takes a beating year-round from sun, wind, rain, snow, ice, hail, and even from the ongoing movement of the ground below your building.
No matter what affects your roof, building a relationship with your roofing contractor is vital to keeping your roof in the best condition with the fewest setbacks. By developing a long-term relationship with a roofing contractor, you have the reassurance that your roofing needs will be met and your business can continue operating with little or no interruption. Big problems can be avoided because small problems are handled promptly.
Partnering closely with your commercial roofing contractor pays off in many ways:
Communication — This is the most important tool when working with your contractor. Be upfront about any concerns you may have before, during and after the project is finished. Let your contractor know what the best way to contact you is and be sure to answer as quickly as possible.
Familiarity — When you build a long-lasting relationship with a trustworthy and reliable roofing contractor, the contractor comes to know your roof better than anyone else. Familiarity with your building’s roofing system saves time and money. Also, the crew installing your roof will record important details that will expedite any maintenance and repair work versus hiring a brand new contractor who won’t have access to those records.
Prevention — A contractor who only gets on your roof when it leaks won’t be able to detect problems in advance. However, a contractor who maintains your roof regularly will develop a more intimate understanding of your building and will be able to detect issues much sooner, which will prevent them from becoming major problems.
Trust — Having trust in your roofing contractor is especially important when allowing them full access to your building. Choose your contractor wisely and be sure to check their references and reputation when doing so. Once you have decided, spend face time working with and getting to know them. Reliable Service — Depending on your roofing contractor to protect your business is fundamental in building a successful partnership, especially in the event of an emergency. The better relationship you develop, the more you can expect timely, cost-effective, honest service.
Tyler Fleming is Managing Director of Business Development with Cram Roofing, a nationwide commercial roofing contractor based in San Antonio.
