Reduce the chance of forgetting an important step in the installation process by planning ahead in the quote and order stage. Follow below or download and print this handy checklist.
Measure:
- For existing structures, go to Google Maps to see an overhead view of your house. Draw the roof outline ahead of time and then add measurements once on the roof.
- For future buildings, simply email us your blueprints – we can provide accurate measurements from there.
- Measure to the inch – no need to round up. The more accurate the better.
- Start by measuring around the perimeter – finish these and then go to the interior of the roof.
- Don’t forget pipes, chimneys, skylights, and anything else that protrudes from the roof – you’ll need flashing for these.
- Note the roof slope(s) (how steep the roof is) if possible – Download the “Pitch Gauge” app for Android or iPhone or use one of these methods.
Calculate:
- Best Buy Metals will estimate material for you – provide us with a drawing and we’ll take it from there.
- Through Fastened Panels are cut to length – measure from ridge to eave. There’s typically no need to add extra length for the overhang. You’ll pull them down from the ridge 1-2” which gives you a 1-2” overhang at the eave.
- Standing Seam Panels may need 2” or so added at the lower end to allow for hemming.
- The number of panels needed = width of roof plane / panel coverage width. So for a 30’ wide roof area – if your panel is 3’ coverage width you’ll need 10 panels (multiply by 2 if a 2 sided roof)
- In hips or valleys, measure across every 3’ (insert panel width if different) to obtain the length of panel needed for that area.
- Panels above a transition should be shortened a bit to allow the transition to be installed.
- Adding a few extra panels of the longest length is always a good recommendation. That way if you use a panel at the wrong location or damage a panel you’ll still be able to complete the project on time.
- When estimating trim/flashing, don’t forget laps – most trims can lap 2-6”. Valleys should be lapped at least 6” and may also need mitered at the top and bottom which requires additional material.
- Highlighting each roof area after notating material needed will help ensure you don’t forget anything
