How to Prevent the Roofing Material Shortage From Delaying Your Project
You might have heard already about a material shortage that is shaking up virtually every industry. Deliverables are getting delayed because of a construction material shortage, and that unfortunately means longer project timelines.
But these changes are not the end of the world if you have appropriate expectations in mind. Here’s what you need to know related to the roofing material shortage that might impact your project.
What’s Causing the Material Shortage in Construction
A number of factors have contributed to the material shortage in construction: extreme weather, production facility shutdowns related to COVID-19, freight and supply chain issues with trade partners, raw material and supply line issues, and an overall increase in demand that’s outpacing supply. It is important to talk to your contractor to know your project timeline.
Sadly, there is no end in sight to these problems. But with the J&K Roofing as your contractor we can address the needs of your project and find the right solutions.
Expect To Extend Project Timelines
No one wants to hear that their project might take longer than normal, but it is unfortunately a commonality during these shortages. With the right roofing contractor the delays may only be a week or two, however it’s good to go into the project expecting some delay time.
Despite the supply chain issues and the material shortages, the best plan is to consult your roofing contractor now so they can help you determine the scope & timeline for your project.
Give As Much Advance Notice As Possible
In addition to expecting longer project timelines, you will want to offer as much advance notice as possible before beginning a project so that materials can be ordered. We’re seeing an increase in supplier material cost across the board due to low availability.
For example, flat roofing materials can have an order timeline of 3 to 6 months. But for shingle roof projects, we can still offer competitive timelines. We’re seeing an increase in the lead time on window orders and an increase in the price of nails. While some companies can take up to 6 to 8 weeks to begin a project, we’ve been able to contain our normal turnaround to a week or two—it just depends on your project.
Do your best to plan ahead and work with your contractor on ordering the materials you need well in advance. This will help them stay as close to a normal project timeline as possible.
Understand Your Project Estimate
When a contractor puts together a project estimate, they do so using current material costs and availability. With the construction material shortage, estimates are subject to change. At J&K Roofing, we want you to have comfort and confidence in your project, so we do our best to keep you informed of any changes as soon as they happen. Further, we’ll hold our prices for 30 days from the signing of your contract to give you greater peace of mind.
Be Flexible
You may need to accept the fact that some materials may be limited, like shingle color selection. So being flexible based on availability is helpful for getting your project across the finish line.
Depending on the scope and urgency of your project, your local roofing contractor will be able to help you select the right materials for your project. With a large variety of options to choose from, your contractor can get you the right materials for your climate and help you find the best options based on the timing of your project.
Communication Is Key
We remain in the loop with both our customers and with our suppliers and will keep you informed every step of the way.
We’ve taken proactive steps to lower the possibility that supply for your materials might be unavailable, including purchasing shingle inventory early this spring. We have popular colors and brands in stock, but if you have a specialty product that has a longer lead time, we’ll help find solutions and options for your project and update you as needed.
J&K Roofing Will Advocate for You Throughout the Material Shortage
The roofing material shortage is not going away anytime soon, but you can act now to help avoid any major issues while the material shortage continues. Schedule a free roofing inspection to help reduce the risk of any emergency projects—especially when materials are so difficult to source.
With nearly 40 years in business, we have trusted relationships with all our suppliers, and we will do our best to streamline the process by working directly with manufacturers and keeping you informed. J&K Roofing services the Denver Metro, Front Range, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins areas. Contact us today!