Tag: general contractors

How General Contractors Can Improve Customer Relationships

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Construction work requires general contractors to wear many hats, but customer relations is perhaps the most crucial role that a contractor takes on. Keeping customers happy is essential to ensure a steady stream of work in the future. The best way to keep customers excited about a project is to produce quality work, but there are other key factors that can improve a contractor’s relationship with clients. Here are a few tips on how general contractors can improve customer relationships:

Choose Quality Subcontractors

A construction team is only as good as its weakest link, and clients tend to notice mistakes more than they notice parts of the project that run smoothly. Choosing the best commercial roofing contractors and other quality subcontractors ensures that every part of the project will is done correctly, keeping the project on track and customers happy.

Emphasize Customer Service on the Job Site.

Many commercial metal roofing contractors and commercial flat roofing contractors like to arrive on-site, get their jobs done, and leave the rest of the project to the boss. Customers don’t always understand this mentality and expect to encounter knowledgeable, respectful workers at every point in the process. General contractors should choose companies that emphasize customer service and will treat clients well, providing information and answering questions. 

Aim for the Best Quality Materials & Techniques

Using high-quality materials and proper construction techniques helps ensure that buildings last for their expected lifespan. Customers are more likely to turn to a contractor who produces great-looking work that doesn’t fall apart.

Stay on Schedule

Nothing is more frustrating to an eager customer than a delay. Staying on track requires everything from site discipline to managing supply chain issues. Contractors like Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal pride themselves on helping general contractors track down difficult-to-find materials and sticking to the schedule no matter what complications arise. 

Respect the Budget 

Customers create a budget for a reason, and general contractors may never know how increased construction costs can affect a customer’s bottom line. Unexpected increases often reflect poorly on the contractor and make customers less likely to recommend them or work with them in the future.

If you’re a general contractor looking for a roofer to help you improve customer relations, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our customer service representatives are ready and waiting to help.

Maxwell Roofing and General Contractors: Why We Make Such a Great Team

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

At Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, we often work with general contractors for large construction projects. Over the years, we’ve built up great relationships with contractors all over the Nashville area. Here are just a few of the reasons why general contractors and Maxwell Roofing make a great team:

  1. Maxwell Has a Stellar Reputation

With more than 65 years in the roofing business, Maxwell has been able to survive because of the relationships and reputation that it has built. We are known among commercial roofing contractors for our reliability and professionalism. Contractors know that they can trust us to deliver quality work on schedule and on budget. 

  1. Maxwell Has Experience with Many Different Types of Roof Construction

Need a commercial metal roofing contractor? How about a commercial low-sloped roof contractor? At Maxwell, we are experienced in all types of commercial roofing. From design and material acquisition to post-construction maintenance, we can help general contractors and their clients with all of their roofing needs.

  1. Maxwell Values Safety

For general contractors, sub-contractor safety is always a liability and concern. Maxwell’s roofers receive top-notch safety training, and while on the job they make sure safety is always a priority. With Maxwell roofers, general contractors never need to worry that workers are adhering to the highest safety standards. They can rest assured that will always be the case.

  1. Maxwell Offers Extra Services

Maxwell Roofing doesn’t just do roof construction. We also offer custom sheet metal fabrication, cutting out the middleman for this important roofing material. This service can help general contractors manage supply chain issues and also save money. Beyond the construction phase, Maxwell also has maintenance programs for clients that want to make their new roof last.

  1. Maxwell Puts the Customer First

For general contractors, client relationships are of the utmost importance. With Maxwell Roofing, general contractors can always be sure that roofers will showcase consistent professionalism. Contractors know that they can trust Maxwell to keep clients updated and maintain clear, informative communication at all times.

If you’re ready to get started with your roofing project, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our team is here and ready to help.

Why Contractors Should Choose a Roofing Partner with In-House Metal Fabrication

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Every type of commercial roofing system needs sheet metal to function, yet most roofing companies get their sheet metal from a third-party fabrication plant. For contractors, this use of third-party sheet metal can become a problem, as it can lead to delays and even cause a project to blow its budget. 

Contractors in search of a roofing partner should consider companies with their own in-house metal fabrication. Here are just a few of the advantages that in-house fabrication brings to a project. 

1. Increased Efficiency

The more subcontractors and suppliers that are involved in a project, the less efficient it becomes. Using a roofing company with in-house metal fabrication eliminates the need for a metal middleman, and lets contractors work straight with their suppliers. Contractors can get their questions answered and their budget concerns addressed directly from their metal fabricator rather than having to pass messages through multiple gatekeepers. 

2. Increased Design Options

In-house sheet metal fabrication opens up a whole world of design options for contractors. Custom fabrication shops can produce specialized roofing products instead of just the typical prefab shapes offered by most roofing companies. This allows contractors to produce more visually appealing roofs and address special construction concerns.

3. Better Management of Supply Shortages

It’s no secret that supply shortages have severely affected the roofing industry following the pandemic. Suppliers all over the world are trying to squeeze out orders at a record pace, throwing off their time and budget estimates. Fabrication shops within roofing companies serve customers directly, enabling them to deliver more accurate estimates and a higher percentage of orders.

4. Decreased Costs

Whenever a contractor goes through a third party for materials or labor, there is a mark-up. Roofers that have in-house sheet metal fabrication are able to save money on labor and materials and pass those savings onto their customers. 

5. Increased Project Speed

Roofing companies with in-house sheet metal fabrication have complete control over their project timeline. There is no risk that their supplier will fail to deliver on a promise. In-house metal fabrication also does not require delivery, eliminating any unnecessary transportation delays.

In Search of a Trusted Roofing Partner? 

If you’re ready to learn more about in-house sheet metal fabrication, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

A General Contractor’s Guide to High-Quality Roofing Projects

Posted on by David Maxwell

For a general contractor, the most important step in a high-quality roofing project is to hire a trusted company to do the work. If you’re a contractor on the hunt for a commercial roofing partner that fits your needs, this guide will help you choose a roofing contractor and make sure that you are producing high-quality roofing projects for your customers. 

1. Choose quality materials.

All roofing contractors should have familiarity with different kinds of roofing materials—and the best contractors will have access to products of the highest quality. Choosing a long-lasting, durable roof material will make the roof last longer and save money over time. 

2. Prioritize safety.

A lack of safety measures during a construction project can often influence the quality of the product. Roofers need to feel secure and be careful; a failure in either of these two areas can lead to problems during the construction project. Be sure to verify safety protocols with your roofing contractor and to prioritize safety on the job site. 

3. Emphasize customer service.

Roofing contractors are part of a team on a construction site. General contractors should choose a roofer with a history of good customer service to ensure that their roofers are responsive, meet deadlines, and collaborate appropriately while on the job site.

4. Plan for maintenance. 

High-quality roof construction is pointless if it isn’t followed up with a high-quality maintenance plan. General contractors should choose a roofing partner that offers maintenance plans along with roof repairs and construction. Building owners always appreciate the option to enroll in a plan like Maxwell’s MaxCARE® for the life of their commercial roof. 

Are you a general contractor looking for a trusted roofing partner?

If you’re a general contractor who is ready to learn more about high-quality roofing projects, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our team is ready to help.

Contractors: 6 Questions to Ask Before a New Roof Construction Project

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Commercial roofing is a specialized sub-section of construction that requires special skills and certifications. Because of the expertise required for roofing, general contractors often need to hire a roofing subcontractor to do the job. For contractors without much roofing experience, choosing a subcontractor for a roofing job can seem intimidating. Here are a few questions that every general contractor should ask before starting  a new roof construction project.

1. How long have you been in business?

Some commercial roofing companies come and go during storm seasons and periods of high construction. But, when times get tough only the best roofing companies last. Asking how long a company has been in business is essentially code for asking how reputable a company is. A company with decades worth of experience has a lot to live up to and their work will reflect that.

2. What is your safety record?

General contractors can be liable for accidents on a job site even when the work is performed by subcontractors. For this reason it is absolutely critical that contractors only hire companies with impeccable safety records. Always inquire about the steps roofing companies take to make sure their workers are safe and to follow local regulations.

3. Can you provide references?

Determining the quality of a roofing company’s work can be difficult if you’re just basing it on their website. Good roofing companies keep track of their best work and keep references from past customers. General contractors should be able to get a list of other contractors who can vouch for the roofing company.

4. Can you provide proof of insurance?

Roofing companies are required to have insurance, but that doesn’t mean that every company follows the rules. It’s not enough to ask about insurance. Contractors should request to see proof of liability insurance before working with a commercial roofing subcontractor.

5. Can I get a written proposal?

Even reputable commercial roofing companies can go over budget or miss their deadlines, but they will always put their promises in writing. Good commercial roofers make accurate, good-faith estimates on a project’s cost and schedule. If delays or unexpected costs occur, they will own them.

6. What materials can I choose from?

Choosing the right material for a commercial roofing project can seem impossible for a contractor unfamiliar with roofs, but a good commercial roofing company should be able to help. Be sure to choose a commercial roofing company that can explain the advantages and disadvantages of each roofing type. 

If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

How We Use Our Values to Build Trust with General Contractors

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

The relationship between a roofing company and a general contractor is the foundation for any successful commercial roofing project. At Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., we have been building and maintaining trusting relationships with contractors for nearly 70 years. 

Our success lies within our company’s core values. By following these fundamental principles, generations of Maxwell roofers have built trust with general contractors. Here’s how:

1. Quality

Maxwell Roofing prioritizes quality above all else on roofing projects. Our company gets great prices on the best materials, and our workers are some of the best in the business. Maxwell has built a reputation based on its consistent delivery of high-quality roofs. General contractors know that they can trust Maxwell to do the job right and produce roofs that are built to last. 

2. Teamwork

In any commercial building, it’s critical that each component is constructed to function as part of the whole. This means that teamwork and communication between different crews on the job site is absolutely crucial. Maxwell Roofing self-performs the roofing jobs, and trains its employees to work well not only within their own teams, but also with other contractors. General contractors know that a Maxwell Roofing crew is going to show up to a work site willing to support all others working on the project.

3. Integrity

Untrustworthy companies don’t last for years in the business. Maxwell Roofing has maintained a loyal customer base because we always do what we say—on schedule. General contractors know that they are choosing a roofer they can count on. Even in a world of supply and worker shortages, Maxwell’s team is up-front and realistic about what they can deliver.

4. Professionalism

Maxwell Roofing employees get the highest level of training and education, and their expertise is unparalleled. General contractors know that their high expectations will be met with our crews and that roofers will always exhibit professionalism and show respect on the job site.  

5. Service

We know that roofing is about much more than just construction. Our service department works to make sure that customers’ needs are met and that they have somewhere to turn when something goes wrong. General contractors can count on the Maxwell Roofing team to help deliver an excellent customer experience.

If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

Why Contractors Choose Maxwell as Their Commercial Roofing Partner

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

When contractors look for a roofer, they need a company that is going to get the job done well without bogging down the rest of the construction project. With nearly 70 years in the roofing business, Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. has built a stellar reputation based on the company’s ability to deliver what contractors need and expect.

If you are a contractor looking for a new commercial roofing partner, here are just a few of the reasons you should consider us.

5 Reasons Contractors Choose Maxwell Roofing

1. Maxwell Roofing has a proven track record.

Companies that don’t meet clients’ expectations don’t stick around as long as Maxwell Roofing has. We’ve been working with contractors for decades on all different types of commercial buildings. We know what it takes to be a great commercial roofing partner.

2. Maxwell Roofing offers a full-service roofing shop.

Many roofing companies just do installation and repairs, but Maxwell offers an entire suite of services from maintenance to design and even custom sheet metal fabrication. Having a roofing company that can do everything lets contractors cut out the middle men, saving money and time and bringing a higher level of expertise to the project. 

3. Maxwell Roofing delivers the highest quality commercial roofs at a great value.

With our in-house fabrication and design shop and a team of experienced roofers, Maxwell is uniquely positioned to deliver the best quality commercial roof available. Our roofers have worked with all sorts of specialty materials and know our products inside out. With our breadth of services, Maxwell is also able to give contractors and building owners more value for their money. 

4. Maxwell Roofing prioritizes safety.

Roof installation is one of the most dangerous jobs on a construction site, but when partnering with Maxwell, contractors don’t need to worry about on-the-job carelessness. All of our team members get top-of-the-line hazard training, and the company performs hazard and fall analysis during several stages of the job to keep workers safe and ease contractor’s minds.

5. Maxwell Roofing is reliable—always.

We make sure that every contractor feels like their project is our top priority. We built our reputation by getting jobs done on time, on budget, and with the highest quality or service. Even on those construction jobs where everything seems to be going wrong, you can depend on Maxwell to deliver.

If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

What Contractors Should Know About Commercial Roofing Construction

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

General contractors have so many different elements to oversee with a construction project, especially for commercial properties. For many contractors, the roof may be one of the most unfamiliar parts of a building. To help understand the complexities of roofing, we created this guide outlining what contractors should know about commercial roofing construction.

1. Commercial vs. Residential Roofs

While all roofs have things in common, there are major differences between commercial and residential roofs. Commercial roofers are much more familiar with the types of commercial roofing. They can also address the challenges that come with specialized commercial projects like metal roofs, green roofs, or flat (low-slope) roofs. Be sure to hire a commercial roofer for a commercial job.

2. Types of Roofs

General contractors should be aware of the most popular types of commercial roof installations. While asphalt shingles are popular for residential buildings, commercial roofs usually use roofing materials like EPDM or thermoplastic single-ply membranes. These roofing systems are a cost-effective way to provide waterproofing over a large, flat surface. 

3. Commercial Roof Costs

General contractors must prepare ahead of time for the high costs of a commercial roof. These complex roofing systems typically cost around $11-$14 per square foot; however, this average can vary depending on materials used and the complexity of the project. Certain materials, like metal, may cost more but also tend to last longer. While price is a factor in any construction project, skimping too much on a roof can have costly consequences down the road if it fails.

4. Choosing a Contractor

The best thing a general contractor can do to ensure their building gets the best roof possible is to hire a reputable commercial roofing contractor. Be sure to properly vet contractors before hiring them by checking references and inquiring about their insurance. Different contractors also may specialize in certain types of roofs. You may want to consider a roofing company that also has a custom fabrication shop or staff that can help with roof design.

5. Roof Life After Construction

Unlike other parts of a commercial building, the roof requires ongoing maintenance in order to last. Roof repair is also a common necessity since commercial roofs are exposed to the elements. Contractors should look for roofing companies that offer options for roof inspections and long-term maintenance for the roof after it is built. Finding a roofing company that goes the extra mile will benefit building owners in the long run.

If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

What Every General Contractor Should Know About Rooftop Penetrations

Posted on by John Maxwell

No one wants a hole in their building’s roof, but any general contractor knows that sometimes rooftop penetrations are necessary for the functioning of a commercial building. Vent pipes, skylights, HVAC blocks and metal pipes are all common on commercial roofs, and experienced roofing contractors build these out regularly on construction projects.

While general contractors and construction managers need a basic understanding of roof penetrations, it’s always a plus to involve a professional roofer in the process. Here are the things every general contractor should know about rooftop penetrations in order to best inform the process.

What Is a Rooftop Penetration?

A roof penetration is anything that requires a break in the roofing membrane and roof deck. Penetrations are common on flat roofs because they often require pipe penetrations, drainage, and ventilation. Almost every commercial roof will require some type of penetration for the building to function properly. Penetrations are one of the most complex elements of commercial roofing construction, and these areas are the most vulnerable parts of a completed roof.

How Roof Penetrations Work

Roofers use a mix of metal and sealing tools to protect penetrations and keep them watertight. These include flashing and seals, pipe flashing, and roof jacks. Some older commercial roofs may also have pitch pans, which are metal boxes that surround the penetration and are filled with grout. Most commercial roofing companies no longer build new pitch pans because they leak easily. 

Finding the Right Roofing Contractor for Penetrations

A reputable commercial roofing company should be familiar with roofing penetrations. Whether a building needs a vent roof or a flashing roof, the roofing company should be able to design, build, and maintain the penetrations. General contractors should limit their search to roofing contractors that focus on commercial buildings. A lot can go wrong with a roof penetration, so finding a reputable company with experience is paramount. 

Maintaining a Roof Penetration

General contractors should be aware that a roof with penetrations will require more regular maintenance than one without. Flashing, sealant, and other elements of penetrations should be monitored in order to keep the roof waterproof. Even well-built roofing penetrations are vulnerable parts of a completed commercial roof. Be sure to develop a plan with your commercial roofer for how to protect roofing penetrations and keep personnel away from them.

If you’re ready to get started on a new roof project, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

Quality vs. Price: How General Contractors Can Choose the Best Commercial Roof Value

Posted on by David Maxwell

A commercial roof is often one of the largest investments in any construction project. The high cost of a roof can make cutting corners seem tempting, but any good general contractor knows just how important a leak-free roof will be going forward. 

The bottom line with commercial roofs is that you get what you pay for. This makes selecting a company to construct a commercial roof a balancing act, weighing price versus quality. The starting point for any general contractor looking for a good commercial roof value is to get roof estimates from local companies. Any reputable roof company can provide an accurate roof estimate that will include costs, crew size, and the amount of time it will take to complete the project. 

When comparing the roof estimates there are a few things to consider about pricing. There are also a couple things to think about when trying to assess the value of a proposal.

Things that you don’t want to skimp on:

1. Experience and Reputation

Always choose a reputable company for your commercial roof. These companies may cost a bit more, but they will ensure that you don’t wind up with a defective roof later on. Experienced roofers pay more attention to detail, can better troubleshoot problems, and work more quickly and efficiently. It’s worth it to pay for a company that will do the work right in order to prevent other costly problems later on.

2. Insurance

Liability insurance is expensive for roofing companies, but the money saved by using an uninsured company is not worth the risk that it poses. Roofing accidents happen to even the most experienced of roofers, and without insurance, those incidents can cost your company big time. Not only does liability insurance prevent costly lawsuits, it also makes sure employees are treated well in case of an accident. Choosing an insured company is simply the right thing to do.

3. Materials

Subpar materials will lead to a subpar roof. No matter what type of roof you choose for your commercial building, make sure it is built with long-lasting materials. Choosing quality materials will help your roof last longer and prevent costly damage down the line.

4. Future Maintenance

When budgeting for a new commercial roof, it’s important to look beyond the immediate construction costs. Maintaining a roof is just important to its longevity as good construction. Set aside some money for future maintenance and be aware of the costs of maintaining whatever type of roof you choose.

Where you can save money:

1. Roof Type

Roof costs can vary quite a bit per square foot, depending on the type of roof you choose. There are plenty of practical considerations for what type of roof is best for your building, but you can save some money by choosing something that may be less aesthetically pleasing. Even if you choose a type of roof that’s easier on your budget, the roofers can still use quality materials to build it.

2. Long-Term Budgeting and Bundling

A commercial roof is a long-term investment. Instead of thinking about roof value in terms of the up-front construction costs, companies should consider the long-term costs. Many companies offer plans for roof management that allow companies to save money over the life of their roof. These plans, like Maxwell’s MAXCare®, offer discounts on repairs and allow for long-term budgeting on maintenance and inspections.

If you’re ready to choose a commercial roofing company that will offer you the best value and a commitment to quality and timely work, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

5 Ways In-House Sheet Metal Fabrication Benefits General Contractors

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

General contracting requires managing the hundreds of small tasks and complex projects required for constructing a new building. It’s a tough job, but general contractors can make their lives a bit easier by using a few trusted subcontractors. 

Working alongside a full-service roofing company with access to in-house sheet metal fabrication takes a huge burden off the general contractor by streamlining the commercial roof construction process. Here are five key benefits general contractors can experience by working with a commercial roofing partner that has in-house fabrication services.

1. Eliminate the middleman.

Since most commercial roofs contain some form of sheet metal, roofing contractors without their own fabrication processes must find a sheet metal fabricator to produce the material for them, adding even decision-makers to what is likely an already crowded construction project. Using a roofing company with in-house fabrication can eliminate the middleman so that general contractors have fewer variables to worry about.

2. Maintain more control.

Third-party sheet metal fabricators usually mass produce their product for multiple customers. Roofing companies with a house sheet metal shop create a high-quality product tailored specifically to the needs of the customer. Roofing companies that produce sheet metal in-house often carry specialty materials for projects with elaborate designs or for creating energy-efficient roofs. Sheet metal produced in-house is the best way for a general contractor to maintain more control of the design of their roof, helping to ensure they get exactly what their project demands. 

3. Save time and money.

Getting sheet metal produced in-house is all about streamlining the roofing process. Working directly with a roofer for your sheet metal needs eliminates surprise supply-chain issues, preventing delays. In-house fabrication also saves money by cutting out a third-party sheet metal fabricator.

4. Get the very best quality of sheet metal products.

Roofing companies only fabricate high-quality sheet metal that works best on commercial roofs. Third-party sheet metal fabricators produce sheet metal for all kinds of products, and it may not always suit the needs of a commercial roof.

5. Work with partners you trust.

A desire for any general contractor is to find a commercial roofing company they can trust with the best installation technicians and customer service. There are multiple variables in construction, and choosing a trusted roofing partner that also fabricates its own sheet metal ensures that one more step in the building process is reliable. 

 Starting a new construction project this year? Our team is equipped and ready to assist, so don’t hesitate to contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today!

What Contractors Can Do to Develop Talent for the Future

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Like any company, a commercial roofing contractor not only desires to be known as the best in its industry, but it also hopes to maintain a solid reputation and employ qualified team members along the way. The latter of those goals ultimately helps lead the company to success and longevity within the roofing industry. So, what can roofing contractors do to develop and train top talent who will perform quality work, provide excellent customer service, and become long-term employees? Here are a few tips we’ve observed along the way at Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc.

Provide Ongoing Learning Opportunities

The best and most valuable employees are those who are afforded opportunities for ongoing training and development. And, no matter the type of job or environment, learning is essential for employees to be properly equipped and highly effective on the job. Especially if your roofing employees are joining your team with little to no experience, ongoing learning opportunities are essential to the company’s success. Consider hosting monthly or quarterly on-site training seminars or demonstrations that are taught by industry veterans. Another option is to create or source training videos for employees to watch on a regular basis. All in all, implementing an ongoing learning strategy should be a simple and necessary task for any reputable company that wants to develop top talent for the future.

Offer Competitive Benefits

No matter the industry, a competitive benefits package will always draw the best quality candidates. From affordable health insurance to paid time off to daily working conditions to tuition assistance and more, make sure your company stands apart from competitors when it comes to taking care of your employees. Even more, providing intentional and rewarding opportunities for advancement within the company will often clearly reveal top talent who truly value your company and their roles within it. 

Alter Your Recruitment Efforts

While commercial roofing isn’t the most glamorous of industries for next-generation talent to consider, it is an industry that can provide stable and enjoyable work opportunities. So, while there are modern-day challenges in recruiting new employees to commercial roofing jobs, there are many ways to focus on your recruitment efforts for drawing top talent. From tapping into high school programs to teaching aspiring students about the industry to partnering with military veteran programs to offering college credits for soon-to-be graduates, consider altering your recruitment efforts beyond simple job postings or waiting for talent to find you.  

Create Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships for the next generation of roofing professionals is a growing trend within the industry. This involves pairing new or inexperienced employees with seasoned industry veterans. Whether you’re able to naturally create and develop these staff relationships or partner with industry organizations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), you’ll find that the return on your investment will be well worth your efforts.

Looking for a Talented and Reputable Roofing Contractor?

At Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., we value our employees and strive to build a team that is committed to excellence. If you’re looking for a full-service commercial roofing partner in Nashville, Tennessee, Huntsville, Alabama, or their surrounding areas, please don’t hesitate to contact our team today! We’re here to help.

The Keys to a Great General Contractor and Roofing Company Relationship

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

For anyone launching into a new construction project, choosing the proper team is the first and most important step. Having the right leader is critical to the success of any endeavor, and in construction, this means finding a general contractor to command your project. While each project has its own considerations, there are three major characteristics that every good general contractor shares.

A great general contractor is:

1. Reputable—Before hiring anyone to run a commercial roofing construction project, you must do your homework. You’ll want find a general contractor with documented credentials. This includes positive testimonies from former clients, membership to professional organizations, and good rankings from places like the Better Business Bureau.

2. An excellent business manager—A general contractor’s job is to wrangle all the different aspects of a construction job into one cohesive plan. Doing this effectively requires a massive amount of organization, something that will be reflected in how the contractor runs the business and treats clients. A contractor who seems flustered or disorganized on the business side of things likely isn’t an effective project manager.

3. Experienced—While hard management skills are an asset to any general contractor, experience is the key to a project running smoothly. General contractors with a long history on the job often have the best contacts and know how to deal with any potential problems that may arise.

While a general contractor must wear many different hats on a construction project, they are not specialists in every aspect of construction. For technical projects like roofing, you’ll want to hire experts. And, since a roof is a critical part of a building’s structure, a quality roofer should be one of the first additions to your construction team.

A good roofer will:

1. Be service-oriented—Good commercial roofing isn’t just about delivering a quality product. The best commercial roofing companies will provide a detailed report about how they make decisions and will provide support long after the initial project is completed.

2. Have specialized training—Unlike general contractors, roofers can direct all their energy into just one part of a building. Only specialists stay up-to-date on the latest technology and building codes specifically-designed for roofs.

3. Be a great communicator—Roofers should maintain clear communication with both the client and the general contractor. Establishing clear communication on prices and timelines from the beginning is key to a smooth construction project.

Above all, hiring a quality commercial roofing partner will free up time for your general contractor to focus on other aspects of the construction project, ensuring an excellent final product. At Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., we value our relationships with general contractors and love working as part of a team.

Contact us today to learn more about how Maxwell Roofing can handle your roofing construction needs.

The 4 Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire A Roofing Contractor

Posted on by John Maxwell

A new roof is one of the biggest single-item capital expenditures for any commercial building owner. A new roof can cost anywhere from few dollars per square foot to a few hundred dollars per square foot. It is imperative that any roofer who steps onto the roof is experienced, trusted and will provide the best value for the investment. Hiring a roofing contractor should never be a leap of blind faith. To properly vet a potential contractor, these are the questions that should be answered before a final decision is made:

How Much Experience Do You Have?

Experience matters when it comes to commercial roofing. The number of years that a contractor has been in the business is a good indicator of their quality of work. New companies may come to the table with a breadth of previous experience, but it can take years to become financially solvent and to develop processes that ensure true customer satisfaction. If a company installs a roof and goes out of business the next year, warranties and maintenance contracts are put in jeopardy. Always choose a roofer that has at least a decade of proven work experience under their belt, and be sure they have operated under the same business name during that time.

It is also important to choose a roofer with experience working on buildings similar to your own. A company that mainly works with single-story, suburban retail buildings, for example, would not be the best choice to work on a high-rise with tenant access. Study the roofer’s portfolio to compare their past projects with your own.

What Is The Timeline?

A roofing company that is booked for the next 12 months is of little use if your roof is failing today. Before selecting a bid, be sure to address the contractor’s capacity to handle the work. Ask questions like:

  • When can the project start?
  • Will you have access to all of the extra equipment needed for the work?
  • How long will the job take?
  • Do you currently have enough people on staff to get the job done in the allotted time?

A bottom-line bid is not always an indication of capacity to do the work. Be sure to ask these questions to ensure your project can start and end in a timely manner.

What Is Your Safety Rating?

Safety should be just as much of a priority when choosing a roofer as budget. There cannot be enough said about keeping the workers on the roof safe from hazards and keeping the tenants and general public safe, as well.

Ask direct questions about a roofer’s safety record. They should have this data on file, and should be willing and able to present it as part of their bid presentation. The way in which a roofing contractor manages safety can be a strong indicator of how the entire project will be managed.

How Can You Ensure Quality?

Quality can and should be the deciding factor when you have several bids that come in at the same price, and the experience and safety record of the contractors all seem equal.

Quality can be determined by studying a potential contractor’s portfolio and asking for references. Most reputable firms should be able to provide references for similar projects. If given the opportunity to connect directly with those references, ask about their satisfaction levels with:

  • The communication process with the contractor before, during and after construction.
  • The quality of materials.
  • The workmanship of the finished product.
  • The work ethic of the team.
  • Safety precautions during construction.
  • Maintenance contracts, warranties, etc.
  • Current roof performance.

A roofing project that is rife with issues can draw out the length of construction, can lead to unforeseen added expenses and a host of other issues down the line. While the price of the roof is important, the quality of the roof and the value proposition of the contractor should be given significant weight.

Commercial roofing projects can easily fall into the $100,000-plus range. When spending that kind of money, building owners and property managers must perform their due diligence. Take the time to ask questions to a roofer before hiring them. A proper vetting process is the best way to ensure satisfaction with the end result.

The 6 Things A General Contractor Must Look For In A Commercial Roofing Contractor

Posted on by John Maxwell

During any job, general contractors (GCs) have made a commitment to the building owner or developer to complete the work according to specifications, on time and within budget. One of the challenges they may face in delivering on that commitment would be a failure-to-perform issue with one or more of the subcontractors hired to complete specific aspects of the job. If a subcontractor stops work for any reason, the project is threatened and the GC may face serious repercussions. A general contractor, therefore, should work with a proven, reliable commercial roofing contractor who has a history of doing quality work quickly and correctly the first time. Here are six criteria GCs should look for when hiring subcontractors.

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