Accurate Roof Takeoffs –
Step 2: (Option 2) Measure the Roof – Digital Methods

Replacing a residential roof requires careful planning and calculation of materials, costs, and labor requirements. The process of estimating materials and dimensions for a roof replacement is called a roof takeoff. A precise takeoff helps ensure that a contractor orders the correct amount and lengths of metal panel, trim, and accessories to manage project costs effectively.

In the previous article in this series we discussed the manual measuring process for roof estimation. Today, we dive into the popular alternative of digital roof measurement and estimation using powerful but easy-to-use online tools that can save you time and money during the first steps of the takeoff and estimation process.

Digital Measurement Tools

Digital measurement tools, such as drones or satellite-based software like EagleView, Hover, etc., have become increasingly popular due to their safety, speed, and accuracy. These digital tools use advanced imaging and mapping technology to create detailed, high-resolution 3D models of roofs, enabling highly accurate measurements without requiring a ladder or physical presence on the roof. As a benefit to Central States customers, we have partnered with Sherwin Williams to provide Roofing Passport to contractors to quickly create a roof takeoff without ever having to leave your office. Additionally, Central States customers can request metal roof takeoff and material lists from their sales team. We have a dedicated team of individuals across our locations who run takeoffs through Roofing Passport and other digital tools, as an extra service to our customers.

These digital tools typically can create a takeoff for you in just a few steps. For example, in Roofing Passport, you would do the following:

3D View from Digital Measurement Tool

1. Register for Roofing Passport
2. Log in and enter the job details to the EagleView lookup or Roofing WRX (drawing / schematic submission)
3. When measurements have been received, log into the site and edit panel selection, color, trim and other accessories to customize the job
4. Save the job and download the outputs – project quote form, drawings and layouts, and Central Link file for ordering
5. Present the quote to the customer, close the sale, and place your order with Central States.

Although these digital measurement tools are highly accurate, and continuously improving, we always recommend double-checking the software data with real measurements, especially if there are unique or complex areas that could require manual adjustments. Before ordering material, you should perform manual measurements of the project as instructed in our previous article “manual measurements.”

Pro’s and Con’s of Each Measuring Method

Manual Method:

PROS:

• Accurate
• Confidence in your own eye and tape measure
• Opportunity for final visual inspection of the roof for rot, wear, and damage as well as obstacles and obstructions
• Low cost – just the time it takes
• Opportunity to confirm job details with your customer, in person

CONS:

• Complex roofs can take a lot of time to measure by hand and lead to more chances for missing a portion or needing to return to the home
• You must draw your own layout and renderings
• You must create your own cutlist to order products
• Safety risks about walking on the roof, especially in any type of inclement weather
• Potential for human error when measuring
• Learning curve to complete with accuracy
• Physical strain of getting on the roof and moving around variety of slopes

Digital Method:

PROS:

• Quick
• Easy to Use Tools
• Nominal cost compared to time saved
• Highly accurate with some guarantees (depending on the vendor chosen)
• Ability to stay in the office with less travel
• Complete 3D rendering of the roof and layouts
• Complete cut-list provided for quicker ordering – for Central States customers, you get a cut-list with all SKUs that we sell in a format that can be uploaded into our Central Link {link to CL} customer portal or emailed to your salesperson for quick ordering.
• State-of-the-art system with visualizations to impress clients and close more deals
• Can be used in new construction, re-roofing, or renovation projects
• Residential or Commercial
• Additional considerations like labor, freight, and other material add-ons can be placed into the tool and included in your final quotes
• Project quote for your customers
• Printable roof sheathing layout, full roof layout, and roof cut sheet

CONS:

• Requires a computer or tablet (not recommended on mobile phones)
• Recommended to validate with some manual measurements before final order placed
• Computer access and basic know-how required for systems

You’ve Run the Digital Measurements Collected – What’s Next?

So far, you’ve collected information about the roof and the customers’ vision and ideas and now you’ve run the digital measurements through Roofing Passport. Next, we will discuss calculating the roofing material needed. But, until then, if you’d like to learn more about our products and services, please review the solutions section or contact us to be connected with a salesperson to get started.