Gaining a decisive edge in a competitive market

By Karen L. Edwards. 

A smarter way to bid on new builds is reshaping the game for roofing pros. 

There’s no slowdown in sight for residential construction, and with every new development comes an opportunity for roofing contractors ready to scale up. But bidding on these developments can be tricky: overlapping deadlines, model variations and margin-tight estimates threaten to bury a bid before it ever gets submitted. Enter GAF Takeoff™, a precision-driven solution designed to cut through the noise and help contractors compete where the volume of bids is high and the pressure is even higher. Here's how it's changing the playbook for roofing pros chasing bigger wins. 

Eliminating guesswork with GAF Takeoff™ 

While the high-demand residential market provides ample opportunity, the volume can create new challenges for some roofing professionals. On each job, contractors are charged with several important tasks, such as determining the roof measurements, calculating the materials needed and developing an accurate estimate. On big jobs, this becomes even trickier. 

GAF recognizes the challenges inaccurate measurements can create for roofing contractors, leading to the development of GAF Takeoff™. This new service aims to help eliminate the guesswork associated with bidding on roofing jobs for new construction projects. 

With GAF Takeoff™, roofing professionals can turn 2D building plans and architectural drawings into a 3D rendering, within two hours*. This can help contractors quickly respond to prospective clients with more accurate quotes. The information received includes detailed key roof measurements for eaves, hips, rakes, ridges, valleys and perimeters, plus a bill of materials that lists suggested products and required quantities. The service also gives users a PDF report and a DXF file for importing into CAD programs. 

Roofing an entire housing development with a few clicks 

New residential developments typically have many homes — but only a handful of models to choose from. This presents a great opportunity for roofing professionals. By securing GAF Takeoff™ reports for each model and using those reports to develop accurate estimates for each home style, contractors can more easily bid on large projects. Once the property manager or homebuyer selects a home model, an estimate can be delivered promptly with a quick refresh of material pricing. 

Additionally, general contractors or builders constructing the homes can enjoy peace of mind that a subcontractor using the GAF Takeoff™ service will present the most accurate bid on the roof. After all, every touchpoint counts toward the customer experience. 

Benefits of GAF Takeoff™ 

The latest GAF service is a game changer for contractors looking to enter the new construction market or grow their work in major remodeling situations and new residential developments. GAF Takeoff™ is available for single-family homes, one of the fastest-growing segments in residential construction**. 

This new service has several benefits for residential roofing contractors looking to take on big jobs. 

Accuracy 

The detailed 3D model allows all parties to rest assured that each roof measurement is correct. Accurate measurements can translate to more precise estimating and more exact material ordering, helping contractors deliver on their original pricing. 

Time savings 

With a 3D model possible in under two hours, contractors can expect to spend less time preparing estimates and deliver bids to the builder more quickly. In addition to convenience, this can help enhance the customer's overall experience. 

Cost-effectiveness 

GAF Takeoff™ is competitively priced and its accuracy enables correct material ordering, reducing waste and saving money. 

Enhanced decision-making 

The GAF service's detailed reports and 3D modeling offer all parties clear insight into the project, enabling contractors and property owners to make informed choices. This can help expedite decision-making and support discussions about important issues like material staging and safety requirements. 

Exploring the suite of GAF business services 

As North America's largest roofing manufacturer, GAF is committed to providing business services that help contractors succeed. From creating measurement and property reports to gaining insight on building codes and property data to preparing insurance scopes of work, GAF offers services that improve efficiency and accuracy, save time and increase profitability. 

Curious to learn more about the newest GAF service offering? Dive deeper into the functionality of GAF Takeoff™ and explore how it can support you in taking on more work in new residential developments. 

*Terms and restrictions apply. Visit here for details. 

**GAF Takeoff™ reports are available in the U.S. and Canada for single-family homes only. Submitting a commercial or multifamily blueprint will result in order cancelation. 

Original article and photo source: GAF