When we think of architecture, the first aspect that comes to mind is design. After all, this is the “face” of the architectural project, something that characterizes the professional’s style and reflects his way of thinking in society.
But behind the design is the choice of materials. There are many decisions, but particularly the structure needs to be very well realized. There are several important components, such as the roof, that need to be well constructed so as not to affect other parts of the building.
So choosing what to use not only allows the project to be realized, but ensures safety and functionality. For this reason, the evaluation of roof suppliers is fundamental.
Want to know what aspects help to choose good partnerships?
Reasons to worry about roof suppliers
With so many options of materials and companies, and sometimes tight deadlines, the professional may have difficulty in researching good partnerships. As a result, they end up selecting some indicated options or someone better known.
This is not wrong, because working with those you trust is essential. However, when the spectrum of options is wider, there is the possibility of discovering new opportunities.
Since architecture is constantly changing, it is good to evolve with it – that is, to get to know new materials and, consequently, more partners. Because of this, there are several reasons to be concerned about good roof suppliers.
Reputation
The success of the architectural professional’s work is directly related to his or her reputation. If they are well done, you know you can become a reference in the field. But all it takes is one mistake for your reputation to be tarnished, isn’t it? This is why care with materials is essential at every point of each project.
Safety
Can you imagine if part of the roof fell on someone’s head? Yes, the number one concern of architecture should be to focus on safety. After all, these are environments where people circulate – whether for work or for living – and they need to be reliable.
Quality
A quality construction avoids safety problems and constant renovations – such as that roof leak that appears every time it rains. When the materials are good, they last longer, and the project will be valued more highly.
Functionality
Good roof guarantee the functionality of the project. In other words, the idea you want to convey can be fully executed. This way, everything will be just as you thought it would be.
Variety
As we said, there is nothing wrong with having reliable partners. On the contrary, it is fundamental. But as architecture changes and new trends emerge – such as sustainability – it is important to know them and be open to new choices.
For example, by knowing the sustainability trend you know that instead of going for the regular ceramic tile, there are lighter and more durable options such as eco-friendly tiles – something you would not know if you did not look for innovation.
Also, with the wider range of options, you become more versatile. By being able to work with any kind of material and trend, new challenges will also arise.
Aspects for a good supplier evaluation
Now that it is clear that having good materials is key, here is how to do a proper supplier evaluation.
What are your options?
Referrals from reliable people is a good place to start. However, it is important that you do your own research. Everyone has their own experience, so what works for one person may not work for you.
Research to find out if the roof suppliers are references on the subject. Check from websites and social networks to the store itself. For those searching for roofing, it is worth visiting the buildings that have used that material to take a look.
Who is the supplier?
Don’t be afraid to be a detective here. Whoever you select as a potential partner deserves a thorough investigation into the following aspects.
Tradition
Is this company new or has it been in business for years? Where does it come from and what is its experience with the material you are looking for? Is it a specialist in this field or a general seller?
Culture
What are the company’s values? What does it believe in and what does it want to pursue as an organization? This may seem like a distant detail to you, but it is not. When the company knows where it wants to go, its actions influence even the treatment with the consumer.
Structure and products
Quality must be guaranteed in all aspects. What is the company’s product variety? Does it invest in technology and innovation, or does it sell the same old stuff? Where is its base? Where does it keep stock and where does the raw material come from?
This is also another point that may seem too much, but look at it this way. In the example of the roof, have you ever thought if you order a certain amount of tiles, and after you receive them, you realize that half of them are defective? Or that they broke because of bad storage? That is a loss for you and another waste of money.
Keep in mind that a good supplier has nothing to hide and seeks a relationship of trust with the customers.
What do they say about him?
Quality is also noticeable in the company’s reviews. It is important to know what people are saying about this supplier. The more reviews, the better. But be careful, because many people have a bad experience and exaggerate. Be sure to evaluate whether what is said carries weight.
In practice, what does it look like?
When you are selecting new partnerships, you can work with a weight scheme. Literally, you will give them scores in several categories. If you notice that some are already bad at this stage, it is not even worth getting in touch.
In practice, pay attention to the service: if the company is open to everything you want to know, if it solves your doubts, if there is specialized consulting to meet your needs.
After a first purchase, keep evaluating. Did the company deliver everything on time and did they have a commitment to you? Were all the products correct and properly packaged? Was there after-service? This is how a good partnership is maintained.
And the budget?
Finally, pay attention not only to the budget, but to the cost-benefit ratio. Here the old saying “cheap can be expensive” is worth a lot. It does no good to be guided by the price and then find out that the material is of poor quality, even though the salesperson was nice.
For example, in sustainable design it may pay off to opt for transparent and sustainable tiles that will last for many years. This way you save money in two ways. The first is the longer durability, so you won’t need to change them so soon. The other is in energy savings, since the use of natural light is greater. In other words, look for solutions that meet more than one aspect of the project.
Evaluating roof suppliers is not something quick and easy, but it is very worthwhile. For, all the work you will have will result in the right partnerships. They can innovate your architectural projects and bring new and quality products for you to always keep up with the trends in the area.