Metal Roof Panels – Quote and Order Checklist

Reduce the chance of forgetting an important step in the installation process by planning ahead in the quote and order stage. Follow below or download and print this handy checklist.

Measure:

• For existing structures, go to Google Maps to see an overhead view of your house. Draw the roof outline ahead of time and then add measurements once on the roof.
• For future buildings, simply email us your blueprints – we can provide accurate measurements from there.
• Measure to the inch – no need to round up. The more accurate the better.
• Start by measuring around the perimeter – finish these and then go to the interior of the roof.
• Don’t forget pipes, chimneys, skylights, and anything else that protrudes from the roof – you’ll need flashing for these.
• Note the roof slope(s) (how steep the roof is) if possible – Download the “Pitch Gauge” app for Android or iPhone or use one of these methods.

Calculate:

• Best Buy Metals will estimate material for you – provide us with a drawing and we’ll take it from there.
• Through Fastened Panels are cut to length – measure from ridge to eave. There’s typically no need to add extra length for the overhang. You’ll pull them down from the ridge 1-2” which gives you a 1-2” overhang at the eave.
• Standing Seam Panels may need 2” or so added at the lower end to allow for hemming.
• The number of panels needed = width of roof plane / panel coverage width. So for a 30’ wide roof area – if your panel is 3’ coverage width you’ll need 10 panels (multiply by 2 if a 2 sided roof)
• In hips or valleys, measure across every 3’ (insert panel width if different) to obtain the length of panel needed for that area.
• Panels above a transition should be shortened a bit to allow the transition to be installed.
• Adding a few extra panels of the longest length is always a good recommendation. That way if you use a panel at the wrong location or damage a panel you’ll still be able to complete the project on time.
• When estimating trim/flashing, don’t forget laps – most trims can lap 2-6”. Valleys should be lapped at least 6” and may also need mitered at the top and bottom which requires additional material.
• Highlighting each roof area after notating material needed will help ensure you don’t forget anything

Quote:

• Request a metal roof quote from Google Maps aerial views, hand drawings, blueprints, or material lists.
• Google Map aerial views are the most inaccurate – good enough for a budget but still need to have each measurement field verified. The last thing you want is for your panels to be 6” too long or too short and aerial photography does not provide perfect clarity.
• If working from a drawing or blueprint, make sure you’re using the most recent one possible – if things change make sure you obtain an updated quote.
• Don’t forget to mention the little things – pipe boots, chimneys, vented or non-vented ridge, synthetic underlayment, tools, etc…
• Review the quote carefully – it’s itemized so you can check each item. If you don’t fully understand an item’s description or quantity, ask your rep for its purpose.

Order:

• Verify both material list and roof drawing
• Know the ship-to location, contact name, phone number (alternate phone numbers are helpful in case the delivering branch can’t reach you at your standard phone number)
• Determine the color/finish
• Provide the roof slope(s) for trim if not already noted
• Do you have room for the truck and trailer that will deliver? Alternate address if not?
• Will the delivering branch be bringing offload equipment (where available) or will you provide that equipment?
• Are there any special delivery requirements the driver should know about?

Delivery:

• Verify material quantity and condition.
• If any items are damaged or missing, notate these both on your paperwork and the paperwork the driver has you sign.
• Take photos of any damage
• Provide paperwork, photos, and an account to your representative as quickly as possible.

Storage:

• If metal won’t be used shortly, store inside in a well-ventilated dry location. Trapped moisture between sheets can cause white rust later on.
• Store on end or on an incline
• Keep the sheets off the ground with an insulator such as wood
• Outdoor storage, especially long term, is at the customer’s own risk.
• If material needs to be stored outdoors, protect with a canvas cover or waterproof paper – avoid plastic as this will cause condensation to form.