Recent supply chain shortages have impacted industries globally, including roofing. Lengthy lead time and increased prices have made it difficult for contractors to keep up with roofing product demand. So how can you manage your next project during a roofing material shortage? Here are some tips to help you through supply chain issues.
What’s the Cause of Roofing Material Shortages?
One of the biggest contributors to the recent TPO and EPDM shortages is the COVID-19 pandemic. The outbreak forced many factories to slow production or temporarily cease operations, creating a supply shortage. This reduction in available products had long-term repercussions when demand began outpacing supply. As businesses and homeowners ramped up projects, many roofing contractors couldn’t find the necessary materials or received higher price quotes. Other factors impacting roofing and construction material shortages include:
Severe Weather
Major weather events, like winter storm Uri, slowed the production of industrial chemicals and oil-based products in the Southwest. The extreme cold associated with Uri closed many factories and created long-term issues by damaging critical equipment. This affects the roofing industry because these items are used to create roofing membranes, insulation, and adhesives.
Severe weather across the Midwest also led to material shortages. Many trucking and logistics routes were affected, and roofing damage from the storms significantly raised product demand.
Global Port Logistics
Offloading delays in ports of entry have impacted global trade. Many key ports are experiencing lag times approaching four weeks, affecting roofing product availability and significantly increasing costs for contractors and their customers.
Labor Shortages
The trucking and manufacturing industries are experiencing significant labor shortages that impact the creation and shipping of roofing systems. This issue is expected to continue as the trucking industry is suffering from a deficit of 80,000 drivers, and up to 2.1 million manufacturing jobs are expected to go unfilled by 2030.
How Much Have Roofing Prices Gone Up?
The increase in roofing material demand and the decrease in supply have led to significant price volatility across the industry. EPDM roofing price increases have been as high as 7%, and suppliers have quoted higher prices for TPO materials too. Contractors paying higher material prices impacts a project’s overall cost for clients.
Along with rising prices, lengthy lead times have affected the roofing industry. Sometimes construction project managers wait nearly eight weeks for essential roof replacement materials to arrive.
Tips for Managing Projects During Roofing Material Shortages
Rising costs and lengthy lead times mean contractors need advanced organizational skills to maintain project quality. Here are some tips for managing projects during product shortages:
Offer Accurate Project Estimates
When bidding for a project, make sure you’re using real-time product costs. Being upfront with clients about higher prices minimizes the chance of upsetting them later if you have to charge more. Managing client expectations is important, and alerting them about long lead times helps establish trust in the relationship.
Maintain Communication
Price volatility and lead time changes may unexpectedly delay projects. Maintaining open communication builds trust with clients and allows you to be honest with them when disruptions occur.
Order in Advance
Lead times of two months or more means quickly ordering products is critical. Make sure you know what items you need and how much the project requires to avoid having to order more and further delaying the project.
Schedule Projects Efficiently
By anticipating product shortages, contractors can spread their work across multiple breaks. Efficiently scheduling projects allows you to order roofing materials in installments and better manage the effects of supply chain issues.
Manage Roofing Material Shortages With Rainville-Carlson
With supply chain issues creating challenges for the roofing industry, partnering with the right product supplier is critical. Rainville-Carlson understands the effects of roofing material shortages and considers these issues when scheduling our work. Our team takes pride in offering greater flexibility for our clients; we provide a wide variety of roofing materials, including:
TPO Roofing
Our TPO materials are installed as sheets that work around structures to deliver a seamless and waterproof surface.
EPDM Roofing
Rainville-Carlson offers EPDM roofing materials that provide businesses with a cost-effective and durable roof.
PVC Roofing
PVC roofs are an ideal solution for businesses seeking a flexible and environmentally friendly option. These systems are durable and easy to maintain.
Metal Roofing
Rainville-Carlson offers multiple metal roofing systems that meet ENERGY STAR compliance standards and are made from recycled material.
Our team also provides leak detection services, roof inspections, and industry-leading maintenance contracts that protect your business. Partnering with us gives you peace of mind knowing that experts are maintaining your roofing system.
Roof Coating
Extending the lifespan of your roof is an excellent way to combat supply chain issues. Rainville-Carlson offers roof coating solutions that reduce maintenance costs and prevent corrosion.
Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is perfect for businesses aiming to protect their building while enhancing curb appeal.
Rainville-Carlson: Providing High-Quality Roofing Solutions Since 1924
Rainville-Carlson has given the Minneapolis region industry-leading commercial roofing options since 1924. Our mission is to provide quality products and services in a safe and timely manner. We use state-of-the-art techniques and durable materials to make sure our customers receive the roofing systems their businesses deserve.
Our team has experience delivering roofing solutions for large and small projects alike, helping clients make the right selection for their needs. Contact Rainville-Carlson today to learn more about how partnering with us reduces the impact of supply chain shortages.
