In September we posted an article regarding critical material shortages in the construction industry, specifically regarding roofing, and advised commercial building owners and managers to plan well ahead for upcoming projects.
This month, we are reinforcing that message and confirming that we have taken steps to have material on hand for current and future projects.
What is the industry problem?
The global roofing supply chain is in chaos, literally.
Insulation that normally has a two week lead time is now shipping in nine months or more, roof membrane manufacturers have delivery times of up to ten months from order, and price increases that formerly happened at most annually are now occurring every six to eight weeks.
Some manufacturers will not even price product until the day it ships, adding additional uncertainty for both contractors and clients. Industry experts predict that supply issues will not return to normal until the end of 2022 at the soonest and may continue well into 2023.
Why is it happening?
Numerous factors have caused the supply chain problems. The lingering effect of the COVID pandemic is affecting staffing and limiting the ability of manufacturers to increase production. Truck drivers are in short supply, creating shipping delays, and labor to install roofs is an ongoing issue.
Last February the freeze that occurred in the deep south damaged numerous chemical facilities that manufacture components necessary to plastics, including insulation. Other products or product components that are manufactured overseas are stuck on container ships anchored offshore from our harbors.
In short, much of our supply chain is broken, and will continue to be so for the foreseeable future. Anyone concerned about their roofing system should contact us without delay to ensure needed projects can be completed in 2022.
The risk of not committing today means the likelihood of higher prices and longer delays later, due to price increases, material shortages and shipping dilemmas.
How has Sentry prepared to meet your roofing needs?
When these issues came to light earlier this year, we took our own advice and planned ahead, stocking material to meet future needs.
Now, despite the turmoil in the commercial roofing industry, Sentry is in position to fulfill most new roof orders until the material and supply chain issues get back to normal. And we continue to plan 6-9 month ahead, placing orders from our suppliers for future delivery, working to have material available for you.
Is a firm price commitment for roofing work possible?
We’re working hard on firm pricing for 2022 installations. Depending on project details and how quickly decisions can be made, we will provide firm price commitment for projects scheduled for installation during the spring and summer of 2022.
What is the first step to plan for roofing needs?
The first step is to have us inspect the roof system to determine what problems may exist and begin planning the best course of action. It’s possible that minor repairs will extend the roof life and keep it in service for one, two, or several more years.
If repairs will not suffice, we will provide photos and details showing the roof condition and why a replacement is needed. We’ll identify possible problem areas, including condition of the roof membrane, flashing and edge details, rooftop units, and underlying insulation.
We’ll provide a comprehensive proposal and work with you to schedule whatever work may be needed. Our goal is to help you effectively manage your rooftop assets, obtain all the life possible from the current system, and when necessary, provide a replacement in the most cost-effective manner possible.
If you have not had your roof evaluated recently, contact us to learn more about scheduling a comprehensive inspection.
Final Thoughts
The information provided here is intended to help facility owners and managers care for rooftop assets and is the best available from experts engaged in an industry struggling to meet client needs. You are well aware and, depending on your business, possibly painfully aware of the delays and confusion currently endemic to our supply chain.
Please… if you have need of commercial roofing services, act now to avoid leaks and possible damage to your property, inventory, equipment or, worse, cause harm to your staff or clients. It cannot be overstated – plan ahead, be prepared and don’t delay roofing decisions.
Our success at Sentry is due to the loyalty of our clients and by working with honesty and integrity on every project. We have more than three decades experience installing, repairing and maintaining commercial roofing systems with the highest standards of performance and would welcome the opportunity to plan your roofing project with you.
Thank you for considering us to assist with your commercial roofing needs!
3 Responses
Almost all construction supplies have prices increased and delays of delivey since Pandemic. The war will then affect this resulting to more price increases considering the freight and manufacturing of companies.
Thank you so much for sharing such a great and informative content great content here. one of the most important parts of any roofing project is finding the best and reliable contractor. That have quality to perform every task. First thing you have to do is check the background and also check their years of experience of that contractor which you are going to hire. always hire professionals and experienced contractors like Roof Check Inc. and all because they will guide in a proper way.
Now that we almost overcome the pandemic, issues will surely lessen.