Tag: COVID-19

What to Know About Materials Shortages in the Roofing Industry

Posted on by John Maxwell

A perfect storm of supply chain issues has spurred unprecedented shortages in roofing as well as the construction industry at large. These problems are widespread, affecting countries across the world and almost every type of construction material. As a result of materials shortages in the roofing industry, many construction companies are unable to deliver their usual level of service. Materials have become more expensive and are taking longer to produce. The delays are also highly unpredictable, leaving companies unsure of when they will be able to complete a job or how much it will cost. 

Here we will explain what is happening and why roofers around the world over are struggling to perform their work as usual.

Supply and Demand Issues

Shortages in steel, lumber, and chemicals used in construction are driving up costs. Steel and lumber shortages first began to appear in 2018 as a result of tariffs on imports from China and Canada. This created a backlog of producers in need of materials before the pandemic even hit. Then, in 2020 when COVID-19 appeared on the scene many manufacturers and other providers of raw materials (like sawmills, steel manufacturers, and chemical plants) drew down their production due to uncertainty. Some of these businesses closed for good, and those that have reopened have not been able to secure the raw materials they need to quickly ramp up production to meet their increasing backlog of orders. 

These shortages in roofing material are overlapping with a huge surge in demand for homes and other buildings following the pandemic. There is an increased demand for homes spurred by people moving during the pandemic, and many projects delayed in 2020 are now getting underway.

Panic buying by contractors unable to secure construction materials has also inflated demand and compounded delays. Many construction companies are double ordering materials in hopes of securing them sooner and instead are creating confusion with manufacturers. 

Transportation Issues Are Causing Delays

The pandemic contributed to a slowdown in global shipping, which has contributed to a shortage of shipping containers in the U.S. This has slowed trucking and transportation in rail, making the delivery of roofing materials much less reliable than in the past. Even when a company does manage to secure materials for construction, they are often delayed or rerouted.

Before the pandemic, the delivery of materials from Asia used to take about seven weeks and was very reliable. Those same shipments are now taking 24 weeks if the materials can be secured at all.

Gulf Storms Have Slowed Production and Disrupted Transportation

Ice storms, hurricanes, and even a fatefully placed lightning strike have all conspired together to disrupt petrochemical production in Louisiana. The state is a global hub for these materials, which are used in nearly every type of roofing system. Storms halted chemical production at some facilities, leading to skyrocketing prices and shortages. Major hurricanes, like Ida, also disrupted shipping and rail transportation of other materials. 

Roofing Companies Are Struggling to Ensure Normal Service

All of these global issues are making it difficult for roofing companies to follow their normal processes for price and delivery estimates. Delivery dates on materials are no longer guaranteed, so roofers can’t estimate when they can get the job done. Since prices continue to skyrocket, roofers have been unable to accurately estimate the cost of jobs that will occur later in the year. 

We’re Here for You

Despite the materials shortages in the roofing industry, Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. continues to work with customers to deliver the best roofing experience possible. If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help

A Look at Roof Construction Worksite Safety During COVID-19

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Workplace safety has always been an important practice within the construction industry. Successful construction companies must make safety a priority with proper equipment and training to keep construction workers from getting hurt on the job.

Though the issue of occupational safety and health is not new for the construction industry, the pandemic has added a whole new dimension to the work of keeping employees safe. The typical safety protocols are designed to deal with construction hazards and were not designed to stop the spread of COVID-19 (or any other virus or illness on a worksite). 

Federal Safety Efforts

In response to this unique public health crisis, the CDC and the Department of Labor have released updated guidance for the construction industry as they create response plans. The agencies’ recommendations include:

  • Encouraging workers to stay home if they feel sick and screening incoming workers for COVID-19 symptoms at the job site.
  • Promoting social distancing by asking workers to keep at least six feet apart while working.
  • Training workers on new health and safety protocols and distributing personal protective equipment.
  • Providing alcohol wipes, hand sanitizer or soap, and water to workers while on the job and encouraging workers to practice good hygiene. 

OSHA has also made an important change to the rules regarding respirator N95 masks, saying that they are no longer required for certain construction jobs. Cloth face coverings or non-N95 masks are recommended whenever workers are required to be near each other. For companies that do have N95 masks available, the CDC has released updated guidance for sanitizing them for re-use.

State Safety Efforts

In addition to these recommendations, construction companies also need to monitor state-specific regulations regarding COVID-19 safety. Each state has different rules and regulations regarding everything from personal protective equipment to paid time off for sick workers. Companies that fail to comply with state-specific guidelines could face steep fines or wind up with costly worker’s compensation claims in the event of an outbreak.

Looking Ahead

Despite the new precautions, the construction industry has been hit hard by outbreaks. It can be difficult for workers to socially distance on the job, and there is a lack of proper personal protective equipment nationally. In light of these risks, all construction companies should undergo legal reviews to protect themselves from potential lawsuits. 

At Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., we take the health and safety of our workers seriously. If you have questions or concerns about our COVID-19 protocols or our new Maxwell Monitors service offering that we developed amid the pandemic, don’t hesitate to contact us today! Our team is equipped and ready to help!

What to Expect from Your Commercial Roofer Moving Forward

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

We would typically speculate on the future of the roofing industry based on fundamental concepts, such as new ideas and technology. In the coming months, though, we must also factor in how COVID-19 has changed our industry and what that means for our customers and their commercial roofing experience. In this article, we’ll discuss what you can expect from your roofing contractor. 

Your Company’s Changing Needs are Important 

The business landscape of Americans has dramatically shifted since the beginning of the pandemic. For example, positions that were traditionally “office jobs” transitioned to remote work—a change that encouraged many companies to be more open to the idea of virtual work environments in the future. Whatever the case may be for your industry, as the business world continues to shift and evolve in the current climate, your company’s commercial roofing needs may change along with it. Discussing those needs with your roofing contractor is crucial to ensure that your buildings are looked after properly.

Your Roofing Contractor Can Shift to Meet Your Needs

Your roofing company will likely, and hopefully, shift their services to meet your ever-changing needs. Maxwell Roofing and Sheet Metal, Inc., for example, created our Maxwell Monitors solution to provide customers with flexible roof monitoring options—ensuring that damage does not go overlooked even when customers don’t have the capacity to consider their commercial roofs. 

In our case, we saw that our customers had vacant buildings that needed to be looked after. We also saw customers who had too much on their plates without adding roof maintenance to their lists. Maxwell Monitors was our response to these observations so that we could best serve our customers. Talk to your commercial roofing contractor about what you need during this time so that they can help determine the best way to move forward. 

Your Building’s Roof Maintenance Plan is Still Crucial

No matter what is going on in your business this year or the next, stay true to your maintenance schedule. Neglected roofs can lead to costly damage down the road and can even make your building unsafe for employees or tenants. Your roofing contractor can help you set up a maintenance plan that works for you. 

Innovative Roofing Options are Increasingly Popular

One thing that COVID-19 has not changed is innovation. If your business is ready to build or even replace an older roofing system, it’s an excellent time to think about your next roof. To take your planning to the next level, discuss new options with your roofing contractor, such as environmentally friendly or energy-saving solutions. 

Your Contractor May Operate More Virtually than Before 

Even if your commercial roofing needs have stayed the same, you’ll likely see some changes to your roofer’s processes to further ensure their teams’ safety. You might notice an increased use of drones, for example, which have become integral to safe roof inspections. You might also notice your contractor discussing your roofing options more over the phone or via video conferencing, rather than during face-to-face meetings. 

To learn more about our Maxwell Monitors service or to discuss roofing maintenance or construction, don’t hesitate to contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! We’re here to help.

Recalibrating Roofing Sales Strategies Amid COVID-19

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

As we started off the new year, no one could’ve imagined the course 2020 has taken—personally and professionally. Yet, due to COVID-19, we find ourselves fast approaching the end of the year with a completely different outlook and set of business goals and objectives. For the commercial roofing industry, our normal business and sales strategies have been a bit disrupted, as we’ve had to make both reactive and proactive shifts to better serve our customers.

So, how have roofing sales strategies been recalibrated amid COVID-19? Here’s a breakdown of what we’re seeing industry-wide and some adjustments we’ve made at Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc.

A Shift in Messaging

As communities everywhere began lockdowns and stay-at-home orders back in the early spring of 2020, COVID-19 changed the way we communicate to those around us. For the roofing industry, much of our work involves face-to-face and in-person interaction. Thus, there became an immediate need to tweak our messaging to foster empathy, sensitivity, and trust with our customers. This shift has impacted our multiple communication channels, including social media, blogs, and emails. All in all, the goal of the messaging shift is to help customers feel taken care of in light of the uncertain season.

A Reset in Services

COVID-19’s impact on businesses is still rippling various changes to the ways in which services are offered. As businesses are reallocating budgets and—in some cases—staff members, it has been essential to push pause and reset services. For commercial roofing, the impact of COVID-19 has affected every aspect of on-site services from construction to maintenance, as some buildings are not being used, and social distancing measures are in place for the ones that are open. Thus, at Maxwell Roofing, we created our Maxwell Monitors program to support our customers through these changes. Whether a customer’s building is currently unoccupied or it’s business as usual, Maxwell Monitors offers a service plan to ensure that facilities are maintained, and proper health and safety measures are followed.

A New Emphasis on Safety

Speaking of health and safety, COVID-19 has required businesses to implement additional safety measures to ensure that staff and customers are protected from any potential exposure to the virus. In addition to ongoing roof safety measures, commercial roofing companies like ours have prioritized employees’ and customers’ health and safety, following CDC guidelines and safety measures while on job sites.

A Commitment to Customer Care

Above all, caring for customers in sensitive and uncertain situations is something that every company should keep atop of mind. If that involves shaking up normal business routines, it is worth it in the end, as customers are the lifeblood of why we do what we do. As a family-run business that trades on our reputation, we take our responsibility seriously. We hope our customers have truly felt that during this time, and we’ll continue to evolve our business and sales strategies as needed to take care of our valued customers.

If you have needs we can adjust to or help with amid the COVID-19 pandemic, don’t hesitate to contact us at Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! We’re all in this together, and we’ll get it through it together!

How COVID-19 Has Affected Commercial Roofing in Nashville

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

The COVID-19 pandemic affected every industry in the country—commercial roofing included. The roofing industry in Nashville went through a tough year. A tornado, derecho, and a pandemic all came together to put our patience and skills to the test. 

Though we were affected, our customers are still in need of inspections, maintenance, monitoring, and construction. Here are a few changes that we have noticed in our company and industry as a whole. 

Customers Now Budget with COVID-19 in Mind

As businesses experienced shutdowns, lower capacities, and employees working from home, they were forced to pause and re-evaluate their budgets. Their priorities inevitably changed, leaving them to consider where their money was going. Of course, there were pressing issues to be addressed first, such as changing operations to comply with regulations and protecting employees and customers. 

For the roofing industry, this meant that fewer projects were being scheduled. This shift proved to be only temporary, however, as companies have now begun to regain their footing. Some were able to take advantage of the government stimulus package, and others have now transitioned—and settled into—their new way of operating. It’s certain that another shift is in store as the pandemic dies down, and business returns to yet another new normal, but one thing rings true: commercial roofing services will always be necessary to maintain the integrity of a building. 

Construction is Moving as Normal, with Safety Precautions

Companies that are now dealing with vacant buildings, as their employees work from home, are taking this time as an opportunity to replace their commercial roofs or complete other large-scale renovations. With fewer people in the building, there are fewer disturbances throughout the workday. When it comes to maintenance services, many companies feared, rightfully so, that neglect could lead to costly damage down the line.

Commercial roofing contractors are taking extra safety measures on the job to ensure that they keep themselves, their teams, and their customers safe and healthy. Teams are carrying bottles of sanitizing solution, wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and completing daily screenings. It’s crucial that we all keep each other’s safety at the forefront of everything we do. 

“Maxwell Roofing’s first priority is to keep our customers and employees safe. Additionally, we strive to always be of service to the customer. The pandemic has provided a new challenge, but our position remains the same,” says Kathleen Maxwell, Vice President of Sales.

We Have Added a New, Modified Service

As customers’ priorities have understandably changed throughout the pandemic, Maxwell Roofing noticed that some companies’ commercial roofing needs are now different, prompting us to design a service that fits their new operations. Many companies have fully vacant buildings at the moment that could sustain damage. Others are running at full capacity and are wholly focused on their teams and customers. And, for those in between, they may be running at lower capacity but have a facility manager on staff that can perform an inspection.  

To provide relief, we now offer Maxwell Monitors—a new, flexible monitoring service to help you look after your building while you’re away or tending to your business. This service includes a downloadable inspection checklist and scheduled inspections to monitor the health of your roof, whatever your current situation. 

“We are adapting to the new needs of the customer and are always open to input for how we can improve our services line. Our attempt to flex with the recent environment is evident in our new program, Maxwell Monitors. This service is a cost-effective approach allowing us to monitor your building, with a contactless option, so you can focus on your business and team,” adds Kathleen.

Roof Inspections, Maintenance, and Construction are Still Essential

The importance of regular maintenance can’t be overstated. While Nashville continues to face challenges, preventative maintenance and timely replacements can protect your building and make your commercial roofing budget stretch further. If you are unsure how commercial roofing fits into your budget, talk to your contractor about how you can modify your service to continue to maintain your roof’s integrity. 

Contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today to schedule your next roofing inspection.

5 Tips for Commercial Roof Budgeting During COVID-19

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

As companies evaluate their budgets amid the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing is clear: priorities have changed. You’re focused on changing business operations, health and safety regulations, and your employees’ and customers’ immediate needs. Throughout these constant changes, it may not feel like the year to invest in your commercial roof. However, continuing to invest in quality materials and consistent roof maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road and improve the integrity of your building. 

To help you make room in your commercial roofing budget during COVID-19, here are a few things to consider. 

5 Commercial Roof Budgeting Tips 

1. Opt for a modified service.

If your current roofing services no longer fit your needs or are outside of your budget, consult with your commercial roofing partner to discuss new options. At Maxwell Roofing, for example, we saw a need for a new monitoring service that was flexible enough to mold to changing business operations.

Through Maxwell Monitors, we monitor your building so that you aren’t left to deal with surprise damages or repairs. Whether your building is currently unoccupied or it’s business as usual, there is a service plan to ensure that you have the help you need to maintain your facilities.

2. Talk with your roofing contractor about your budget.

The best commercial roofing contractors have your best interests in mind. If your budget is changing, your contractor can talk you through other possible options based on what your roof needs and how much your business can afford. Your roofing contractor is your partner, and as such, they succeed when you are satisfied with your service and your budget.

3. Focus heavily on inspections and maintenance.

Frequent roof inspections and maintenance are two areas that can reduce your budget significantly. By identifying potential issues and maintaining your roof, you are extending the lifespan of your roofing investment, saving you time and money. Your roofing contractor can help you set a maintenance schedule that works for your business.

4. Invest in quality materials and craftsmanship.

Quality materials and craftsmanship will both go a long way toward building a roof that will withstand the test of time. Investing in these things upfront will prevent untimely repairs and premature roof replacement, improving your budget for the long-term.

5. Work with a contractor that can streamline your project without sacrificing quality.

Contractors who have been in the commercial roofing industry for decades have fine-tuned their processes. Their teams are trained and prepared, they’ve seen every project and material type, and some even craft their materials in house. Partner with a roofing contractor with years of experience who can thoughtfully design your project and timeline, saving you money by not cutting corners and streamlining their processes. 

Contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today to learn how we can help you adjust your commercial roofing services amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

We Monitor Your Building, You Focus on Your Business: Maxwell Monitors

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Even as states begin to open, COVID-19 has dramatically changed our local businesses. It’s likely that we will all see the effects of the pandemic long after it has dissipated. In light of the changes our customers are experiencing, Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. is offering a modified service to maintain the integrity of your building—so that you can focus on your core business functions.

We know firsthand how difficult this time has been to navigate. And we understand that your building has most likely not been top-of-mind lately because you have been dealing with pressing issues, such as protecting your employees, serving your customers, and making decisions about your business’ future. 

We understand, and we’re here for you. So, we built our Maxwell Monitors plan to ensure that no matter the changes that COVID-19 brought your way, your building will be looked after. 

What is Maxwell Monitors?  

Maxwell Monitors is our commitment to you. Proactive maintenance still remains one of the most important elements of facility management, even during a pandemic or during its aftermath. Maxwell Roofing will monitor your building to ensure that damages don’t snowball into costly repairs or stall operations. This plan allows you to continue maintenance as you change your business to fit the needs of the current climate. 

Do I need Maxwell Monitors?  

Choosing our Maxwell Monitors service option gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your building is maintained, and you don’t have to worry about coming in to see an unexpected leak or other damage. 

Not sure if this service applies to you? Here are three scenarios in which this service can help. 

1. Your building has been [or will be] empty for the foreseeable future; however, you have a qualified person on staff who can inspect it. 

Maxwell Roofing will provide you with a list of what to look for when checking for damage and how to identify issues safely. This proposition applies to businesses that have a facilities manager, or someone who is qualified to inspect the building—empowering them to take the inspection and maintenance into their own hands.

2. Your building will be empty for the foreseeable future, and you are concerned that the building will have sustained damage before business returns to normal.

Maxwell Roofing will provide a monitoring service to regularly check the health of your roof and facility. This allows us to identify any current and potential issues, keeping your building protected and ensuring that it’s safe when the building must be occupied again.

3. Your business has been deemed “essential” and is conducting business as usual.

Maxwell Roofing will provide a monitoring service to regularly check the health of your building’s roof and facility to identify any current and potential issues. The check-in frequency will be determined based on the characteristics of each roof. This service ensures that your employees have a safe building to work in, and your operations can continue without downtime caused by damages. 

How do I get started? 

We are here to talk through the best way to handle building maintenance while you’re focusing on your core business functions. Maxwell Roofing has a selection of services to fit any scenario, and we want to help in any way that we can. 

You will find our downloadable Maxwell Monitors monthly inspection checklist here. 

Contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today to learn more about the new Maxwell Monitors program.