Running a successful metal roofing business and completing projects effectively starts with an in-depth knowledge of the region you’re building in. With the proper information, like the unique climate, architectural tastes, and readily available materials of the area, you can tailor your project to those specifics and stay ahead of challenges before they arrive.
Sheffield Metals International (SMI) has branches throughout the United States. We’ve helped countless contractors grow their businesses and build positive reputations in the metal roofing industry. With the help of our Technical Department, Sheffield Metals creates content like this article to help those in the industry learn and understand how to best approach their next project.
In this article, we’ll give an overview of the metal roofing market in the Rocky Mountain region, including:
- Market dynamics such as climate, architectural styles, and types of operations
- Advice for contractors and fabricators in the region
- How you can find success as a contractor in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah
Keep reading to gain a better understanding of what the metal roofing market is like in the Rocky Mountain area.
What Is the Metal Roofing Industry Like in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico?
Climate
One of the biggest weather elements to contend with in this region is snow. Snowfall typically starts around December and can last through April, which can affect installations and create additional preferences for home and building owners.
Aside from causing slick surfaces and an added challenge for installers, heavy snow can also cause an issue once the project is done. The angled, smooth surfaces of metal roofs can cause snow piles to slide off, which causes a safety hazard to those walking underneath. Snow guards, a type of snow retention system, can help snow on a roof so that it doesn’t pose a threat. Snow guards are also fairly easy to install – check out our accompanying video and article to see for yourself.
When it’s not snowing, this region can be very sunny and hot. PVDF, aside from being durable, also has better color retention characteristics, which means it’s less likely to chalk and fade in the sun.
Cool metal roofing can also be effective in areas with extreme heat, as this technology helps reflect energy from the sun, potentially reducing building owners’ energy costs.
Project Types and Architecture
As with many areas of the United States, projects in this region are a mix of residential and commercial builds. This region also sees a good number of government-specified projects, along with high-end residential buildings.
Standing seam metal roofing continues to be a popular choice in states like New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado, likely because of its hardy functionality and modern, slender appearance. The 1.5” Mechanical Seam is a popular panel profile used for a variety of projects in this area.
As for architecture, this area has its own “Rocky Mountain Style,” which could be described as nature-based and neutral. This style includes a mix of river rocks, wood, and metal, which creates a unique, alluring appearance that blends both the natural beauty of the area with the sleekness of metal roofing.
Contractor and Fabricator Market
Metal roofing in this region has continued to grow in demand, especially up in the mountains. This makes it a great place for contractors and fabricators to work. Many fabricators mass-produce panels and sell to smaller roofing contractors who don’t have the equipment and labor to do it themselves.
Metal roofing suppliers are keeping up and staying stocked with materials in the region. Finding the right products will depend on who you partner with and how tight they keep their operations, so be sure to do your research and find a qualified supplier for your projects.
How Do Contractors Find Success in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico?
Many of the most successful metal roofing businesses we see are those that are open and honest with customers and are doing quality work the right way.
Some may think it’s best to seek speed above all else and get as many projects done as possible, but many times, it’s the contractors who offer full service with honesty and transparency that prosper.
It’s also important to scale correctly, adding equipment at the right time and investing in machinery, such as portable rollformers, to grow your business.
If you’re trying to break into metal roofing or are new to the region, it’s crucial to find a trusted, local metal roofing supplier that can show you the pathway to growth and also connect you to local contacts in the area.
How Can You Find Metal Roofing Support in the Rocky Mountain Region?
Finding support in your region often starts with partnering with that metal roofing supplier. Sheffield Metals has a branch located in Denver, Colorado, and can offer services to anyone in this area.
Working with Sheffield Metals can offer various advantages, including getting quality materials, technical and engineering support, and connections to local organizations and businesses.
Quality Products
Sheffield Metals offers metal coils and sheets, plus a full line of accessories. Our fully staffed purchasing team keeps our inventory well-stocked and ready for shipment. Our freight partners typically have trucks ready to pick up material within days, making our turnaround times efficient.
Technical Support
One of the most significant advantages of working with Sheffield Metals is our technical support. We can assist with panel selection, testing, installation details, and anything else you may have questions about when it comes to the technical aspects of metal roofing.
This technical assistance is especially critical in areas like the Rocky Mountain region, where hail and snow can be common. Having the right guidance and the proper installation techniques in place will help your project go smoothly.
Most of Sheffield’s technical team is also based out of Denver, so they are quick to reach those in the area who need assistance.
Local Connections and Contacts
Over the years, Sheffield Metals has built up a strong network of fabricators, architects, contractors, and building owners across the country. Several members of our Technical Department are involved with the Colorado Roofing Association to help grow and improve the industry there. We can put you in touch with local contacts that can set your business on the right track.
Our fully-staffed inside sales team can offer assistance and advice, including getting quotes on rollforming machines from New Tech Machinery, Sheffield Metals’ sister company. Although one of our main priorities is providing high-quality products to the industry, we’re also devoted to helping metal roofing businesses grow and achieve their goals.
Reach Out to Sheffield Metals for Support Today
Every region carries its own set of challenges and preferences. Researching and reading articles like this one can help give you an overview of the area and how to approach projects there.
For more content to help you understand this region, check out our content on metal roofing in varying climates, along with installation best practices.
Getting in touch with a metal roofing professional who knows your area is an effective way to ensure that you’re completing projects effectively. Whether you’re a contractor, an architect, or a building owner looking to have your questions answered, feel free to contact Sheffield Metals today.
