Why contractors need to appreciate manufacturers’ guidelines and specifications

When it comes to roofing and cladding, product specifications are an essential part of the construction process. Following specifications and guidelines can save time, cost and the potential for a serious headache later down the line.

A good specification provides clear details on the type of materials that should be used, how they should be installed, finished or tested and ultimately, how to ensure the best possible quality end product.

Yet, expectations and pressures on contractors to deliver projects on time and to tight budgets are always high.

It’s not surprising therefore that some contractors might feel tempted to take measures to save crucial project time by cutting corners or opting for cheaper materials wherever possible. Working under such high pressures could lead to this sort of decision seeming like an easy solution to a frustrating problem.

But when it comes to fixings and fasteners, the temptation to substitute products with cheaper, more accessible or non-compliant alternatives can risk early failure and costly remedial work.

One of the biggest problems comes when contractors ignore specifications when installing roof lights. This is the one area in which everyone, without fail, should refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Roof lights are there to provide natural light in a building. If you install them with carbon steel fasteners there’s a high chance of that fixing corroding dramatically in bad weather.

At Fixing Point, we always recommend using a stainless steel screw over carbon for fixing polycarbonate roof lights in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

Communication is key throughout every phase of the building envelope process, and it’s really important to ask questions if you’re in doubt about any of the quotations or drawings provided in the specifications.

We would always advise caution when checking the specifications of panels and fixings and ensure that any like-for-like quote meets the required standard and decisions are not based on price alone.

Architects and clients will expect their buildings or installations to be guaranteed and to last. My advice is to always do your research when it comes to fixtures and fittings; even if you have done similar jobs a hundred times before and think you know what can be used.