How to Measure a Roof: Save Time and Money with Accurate Measurements

The Frustrations of Traditional Roof Measuring

It's no secret that measuring a roof can be a time-consuming and difficult task. There are a number of factors that can make it challenging, from the layout of the roof to the height and pitch. In addition, traditional methods of roof measurement can be inaccurate, leading to potential problems down the road.

There are a few different methods that can be used to measure a roof, but the most common is the "hip and valley" method. This involves taking measurements from the base of the roof up to the peak, and then down to the other side. This can be a time-consuming process, particularly if the roof is large or has a complex layout.

Another factor that can add to the difficulty of measuring a roof is its height and pitch. If the roof is very tall or has a steep pitch, it can be difficult to get accurate measurements. This is why it's often necessary to use a ladder or other type of platform to reach the higher parts of the roof.

These traditional methods of measuring are not only prone to errors but can potentially be hazardous to your health. 

The Drawbacks of the Tape Measure Method

Contractors who only use a tape measure to measure roofs can be inefficient and inaccurate. Here's why:

1. A tape measure only provides linear measurements. That means you can get the length and width of a roof, but you can't directly measure the diagonal or hypotenuse of a roof. This can lead to errors in your estimates, especially if the roof is not a perfect rectangle.
   
   
2. Tape measures can be tricky to use on roofs. Measuring from the ground is often not possible, and even if it is, the angle can make it difficult to get an accurate measurement. Measuring from the eaves can also be challenging, as you often have to contend with obstacles like gutters, vents, and chimneys.
   
   
3. Estimating the square footage of a roof based on length and width measurements can be imprecise. This is because roofing materials are not always cut to size perfectly. There may be slight variations in the dimensions of the material, which can add up over the course of a roof.
   
   
4. Inclement weather can make it difficult or impossible to use a tape measure on a roof. High winds, rain, and snow can all make it dangerous to be on a roof, and can also make it difficult to get an accurate measurement.
   
   
5. Finally, relying solely on a tape measure can be time-consuming. If you're working on a large roof, it can take a long time to measure the entire thing with a tape measure. That's time that could be spent doing other tasks or could be used to measure multiple roofs in the same amount of time.

The Costs of Human Error

When you hand-measure a roof, you are calculating the area to determine how much material you will need, as well as the layout for how those materials will be installed and how many man-hours it is going to take to install. Here's why even small errors can become costly:

• • • Material Overages and Shortages:
      Small errors can lead to buying too much, causing unnecessary expense, or too little, resulting in project delays and extra costs for additional materials and shipping.

• • • Insurance and Liability: If it’s an insurance claim, the insurer is paying based on the measured number of squares. Get it wrong and it will come out of the homeowner's pocket. 
      
      

The Rise of Technological Solutions in Roof Measuring

With technological advancements, roofing contractors now have access to a range of tools and services that enhance measurement accuracy, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency in roofing projects. Here are a few of these innovative solutions:

• • • Satellite Imagery Measurements: Tools like Roofr and iRoofing use high-resolution satellite images to calculate the area, pitch, and other features of a roof. The software provides detailed reports that can include the number of squares, ridge lengths, hip lengths, valley lengths, and even the amount of starter and cap required.
      
      
    • Aerial Drone Surveys: Drones equipped with high-definition cameras can capture detailed images of a roof, which software can then analyze to produce precise measurements. Drones offer the added benefit of providing a safe way to inspect roofs that are steep, tall, or otherwise difficult to access. Some providers included Drone Deploy and IMGING,  and RoofSnap. 

• • • LIDAR Technology: Aurora Solar uses LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) can be used to create accurate 3D models of a roof's surface. This technology, which measures the distance to a surface by illuminating it with laser light and measuring the reflected light with a sensor, can provide incredibly detailed and accurate roof measurements.

• • • 3D Modeling Software: After capturing the roof with either drones or satellites, contractors can use software like SketchUp or Revit to build a 3D model of the roof. These models can help in visualizing the finished project and in calculating materials with high precision.

• • • Remote Measurement Services: Companies such as Eagleview or GAF Quick Measure specialize in providing roofing measurements as a service. These companies use satellite, aerial imagery, and proprietary software to measure roofs remotely and send detailed reports, often with a quick turnaround time.

• • • Mobile Apps: There are numerous smartphone apps available, such as Pitch Gauge, that can provide quick estimates of a roof's dimensions. While these might not be as accurate as other methods, they can serve as a handy tool for on-the-spot estimates.

• • • Photogrammetry Software: This software uses photographs from different angles to measure distances and create precise maps of areas, which can be particularly useful for roof measurements. Hover is a good example. 

The Power of Software in Roofing Estimates

Creating a quote for a roofing job will be faster if you adopt technology for collecting measurements and using roofing estimating software. 

Software solutions like One Click Contractor can streamline the measuring and quoting process. With One Click, you simply enter the dimensions of the roof and the type of material. The software then does the rest of the work, creating a material list, and generating a quote that includes your overhead and profit all in one click. 

One Click Contractor: Your All-in-One Roof Measuring Solution

With One Click Contractor, you can quickly and easily take or import measurements of any roof - regardless of its size or shape. One Click’s integrations with companies like Hover or IKO, you can create 3D models of the roof, so your customer can better visualize the finished product.

How One Click Contractor Streamlines the Process

If you’re using One Click to create your next estimate, here is what you can expect. 

When a customer calls and wants a quote, you can import measurements in three different ways before you even go to the job site. Once your customer picks a material, you can generate a complete estimate, proposal, and contracts with your sales collateral. 

You will spend less time with the busy work and be able to spend more time with your customers selling more roofs. You can have them sign contracts in the software digitally or in some cases you can do this all remotely. 

Why Contractors Trust One Click Contractor

Using a software tool like One Click is a no-brainer. It eliminates calculation mistakes that are likely in manual quotes. Use predefined templates and you won’t miss a material assembly item either. One Click customers are selling jobs virtually now with confidence. 

One of the primary reasons contractors prefer to partner with One Click is because they have access to the preeminent support team in the industry. We don’t nickel and dime you during your onboarding process and will continue to support you while your business grows.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring a Roof with One Click Contractor

So far we have talked a lot about how you can measure roofs so let’s summarize step by step your options:

1. You can continue to hand measure if you like and enter those dimensions into One Click’s sales platform.
2. Use One Click’s built-in measurement tools that overlays Google imagery and imports it into your estimate.
3. If you are already using a third-party measurement provider like Eagleview or Hover, order directly from within One Click and the measurements will populate the fields for you.

Of the three ways, #1 is the slowest and least accurate while #3 will be the fastest and most accurate. It really can’t be any easier to generate an estimate when you import measurements and with one click, you are done. 

Ready to Measure Roofs the Easy Way?

At the end of the day, it’s about working smarter, not harder. Yes, there is a cost toorder reports from remote measurement companies, but you should consider the value of your time and factor the $35 for the jobs you don't win into the overall ones you do win. 

The roofing company that responds fastest, has a complete and professional-looking quote, and makes paying simple is going to win the job 90% of the time. 

Take Your Roofing Business to the Next Level

Are you ready to revolutionize the way you measure roofs and deliver estimates? Embrace the future with tools designed to propel your roofing business into a new era of accuracy and efficiency.

Say goodbye to the days of guesswork, manual tape measures, and the margin of error that comes with them. One Click Contractor utilizes the latest in satellite imagery and software precision to give you exact measurements within minutes, not hours. This means you can provide faster quotes, ensure you order the exact amount of materials you need, and guarantee customer satisfaction with every job.

But it's not just about measurements; it's about maximizing your business potential. With One Click Contractor, you streamline your entire sales process, from accurate quotes to finalizing details. You reduce waste, save on unnecessary costs, and boost your bottom line, all while impressing clients with your cutting-edge approach.

Don't let outdated methods hold you back. Join the ranks of top professionals in the industry who are already leveraging the power of One Click Contractor. It's time to measure smarter, not harder. Click now to learn how One Click Contractor can transform your business, or fill out the form below.