Tool Time

by marika_gabriel | 28 November 2023 5:00 pm

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Recently, metal roofs’ popularity has soared. According to the latest Dodge Report, the share of residential metal roofing in the U.S has increased to 17 percent in 2021 from 12 percent in 2019.

There is good reason why. Metal roofs offer building owners lower long-term maintenance, with life expectancies of 100-plus years depending on the type of metal.¹ Contractors looking to deliver top-quality metal roofs need to adhere to high standards at every stage of the process, and that starts with high-quality tools.

The cost

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As metal roofs grow in popularity, the available tools to install them do, too. Not every tool is created equal, however, and it is important to know what to look for to make the best choice.

There are many reasons why having a tool fail on the job is bad for business. From the cost of replacing tools to lost time heading to the store for a replacement, a tool failure can have a significant impact on business. In short, cheap tools are not an option. There is always a price to pay for a less reliable, cheaper brand.

What to choose

When choosing between tools, determine the criteria and then compare features, customer service, and overall reliability of the brand. A “quality tool” checklist should include the following:

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Safety standards: Search the supplier’s website or contact customer service to learn about their testing methods and standards. Before using the tool, look it over to ensure it was assembled correctly and there are no defects or signs of early wear.

Durability: A properly constructed tool that is well cared for can last for years. Check online reviews and distributor websites to see what other professionals think and how well the tool has held up over time.

Ergonomics: Check product descriptions and reviews to confirm the tool can be used for long periods of time without strain. Look for things like ergonomic handles. Ensure the tool fits properly in the hand without needing to use it in awkward positions.

Improves job performance: A tool that is ergonomic and easy to use will lead to higher accuracy rates and faster completion times. Any tool that helps to get a job completed faster is a high-quality tool.

Trustworthy: Choose tools from a well-respected, trustworthy brand that has a good reputation with distributors who would recommend its products. Those brands have created reliable products that can help right any possible wrongs. Be sure to check the warranty information; one can tell a great deal about the durability and quality of a product based on how well the company stands behind it.

Busy professionals know the reputation of their businesses comes down to delivering high-quality work on the timeline promised. That comes down to the tools for the job. Choose the right tools the first time—for project success.

Jon Olson is a manufacturing engineer for Malco Products. Olson is a seasoned mechanical engineer with a passion for problem-solving. With a degree from the University of Minnesota, Mankato, he has been on the Malco Products team since 2017. His commitment to training and hands-on field experience has led to successful contributions on new Malco tools that have reshaped the building construction industries. Olson is dedicated to sharing his expertise through writing, presenting, and training engagements.

Notes

¹ See https://www.fixr.com/articles/how-long-does-a-metal-roof-last[4].

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/features/tool-time/

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