Strong rep relationships strengthen roofing projects

By Jesse Sanchez.

Manufacturer representatives can give contractors added technical knowledge, training and jobsite support throughout the life of a project.

For contractors navigating low-slope roofing, a manufacturer representative can offer much more than product information. On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth spoke with MuleHide Territory Manager Luis Ramos about how representatives can become an extension of a contractor’s team through technical expertise, communication and hands-on support.

Luis has worked with ABC Supply and MuleHide for 19 years, including 15 years on the MuleHide side. He described his role as a combination of sales and technical support, requiring representatives to understand roofing systems while building strong relationships with contractors and distributor associates. Emphasizing the value of that expertise, Luis explained, “We're a free resource, for one thing. And the challenge that I think most contractors have is that they try to do it all, in a phrase. Nobody's an expert in everything all the time.”

That support frequently takes Luis directly to the roof. He estimated that he spends about 60% of his time working with contractors on jobsites, including projects that are still in the bidding stage. Those visits give representatives an opportunity to identify details contractors might otherwise overlook and help develop a plan before work begins. Describing where manufacturer representatives can have the greatest impact, Luis said, “We consider on the job training very valuable and it's where I think we do our best work is on the roof.”

Training is another major part of MuleHide’s contractor support. Luis said the manufacturer has four operating training centers, with a fifth preparing to open in Texas. The typically two-day programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience and are available to both experienced contractors and people who are new to low-slope roofing. Reinforcing the importance of continued education, Luis noted, “This is the time to take the time to get better.”

For contractors, taking advantage of these resources starts with communication. Whether they are learning a new system, bidding a challenging roof or entering an unfamiliar market, developing a relationship with a local manufacturer representative can provide another set of experienced eyes throughout the process.

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how stronger manufacturer representative relationships can support contractors with training, technical guidance and better-prepared roofing projects!