Eliminate guesswork: Flat Roofing Estimating Course at the BMI Academy

Estimates that look good on paper but fail to account for real world complexities is a common issue. This is precisely why we have created this course. Our Lead Technical Trainer, Stuart Farndell, explains that the industry currently lacks the practical, hands-on knowledge required for true estimating accuracy.

"The course is necessary because current approaches lack the immersive and hands-on experience needed to fully grasp the knowledge of flat roofing systems. This often leads to inaccurate estimates, material waste, and limited exposure to diverse scenarios".

This new course deals with the most common and costly mistakes. We don't just teach you to read a plan; we teach you to see the roof as an installer. The training aims to eliminate inaccurate estimates, material waste due to incorrect quantity estimations, and a lack of understanding of installation efficiencies.

A small mistake in the estimating stage can lead to significant step backs on site.

Steven Taylor, our Project Specification Manager - Flat, highlights that a lack of technical knowledge is the single biggest threat to project success.

"The single most common specification or quantity take-off error I see relates to a lack of technical understanding of the system being installed. It is essential that both the on-site installers and the estimator are fully trained on how the specified system components fit together and are applied. A failure to understand the specification leads directly to errors, delays, and mistakes on site."

Under-ordering materials is one of the most common and disruptive estimating mistakes. Steven emphasises that a proper take-off requires more than just measuring the flat area. Our course ensures estimators account for three critical, yet often overlooked, factors:

• Laps: Allowing for sufficient material overlap (head and side laps) is essential for a watertight installation.
• Wastage: Accounting for cutting errors, damage, and especially the increased complexity factor on non-linear or curved roofs.
• Coverage Rates: A thorough understanding of how coverage rates for primers, adhesives, and liquids change based on the substrate.

Rushing a project leads to technical compromises. Accurate estimating must factor in the time needed for quality and compliance.

"When estimating a project, it is vital to allocate enough time for the work to be completed correctly and strictly in accordance with the specification. The course will emphasise realistic timeframes to ensure proper installation rather than just focusing on speed."