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Why Pitched Estimating Matters: Inside BMI Academy’s Essential Two-Day Course
Estimating can be one of the most complex and crucial parts of any roofing project. That is why BMI Academy’s two day Pitched Estimating Course, which focuses specifically on estimating for all elements above the rafters, has become such a crucial resource for professionals looking to build confidence and accuracy. Led by Lead Estimator Kevin Bate, who brings over 27 years of real world experience, the course combines hands-on learning with practical techniques using a variety of Redlands tiles and components. We sat down with Kevin to find out more about the course, his career journey, and why mastering the basics of pitched estimating can make all the difference.
“Kevin was engaging, fun and made the course a pleasure to attend, I hope he continues to share his experience and knowledge with many more” Katie Broadhead, the Assistant Branch Manager from SIG Derby
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What Makes a Good Estimator in Roofing Today?
What Makes a Good Estimator in Roofing Today?
According to Kevin, a successful estimator needs a blend of skills: “You need product knowledge, strong mathematical skills, the ability to understand architectural drawings, and solid communication skills. You have to understand what the customer wants and know how to achieve it with the right materials.” He also warns of common mistakes. “Most people default to m² estimating, which leads to inaccuracies. Our course demonstrates, using actual site drawings, why that’s often not enough.” And even for those not in estimating roles, understanding take-offs and material compatibility is essential. “Changing products after the estimate is done can lead to costly mistakes, especially if the new product doesn’t work with the rest of the system.”
Inside the Estimating Course: Real Skills for Real Roofs
Inside the Estimating Course: Real Skills for Real Roofs
BMI Academy's two day Pitched Estimating Course is designed to take learners from theory to practice with confidence. Delegates will leave able to produce a basic roof plan and calculate the materials for all elements above the rafters needed accurately. One of the most powerful exercises involves sketching a roof plan from a scaled elevation drawing, something many attendees haven’t done before. “Then we estimate that roof twice,” Kevin explains. “First using square metres, then again using the course method. That’s when the lightbulb moment happens and they realise why they’ve often been short on materials.” Kevin uses real drawings from past projects to make sure the course reflects what delegates will see in the real world.
Is the Course Right for You?
Whether you're new to estimating or a seasoned roofing professional without formal training, the course is designed to support all experience levels. “If you already know the products, that helps. But even if you don’t, the structure of the course makes it accessible,” Kevin says. “It’s especially helpful for people who’ve been working on-site but haven’t had much exposure to technical estimating.”
Whether you are aiming to progress in your current role or planning to work towards formal certification in the future, developing strong estimating skills is a key step in your roofing career journey.
Where Estimating is Headed
Looking to the future, Kevin sees more digital tools entering the estimation process, but believes human expertise remains essential. “Software can speed things up, but you still need to understand whether what’s been calculated is correct. Technology won’t replace the need for product knowledge and judgment.” His advice for growth after the course? “Keep estimating. Use your customers' drawings, and learn from experienced estimators around you. That’s how you keep improving.”
How to book onto this course
Ready to enhance your roofing estimating skills? Booking your spot on the BMI Academy’s Pitched Estimating Course is simple and convenient. No payment required, our free courses are available to reserve Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm, starting from January 2026. To secure your place, contact us by email at bmitraininguk@bmigroup.com or call 01285 863 540. Our team is happy to answer your questions, discuss available dates, and guide you through the booking process. For in-person assistance, visit us at BMI Academy, Broadway Ln, Cirencester GL7 5UH. We’re committed to making your enrollment process straightforward, with prompt responses during our office hours. The BMI Academy team are here to help, we can create bespoke courses to meet your needs and specific requirements. Let us know your goals, and we’ll work with you to create a solution that fits. Secure your spot and book today.
What is the BMI Academy?
The BMI Academy is the UKs first center for flat and pitched roofing training. Based in South Cerney, Gloucestershire, we offer in-person courses led by industry experts at our purpose-built facility. Choosing BMI Academy means you’ll receive high-quality, hands-on experience in a professional environment that meets national training standards.
Contact Us
Contact Us
Contact us at the BMI Academy to find out how we can help you with your training needs and any information on our pitched and flat roofing systems.
- Email: bmitraininguk@bmigroup.com
- Phone: 0128 586 3540
- Address: BMI Academy, Broadway Ln, Cirencester GL7 5UH
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm
