From Plans to Jobsite: Getting Exterior Product Decisions Right
An exterior project involves more than selecting siding or roofing. Coordinating components also need to be considered, and product selections must carry through from design and specification to estimating, ordering, and installation.
For architects, distributors, contractors, and builders, having the right information at each stage helps keep exterior projects on track. These four checkpoints highlight key details to address as exterior product decisions move from planning through installation.
1. Define the Full Exterior Scope
A well-planned exterior starts with a clear understanding of the products and components the project requires. Beyond the primary siding or roofing selection, supporting elements such as soffit, fascia, trim, and rainware contribute to a complete exterior.
As selections take shape, document the specific profiles, colors, and finishes, along with the components needed to complete the design. Considering how these selections work together helps establish the full scope before estimating and ordering begin.
EDCO offers a range of exterior products to support these decisions. The Product Guide and Product Brochures and Installation Guides provide references for exploring available products, their features, and installation requirements.
Project checkpoint: Have the primary products and coordinating components been identified, with key selections documented for the next stage?
2. Get Product Selections and Order Details Right
As a project moves into estimating and purchasing, design selections need to translate into identifiable materials and documented order requirements. Check that the latest plans reflect the selected profiles, colors, finishes, and related components.
Each professional contributes to this handoff. Architects and designers establish product selections and design intent. Distributors help translate those selections into product and order details. Contractors and builders verify quantities and project-specific requirements for material planning and installation.
When information is missing or selections remain unresolved, the next person in the process may need clarification before proceeding. Identifying those gaps early helps the team determine what is ready to move forward, what needs attention, and who is responsible for providing the remaining details.
EDCO's Architectural Specification resources help professionals incorporate product information into their designs.
Before moving forward, check that:
- Product profiles and selections are identified.
- Colors, finishes, and relevant dimensions are documented.
- Related materials and accessories are accounted for.
- Quantities reflect the latest project plans.
- Outstanding product questions have been addressed before the order is finalized.
Project checkpoint: Is the information complete enough to support estimating, ordering, and material planning?
3. Check Installation Requirements Before Work Begins
The materials ordered for a project need to align with the work planned at the jobsite. Before installation begins, the team should have access to instructions specific to the selected products and know where to turn with technical questions.
EDCO's Product Brochures and Installation Guides include downloadable instructions for products such as Perspectives™ siding and soffit, Endura® steel siding, and ArrowLine® steel roofing.
EDCO's Technical Bulletins cover specific product and installation topics. EDCO also offers Training Videos demonstrating installation techniques for steel roofing, siding, soffit, fascia, and trim.
Review the applicable instructions for the selected products and direct project-specific questions to the appropriate technical or design contact before proceeding.
Project checkpoint: Does the installation team have the applicable instructions and a clear path to resolve questions before work begins?
4. Keep Everyone Informed When Plans Change
Product selections and project details can change as plans develop, and jobsite conditions evolve. When a selection, dimension, or other detail is revised, the update needs to reach everyone whose work it affects.
A simple process can help manage those changes:
- Identify the change. Determine what has been revised and which product selections or project details are affected.
- Communicate the update. Share revised information with the people responsible for estimating, ordering, and installation, as applicable.
- Update project documentation. Make sure the team can access the latest project details and applicable product information.
This is especially important when a change affects multiple exterior components. A revision to one selection may require related materials or details to be reviewed before ordering or installation continues.
Project checkpoint: Have relevant changes been communicated to the people they affect, and can they access the latest project information?
Keep Exterior Decisions Moving Forward
From initial planning through installation, having the right details in place helps building professionals coordinate product selections, prepare accurate orders, and address questions before work begins.
EDCO provides product literature, architectural resources, technical bulletins, and installation guidance to help professionals navigate exterior product decisions throughout the project.
Need product information or support for your next project? Contact EDCO to get started.