The strategic value of roof consultants

By Jesse Sanchez. 

When it comes to commercial and industrial roofing, a consultant can be your best asset for success.   

Facility managers often find themselves at a crossroad: whether to partner solely with manufacturers and contractors or to bring in an independent consultant. While going directly to manufacturers or contractors might seem straightforward, Casey Curry of Benchmark suggests that the choice to involve a consultant can significantly elevate a project’s quality, efficiency and durability. 

"Consultants bring a wealth of knowledge and experience," Casey explains, expressing the unique benefits consultants provide in project planning and execution. Drawing on extensive experience across diverse industries and product lines, consultants understand the full construction lifecycle — from material selection and cost efficiency to long-term maintenance strategies. This broad perspective often proves invaluable, as manufacturers tend to focus on promoting their own products and contractors are typically centered on meeting project deadlines and budgets. 

Consultants, Casey argues, have the advantage of objectivity. Because they are independent, they can assess each project’s unique needs without the bias that might come from a manufacturer with sales goals or a contractor with profit margins in mind. According to Casey, “Consultants are independent entities who can provide unbiased expert advice,” helping facility managers navigate material choices, regulatory compliance and budget constraints with a neutral perspective that promotes optimal outcomes. 

A consultant’s role often includes services that manufacturers and contractors may not cover, such as evaluating the local environment for durability, assessing compliance with building codes and identifying sustainable practices. Casey points out that while manufacturers are focused on product features, they may overlook a facility’s specific environmental needs or long-term lifecycle costs. Without comprehensive oversight, the lack of these considerations can lead to missed opportunities for enhancing efficiency or achieving cost savings. 

Additionally, Casey states that consultants offer cost-saving potential by fostering competitive pricing through their industry connections, as well as reducing project risks by addressing potential challenges before they escalate. Contractors, essential as they are, often prioritize project turnover and budget adherence, which can inadvertently limit the exploration of other material solutions. 

Casey’s analysis ultimately positions consultants as critical allies, providing a cohesive and strategic approach that integrates the roles of manufacturers, contractors and other stakeholders. This collaboration, Casey suggests, leads to projects that are not only high-quality but also cost-effective and sustainable over the long term. 

Read the full, original article published in FMJ: Benchmark