Keeping up with metal demand

By Jenny Yu.  

Explore how contractors can overcome common barriers and transform their workflows with the proper training and resources.   

In a recent Lunch & Learn titled “Building Better Metal Roofing Installers,” host Megan Ellsworth spoke with John Sheridan, MCS Influencer and owner of Sheridan Metal Resources, about the importance of training for metal roofing contractors to improve profitability, craftsmanship and long-term resiliency in a crowded market.  

The learning objectives of this Lunch & Learn were threefold: 

1 - Understand why metal installation training is critical today 

2 - Identify how training improves contractor performance and profitability 

3 - Explore modern training resources and strategies for metal contractors 

Why metal installation training is critical today 

With 40 years of experience in the industry, John shared his insights on the first objective, stating, “The popularity of metal is outgrowing the skill set of metal contractors. Training needs to ramp up to keep up with demand.” 

Part of the metal evolution includes the number of options available in the market, from snap block systems, nail strip systems, standing seam systems and mechanical lock systems, and the complexity these choices add. “You can't teach anybody on one system anymore,” John explained. “You have to teach people on several systems, because most manufacturers that are using coil coatings have several different profiles, so you can't lock yourself into one specific product.” 

How training improves contractor performance and profitability 

Beyond improving installation quality, John emphasized that training directly impacts profitability by reducing costly mistakes and warranty issues. “A roof is never going to leak in the middle of a roof panel; it’s going to leak where something comes through that roof — a chimney, pipe, skylight or valley,” John said. “That’s where training comes in.” 

One of the newer approaches Sheridan Metal Resources has introduced is “boot camp” training, where trainers work alongside crews on active projects rather than in a classroom setting. “They learn real skills in a real-world application,” John shared. “That upfront investment gets their guys up to speed faster.” 

Modern training resources and strategies for metal contractors 

When it comes to finding the best training resources, John suggested that contractors take advantage of the tools offered by reputable suppliers in their area and attend trade shows to learn from peers in the industry. 

As a Sherwin-Williams MetalVue^SM vendor partner, John attested to the impact the cohesive program provides for contractors, no matter what stage they are in their metal roofing business. “You don't have to spend all your time weeding through so many different services; they have it ready to go,” John said. From estimating tools to lead generation, MetalVue offers a complete suite of resources for contractors to grow. “They've done their homework. They know what works and what doesn't. I wish I’d had that when I started my business.” 

Watch the full Lunch & Learn to learn more about metal roofing training strategies.