As the metal construction industry continues to evolve, contractors are looking for ways to manage costs, keep projects on schedule and deliver greater value to their customers. For many contractors, investing in fabrication equipment can be an effective way to meet these industry pressures and create new opportunities for growth.
Bringing fabrication in-house can give contractors greater control over when and how metal roof and wall panels are produced. Leaning into this business model can also help minimize material waste, reduce shipping and handling costs, and eliminate project delays that often occur waiting for products to arrive from an outside source. It can also make it easier to accommodate custom specifications and respond quickly when project needs change.
Investing in the right machine is a huge decision, so what should contractors consider before going all-in on this business model? How can on-site fabrication create value? And what other skills and strategies ultimately will help contractors capitalize on the opportunity at hand and grow their business?
We explored these questions and more in a Q&A with Drexel Metals about the future of metal construction and fabrication.
Q: What advice would you give to a contractor considering bringing fabrication capabilities in-house?
A: Consider the types of projects you typically work on and the clients you serve. On-site fabrication is going to make the most sense for a business that takes on smaller-scale projects where large quantities of long-run panels aren’t necessary. On the jobsite, your team can rollform coils into the desired profile and cut the panels to the exact length required for the specific section of the roof or wall.
Q: How do you evaluate the ROI on new fabrication equipment purchases?
A: The initial purchase price is only one part of the equation. When evaluating ROI, businesses should also weigh how a new machine affects labor costs, storage capacity and project turnaround times, along with the flexibility now granted to respond quickly when project schedules shift. Just as important are the opportunities new fabrication equipment creates: producing more roof and wall panels, meeting tighter customer timelines, and reducing reliance on outside fabricators. These capabilities compound into long-term, reliable business growth.
Q: How important is the supplier relationship when determining the best source for your material needs?
A: Incredibly important! To deliver customer satisfaction and grow your business, you need a long-term partner (not a vendor) that sources its materials domestically. Nearly every aspect of Drexel Metals’ production process, from material processing to quality assurance, relies on more than 99% domestically made and sourced products. This is something we’re very proud of. Contractors who work with Drexel Metals know they are backed by American steel and aluminum and a shared commitment to quality and reliability.
Q: What skills will be most important for success and longevity in the metal construction industry over the next decade?
A: As fabrication technology continues to advance, having technical knowledge of the machinery will be increasingly important. This makes training and workforce development critical. So, investing in people alongside equipment can help businesses maximize the value of their fabrication capabilities.
Keep in mind that Drexel Metals offers ongoing training and technical support—we don’t disappear on you after the materials are delivered to the jobsite.
Q: Where are the greatest opportunities for growth over the next several years?
A: Businesses that can offer greater customization and more efficient production will be well positioned to meet customer expectations. For contractors, on-site fabrication can become more than an operational capability—it can be a critical way to differentiate your business and pursue more and new types of projects.
Q: What’s the single best piece of advice you would give someone looking to grow their metal roofing business?
A: Know your customers, have a strong understanding of where your business can provide the most value, and invest accordingly. The right combination of equipment, people and supplier support can truly help a business become more successful and positioned for long-term growth.
Take your fabrication capabilities to the next level with our industry-leading equipment, including rollformers, folders, brakes and shears. Through trusted equipment partners, it’s easier than ever to find the right solution to help you take control of your production and create premium roof and wall panels. Visit Drexel Metals’ Machine Sales resource page to get started.
