Restoration logo
search
cart
facebook twitter linkedin youtube
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
  • Sign Out
  • My Account
Restoration logo
  • NEWS
  • PRODUCTS
    • New Products & Technologies
    • Submit Your Product
    • Interactive Product Spotlights
  • EDUCATION
    • KnowHow.
    • Podcasts
    • Trade Shows & Expos
    • Training & Certification
    • Webinars
    • Whitepapers
  • TOPICS
    • Water Damage
    • Fire & Smoke Damage
    • Mold
    • Contamination
    • Odor
    • Contents
    • Architecture
    • Catastrophe
    • Cleaning
  • BUSINESS
    • Managing Your Business
    • Insurance/Legal Matters
  • BUYER'S GUIDE
  • VIDEOS
    • Ask Annissa
    • Ask the Expert
    • Ironclad Marketing Minute
    • TradeTalks
    • Video Channel
  • INFOCENTER
    • Mold and Mycotoxins
  • THE EXPERIENCE
    • Conference & Exhibition
    • Convention & Trade Show
    • R&R Special Issue
  • EMAG
    • eMagazine
    • Archive Issues
    • Contact
    • Advertise
  • SIGN UP
Catastrophe Restoration

Aerial Roof Measurements: A Roofing Contractor’s Competitive Advantage

New techniques and technology can now extract precise property data from high-resolution aerial imagery specifically designed to provide estimators with unprecedented insight on the roof projects they are bidding

By Jeffrey C. Taylor
aerial roof measurement xactware

A high-resolution top-down view of a U.S. suburban area.

aerial roof measurement xactware

A close top-down view.

aerial roof measurement xactware
aerial roof measurement xactware
aerial roof measurement xactware
aerial roof measurement xactware
aerial roof measurement xactware
aerial roof measurement xactware
October 1, 2013

In recent years, roof measurements based on aerial imagery have revolutionized the way many restoration contractors work by eliminating some of the pains involved with measuring and estimating roof repairs. It’s also given early adopters an edge over competitors when bidding roof projects. Recent advancements in aerial data collection present another opportunity for restoration professionals to evolve and incorporate new ways to be more efficient and competitive.

New techniques and technology can now extract precise property data from high-resolution aerial imagery specifically designed to provide estimators with unprecedented insight on the roof projects they are bidding. This data can include a fully functional digital roof plan, information on all roof dimensions and slopes and a set of high-resolution aerial images - essentially everything an estimator needs to start estimating roof repair costs. The way contractors apply the data is what sets them apart from their competitors. Here are a few ways to maximize productivity and efficiency when incorporating aerial data into the estimating workflow:

First, get aerial data at the onset of a project. Even simple roof layouts can take up to an hour to dimension by hand when time is factored in for setting up the ladder, climbing all over the structure, recording measurements and drawing the diagram. Having the data in hand from the beginning allows estimators to simply verify a few key measurements to ensure the accuracy of the roof diagram before they bid the project and discuss the scope of work with the homeowner or insurance carrier.

Arriving on site with an in-depth knowledge of the structure not only makes estimating much faster, it leaves a positive impression with the homeowner and sets the contractor apart from others who needed to take time to measure the roof, which in some cases can cause delays and slow claims settlement. Leveraging aerial data from the onset of a project can also do much to reduce the risk inherent with dimensioning steep, complex roofs.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that falls to lower levels accounted for 544 fatalities in 2012. Contractors are keenly aware of the dangers and take many precautions to avoid mishaps. When the slope is deemed too steep, some will measure the edge from the ground or from a ladder rather than risk scaling the roof. But this process can be time-consuming and reduce accuracy. Aerial data can help contractors minimize risk and liability by obtaining all necessary dimensions, slopes and insight without having to set foot on the roof.

Another key to increasing productivity is making sure aerial data integrates seamlessly with the estimating system the contractor uses. No matter how precise the data, it will do little good if contractors don’t have an easy way to get it and put it to use. With the right estimating system, contractors can request aerial data from desktop, laptop, online and mobile platforms and have it delivered right into their estimating system. This means as soon as they receive the data, they can estimate costs for shingles, underlayment, drip edge, sheathing, soffit and fascia, rain gutters and anything else they need to restore the structure. In addition to streamlining estimation, this approach gives contractors leeway to easily adjust their bids if the scope of the project changes.

Ensuring aerial data can be modified as needed is key to optimizing productivity and efficiency. Suppose a homeowner changes his or her mind about the scope of a project. If a contractor is using static measurements and reports, it can take hours to revise the project so it fits the homeowner’s new parameters. But if the contractor is using aerial data that is integrated into the organization’s estimating and reporting solutions, changes can be made quickly and the reports will update immediately. Giving crews the ability to modify reports on the fly will help alleviate some stress by eliminating the need to start from square one whenever the customer requests a few “minor” tweaks. These are just a few ways contractors can utilize aerial data to be more competitive.

 With training and the right tools, contractors can use aerial data to increase productivity and make a strong case for why insurance carriers and homeowners should rely on them to accurately estimate damages and quickly get the property restored to its pre-loss condition.

KEYWORDS: aerial measurements natural disasters roofing restoration Xactware

Share This Story

Looking for a reprint of this article?
From high-res PDFs to custom plaques, order your copy today!

Jeffrey C. Taylor is Xactware’s Assistant Vice President, Xactimate. Reach him through Jens Dana at jadana@xactware.com or by telephone at 801-932-8653.

Recommended Content

JOIN TODAY
To unlock your recommendations.

Already have an account? Sign In

  • mold remediation

    Fighting Mold and Bacteria Damage

    Successful mold remediation can be multidisciplinary,...
    Mold Remediation
    By: Josh Woolen
  • certifications and licenses for restoration professionals

    Certifications and Licenses Every Restoration Company Needs

    Restoration companies need to make sure they have the...
    Restoration Training/Education
    By: Sharon Elzarat
  • a wall covered in moss and fungus

    Zero Tolerance for Toxic Molds: Essential Steps for Successful Remediation

    Understanding the importance of zero tolerance for toxic...
    Mold Remediation
    By: Michael A. Pinto CSP, SMS, CMP, RTPE, FLS, ERS and Kendra Seymour
You must login or register in order to post a comment.

Report Abusive Comment

Subscribe For Free!
  • eNewsletter
  • Online Registration
  • Subscription Customer Service
  • Manage My Preferences

More Videos

Popular Stories

wall cavity drying

Dry or Demolish? Navigating the Complexities of Wall Cavity Restoration

Ask the Expert: Unlocking Efficiency in Water Damage Restoration

Unlocking Efficiency in Water Damage Restoration

Ask the Expert: Catastrophe Panel - Back to the Basics Part 1

Catastrophe Panel – Back to the Basics Part 1

R&R Ladder Award - Submit Your Nomination

Events

September 3, 2025

The Experience Convention and Trade Show

The Experience Convention & Trade Show logoJoin us in Las Vegas for The Experience Convention & Trade Show, the leading event for cleaning, restoration, and remediation pros, packed with hands-on demos, expert speakers, and high-impact networking. Happening September 3–5, 2025 at Caesars Forum—this is where the industry comes to learn, connect, and grow!

View All Submit An Event

Poll

Restoration Services

What restoration/remediation service do you prioritize most?
View Results Poll Archive

Products

The Cleaning, Restoration, Inspection, and Safety Glossary

The Cleaning, Restoration, Inspection, and Safety Glossary

The Cleaning, Restoration, Inspection, and Safety Glossary.

See More Products
Webinar - Top Legal Tools Every Restoration Contractor Should Understand

Related Articles

  • aerial view house roofs

    The Value of Aerial Roof Measurements

    See More
  • new products text

    Apps for Aerial Roof Measurement

    See More
  • Industry News

    RestoreMasters Makes Roofing Contractor Magazine Top 100 Roofing Contractors List

    See More

Related Products

See More Products
  • red-guide-national-815.png

    National Red Guide - A Step by Step Guide to Disaster Recovery

See More Products

Related Directories

  • TuffWrap Installations

    TuffWrap Installations is North America's leading provider of innovative dust and debris containment solutions during re-roofing, renovation, and reconstruction projects. Our SmartSeam® Suspended Cover (100% IBC Compliant & FM 4652 Approved), Temporary Walls, and Exterior Protection services keep facilities operational and production facilities and employees safe from dust, debris, and weather contaminants. www.tuffwrap.com 1-800-995-4556
  • Prism Specialties

    When disaster strikes, Prism Specialties is here to help with a full range of specialized restoration services for both residential and commercial properties. We partner with contractors, adjusters, and the insured to restore items that others might consider a total loss. Our expertise covers Electronics, Art, Documents, and Textiles, including everything from kitchen appliances and computers to sculptures, leather goods, industrial machinery, and more. When Life Needs an Expert call Prism Specialties at call (888) 826-9429 or visit prismspecialties.com to learn more.
  • Rytech Restoration

    Rytech Restoration provides 24 hour emergency restoration service by certified technicians trained to get homes and commercial properties back to normal efficiently and fast! As a leading disaster restoration network, our local experts utilize advanced detection devices to minimize demolition and industrial-grade equipment to rapidly dry water and fire damage and prevent mold growth. We specialize in water damage restoration repair, fire and smoke cleanup, mold removal, mold remediation, decontamination, and flood damage cleanup services. Live specialists are standing by 24/7 ready to answer your questions and dispatch a Rytech tech to your door.
×

Stay ahead of the curve with our eNewsletters.

Get the latest industry updates tailored your way.

JOIN TODAY!
  • RESOURCES
    • Advertise
    • Contact Us
    • Directories
    • Store
    • Want More
    • Submit a Press Release
  • SIGN UP TODAY
    • Create Account
    • eNewsletters
    • Customer Service
    • Manage Preferences
  • SERVICES
    • Reprints
    • Marketing Services
    • Market Research
    • List Rental
    • Survey/Respondent Access
  • STAY CONNECTED
    • LinkedIn
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
    • X (Twitter)
  • PRIVACY
    • PRIVACY POLICY
    • TERMS & CONDITIONS
    • DO NOT SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION
    • PRIVACY REQUEST
    • ACCESSIBILITY

Copyright ©2025. All Rights Reserved BNP Media.

Design, CMS, Hosting & Web Development :: ePublishing