Roofing & Google

While Google and the internet have impacted virtually everyone in numerous ways over the last decade, we thought we’d mention a few of the more unique, and not so obvious ways that Google has affected roofing.

Google Earth & Google Maps

Oddly enough, Google Earth can be a roofing contractor’s best friend. Google Earth offers a fantastic rooftop view of a virtually every building, whether it be a home, business or government property. Moreover, tools are available to allow the roofing contractor to accomplish a pre-inspection before ever stepping onsite.

• A contractor can use Google Earth to measure for rough dimensions (sq ft). While it isn’t a substitute for an inspection, it can be helpful to look at overhead view before going on site, especially for flat roofing.
• The overhead view allows the contractor to look for penetrations, skylights, vents, HVAC and other details. For example, if the contractor notices 200 skylights, it is a good bet that the inspection will probably require extra time.
• While the date of satellite imagery may not be known, it's not unusual for images to have been taken in the last 3 years, which makes Google Earth an invaluable tool for checking the roof’s general condition. This means a contractor can virtually browse roofs that may be in need of replacement and / or maintenance and use this to generate new business. In addition, the information related to a business is usually right there.
• Last but not least, a street view of the property is often available, allowing the contractor to learn the look of the building and possible access points.

A great tutorial video is available on YouTube to teach contractor’s how to use these tools:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coyc0w5ZHcs

Rooftop Advertising

Second, since the general public has access to view virtually any roof, why not use the rooftop for signage and advertising? For example, the Volkswagon Plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has a sign the size of two football fields on its roof. Some companies are even placing a QR Code on their roofs — a QR code that can be scanned by passengers in passing planes, or directly from their computer while browsing google maps. Stadiums are also getting into the actions, by allowing companies to place advertising on stadium roofs. Since the games are often covered by aerial shots, it is a fantastic way to reach millions of viewers.

A company called RoofAds, a division of Saber Roofing in Woodside, California, runs a service for posting ads on rooftops that are close to airports and highly visible to airplane passengers. The company has started marketing to other areas of the country as well.

\"We realized with Google Earth and this satellite imagery that it doesn't have to be near airports. It can be anywhere,\" said Jay Saber, who owns Saber Roofing. Saber said he can install ads visible from 10,000 feet overhead.