Roofing challenges are inevitable as the winter months approach, but builders’ merchants are in prime place to help. Wayne Angelo, Head of Sales for Roofing Distribution at Sika UK, discusses how merchants can equip their customers with the tools and knowledge needed to tackle both planned maintenance and urgent repairs.
As the winter months approach, the pressure on installers and homeowners to ensure roofs are watertight inevitably increases. Small cracks which may have been unnoticed over the warm summer months can suddenly worsen as cold weather, heavy rain and frost aggravate the area, turning a small problem into a major repair.
For builders’ merchants, this seasonal challenge presents an opportunity to support customers with practical guidance, trusted materials and expert advice. Ensuring installers are prepared is not just about supplying products, it’s about helping them make informed choices and respond effectively to the demands of winter roofing.
Reliable waterproofing solutions are a cornerstone of winter roof preparation. Simple, single-coat systems and fast-drying coatings are increasingly valued for their efficiency and versatility. For example, products such as Sika Evercryl One Coat, Cromapol and Acrypol+ create an instantly waterproof layer providing a durable and flexible barrier against water ingress. Such solutions allow repairs to be tackled quicky and effectively, even if it’s still raining when applied.
“For builders’ merchants, this seasonal challenge presents an opportunity to support customers with practical guidance, trusted materials and expert advice.”
For builders’ merchants, highlighting the benefits can help installers make the right choice while reinforcing the merchant’s role as a trusted advisor.
Emergency repairs
Winter also brings unexpected roof leak emergencies where a quick response is critical to prevent further damage until a permanent fix can be arranged. Products designed for fast application, such as Sika Evercryl Emergency Roof repair, adhere well to a variety of surfaces and provide a temporary yet reliable barrier, even in the rain.
The instantly waterproofing properties of solutions like this can prevent minor issues from escalating into extensive water damage. By keeping such solutions in stock, merchants can support those responding to emergency callouts, and in doing so, build loyalty and trust within the professional community.
Furthermore, the ease of use of these cartridge applied repair products also makes them a suitable solution for DIYers of any experience level, giving them the confidence to tackle a repair project prior to contacting a trade professional.
While product range is important, knowledge and guidance are equally critical. Manufacturers like Sika go above and beyond when it comes to supporting builders’ merchants, offering technical support, in-store product demonstrations and staff training to give those behind the counter the information to pass on to their customers.
When trade professionals feel supported by their local merchant, they are more likely to return, make repeat purchases and recommend the merchant to peers — a cycle that benefits all involved.
Seasonal promotions
Seasonal awareness campaigns can also be a useful tool. As winter approaches, merchants can take the opportunity to remind users about the importance of early roof inspections and preventive repair work. Promoting roofing solutions such as those from Sika, before the weather fully turns, can help increase sales and drive repeat business.
Roof maintenance and repair are recurring needs, and installers often return to suppliers they trust for quality products and advice. Ensuring you are equipped not only with a comprehensive product range, but also with the knowledge to assist your customers in their selection process helps to reinforce the merchant’s role as a key resource for high-performance building solutions.
Ultimately, preparing the roof for winter is about combining high-performance products with ease of use, and reliability. Trade professionals require solutions that are effective, efficient and suited to a range of scenarios, from preventative maintenance to emergency repairs.
The approach to winter roof maintenance should be proactive, combining trusted materials with informed guidance. By highlighting reliable waterproofing options and emergency solutions, builders’ merchants can support installers in keeping roofs secure through the colder months. This approach strengthens relationships, builds loyalty, and positions merchants as valuable partners in safeguarding properties against winter damage.
Winter readiness is not just about the products on the shelf — it is about offering practical solutions, backed by knowledge, that allow work to be carried out confidently, efficiently, and successfully. With the right balance of materials and advice, merchants can ensure that their customers are well-prepared for whatever the season brings.
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