One coordinated specification for roof and wall panels

Allow for different panel thicknesses, performance and geometry on the roof and walls. Position openings, rooflights, doors and service routes in relation to the supports. The specification should describe where each element sits as well as the area it covers.

For each group, state the application, core, thickness and required performance. Specify both facings, their coatings and colours, the profile and the fixing method. Reference the relevant product documentation so the performance can be traced to the complete panel.

Include cover width, lengths and piece counts. Identify the outside face and installation direction where relevant. Issue a dated revision whenever the variant changes so the supplier and installer use the same approved schedule.

Name the person responsible for approving changes and make sure revised cutting plans reach the designer, installer and purchaser.

For a façade, show the panel pattern, installation direction and visible or concealed fixings. Detail the plinth, corners and openings. For the roof, specify pitch, edge details, transverse joints if needed and penetrations. Similar insulation does not make these details interchangeable.

Check capacity for the designated loads and supports on every item. A support spacing accepted for one panel may be excessive for another. Fire requirements also apply to a particular assembly. Reference a system whose conditions of use match the design.

Prepare a colour schedule for panels and flashings. Products with similar colour codes can look different because of gloss, profiling and light. Compare samples under conditions close to those on site. Agree how batches will be distributed across large areas.

Coordinate the appearance of the wall-to-roof junction with drainage and sealing. Size flashings from the construction detail, including the concealed portion. A change in panel thickness can alter edge details, so revise the accessories as part of the order.

Price roof panels, wall panels and accessories separately. State whether quantities are based on whole panels ordered or measured envelope area. Give transport, unloading and installation their own items. Each supplier should price the same quantities and requirements.

Ask suppliers to identify every proposed substitution, including performance, cover width, colour and delivery date. Price each alternative separately and keep the original schedule available. This reveals whether a lower total reflects a saving or reduced scope.

Approve the final dimensions and cutting schedule before production or dispatch. Group packs in installation order. Roof and wall work can start at different times, so arrange deliveries around storage space and equipment access.

At delivery, compare batch labels with the schedule. Record approved changes and retain the product data. At handover, add as-built drawings and maintenance instructions. This identifies the material installed in each area for future repairs or extensions.