January feels like a fresh start. New projects, new goals, and a clean schedule. However, roofing projects can still get messy fast when materials arrive incomplete. One missing item can delay the job, create extra trips, and reduce profit.
That’s why a simple roofing material checklist helps so much at the start of the year. It keeps crews moving, prevents shortages, and protects your timeline. In addition, it makes ordering easier for homeowners who want clarity before they spend.
BRS Roofing Supply can help you match the right materials to your roof type (we supply materials—we don’t install).
Why January is the best time to tighten your ordering process
At the beginning of the year, many contractors want to “start strong.” So they book jobs quickly. Meanwhile, winter weather can still bring rain and sudden storms. As a result, delays feel more expensive because schedules stack up.
A strong roofing material checklist helps you
- Reduce last-minute runs for “small parts”
- Avoid downtime while crews wait
- Keep estimates cleaner and more consistent
- Improve customer trust because you plan everything upfront
- Step 1: Confirm the roof type and measurement basics
- Before you order anything, lock in two things:
- Roof type (shingles, metal, or low-slope system)
- Roof size (total area) + complexity (valleys, hips, penetrations)
Also, remember: roof area is not the same as home square footage. Because of that, measure each roof plane (or use accurate takeoff data) before you order anything.
Pro tip: use “squares” to keep it simple.
1 roofing square = 100 sq ft of roof area
Step 2: Roofing material checklist for shingle projects
If your project uses architectural shingles, start here. Then, add the job-specific details based on roof shape, penetrations, and local requirements.
- Core materials (shingles)
- Architectural shingles (by squares)
- Starter strip (for eaves and rakes)
- Ridge cap / hip & ridge materials
- Underlayment (synthetic or felt)
- Ice & water barrier (where required or recommended)
- Flashing and water control (don’t skip this)
- Shingles often fail at transitions, not in the field. So plan these items early.
- Drip edge (linear feet)
- Step flashing (walls and side transitions)
- Valley flashing (if required)
- Pipe boots and vent flashing
- Sealants compatible with the system
- Fasteners and small parts (the most forgotten)
- These “small” pieces usually cause the biggest delays. Therefore, confirm them before you place the order.
- Roofing nails (correct length and quantity)
- Caps (if required for underlayment installation)
- Replacement vents / ridge vent materials
- Decking patches (if inspection shows issues)
Step 3: Roofing material checklist for metal roofing projects
Metal ordering gets easier when you plan coverage, trim, and details from the start. In addition, correct fasteners matter a lot because they protect sealing and long-term performance.
- Core materials (metal)
- Panels (profile + finish)
- Closures and foam where needed
- Underlayment (recommended for performance)
- Ridge cap and trims (rake, eave, sidewall, endwall)
- Fasteners and sealing (make this a priority)
- Screws with washers (correct type for panel and substrate)
- Sealant tape / butyl tape (when needed)
- Pipe boots made for metal profiles
- Snow guards (if the project calls for them)
Step 4: Use a waste factor that matches the roof
A checklist works best when you add a realistic waste factor. Otherwise, you risk shortage and shortages create delays.
- Use this as a starting point:
- Simple gable roof: 10% waste
- Moderate cuts / some valleys: 12–15%
- Complex roof with many hips/valleys: 15–20%
Therefore, if the roof is “cut heavy,” plan more. It costs less than a job delay and keeps the crew moving.
Step 5: Don’t skip ventilation and attic airflow
Many roofs fail early because heat and moisture stay trapped. So even when you use high-quality materials, performance still drops if airflow stays wrong.
Add these ventilation items to your roofing material checklist:
- Ridge vent (if applicable)
- Intake vents (soffit ventilation)
- Bathroom exhaust ducting checks (to prevent moisture problems)
Reference: OSHA (safety reminder for attic/roof work)
Quick ordering checklist
- Before you place the order, confirm:
- Total squares + waste factor
- Linear feet: eaves, rakes, ridges, hips
- Valleys and penetrations count (vents, skylights, chimneys)
- Underlayment + ice/water coverage
- Flashing set (step, valley, drip edge, pipe boots)
- Fasteners (correct type + quantity)
- Delivery timeline and jobsite staging plan
Because of this one page, you prevent most “we forgot it” problems—and you protect your profit.
What are the most common material contractors forget?
Usually fasteners, flashing pieces, and small ventilation components. That’s why a roofing material checklist keeps jobs on schedule.
How do I choose a waste factor?
Match the waste factor to roof complexity. More valleys and hips require more cuts, so you’ll need more material.
Do shingles and metal need different accessories?
Yes. Each system uses specific trims, flashings, and fasteners. Therefore, always plan by roof type, not by habit.
January is the best moment to upgrade your process. A clean roofing material checklist makes every job smoother. In addition, it protects your margin because you avoid extra trips, missed items, and downtime.
Want help building a complete order for your next project? Contact BRS Roofing Supply and we’ll help you select the right materials for your roof type and goals.