Drone Technology Revolutionises Commercial Roofing with Innovation and Tech
5 minutes with Scott Lewthwaite, Commercial Director and licensed drone pilot for DVC
Drone Technology Revolutionises Commercial Roofing with Innovation and Tech
Q1: How has the application of drones advanced in the field of roofing inspections, and what benefits do they offer?
We initially saw drones come into the roofing industry for predominantly photographs & videos of projects, typically for case studies. With the development of drone technology over the years, buildings can now be accurately measured and 3D mapped, all without the need for a physical presence on the roof itself. The positive H&S implications and lack of requirement for the hierarchy of controls regarding fall protection by using a drone to survey a roof saves the client money and significantly reduces risk.
Q2: What are some of the key benefits of drone technology in terms of time and cost savings for commercial roofing inspections?
Drones can be launched remotely, and as long as VLOS (Visual Line of Sight) is maintained, large areas of roofs can be surveyed quickly and safely. The drone technology and software we use allow us to fully model a building with comprehensive and accurate dimensions, all without needing to send a surveyor onto the roof. We can typically map a 1000m² building within 30 minutes.
Q3: Have you noticed any specific improvements in the quality or accuracy of roof inspection since the introduction of drones?
Q3: One of the largest benefits I’ve noticed with drone survey is the introduction of RTK GPS (Real Time Kinematic positioning), which uses a separate RTK ground station which independently links to the satellites and then allows the drone to triangulate its movements accurately. This technology allows our measurements to be within millimetre accuracy.
Q4: What are some of the most challenging, unique roof structures or situations where drones have proven particularly valuable for inspections?
DVC Commercial Roofing Contractors have some clients with large sites (50+ buildings). When providing the client with a comprehensive report, our drone can fly and cover all of the buildings in 4k resolution within days. If we were to survey these roofs independently, collating the same information would take weeks.
One of the biggest challenges facing the introduction of drones into the industry is a lack of roofing experience, either by the pilot or report writer. All of DVC’s pilots have worked within the industry for a significant period and understand what to look for when identifying troublesome leaks or areas of concern.
Q5: In your opinion, how do you envision drone technology continuing to shape the future of roof inspections and maintenance?
I think the drone world will continue to evolve, and I personally would like to see heavy-duty drones used for lifting and transporting materials from ground level to the roof area in the future.
If you would like to learn more about how aerial drone surveys work, read more on our Roofing Survey page. Alternatively, contact the team to discuss your commercial roofing survey.
Why Partner with DVC Commercial Roofing
Expertise You Can Trust
At DVC Commercial Roofing Contractors, we pride ourselves on having a team of highly skilled pilots and roofing surveyors who bring years of hands-on experience to every project. Our experts understand the nuances of commercial roofing, from complex flat roof structures to multi-building industrial sites. This experience ensures that every inspection is thorough, every measurement is accurate, and every report provides actionable insights that help you make informed decisions. With DVC, you’re partnering with professionals who know exactly what to look for and how to deliver results that matter.
Time and Cost Efficiency
Traditional roofing inspections can take days or even weeks, particularly for large commercial sites. By using state-of-the-art drone technology, we are able to survey and map buildings quickly and accurately, often completing inspections in just a fraction of the time. This not only accelerates project timelines but also reduces labour costs and minimises disruptions to your operations.
Safety First
Roof inspections can be dangerous work, requiring access to heights and complex structures. At DVC Roofing, safety is our top priority. By conducting aerial surveys with drones, we significantly reduce the need for personnel to be physically on the roof, minimising the risk of falls or accidents. Our procedures comply with all health and safety regulations, giving you peace of mind that your team, our team, and your property are protected throughout the inspection process.
Innovative Technology
We leverage the latest advancements in drone technology, including RTK GPS positioning, 3D mapping, and high-resolution imaging, to deliver highly precise and detailed results. This cutting-edge technology allows us to measure every aspect of a roof accurately, identify potential issues before they become costly problems, and provide detailed visual reports. DVC Roofing continually invests in innovation to ensure our clients benefit from the most efficient and accurate roofing solutions available.
Full-Service Solutions
DVC Roofing offers more than just inspections. We provide end-to-end solutions, including comprehensive reports, actionable recommendations, and ongoing support. Whether you need routine maintenance checks, risk assessments, or complete roof surveys, we partner with you every step of the way. Our goal is to help protect your investment, extend the lifespan of your roof, and give you the confidence that your roofing assets are in expert hands.
