We talk to Juan Hay from the Build IT franchise in Jeffreys Bay, to find out why he believes more builders should be using Ultra Span in their projects.
“We’ve been using MiTek’s Ultra-span for some years now and it’s proving an excellent addition to our portfolio,” says Juan, who began his franchise operation back in 2017.
“It’s the combination of the lightweight but very strong steel Ultra-span itself with MiTek’s great PAMIR software that’s proving so versatile and useful, and proving to be a great alternative for our customers who need to span large areas, with easy to deliver and erect systems.
“However, we still get customers who think of steel products as being heavy, harder to manoeuvre and less flexible in application, but we’re able to show them that Ultra-span is very different. And the new PAMIR software, particularly with its amazing 3D capability, is helping us to win work.
“The 3D aspect of PAMIR is outstanding. I’ve been able to blow architects’ minds by showing them the 3D model of their projects which they can physically zoom in on using their laptops, tablets or even phones – I’ve secured several jobs purely on the strength of this, and it’s leading to repeat business.
Juan says that PAMIR is helping architects, designers and builders alike get improved visualisation of their projects and enabling them to spot where adjustments might be needed. “It means they can make changes at an earlier stage and avoid potentially costly design errors.”
Ultra-span is designed and built to quality standards off site – and arrives at the customer’s site ready to install. Its lightweight steel fabrication makes installation easier, and enables straightforward access to services both during the fit-out and for later maintenance.
As the lightweight steel will not corrode, is inflammable, is mold and rodent resistant, Ultra-span is, says Juan, a great construction solution whether for home extension, a supermarket new-build or a housing project.
It’s not just the MiTek products and software that Juan rates, however. It’s also the business relationship that they’ve built over time that is, he says, fundamental to Build IT’s Jeffreys Bay success.
“MiTek’s almost like family to me these days,” he jokes. “If I’m working late on a customer project and I ring my MiTek contact in the evening to see if he can help, he always answers. MiTek people are always up for the challenge and just as keen to come up with solutions as we are.”
Another bonus, notes Juan, is that MiTek is constantly developing and improving the software, and takes on board feedback from their customers to help them refine their offerings. “And they’ll always let me know if they have any new functionality or add-ons available,” he says. “I always say yes please!”
The benefits of MiTek’s Ultra-span and PAMIR It seems obvious to Juan. “The combination of lightweight steel gauge roofing and being able to see exactly how designs are going to look in context with other parts of your project is extremely powerful.
“It’s a no brainer for me. Why wouldn’t you want to use this approach? It’s certainly helping us to build our business, attract new customers and win repeat contracts.”
You can see more about Ultra-span and PAMIR for yourself here.
