Spec Smarter: Architect's Guide to Working with an Independent Manufacturers’ Rep

Illustration of modern hospital buildings surrounded by trees, with flat rooftops, large windows, and a blue sky.

experts at doing it right.

the right independent rep isn't a middleman — they're a trusted guide who makes product selection faster, smarter, and safer.

Black square

We serve as a technical resource and product matchmaker, helping you make informed decisions without the sales pressure. We understand specs, field conditions, submittals, and how to protect your design intent.

Specifications are essential to the success of constructing projects. There is simply no way around it, specifications provide the required technical information that cannot be put on the drawings.

Where Architects Can Find Technical Product Information

Architects Need More Than Just a Product Catalog

An aerial view of a school with a large white flat roof, parking lots on all sides, a red running track, and a football field.
Aerial view of a school campus with a sports field, running track, multiple buildings, and surrounding roads and residential neighborhood.
Close-up of a metal drip edge installed on a building facade, with bolts securing it to the wall above a brick surface.

The Best Way to Research Building Products for Commercial Projects

We know how frustrating it is to dig around for the right product info. That’s why we make everything easy to find. Our products come with direct links to spec sheets, warranties, safety data, brochures—you name it. You can even see where they’ve been used on real projects.

And if something’s missing? Just reach out. We’re in close contact with the manufacturers and can get you whatever you need, whether it’s a warranty sample or a specific detail for your project. If it’s out there, we’ll track it down for you.

listed materials

  • Logo of PAC-CLAD Petersen, a Carlisle company, featuring a geometric design and text.

    Metal roofing including Concealed and Exposed Fastener Systems. Metal Wall and Soffit Panel Systems. Edge Metal Systems including Coping and Gravel Guard Systems.

  • Logo of IB Roof Systems with text 'PVC and Fluid Applied Roofing Solutions'.

    The highest quality PVC membranes and fluid applied solutions in the roofing and waterproofing industry.

  • Citadel logo with a blue cube graphic, the word 'CITADEL' in capital letters, and the phrase 'an MTL company' below in gray.

    Composite panels for many types of applications including Field-Assembled Cladding, Field-Assembled ACM / MCM, Shop-Fabricated ACM / MCM, and Glazing Infill Panels.