Since it’s not always practical to bring the property owner to the roof, the new GAF VR Experience enables contractors to bring the roof to them. The GAF VR Experience, which premiered at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) in Las Vegas, immerses property owners in a cutting-edge learning environment that simulates a typical roofing system.
Through innovative use of virtual reality technology, the GAF VR Experience will make it easier than ever for contractors to educate their potential customers as to the complexities, opportunities, and trouble spots of modern roofing systems.
Individual experiences have been developed for steep-slope (residential) and low-slope (commercial) roofs. Both incorporate a 360° environment, hotspots, and voice-over.
The Residential Roof VR Experience takes place in a 360° virtual cul-de-sac in which one house is receiving a complete new GAF Lifetime Roofing System.* By touching virtual hotspots, visitors can activate a description of each roofing element, from roof deck protection to ridge and hip shingles and every essential element in between.
The Commercial Roof VR Experience, set atop a representative low-slope commercial building, presents a comprehensive TPO roofing system, complete with essential EverGuard® TPO accessories. Ten hotspots activate informative descriptions of TPO roofing accessories, such as pourable sealer pockets, drains, corners, and boots.
“We wanted to design something that was informative and easy to use,” said Paul Dellanno, assistant marketing manager for GAF. “We wanted to showcase our EverGuard® TPO SMART Details within the context of a TPO roof. Now users can better visualize what they are investing in.”
“GAF is known to be an innovator with products, samples, and digital selling tools,” said James Cito, marketing manager, programs and technology. “We felt that providing a virtual reality tool was the next logical step in our commitment to providing the most advanced products and support to our contractors and customers.”
The GAF VR Experience, found at gaf.com/VR, can be used on any browser. For the full immersive experience, however, GAF recommends entering the environment using VR goggles on a smartphone.
*See GAF Shingle & Accessory Ltd. Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions. The word “Lifetime” refers to the length of coverage provided by the GAF Shingle & Accessory Ltd. Warranty and means as long as the original individual owner(s) of a single-family detached residence [or the second owner(s) in certain circumstances] owns the property where the shingles are installed. For owners/structures not meeting the above criteria, Lifetime coverage is not applicable.
