Malarkey Shingles Introduce RFID Microchip Tags

Benefits of RFID Tracking

Nancy Teague, VP of Engineering, states:

“RFID tracking offers numerous advantages for logistics and production at Malarkey Roofing Products. It will enable us to further optimize our operations and better serve our customers in the short term. In the long run, the capability to monitor our products’ lifecycles not only substantiates our superior quality and performance claims but also significantly bolsters our circular roofing endeavors.”

What Are RFID Tags?

RFID tags are tiny microchips commonly found in contemporary hotel room keys or anti-theft systems in clothing stores. Unlike barcodes, RFID tags can be scanned even if hidden or not in direct view. Moreover, the tags can be read inside containers, providing bulk information quickly, as opposed to individually.

Application in Shingle Manufacturing

In shingle manufacturing, this technology aids Malarkey’s team by supplying enhanced feedback. RFID tags are linked to a timestamp for more precise tracking of materials for quality data. The tags offer improved visibility into completed product inventories and the utilization of raw materials.

Advantages for Distributors and Contractors

Roofing material distributors and contractors can scan shingles to obtain the unique tag IDs within the pallet. Insurance companies will also gain from Malarkey’s new RFID tags, as they enable better identification of shingles for claims processing. The information can verify roof identification for warranty registration and additional customer support.

Implementation and Future Plans

Currently, only shingles and shingle bundles from Malarkey’s Oklahoma City facility are equipped with RFID tags, with Portland and South Gate plants soon to follow suit.

In subsequent phases, Malarkey plans to link these numbers to sales orders, allowing the company to confirm outbound shipments and correlate their receipt with the corresponding order.