01
Describe priorities in order
State whether the project emphasizes historic matching, a particular color family, strong texture, repairability, or a specific architectural effect. Include photographs of roofs you like and explain what you like about them. Avoid relying on a product name without samples or assuming an inspiration photograph identifies its exact material and details.
02
Separate preferences from constraints
Give the design team available building records, known structural concerns, project timing, and maintenance expectations. Ask which choices depend on investigation before they can be finalized. Keep a short decision log as the design develops. This makes it easier to evaluate alternatives consistently and prevents a late visual preference from displacing a technical requirement that was already established.