01
Choose the decisions the mockup must resolve
List unresolved appearance and construction questions before building the sample. Examples include the distribution of colors, thickness transitions, cut-edge appearance and a particular flashing junction. Give the mockup a defined location and review date. A sample assembled only for a photograph may fail to represent the difficult conditions that will control production work.
02
Use representative material and viewpoints
Identify the actual slate lots and accessory materials used. Review the sample from expected ground viewpoints as well as the close view needed for workmanship checks. If lighting or distance affects the decision, record that context. Keep a photograph of the whole sample and details; a tightly cropped image cannot capture the distribution of natural variation.
03
Separate approval from open issues
Create a short acceptance sheet listing approved items, requested changes and items outside the mockup's scope. Identify who has authority to approve appearance and who reviews technical details. A general email saying it looks good should not quietly become acceptance of concealed construction that nobody inspected. Date the record and distribute the same version to everyone involved.
04
Maintain the reference during production
Decide whether the mockup remains in place or whether a separate approved sample will be retained. Compare early production work before the crew advances across the roof. If material or detailing changes, record whether a new review is required. Keep the approved record in the completion package so later repair decisions preserve the intended character.