The Science of ITEL
Flooring, Roofing, and Siding Database Management
ITEL’s product analysis and pricing accuracy starts with obtaining direct, electronic data feeds from the hundreds of mills and manufacturers around the country (over 90% of the US market). ITEL compares the specifications of incoming flooring samples to this database in order to determine Like Kind and Quality style products and pricing. Roofing and siding samples are compared to the database information and our physical library to find accurate matches.
- ITEL is the only company that receives data directly from all of the top U.S. carpet mills
- ITEL‘s database team manages relationships with mills and manufacturers in order to gather, input, and maintain the constantly changing data.
- ITEL has the most current and comprehensive database in the industry, including:
- Over 12,000 active styles and prices
- Regular price and style updates
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Flooring Analysis
Specification Analysis
A complete summary of the
flooring specifications for a sample are determined and listed in the
Reading the Lab Report
Digital Image Viewer – ITEL analysts use a digital image viewer to read pile height measurements and to analyze the various layers within vinyl. After the measurement is captured, it is automatically saved in the Laboratory Management System by claim number so no data is lost. This computer-based process allows ITEL to move away from manual pile height measurements, thus significantly reducing the potential for human error.
Spectrum Analyzer (Spectrometer) – ITEL uses spectrum analysis to help determine a number of flooring specifications. For carpet, the measured level of light absorption produces a fingerprint that identifies the type of fiber used in construction. For instance, Nylon’s level of light absorption produces a different wave pattern than a Nylon/Olefin blend. This technology has allowed ITEL to move away from lengthy and potentially dangerous chemical processes.
For Vinyl and Laminate samples, the spectrometer is used to determine the chemical makeup of the wearlayer, which directly affects the warrantee and price of the product. For instance, some Vinyl manufacturers produce the same products but add Teflon to the wearlayer of one of them, thus potentially doubling the warrantee and price. These chemical enhancements cannot be determined by sight.
Finally, for wood analysis, the spectrometer helps determine the species of wood, which is the main price driver, and the chemicals within the finish.
Spectrometer Results for Fiber Type |
Analyst's View of Red Oak Cell Structure |
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Flooring: Pricing and Comparable Products
Once the flooring samples are prepared, ITEL’s flooring analysts: 1) measure and analyze the final specifications, 2) match those specifications to the flooring database in the Laboratory Management System, and 3) determine a fair Like Kind and Quality price, also known as the ITEL benchmark price.
Comparable Products
After the specifications are measured, currently available products with Like Kind and Quality specifications will be listed.
Pricing Analysis
Current average wholesale prices plus a retail markup are used to determine the benchmark price. An average pad price will also be included if a pad or underlayment sample is submitted for analysis.
Labor Rate
The standard labor rate is calculated using Xactimate® labor pricing for the area of loss. The labor rate is based on clean installation, service charges factored-in and does not include carpet tear-out, furniture removal, contractor “O&P” or other charges. Other labor systems may be available at the carrier's request.
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Siding: Match and Locate
Identify Siding - ITEL identifies a siding sample's manufacturer and product name based on our extensive database and product libraries.
Specifications and Distributors - The product name, availability and specifications of the original siding are added to the ITEL report. The name and contact info for a distributor is also included for currently produced siding.
If the siding is discontinued, the analyst searches inventories of discontinued siding and, if the product is found, a product and distributor information will be added to the report.
The analyst will also search for similar products from different manufacturers if the original siding is discontinued. Comparable products will be rated on how similar they are to the original siding based on the physical specifications and appearance of the products. Supplier contact information for the similar products will be provided. There is no additional charge to search for discontinued siding or provide comparable matches.
Additional Information - Any additional information that aids in understanding the report will be noted.
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Roofing: Match and Locate
Identify Roofing - ITEL identifies the roofing's manufacturer and product name based on our extensive database and product libraries.
Specifications and Distributors - The product name, availability and specifications of the original roofing are added to the ITEL report. The name and contact info for a distributor is also included for currently produced roofing.
If the roofing is discontinued, the analyst searches inventories of discontinued roofing and, if the product is found, a product and distributor information will be added to the report.
The analyst will also search for similar products from different manufacturers if the original roofing is discontinued. Comparable products will be rated on how similar they are to the original roofing based on the physical specifications and appearance of the products. Supplier contact information for the similar products will be provided. There is no additional charge to search for discontinued roofing or provide comparable matches.
Additional Information - Any additional information that aids in understanding the report will be noted. If custom remanufacturing is available for clay or concrete tiles, contact information will be provided.
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Quality Control
ITEL’s Quality Control team randomly and actively monitors lab test results to ensure industry standards are met. All test results are double checked for new flooring analysts and all experienced analysts have a percentage of their tests reviewed.
ITEL also hires an outside consultant to perform an analysis of laboratory accuracy on a monthly basis. ITEL uses the results of this analysis to continue to improve quality and make personnel decisions in order to give the most accurate results possible.
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