How to Apply Roof Coatings to a Standing Seam Roof

standing seam metal roofDue to the recent inquiries received about Conklin roof coatings with regards to standing seam-style roofing systems, we have put together this blog to help explain the proper installation process.

For any standing seam roof, there is always one main cause of leaks: an incorrectly crimped seam. In addition to this major problem, there are also a number of other areas where this roofing system can leak. Luckily for you, Conklin’s building product specialists outlined the procedures to handle a number of these issues with the following document: https://www.conklin.com//files/pdf/Standing Seam B 5 92 35 Tech Doc 5-16.pdf.

Overview of the Process

Before starting, we strongly encourage you to review the document above in full, but will provide a summary of the steps to take below.

  1. Power wash the entire surface with Rust Off®, a rust and oxide remover that etches metal to provide for better adhesion of the coating system.
  2. Apply Conklin Encase, a rust inhibiting metal primer, to the entire metal surface.
  3. Embed Spunflex II joint tape with Benchmark base coat or Rapid Roof III base coat on all end laps at a rate of 1.75 gallons/square followed by an additional .75 gallons/square on top of the fabric. Make sure all Spunflex II joint tape is completely embedded in coating up the side of the rib as far as possible.
  4. For vertical seams, apply Kwik Kaulk to any crimped area without the use of fabric or butyl tape.
  5. For horizontal seams and field flashed areas, the contractor should follow the MR specification sheet found at the following link: https://www.conklin.com//files/pdf/MR%20Spec4.pdf
  6. The final step is coating the entire roof surface with Rapid Roof III, Benchmark, or Puma XL at a rate of 1.9 gallons per square.

Contractor Support Services from Roofing Pros

metal roof coating trainingThe outcome of your standing seam roof systems is really dependent on the skill and experience of your installer or contractor. This roofing type is prone to application errors. If you or your preferred contractor doesn’t have much experience with standing seam roof systems, don’t worry! By joining Choice Roof Contractor Group, you receive the support of a number of qualified nationwide contractors who can help you. These contractors are highly skilled and ready to provide the advice necessary to finish any project. Our members will even go as far to fly to your location and help with a roof installation is needed. Here are some of the benefits you will also receive if you join:

  • Large source of knowledge and experience from contractors with years of experience
  • Full, professional on-job or off-site advisement
  • Elite contractors open to any questions via texting, email, camera, or other means of communication
  • Strategic planning for prevention of a business issue or challenge before it even begins
  • New ways to improve the effectiveness of business strategies currently in use
  • Professional advice to handle any challenge thrown your way

Our Nationwide Platform and Your Success

contractor supportWe strive to help each of our members grow and become successful. This is why Choice Roof Contractor Group offers many benefits as you obtain more amounts of local roofing market shares. This includes:

  • Discounted pricing on professional Conklin roofing products
  • Networking with others who are ready for your services
  • Above-average profit margins with the value and peace of mind our group offers to building owners
  • Compelling sales materials and presentations as part of a quality marketing plan
  • Premium marketing support, consulting, and service via our relationship with Top Roof Marketing
  • Discounts and support from our trusted partners and suppliers
  • Up-to-date news and content on the latest in the commercial roofing industry and our platform via our website, social media, and other communication channels
  • Nation recognition via our members’ dedication to excellence

If you want the support of a nationwide group of committed contractors, Choice Roof Contractor Group might be the solution for you. We have the resources, content, and advice to help with every project you take on. You can learn more about the support our group offers at the following link: Contractor Support Services.

You can also contact us at (800) 670-5883 or reach out to one of our members with our Interactive Member Directory.

Is it Legal for a Roofer to Absorb My Insurance Deductible?

Contractors in our group are asked frequently by clients if it is possible to “waive the insurance deductible” on an insurance claim for roof expenses. This is not an easy question and can put contractors in a sticky situation because there are no good answers to give a property owner.

Many residential owners are led to believe, by convincingly professional contractors, that it is “completely legal” to cover a deductible on insurance repairs. Surprisingly, this is becoming the norm for roofers; they openly advertise “Free Roof” on marketing material such as yard signs and door hangers. No wants to be called out for being in the wrong and especially on such a common question. So, what we’re going to do is explain the insurance claim process and provide some helpful tips.

Quality work is better than bad morals

top seo rankingsUnfortunately, the longer we’re in this industry, the more we see a startling trend of legitimate contractors exchanging deductibles for repair work and it conflicts with our business model. We can either throw away the quality service we provide and minimize costs with cheap workers and poor quality materials; or, we could educate and provide our useful knowledge to our clients on topics like the insurance claim process, our roofing systems, and the success factor of selecting a reliable contractor.

One thing that amazes us is that most people are more ready to take a blind shot with a cheap and amateur roofing contractor than a low quality car body shop. This is absolutely ridiculous considering that a house is much more expensive than a car, and our skilled applicators are executing some extremely dangerous work. The icing on the cake is that there will be stories about property owners getting scammed by “professionals” offering some ludicrous deal who will eventually close their business after raking in $1,000s in insurance collections.

Sadly, this is what much of the roof industry has formed into: local contractors with low budgets providing amateur workmanship, low-grade materials and kicking back money to customers because they fail at providing a service that is worth the insurance proceeds they are receiving. Top it all off with the fact that many of these contractors illegally funnel money from an insurance claim to the property owner and it puts more clarity into why 80% of roofing contractors go out of business within 2 1/2 years (Source: 2008 BBB).

It used to be a normal practice

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In the past, collecting an insurance deductible would not have been considered such a dishonest method as it is now for roofing contractors. Within the past two decades, property owners would receive lump sum payments from their insurers when damages occurred. This deductible was removed from the total of this payment. Back then, it was perfectly legal for the property owner to keep the deductible and it was also up to the owner on whether or not they wanted the repairs to be completed. Let’s just say your house received damage from a hailstorm. An insurance estimator was sent to your location and estimated the cost would be around $10,000 to fix your roof. Your deductible was $1,000, so the insurer wrote a check out for $9,000 and it was up to the owner to determine what the money would be used for. This basically means that the property owner wasn’t required to spend that specific amount of the money on their roof. They could give $500 for small, localized repairs or spend the rest of the check on an entire roof replacement.

This insurance claims process does not work the same as today’s process. Many property owners today have Replacement Cost Value (RCV) provisions in their insurance policies. This allows insurers to limit their probability of an RCV insurance claim by cutting down payments into multiple parts. This means that now instead of receiving one main check, it can come in up to as many as 4 checks and will usually bear the name of the owner of the property as a cosigner. If a property owner wants to receive the entirety of the insurance claim, they would have to go through a licensed contractor to bill the insurance company and the mortgage company for the completed work.

Let’s look at an example. A property owner’s roof is damaged by a storm. The property owner files an insurance claim and insurance estimator is sent to your location. The insurance estimator says that the damage will cost $10,000 in repairs. The property owner has a $1,000 deductible, which is removed from the estimate. The roof is not in brand new condition, so the deterioration of the roof (we’ll give it $5,000 to make it easy) is removed from the estimate. The main check is written for $4,000 instead of $9,000. When an invoice of $10,000 or greater is received from a roofing contractor, the remaining $5,000 becomes recoverable. This ensures that the check is written to the mortgage company listed.

How do roofing contractors “waive” deductibles?

To be straight forward, they’re lying to the insurance and mortgage companies. The insurance policy of the property owner is strictly a contract between said property owner and the insurance company. With this contract, property owners can trade annual premium for protection against unexpected and disastrous damages to their properties minus a deductible. As usual, you have legal protection if your insurance carrier was to break your contract and refused to reward a claim. However, your insurer also has legal protection from YOU if you fail to meet your stated obligations (or you provide false information to save money on your deductible). A number of roofing contractors will market their services using a yard sign, which they claim can be used as an “advertising credit” for the deductible amount. If you’re going to invoice for the entirety of your insurance claim, you must make clear the amount being used on the project to the insurer. A contractor cannot charge the insurance provider $10,000 for roofing work they actually provide for $9,000. This basically means the contractor is purposely increasing the price to replace the amount missing.

If the insurers knew the work is being done for less, they would lower the amount of money set for the project. Here’s an example: If the insurance provider finds out that the property owner had the roofing work done for $9,000 instead of the allotted $10,000, only $8,000 would be released instead of $9,000. The insured would still have to fork over the $1,000 deductible to the contractor. In summary, this disclosure between the price invoiced to the insurer and the price invoiced to the property owner is a breach of contract between the insured and the insurer.

A number of roofing contractors will debate that is completely up to the contractor to decide how they get their work. They believe that if they want to pay a client $1,000 to get the project, they should be able to do so regardless of whether an insurer is involved. To make matters even worse, if the contractor is just writing a check to the property owner for “advertising”, this would require the filing of a Form-1099 to the property owner as the Federal Government requires transactions larger than $600 to be declared and that the property owner should pay income on the transaction.

This technique is borderline criminal and it’s best not to try it because someone will get caught in the end. It leaves us with an uneasy feeling, since false information is provided to the insurance company. How many major companies have you seen with a business model built around providing illegitimate information to cut checks?

At the end of the day, if your insurance provider were to catch the contractor or yourself, don’t count on the contractor to take all the legal blame. Be wary with contractors like these! They may be cheating the system on your behalf, providing low quality work on your roof, or stamping your name on a false invoice they give to your insurer. With anything you do, always be sure to research it well and choose a contractor with a reliable record of customer satisfaction. Don’t get caught on a “great deal” and never hand your money to the contractor before the job is done.

Record Number of Contractors Attend Conklin Advanced Roof Systems Training

conklin roof systems trainingThis year Conklin (our preferred manufacturer) scheduled nearly a dozen Advanced Roof Systems Training programs with half of those selling out nearly as soon as they were scheduled. Due to the extremely positive response our group and others have received, Conklin added even more Advanced Roof Systems Training programs through the months of March and April to the Building Products training calendar to accommodate demand and help more contractors get on the right track with their businesses. Contact us to enroll in the next available training before it sells out!

Benefits of Conklin Advanced Roof Systems Training

commercial roofing trainingConklin’s Advanced Roof Systems Training is praised for its one-of-a-kind hands-on learning experience. Some of this hands-on experience with Conklin’s roofing systems, includes:

  • Coating systems for roof membranes such as TPO, PVC, and EPDM
  • Fluid-applied roof systems reinforced with a military-grade fabric product
  • Single-ply roofing for new and re-roofing applications
  • Spray foam applications for superior insulation and facility sealing

As you can see, Conklin’s Advanced Roof Systems Training gives the extensive training required to properly install a variety of roofing systems, including building roof assemblies and spraying coatings.

Not only do you get the valuable knowledge from the training, but you also get a number of benefits and features from this program:

  • Recognition as full, warranty trained Conklin roofing applicator
  • Ability to offer non-prorated, full-coverage manufacturer warranties
  • Complete instruction on each roof system’s ins-and-outs
  • Personalized, construction experience with all systems
  • Volume discounts on different Conklin products
  • 6% discount on all products aside from spray foam & board stock, which is on top of the distributor pricing!

Contact Choice Roof Contractor Group to secure your slot in one of the most valuable training programs you’ll receive this year! Call us at (800) 670-5583 to find out more about Conklin’s Advanced Roof Systems Training.

The best time to join us is August 24, 25 and 26 as a number of us will be there. You’re guaranteed to learn as much outside the classroom as inside.

Your Success and Your Future

With Conklin’s upgraded facility, your opportunities to learn, interact, and connect with other contractors is extended vastly.

However, unlike other training programs that are a set event, you’ll gain immediate benefits as soon as you register as well as lifetime support when you return.

Here are just a few things to expect:

  • A proven and easy to follow plan to jump start your commercial roofing business
  • Instant access to veteran contractors in our group who can help you bid jobs and help with installation
  • Strategizing with contractors who have been in your shoes and overcame obstacles
  • Roofing samples and marketing materials from Conklin
  • Strong marketing content and easy-to-use presentations for increasing sales
  • Hundreds of pictures of each system and application type for your website
  • Free social media setup and assistance ($400 value package at no cost)
  • Connections with others for more opportunities
  • And much more

Another plus is that you will also meet with some of the top-tier contractors. It is a hands-on and immersive program where fellow contractors can have fun and learn a lot from each other at the same time.

NOTE: All the trainings have sold out months in advance. Contact us to enroll in the next available training at (800) 670-5583!

The Truth about Aluminum Roof Coatings

If you walk down the roofing supply aisle of your local home improvement store, you are bound to see a selection of aluminum coating products that promise to be effective solutions to your roofing problems. However, before you consider an aluminum coating for your commercial roof, you may want to do some homework.

Cons of Using Aluminum Roof Coatings

local roof repair projectThe main selling point of most aluminum coatings is low initial cost. But is cheaper better in this case? Let’s examine the evidence:

  • Inability to Adhere — Aluminum coatings will not bond with water-based coatings. This is problematic, especially if you decide to apply a longer-lasting acrylic product in the future. A solvent-based primer can increase the chances of adhesion; however, this approach has had mixed results.
  • Beware of Rain —Aluminum coatings do not provide protection against water, except for hairline cracks.
  • Unable to Fluctuate — Aluminum roof coatings do not expand and contract with changing temperatures. The inflexible nature of these coatings can lead to the development of bubbles, cracks, and gaps in a commercial roof.
  • Lackluster Warranties —Although warranty options may vary depending on the manufacturer, aluminum coating products typically offer a one to seven year limited warranty.
  • Subpar Reflectivity — Composed of asphalt, aluminum paste, fillers, hydrocarbon solvents, and other chemicals, aluminum coatings claim to lower roof temperatures and reflect ultraviolet rays. However, according to the Cool Roof Rating Council—an organization that evaluates solar reflectance and thermal emittance—these roof coatings are 20% less efficient in solar reflectance and thermal emissivity than acrylic coatings. In as few as three years, aluminum roof coatings can be up to 50% less efficient than most acrylic coating products. For building owners, this decline translates into higher energy costs over their roof’s lifecycle. In addition, without proper UV reflectivity, a roof is vulnerable to ultraviolet degradation.
  • Difficult to Clean — Cleaning is part of routine roof maintenance. But if you have an aluminum coating, cleaning can be tricky. During the cleaning process, aluminum flakes can slough off, exposing the substrate below and releasing aluminum particles into the environment.
  • Apply with Caution — Because they are solvent based, aluminum coatings can have a high Volatile Organic Content (VOC), which means noxious odors are emitted during application.
  • Frequent Recoating Needed — With aluminum roof coatings, be prepared to re-coat often. The product’s lifespan is approximately three to four years.

The Benefits of Conklin’s Acrylic Elastomeric Roof Coatings

local roof repair projectWith an exceptional 35+ year track record, Conklin continues to be a trusted name in the commercial roofing industry. Their revolutionary elastomeric roof coatings are formulated to cover any type of roofing substrate. Once the fluid-applied product dries, it creates a seamless, water-tight membrane on top of the pre-existing roof, making it look and perform like new.

Conklin coatings also meet third party standards for energy efficiency, including LEED standards, ENERY STAR® qualification, and Cool Roof Rating Council standards. They reflect up to 85% or the sun’s rays and can save owners 15% or more on annual energy costs.

Conklin elastomeric coatings have numerous other advantages:

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  • Withstand hail, strong winds, heavy rains, fire, & more
  • Completely restore an old roof
  • Renewable, non-prorated warranty coverage for up to 18 years
  • Respond to changes in outdoor temperatures
  • Elastic properties allow the product to expand & contract with ease
  • Fully adhered, durable, cleanable membrane
  • Can add decades to the life of a pre-existing roof
  • Recoatable for extended protection & renewable warranty options
  • Emit fewer odors into the environment
  • Preferred by hospitals & universities
  • Sustainable, renewable roofing solution

It is important to note, that all roofs should be cleaned and professionally prepped before any coating is applied. Otherwise, the coating will not adhere properly and begin to peel shortly after application.

If you are looking for a reputable commercial roofing contractor, call us at (800) 670-5883. Our nationwide network of members are experienced and together can meet virtually any commercial roofing demand. When you hire a Choice Roof contractor, you can have peace of mind knowing that they are accountable to the group, can draw from a larger base of knowledge and must follow set standards for service. Contact us today! We look forward to the opportunity of earning your business.

Metal Roof Repair Cost

Today’s blog post is going to focus on a thorough evaluation of metal roof repair costs.

local roof repair projectFirstly, we will address the matter you are visiting the blog post for. Metal roof repair estimates vary on the roofing project (for example, if some panels need replaced) and how much area needs to be covered. This explains why it is hard to provide a number for the cost of a metal roof repair project without a professional metal roof inspection.

The cost of a metal roof usually comes down to difference in quality between competitors. While you may opt to go for a cheaper fix or patch, like black tar or aluminum coatings, it is only temporary and can end up costing you more in the long run due to excess damage. Here are some problems that occur with quick fixes like black tar and aluminum coatings:

• Brittle and weak structure
• Weakens roof and decreases performance
• Causes roof to be more susceptible to leaks
• And more!

As you can see, the need for something more stable is evident. The money spent on these patches will only lead to more problems and more expenses down the road. What if you could have an easy fix that is longer lasting and doesn’t make leaks worse?

The Best Solution for Localized Roof Repairs

metal roof repair exampleOur group’s preferred metal roof repair solution doesn’t cause any damage and involves no intensive procedures for your roof. This means it is minimally disruptive which leaves you stress free and at peace. With the help of Conklin’s roofing products, we are able to bring you the highest quality solutions available.

The elasticity of these metal roof coating systems allows them to handle any building movements due to its flexibility. Compared to black tar and aluminum coatings, which are not durable nor energy efficient, our metal roof coating systems save you money and headaches. Their white formulation is highly energy efficient and can further reinforce every inch of metal roof it’s applied on with Spunflex fabric. Conklin’s Kwik Kaulk is a latex caulking compound designed to take it another whole step further.

Take a look at the video below on the right to see just how well it holds everything together.

Contact one of our members so we can show you how to best address your building’s most important asset – the roof.

Avoiding Roof Replacement? Set the Stage for Full Restoration

Using high-performance caulk and coatings as outlined above is a great way to take care of protrusions and small areas, but if your roof is up in age eventually you will have to address the whole thing.

Like most building owners, you’re probably trying to wait as long as possible to replace your metal roof. If you wait too long though, you won’t be able to use a coating system, which could save you tens of thousands of dollars!

Below we will show you a better alternative that extends the existing roof’s life.

No Tear-Off. Less Costly. Up to 18-Year Leak-Free Manufacturer Warranty.

roof coating applicationWe start the process off by preparing your roof for the base coat. Your metal roof will be cleaned in detail from end to end and will use Conklin® Rust Off while pressure washing. While cleaning, we will also be on the lookout for loose sealant and remove obstacles such as seams, transitions, vents, curbs, and protrusions.

The next step after your roof is cleaned and dried is to apply Conklin® Metal Encase Primer on the entirety of your roof. This primer helps prevent rust and creates better adhesion for the base coat we’re preparing your roof for. It is also a crucial part of waterproofing your metal roof.

We will then go over your roof with Kwik Kaulk and fill in all gaps, voids, and protrusions to strengthen your metal roof as a whole. We enhance this with Spun-Flex Polyester mesh, a fabric produced by Conklin, which is applied in needed areas. It is also used on all vertical and horizontal seams and embedded in the basecoat at approx. 3 gallons per square.

As we near the end of your metal roofing project, we go over any exposed screws with Kwik Kaulk. This is to reinforce the screws and prevent them from backing out which would cause problems in the future.

Finally, the Conklin Puma XL Top Coat is applied to complete your metal roof repair project. It is applied at a rate of 2 gallons per square and after it has dried, will be 40-50 mils where Spun-Flex is applied and 13-14 mils when only metal roofing.

Benefits of Metal Roof Restoration

The metal roof restoration system the contractors in our group install provide an economic alternative to expensive replacement and intensive processes. Here are some benefits that are included with this solution:

Heat-Absortion-Graph• Up to 18-yeat non-prorated warranty
• ENERGY STAR certified
• Reflects up to 85% of the sun’s rays
• Lowers A/C cost
• Reduces usage on A/C units
• Non-disruptive roofing process unlike a replacement
• Lower roofing cost compared to a roof replacement
• White roof coatings reduce temperature by up to 70 degrees
• Also minimize roof movement
• Seamless system reinforces roof
• Waterproofed means no leaks
• And more!

Why You Should Choose Us

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Premium products, quality service, and people dedicated to excellence in the roofing industry. Three factors to what Choice Roof Contractor Group brings to the table. Because of this, you can be assured your metal roof repair project is being treated with utmost care and service.

If you want to stop spending excessive amounts of money on temporary fixes, Choice Roof Contractor Group may have the solutions for you. We provide premium solutions for long-term fixes. Don’t put up with mediocre service when you can have a better alternative – choose Choice Roof Contractor Group today.

The Truth about Ponding Water Roof Coatings

ponding water exampleFor decades roof coatings have been an effective repair option for a variety of roofing substrates. They are durable, economical, and if applied properly, they can transform a troubled roof into an energy-efficient, leak-free asset. However, before executing a roof coating project, it is important to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the pre-existing roof to determine its overall condition. If any surface areas are compromised, the coating may not fully adhere and merely exacerbate a serious underlying problem.

For instance, applying a coating over an area affected by ponding water can lead to numerous challenges down the road. Ponding or standing water can occur from insufficient drainage or a number of other reasons. Perhaps the most common reason is water damage to the substrate or insulated board stock; persistent leaks can cause these materials to eventually break down or settle, creating a place where water can accumulate into stagnate pools.

failed coating installWhen coatings are applied over moisture trapped areas, the following issues can ensue:

  • Deterioration of the substrate
  • Rusting of the fasteners
  • Adverse effects on roof insulation
  • Rusting of the steel decks
  • Buckling and warping of plywood
  • Break down of seam adhesive on single-ply roofs
  • Added weight to the roof
  • Blisters from improper curing of the coatings
  • Freeze and thaw damage
  • Adhesion failure

A Cutting-edge Method to Locate Moisture

water problem roofThe best way to identify trapped moisture is by performing a thermal scan. Utilizing infrared technology, roofing specialists can detect areas of moisture that are invisible to the naked eye. Here is how the device works: During the day the sun’s rays warm the roof and at night the roof radiates that heat back into the atmosphere, a process called radiational cooling. When insulation is wet, it retains heat for a longer period of time. Infrared imagers reveal this uneven heat dissipation and accurately pinpoint pockets of moisture. Once located, the saturated materials can be removed and the area rebuilt using dry insulation board stock.

There are many advantages to using a roof coating system; however, thoughtful preliminary preparation should never be underestimated. Critical steps taken before the coating process can determine the outcome of the entire project.

Roof Coatings for Ponding Water

building-code-requirementsCan silicone roof coatings withstand ponding water? Yes. Because of their chemical makeup, silicone coatings can withstand ponding water for quite a while if applied properly. However, these coatings are not an adequate substitute to fixing ponding water issues and the product is not without its drawbacks. Compared to acrylic coatings, silicone has some definite disadvantages:

Pros & Cons of Various Roofing Systems

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  • High initial costs
  • Labor intensive application and clean up
  • Picks up dirt and debris easily
  • Low abrasion resistance
  • Recoating requires a compatible silicone product
  • Difficult to remove from an existing substrate
  • Loses reflectivity over time
  • It can pull away from the edges and curl, allowing leaks

Again, though, ponding water is a serious issue and should be properly addressed.

Advantages of Conklin Acrylic Coatings

For over 40+ years, Conklin has been a trusted name in the American commercial roofing industry.

Conklin ponding water coatingWhile there are many coating products on the market today, Conklin’s acrylic roof coating systems standout for a number of reasons:

  • Tried and tested — Conklin products have been applied to 2+ billion square feet nationwide. The company has established a reputation for excellence among corporate bodies and nationally recognized franchises.
  • Durability — The seamless, water-resistant membrane can withstand exposure to UV rays, strong winds, heavy rain, hail, and other hazards.
  • Cost Performance —When compared with similar products, acrylic coatings offer some of the lowest life cycle costs on the market.
  • Energy efficiency — ENERGY STAR® certified, the coatings can reflect up to 85% of the sun’s rays and lower annual A/C expenses by as much as 30%. With this degree of energy savings, the roofing system could pay for itself in less than 10 years.
  • Superior warranty options — Conklin coatings can be backed by a non-prorated warranty for up to 18 years.
  • Life-extending capabilities — The liquid-applied membrane reinforces the existing roof, potentially adding decades to its lifespan with proper maintenance.
  • Easy clean up — As a water-based product, acrylic coatings clean up with ease and will not damage application equipment.
  • Product support — When you have a question, you will receive product support from an experienced Conklin user (not a salesperson with no applicator experience).
  • Elastomeric properties — Acrylic coatings expand and contract with changing temperatures.

Determining the Root Cause of Ponding Water

cause-of-ponding-waterRegardless of the formula, roof coatings should never be an excuse to ignore ponding water issues. Every roof needs positive drainage, which means water should flow off the roof within 48 hours. When water pools for longer periods of time, it can indicate a serious problem. A roof inspection should reveal blocked drainage, depressions in the roof, structural issues, or a lack of pitch. Once diagnosed, the problematic areas can be properly repaired, making the roof truly ready to receive a coating system application.

The Advantages of Roof Restoration

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  • Group-Wide Accountability
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When a roof is old or badly damaged, the default solution seems to be replacement. However, industry studies suggest that 80% of commercial roofs are replaced prematurely. Building owners cannot get the maximum return on their investment if the roof is replaced before its projected lifespan. The good news is acrylic roof coatings or “roof restorations” can be a cost-effective, life-extending alternative to complete re-roofing services.

A liquid-applied product, acrylic coatings are spread over the surface of a pre-existing commercial roof. When dry, the product forms a new, seamless, fully adhered protective membrane on top of the roof’s substrate. Roof restoration can extend the life of an old roof for years and help save building owners thousands of dollars over time. Because it is a coating process, roof restoration usually does not require intensive tear-off or any of the other burdensome expenses associated with commercial re-roofing projects. Instead building owners can expect the following:

  • Lower labor costs
  • No tear-off costs
  • No landfill and disposal fees
  • Little to no disruption to business operations
  • Easy, low-cost future repairs

Interested in a Roof Coating System and a Proper Install?

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Contact a Choice Roof Contractor member in your area to see if your roof is eligible for a coating system. A local roofing expert will schedule an on-site survey to determine if any preliminary preparation is needed to address ponding water or any other roof-related difficulty.

When You Choose a Choice Roof Contractor Member, you can enjoy peace of mind:

  • Members must match or exceed certain criteria and are held accountable by peers
  • We use coating products with a 35+ year reputation for excellence
  • Our members maintain high levels of quality & craftsmanship
  • Members pool their knowledge, resources, and expertise to offer unparalleled service

For more information, please call one of our knowledgeable members today at (800) 670-5583. We look forward to speaking with you!

 

Raising Standards for Ourselves and the Industry

roof coatingApproximately 6 months ago, we began rolling out a new organizational structure with higher requirements and greater benefits for our members while also clearing up expectations and setting standards for contractors who want to be supported by our nationwide group of commercial roofers.

We finalized and introduced this new structure in February at Conklin’s National Convention in Branson and later had an online meeting to explain what we’re doing to those who weren’t able to attend. As already announced internally, within 30 days, we will be canceling old memberships in order to fully implement all changes and improvements group-wide.

Main Changes Taking Place

• Higher accountability for leads received through the group website
• More focus on one-of-a-kind advantages that make us strong
• New interactive map for leads of all kinds
• Other changes only announced internally for competitive reasons

Purpose of New Changes

• Establish a stronger foundation for greater growth
• Attract higher quality contractors and ward off those with ill intentions
• Allow all members the opportunity help in making decisions
• Cover ever-increasing cost and provide better service
• Introduce new member benefits to increase individual success

The changes we’ve implemented have been worked on since February of 2015 with the help of William Schrock, Amos Borntreger, Rudy Yoder, and the feedback of other members.

All existing members are advised to sign a new membership agreement and meet the higher standards or become a supported contractor before March 6, 2016 (or within 30 days of being sent a notification).

Message to Building Owners, Property Managers and Maintenance Teams

We are excited about delivering more peace of mind with these changes. As a collective group of individuals, it is our goal to be your first choice for any commercial roofing project regardless of size, location or difficulty. Our group understands the challenges you face when looking for a reputable roofing contractor with the expertise needed to handle your project, and we hope you see the value in what we’re doing for the industry.

2015: Year in Review

At the end of 2014, Choice Roof Contractor Group had finished up a great year. There had been highlights like a couple members having prospects for 1.5 million square feet of roofing. Another member had started helping an Air Force Base in Louisiana with waterproofing their metal roofs.

However, 2015 turned out to be even more of a blockbuster year! From amazing growth stories from new and existing members to the successful rollout of a new Commercial Roofing Workshop & Forum – and more – it was clear. Choice Roof Contractor Group is reaching new pinnacles nationally – and the foundation has been set for more noteworthy results in 2016.

More Generated Leads for Group

roof coatingIn 2014, Choice Roof Contractor Group had received a little over 100 requests for roofing projects via our lead generation service. This year saw an ample increase – more than 200 roofing leads were generated, including several leads of 100,000+ square feet. In other words, our lead gen program more than doubled!

These project requests spanned the entire landscape – new installation, repairs, coating systems, and replacements. Many contacts specifically requested Conklin to be bid for their roofing needs, as well. In the future, the lead generation program will continue to be an excellent complement to endorsed contractors’ own bidding efforts.

Amazing Growth Stories Like Jeff’s 10 Sold Roof Coating Jobs in 1st Year

roof coatingThere were numerous stories of growth from members this year. With insights offered by fellow members, the group support, and assistance from partners, our members hit new levels of business success. One powerful testimony is found in the growth of Kansas City-based Midwest Roofing.

Over nearly a 10-year period, company owner Jeff Schendel had built Midwest Roofing to a multi-million-dollar enterprise. Before joining the group, Midwest been doing about 25% commercial work based on referrals. Jeff had tried adding coatings to the company portfolio, but without proper support, the efforts had been unsuccessful. Now with the group’s support, Midwest sold 10 coating jobs its first year, grew commercial from 25% to 40% in one year, and is lining up a 260,000 square foot project worth $1.2 million for next year. Here the whole story here: https://www.choiceroofcontractors.com/conference-call-jeffs-first-year/.

Member Forms ½ Million Dollar Relationship Leveraging Group Association

roof coatingAs owner of Hometown Commercial Roofing, Carl Humes is committed to quality work and service. While serving customers, at times Carl had interacted with insurance claims adjusters. The experience the adjusters had with Hometown was extremely positive – not only did they praise Carl for his professionalism and courtesy, they also noted the high-caliber quality of Hometown’s workmanship.

In turn, this led to Hometown being recommended as a preferred vendor with a major public adjusting firm in Texas. As a Supported Contractor in the group, Carl was able to leverage the group’s reputation to handle any commercial roofing project and our members’ years of knowledge. With this value proposition, he formed a relationship with this public adjuster that is expected to bring at least $500,000 in ready-to-sign contracts per year (70% commercial work).

Workshop is Rolled Out – 63 Attendees in First Two Events

roof coatingThis year, Choice Roof Contractor Group rolled out a new addition to our nationwide platform: hosting Commercial Roofing Workshop & Forums across the United States. We held our first event at the facility of Schrock Commercial Roofing in Montana with great results. The event was hosted by group members with over 120 years of combined experience in roofing, construction, and marketing.

Over 35 attendees from 9 states ventured out to meet everyone in person, network, and learn how they could better their businesses. The event covered a wide array of business-building tips, including effective marketing & sales strategies, more efficient roofing techniques, open discussion sessions, and more. Our 2nd Commercial Roofing Workshop & Forum in Florida was also a sound success, with 28 contractors attending from 8 states countrywide.

Contractors Find Ways to Make the Group Even Better

roof coatingWith the group’s fast growth, members have been taking efforts to further better themselves and each other. From sharing their insights or knowledge to providing motivation or encouragement, group members propelled everyone to reach new heights. One example is found in the contractor-sharing business development calls hosted by Max Cruz of Massachusetts-based Cudeso Commercial Roofing.

In recent times, Max has led member discussions on compelling, helpful topics like how to organize your company for greater efficient and operation. Other call focuses have been on hiring quality people for business growth, mental preparation for business scaling, setting up a company that runs itself, and more content. It’s been very exciting to see members helping each other in this way and so many others.

Best Attendance Ever at Conklin Events

roof coatingOn December 16, Choice Roof Contractor Group hosted its biggest group of contractors at year-end Conklin events. It was by far the biggest group of our members to attend Conklin’s roof applicator training program and the Conklin Business Seminar.

Over 19 people participated in the events over three days, where we networked and learned more about everyone’s businesses and goals. The roof applicator training and business seminar also provided a great introduction or more valuable information on the quality products offered by Conklin. They also showcased the recurring income opportunities available with building a team of Conklin product users.

Recap

In short, 2015 was another amazing breakout year for Choice Roof Contractor Group. With such an amazing year of growth last year, we can’t wait to see what 2016 holds. If you’re a contractor looking to expand your commercial business or interested in sharing your knowledge with others while benefiting from their success, call us! You can reach us at (800) 670-5583 – we look forward to speaking with you!

Effective Tips for Selling White Roof Coatings

roof coatingRoof coatings are one of the fastest-growing segments of the commercial roofing marketplace. They offer a variety of great benefits: roof life extension, waterproofing, and energy cost savings. But how does a contractor sell the value of this roofing service to customers?

We put together some advice proven to be effective.

Roof Coating Sales Tips

Demonstrate their value – As we briefly covered above, white roof coatings offer unique value in a number of ways. They reinforce existing roof membranes with a high-grade chemical barrier. This barrier has seamless and reflective properties, which provide leak resistance and protection against UV damage.

With its reflectivity, a roof coating system also pays for itself with reduced energy costs. The cost-saving potential is strongest in states with warm, sunny climates. But buildings in northern states can realize energy cost savings, as well.

Illustrate savings potential – Roof coatings deliver cost efficiency in many areas. Firstly, their application tends to be less demanding than a roof replacement process. Process specifics will vary from roofing project to project. But roof tear-off tends to be minimal with a roof coating application compared to roof replacement.

As a result, roof coatings can be more economical. Energy savings will also provide value in the form of cost efficiency. There are a number of models which allow you to compute energy savings depending on climate, such as the Department of Energy cool roof calculator.

coating vs. replacementShow the better performance – Applied in liquid form, roof coatings harden to form a seamless, fully adhered, durable barrier over an existing roof substrate. This provides an additional benefit in roof longevity. This new membrane reinforces the existing roof, extending its lifespan in the process. As a seam-free and fully adhered solution, a coating system doesn’t have to deal with hardships that can arise from fasteners or adhesives over time, either.

White roof coatings can also extend life expectancy with their UV resistance and “elastomeric” properties. They are applicable to many types of commercial roofing systems. In turn, it allows these different systems to avoid high roof temperatures and the ongoing stress of thermal shock.

Reduced stress load on HVAC – Industry studies show that with its white surface, a cool roof can lower stress on an HVAC system. The white surface reflects the sun’s rays, which lowers the roof surface temperature as well as the ambient temperature of air surrounding HVAC units.

As a result, an HVAC system won’t have to use as much energy to keep a building interior cool. Over time, additional savings can come in the form of avoided HVAC repairs and less intensive maintenance needs.

sun ray illustrationCorrect bad information – One point which building owners may wonder about is the “winter penalty” argument – or whether a reflective roof causes increased heating costs in the wintertime. Studies by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee confirm in most U.S. climates, A/C cost savings are far greater than any heating cost increases.

Don’t forget that temperatures can widely vary even in temperate climates, as well. It’s important to keep in mind other dimensions, too. The cost savings of avoiding roof replacement can outweigh increased heating costs. Plus the costs of not having a cool roof – more cooling systems and more insulation needs, for one – can be a weighing factor.

They can waterproof and be more eco-friendly – Roof coatings can improve the waterproofing of a commercial roofing system. But this value proposition differs among coatings. Coating type is a big factor which determines a coating product’s “permeability,” or roof breathability. It’s important to check manufacturer specs for specific coatings’ waterproofing value.

Additionally, since their application often doesn’t require as much tear-off as roof replacement, white coatings leave a smaller environmental impact. It’s been estimated that much of the U.S. landfill waste is old building materials. Furthermore, as they’re applied in a fluid form and can be recoated for extended life, roof coatings can offer value as a more sustainable form of construction.

Learn more from the group:

  • Ongoing Support
  • Shared Strategies
  • Lead Generation
  • Complete Training

Learn More

Interested in Selling More Coating Jobs?

Choice Roof Contractor Group is a nationwide group of commercial roofing contractors dedicated to each other’s success. Our members have successfully sold millions of square feet of roof coating jobs. They understand how to convey the value of this service to building owners.

Should you be interested in taking your business to new heights with more coatings jobs, check us out! We offer a complete set of unique membership benefits. If you have any questions or interest, don’t hesitate to call us at (800) 670-5583. Our team looks forward to hearing from you!

Advantages of Moving into Commercial Roofing

Are you tired of the residential roofing market? Or perhaps you’re looking for ways to further expand your company. There are many advantages in moving away from residential into commercial roofing services.

One key distinction is the different dynamics. In the residential market, low-priced offers or high-pressure sales tactics are often-used tactics for getting work. The commercial market is different. Commercial roofing projects involve greater budgets due to building size, work complexity, different roofing materials, and other factors.

The people who own or manage buildings are concerned about more than just solid facility protection. A roof is the means by which company personnel, tenants, business assets, and inventory are sheltered from harm. Customer education and problem-solving take on more importance. The differences aren’t limited to just this alone, either.

What are Other Benefits?

Greater profitability

greater profitabilityCommercial roofing involves a greater selection of materials than residential roofing. More expertise is required for handling these materials. Commercial buildings also differ heavily from residential properties in terms of their architectural features.

As a result, building assets tend to have more complex issues. It takes specialized knowledge to determine these troubles and offer solutions. Because of this and other factors, commercial projects offer a greater price premium per job than residential projects. Price differences will vary from area to area. But some statistics show it could take proceeds from 25-50 residential roofing jobs to equal those of one large commercial job.

More diversification potential

more diversificationThe residential market is populated with homeowners. Broadly speaking, there are many segments in the commercial marketplace. Industrial, retail, institutional, and public works are just a few.

The commercial community has many stakeholders: building owners, property management groups, realty companies, investor groups, facility managers, and others. The opportunities to network and diversify your business are greater than in residential roofing. If a contractor does a good job on one project, it can lead to referrals for additional work with the same customer, which brings us to the next advantage.

More opportunities for repeat business

more opportunitiesUnlike residential, once you’ve established a reputation as a quality contractor, you may get repeat work from the same customer. It’s not unusual for someone to manage or own more than one building. If you’re working with a property manager, they may have millions of square feet of roofing under their watch. Regional companies with multiple offices, franchise locations, or corporations with many buildings can also pose additional project opportunities.

It’s not limited to this scope, either. Engineering and architectural firms may seek ongoing collaboration with a capable roofer for specialized projects like LEED-qualifying construction or retrofits. The business potential is tremendous.

More value for time spent

more valueIt does take time to develop relationships. But in the commercial market, that networking pays off. Whether doing work for an existing connection or via a referral, there is potential for greater returns on time spent. New projects can come in the not-so-distant future or even some time down the road.

On the other hand, the residential market can be fiercer. To keep business going, more roofing projects must be scheduled per week. Extremely low pricing or high-pressure sales tactics often rule the day. Relationship-building strategies, which take time, may ultimately be snowballed by these approaches. Given the higher profit margins, repeat business opportunities, and other advantages of commercial, the commercial roofing market offers greater ROI.

Need Help Expanding into Commercial?

Why Contractors Join Our Network

  • Lead Generation
  • Mentorship Program
  • Complete Training
  • Discounted Pricing
  • Marketing Support
Learn More
At Choice Roof Contractor Group, we’re all committed to each other’s success. Our group members embrace a team philosophy: We can do more by working and sharing together than we could by ourselves. This mission means we share our knowledge of effective marketing and business strategies, roofing applications, sales, and other insights needed to be successful.

With a group body of contractors ranging from being newer to the industry to decades-worth of experience, there’s something for everyone. You can benefit from the value of all our members’ knowledge, expertise, and wisdom. To learn more about how our group is helping contractors nationwide move from residential to commercial, get in touch with one of our members via the 800 number or contact page. We look forward to hearing from you!