Commercial Metal Roof Repair Company

metal roof repair company exampleSpring is upon us and this is the season when many businesses are beginning to think about repairing and upgrading their buildings.  A building’s roof is the most important aspect of its construction and keeping it in good shape is a high priority.  Metal roofing is often found on commercial buildings because of its low cost and reliability.  For building owners looking to repair their metal roofs, finding a reliable contractor can be difficult.

Contractors can vary widely in their skill and reliability.  Many are reliable, with good quality workmanship, but there are also many that make things harder for everyone.  For a building owner with a metal roof that needs repair, it is essential to find not only a reliable, skilled contractor, but one who has the unique skills needed for metal roofs.

Things to Look for in a Commercial Metal Roof Repair Contractor

metal roof damage

  • Reliability – The need to find a reliable contractor is paramount in completing a successful metal roof repair. A contractor that can be depended on to show up on a timely basis and follow safe working techniques is essential to a satisfactory job experience.
  • Local vs. National – The question of whether to go with a local contractor or with a national metal roof contractor is an important one. The answer is not necessarily easy.  Local firms often have more at stake as far as reputation is concerned, because they work and live in the same area.  They are able to maintain personal relationships with their customers and experience all the trust benefits that come with those relationships.  On the other hand, a national firm has access to materials at a steep discount and benefits from other economies of scale to drive cost down.
  • Accountability – Everyone wants their job to go perfectly, but in the real-world issues can arise. Who the roof repair contractor is accountable to, and deciding how potential conflicts will be resolved, is very important to ensuring that things go smoothly on the job-site.
  • Quality of materials – Not all metal roof repair supplies are of the same quality. It is essential that the contractor’s suppliers are reliable sources and that the materials that they use are of high quality.

Finding a Good Contractor

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Sometimes a commercial metal roof repair contractor can be hard to find.  National firms are well known, but their references can vary greatly in positive/negative experiences since the technicians performing the work are often not the same, making it difficult for an individual to do more than take the local salesman at his/her word.  Local contractors often do not advertise, getting their customers from word of mouth sources. Sorting through advertisements in the local paper or scrolling through an internet search can be very intimidating for a building owner who simply needs his roof fixed.

At the Choice Roof Contractor Group, we have tried to clear some of these hurdles.  By putting together a national network of local contractors, we offer the best of both worlds.  Local contractors, who personally know their customers, combined with a national network of experience, accountability and product support.  The Group is essentially a network of roofing contractors with diverse backgrounds and skills that come together to provide a knowledge base and product support, as well as holding each other accountable to high standards of quality and business practices.

Benefits of the Choice Roof Contractor Group

metal roofing association

  • National Knowledge Base – The variety of members in the network gives each individual member access to a large knowledge base. If one member is having difficulties with an installation or repair issue, other members with more experience in that area can be called in to help.  Also, if an improvement or a better technique is discovered, it can quickly spread throughout the group to benefit customers of the members nationwide.
  • Group-wide Accountability – Each contractor in the group helps to hold the other members accountable, ensuring that the quality standards of the entire group are maintained in each individual contractor’s work.
  • Access to Quality Materials – The nationally recognized Conklin® brand of roofing products is the preferred manufacturer for the Choice Roof Contractor Group. Conklin® is one of the leading innovators in the field with a 40-year track record.  Their products are installed on over 2 billion square feet of roof and are suited to all U.S. Climates. 
  • Up-To-Date Training – Choice Roof Contractor Group sponsors hands-on training seminars for all its member contractors, giving them the latest information and techniques.

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

2017 is Off to an Exciting Start!

The enthusiasm that built up throughout the final months of 2016 has transferred over into the new year! The contractors in our group are fired up for 2017!

In a kick-off call, we reflected over the prior year and discussed how to make 2017 the best year yet for each of our individual businesses. It was a great call where contractors openly discussed what worked best and what should be avoided next year.

It is truly a blessing to have such a dedicated, passion-filled, and supportive team that makes up the Choice Roof Contractor Group. With all that being said, here a few of the highlights throughout the first group call of 2017.

“New Roofers on Track to Beat Prior Records by Large Margin!”

contractors-helpingWith dozens of up-and-coming contractors across the nation joining Choice Roof Contractor Group for first-rate support, the future has never looked brighter for all of us! Early activity points to a banner year in 2017, with more sq. ft. expected to be serviced in the first two quarters than all of 2016. With much encouragement from the rest of the members on the call, the feeling of camaraderie could be felt between everyone! This just shows that even the younger contractors can achieve great goals with the backing of such a reputable and experienced team.

“We’re Going to Incredible Heights this Year!”

tall commercial buildingFollowing estimate requests from companies as big as Yahoo! (NASDAQ: YHOO) last year, we’re entering big leagues and Sam Hostetler knows that we can dominate.

Sam, an original member of Choice Roof Contractor Group, is passionate and excited to reinvest into this group because he believes in the team’s readiness and ability to hit new levels.

Sam understands reaching loftier goals will take a substantial amount of money in the marketing side of Choice Roof Contractor Group, but he is committed to the cause and committed to investing his personal funds to help us grow!

“I Want To Be More Efficient In Closing Leads, Too!”

commercial roofing contractorsLively chatter and feedback was heard throughout the call as members shared what they wanted to change this year. It’s a beautiful thing to see veteran contractors help each other grow while also assisting newer contractors and encouraging them to take their roofing business to the next level.

When we openly share what works best, everybody wins! This is the biggest key behind our success and why contractors in the group are achieving far greater success.

“You Can’t Lose When Investing In Yourself At These Events!”

investing-in-yourselfChoice Roof Contractor Group is encouraging all members and supported contractors to visit the events being held in this first quarter of 2017. The Annual National Convention put on by our preferred supplier is being held February 2nd-4th, which will host a bunch of seminars and knowledge-filled talks that are there to help bring about motivation, confidence and excitement. We will also be having our Nationwide Workshop and Forum in Cleveland, Ohio, which is being held January 20th-21st, as well as a second one in Tyler, Texas, March 3rd-4th. These comprehensive workshops will help arm members with the tools and methods to succeed in 2017.

“We Are Becoming The BBB Of The Commercial Roofing Industry!”

investing-in-yourselfJonathan Keim, the individual who heads up all our marketing, has some amazing plans and changes for 2017 and was excited to share the good news on the call! Jonathan wants to reinforce the foundation of the Choice Roof Contractor Group by setting the group up with all the tools necessary to dominate the roofing industry. The website has been structurally improved so potential customers will be more willing to stay on the page and learn more about CRCG. We’ve also improved the mobile site for the large amount of mobile users there are these days. Additionally, with the help of a software engineer, we made changes to the quote module so there are more conversions (i.e. more leads per website visit).

As far as projects currently underway, we’re most excited about implementing a membership directory. It will be used by members within the group to build even more trust and unlock more success by enabling contractors to quickly see who has necessary skills to assist them on a job. How does this work? Contractors with “too much work” will be able to take on more projects by offering the extra work to those who may be in a slow season or want to live in a different state for a while. Also, fewer jobs will be turned down due to inadequate experience since a fellow member with the right experience can be easily brought in to assist with a project.

This is Our Year!

group photoChoice Roof Contractor Group has main two objectives this year: better capitalize the resources we already have and reach more business owners. The whole group of contractors on the call was fired up and ready to make 2017 their year, and we believe that stands for all the members of the group.

As with every year prior to starting this group, we will reach higher heights, help more contractors, provide better service to building owners, and service more roofs. The best part is that we have this group of passion-driven contractors who are ready to make that happen. We are excited to see what happens in 2017 and we are privileged to have so many leaders in the group willing to help others succeed in the commercial roofing industry.

To a great year of success, we wish all Choice Roof Contractor Group members and all future members a very productive and positive year.

Single-Ply Roof on Metal vs. A Better Alternative

single-ply roof recover on metal buildingSingle-ply roofing has a significant presence in the commercial roofing industry and can offer advantages in many applications. However, recovering an existing metal roof with a single-ply membrane requires careful evaluation of the building, roof structure, drainage, attachment method, and existing roof conditions.

A system that works well on one type of commercial building may not automatically be appropriate for a pre-engineered metal building. Before any recover system is installed, the existing structure and roof assembly should be evaluated to make sure the proposed system is compatible with the building.

Why the Existing Metal Roof and Structure Matter

Pre-engineered metal buildings are designed as complete structural systems, with components such as purlins, framing, metal panels, and drainage paths working together.

When a new roofing assembly is installed over an existing metal roof, the contractor should consider how the added system may affect drainage, attachment, loading, movement, penetrations, and other conditions specific to the building.

Proper drainage remains essential to the performance of both the roofing system and the building. Any recover system should be designed and installed so that water is directed to appropriate drainage points without creating unintended ponding or other conditions that could contribute to roof deterioration.

Roof Coatings as a Restoration Option

Finding the right roofing solution for a pre-engineered metal building is key to its long-term performance. When the existing metal roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, a roof coating system may provide an alternative to a complete tear-off or recover system.

Some potential benefits of a properly selected and installed roof coating include the following.

metal roof coating restoration processReflective performance: White and other reflective roof coatings can reduce the amount of solar heat absorbed by the roof. The effect on overall building energy use will depend on factors such as climate, insulation, building use, HVAC efficiency, and the specific coating system.

Improved appearance: A coating system can provide a more uniform finished appearance while adding a protective surface to a properly prepared roof.

Extended useful life: When an existing roof is a suitable candidate for restoration, a properly installed coating system may extend its useful life. The actual service life depends on the existing roof condition, preparation, coating type, installation, weather exposure, drainage, and maintenance.

Recoating options: A roof that has been coated and properly maintained may be eligible for recoating later. Whether recoating is appropriate, and what preparation or reinforcement is required, depends on the condition of the existing coating system and manufacturer specifications.

Reduced tear-off: In suitable restoration projects, coatings can often be applied over the existing roof after necessary repairs and preparation. This can reduce tear-off, disposal, and disruption compared with a complete roof replacement.

Potential cost savings: When a roof is suitable for restoration, coating may cost less than full replacement because less existing material may need to be removed and replaced. Actual project costs depend on roof condition, preparation, repairs, materials, labor, and project requirements.

Maintaining the existing roof profile: A coating follows the general profile of the existing metal roof rather than creating an entirely new membrane assembly over it. However, drainage conditions should still be evaluated and corrected where necessary before restoration.

Determining the Best Option for Your Roof

Finding the right roofing solution for your pre-engineered metal structure requires looking at the entire roof and building rather than choosing a system based on one factor alone. A commercial roofing contractor should evaluate the existing metal panels, seams, fasteners, flashing, drainage, moisture conditions, structural concerns, and any previous repairs before recommending a solution.

Roof coatings are not appropriate for every metal roof. Wet insulation, severe corrosion, structural deterioration, drainage problems, extensive damage, or other conditions may need to be corrected first or may make another roofing approach more appropriate.

Choice Roof Contractor Group members are independent commercial roofing contractors that perform their own inspections, provide their own recommendations to customers, and perform their own roofing work.

A member can evaluate the existing roof and discuss repair, restoration, coating, recover, or replacement options based on the conditions present.

Strong 2016 Success Builds Powerful Momentum for 2017

Even though 2016 has been our best year ever, we know 2017 will be even more amazing!

Looking back at the end of each year is one of our favorite things to do because we’re always so amazed by all that can happen in just a 12-month period. The incredible amount of ground conquered each year can be credited to the amazing contractors who have come together to support each other while giving building owners more value and peace of mind than they can find anywhere else. It just wouldn’t be possible any other way!

So what were some of the biggest highlights?

new-contractor-relationships26 New Contractor Relationships

Every time a new contractor joins the group, everyone benefits. There’s more shared experience, more connections for franchises who need service, more credible market presence, more trained contractors to help each other complete jobs, and more peace of mind – among other things.

2 Nationwide Workshops
workshop

We started off the season with two workshops due to how fast our workshop in Ohio sold out in February. Both of the workshops were an absolute blast and we’re excited about doing the same thing again this year! For more info, visit: Nationwide Workshop & Forum page.

302 Roofing Leads
roofing lead

Our website had approx. double-digit growth in traffic and that translated into more commercial roofing leads for endorsed members. We saw about a 50% gain over last year and double as many from 2014. Next year will be even better with the optimization that has been taking place!

Cancun Vacation
cancun

Every year we enjoy a special vacation together. This year we spent it in beautiful Cancun, Mexico! Master contractors in the group and their families got to enjoy time relaxing on the beach, golfing, snorkeling, excursions with tour guides, deep-sea fishing as well as many other activities.  

Our First Four Tradeshows
tradeshow

Up until this year, we always used the Internet to connect with contractors and building owners who needed service. Although this has always been very successful for us, we made it a priority to get a tradeshow booth and make our first impressions in person. After doing our first one, we saw what we were missing out on and did three more!

Founder Appointed a Director of Manufacturing Company
director

Jonathan Keim, who runs all our marketing and manages the staff, received a new title that can only be earned by proving ability to help others be more successful. He will now have greater influence on our preferred manufacturer’s future direction. This quote from the Vision magazine celebrating his appointment really shows his heart “[This] means to me that I’ve truly made a significant impact on other people.”

Largest Attendance Yet at the Annual Convention
convention

Every year we go to the Branson convention center to spend time together as a group. We share what worked best in each of our own businesses as well as strategize for dominating the next year. At this particular convention, we also finalized several big changes with great support and it was key to how we did so well in 2016.

Preparing for a BIG 2017

2017Over the past month, we’ve made a number of changes to our website for faster speed, higher search engine rankings and better conversion rates (i.e. more leads received per website visitor). Our group will also be testing new marketing strategies and continue finding new ways to better serve commercial facilities.

With companies like Yahoo! (NASDAQ: YHOO) now requesting estimates from us, there’s no questioning the value of our organization. Any company receiving service from an endorsed member benefits from knowledge/expertise of the whole group, more peace of mind, group-wide accountability, set standards for service, one source for all future projects regardless of type or location, and so much more.

If you would like to learn more about joining the group or receiving service for your commercial building, you can reach us at (800) 670-5583 or use our Interactive Member Directory to talk directly to a member.

We wish you great success as the new year comes in!

Top 10 OSHA Violations

osha fine violationYou’ve seen it in the news before: “Business shut down due to OSHA violations”. Whether it was the owner of a construction company not providing the proper safety gear, or from an employee who didn’t follow safety protocol, OSHA violations can be the downfall of any roofing business.

For the benefit of the roofing community, a list of the top 10 OSHA violations can be found below:

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  1. Fall Protection: Violations – 6,721 (1926.501)
    “Historically, falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction, accounting for about one-third of all fatalities in the industry.” Many of these falls occur from 6 feet or more above ground level. Roofing is still a major concern.
  2. Hazard Communication: Violations – 5,192 (1910.1200)
    Not having Safety Data Sheets (SDS), failure to train, and improper or missing container labels. Patrick Kapust (OSHA’s Deputy Director of the Directoriate of Enforcement Programs) reiterated it was important to provide training in a language employees will understand.
  3. Scaffolding: Violations – 4,295 (1926-451)
    Improper use of cross bracing and a lack of fall arrest systems. Scaffolding violations are a contributing factor to fall fatalities.
  4. Respiratory Protection: Violations – 3,305 (1910.134)
    Ensuring employees are physically able to wear respirators (respirator fit tests) and ensuring proper respirators are available.
  5. Lockout/Tagout: Violations – 3,002 (1910.147)
    “Failure to control hazardous energy accounts for nearly 10 percent of the serious accidents in many industries.” Procedures must follow written program along with employee training.
  6. Powered Industrial Trucks: Violations – 2,760 (1910.178)
    There is an increase of employees not being trained/certified to operate equipment. Retraining is also not occurring on a 3-year cycle.
  7. Ladders: Violations – 2,489 (1926.1053)
    Most violations are coming from employees using ladders with structural defects (these need to be tagged out of service). There is also an increase of the user of ladders that do not extend the proper distance above the roofline for stability.
  8. Electrical Wiring Methods: Violations – 2,404 (1910.305)
    When installing wiring, failure to ensure proper grounding or to limit exposure to dust or flammable vapors can lead to fires, shocks, injuries, and electrocutions.
  9. Machine Guarding: Violations – 2,295 (1910.212)
    Increased reports of amputations and hospitalizations with new recordkeeping requirements.
  10. Electrical-General: Violations – 1,973 (1910.303)
    Most citations were issued for not installing and using equipment according to the instructions. Proper spacing around equipment and using approved cabinets to guard live parts operating at 50 volts or more.

roof trainingWe care about each other’s safety in our group and strongly encourage everyone to get proper OSHA training. We also feel it’s important to openly talk about how each of us are keeping our crews safe in day-to-day operations.

Safety is one of many useful topics commercial roofing contractors can discuss and learn from one another. Choice Roof Contractor Group is a nationwide alliance of independently owned commercial roofing contractors that provides opportunities for shared knowledge, professional connections, sales and marketing resources, and ongoing support.

Members can benefit from exchanging practical ideas about crew safety, training, operations, customer service, and business growth.

Residential Contractor Makes the Leap to Commercial Roofing with the Help of Others

Roof Contractor SupportChoice Roof Contractor Group’s nationwide team of roof contractors has continued to expand in recent months. Leaning on the experience and industry know-how offered by our group of endorsed professionals, contractors who are new to the commercial roofing industry have successfully reached new heights.

One such success story is that of Carl Humes in Ft. Worth, Texas. In his first year as part of Choice Roof Contractor Group, Carl made the transition from a 100% residential background to a trusted commercial roofing leader with a network of clients in and around the Dallas metroplex. Before getting started with us, Carl was limited to performing exclusively residential roofing jobs. Over the past year, though, his story has been truly life-changing.

The Backdrop

Residential BackdropSince Carl started working with a few of our group leaders and joined our growing contractor network roughly a year ago, he has transformed his residential reroofing company and secured multiple contracts with major clients in his operating markets. He’s continuing to build on this strong start.

Before joining our nationwide group, Carl worked exclusively in the residential sector. While fellow contractors in the commercial space enjoyed steady business, his work was largely limited to reroofing jobs and maintenance following storms. When work began to slow, Carl decided to shift gears and take advantage of the stability offered by commercial work.

Searching for commercial roof training online, Carl found Choice Roof Contractor Group. While he wasn’t sure what to expect going in, our training programs helped Carl gain the confidence to excel in the commercial market. But more importantly, the ongoing support from other contractors in the field ensured he actually achieved success.

Opportunity Arises

Hometown LogoAfter receiving the training needed to install and maintain a variety of commercial roofing systems from the Conklin staff and our experts in the field, Carl hit the ground running. He changed his company logo, filed as an LLC with the name our in-house marketing team suggested, upgraded to a larger insurance policy and set up a new website. From there, he started networking and landed his first commercial jobs.

Of course, making the leap to commercial roofing didn’t come without its challenges. For Carl, securing credit proved to be a major hurdle. Banks were hesitant to give him credit, and paying for everything with cash limited his initial growth and marketing efforts.

Even with these limitations, Carl stayed focused and leveraged everything we had to overcome obstacles. He continued to network and approach potential customers until he found his first big break.

Things Gear Up

commercial roofAfter a month-long break, Carl went out on a cold call to a large commercial building near his home. By chance, the business owner was there, and Carl took the opportunity to present his company’s value proposition, as well as additional information about Choice Roof Contractor Group (which offered the building owner with group-wide accountability, a service guarantee, and second-to-none field knowledge). After the presentation, the business owner agreed to let Carl inspect the roof, and an hour later Carl had secured work on the 30,000 square foot structure.

With training from Conklin and Choice Roof Contractor Group, Carl was equipped to provide a solution to the business owner’s roofing issues – issues that five other roofing contractors had failed to properly address. The result was a substantial amount of work for Hometown Commercial Roofing, including a complete roof coating installation on the original building and additional work at the business owner’s other property.

The support provided by Choice Roof Contractor Group helped Carl gain the confidence required to make a splash in the commercial roofing markets of North Texas. Access to a sizable network of roofing professionals means that group members have a wealth of knowledge available at virtually any time for virtually any problem.

Taking It to the Next Level

Why Contractors Join Our Network

  • Lead Generation
  • Mentorship Program
  • Complete Training
  • Discounted Pricing
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Since landing his first big job, things have been on the upswing for Carl and Hometown Commercial Roofing. Recently, a property management firm researching roofing contractors online came across our group’s website, and we helped them get in contact with Carl.

To date, Carl has already secured four large projects with the firm, and he’s currently negotiating a number of other jobs that amount to more than a million square feet of roofing. As his projects continue to grow, Carl is finding it easier to tackle the financial hurdles that once limited his growth. His company has secured credit accounts with Conklin and supply houses, giving it the resources required to perform larger jobs.

The days of struggling to navigate the commercial roofing market are now all but over for Carl. Whereas he was once stifled by other roofers who, instead of providing advice, would attempt to take his jobs for pennies on the dollar, Carl is now supported by an expansive network of roofing experts.

Great Opportunities Ahead

commercial roofWhen asked to describe his journey over the past year in a recent conference call, Carl repeatedly highlighted his growing confidence as a result of the training and tips made available by Choice Roof Contractor Group.

Carl is also making himself available to other contractors looking to make the leap to commercial roofing. He’s eager to share his experiences and the knowledge he’s picked up along the way. His most fundamental tip is to stay focused and ignore the critics. With a bit of stubbornness and the guidance and support of our growing nationwide network, success in the commercial roofing market is within reach.

In Carl’s own words, “Whatever you believe and think you can do, you can achieve.”

To get in contact with Carl, call the number on his website: www.hometowncommercialroofing.com

How You Can Benefit Too

Carl’s story of rapid growth over the past year is a great example of how we benefit contractors. Our endorsed members benefit from many exclusive perks, including:

  • Off-site and on-site assistance from veteran roofing contractors
  • Commercial roofing marketing strategies
  • Our popular roofing lead generation program with qualification
  • Helpful support from our strategic partners and suppliers
  • Additional credibility from our nationwide reputation for excellence
  • Professional commercial roofing training
  • Discounted pricing on energy-efficient, long-lasting Conklin roofing products
  • Job referral opportunities from connections in our network
  • So much more

Should you be interested in learning how we can benefit you, give us a call at (800) 670-5583 or contact one of our endorsed members: Interactive Member Map. We look forward to hearing from you!

 

How to Apply Roof Coatings to a Standing Seam Roof

standing seam metal roofDue to the recent inquiries received about 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, experienced roofing product specialists and manufacturers have outlined procedures to handle a number of these issues, and the correct process should always follow the current specifications for the products being installed.

Overview of the Process

Before starting, we strongly encourage you to review the manufacturer’s specifications in full, but will provide a summary of the steps to take below.

  1. Power wash the entire surface with an approved cleaner, rust remover, or surface preparation product designed to help remove oxidation and provide for better adhesion of the coating system.
  2. Apply an approved rust-inhibiting metal primer to the entire metal surface when required by the roofing system specifications.
  3. Embed the recommended joint tape, fabric, or reinforcement material with the approved base coat on all end laps at the rate specified by the manufacturer. Make sure all joint tape or fabric is completely embedded in coating up the side of the rib as far as possible.
  4. For vertical seams, apply the approved sealant or flashing material to any crimped area according to the roofing system specifications.
  5. For horizontal seams and field flashed areas, the contractor should follow the metal roof specification sheet provided by the manufacturer of the products being installed.
  6. The final step is coating the entire roof surface with the approved roof coating at the rate required by the manufacturer’s specifications.

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 may even go as far as to travel to your location and help with a roof installation if 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:

  • Access to reputable roofing products, supplier relationships, and system options
  • 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
  • National 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) 670-5583 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 one 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

roofing contractor ethicsUnfortunately, 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.

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 depending on the roofing project, such as whether panels or other components need to be replaced, and how much area needs to be addressed. This explains why it is hard to provide a reliable number for the cost of a metal roof repair project without a professional roof inspection.

The cost of repairing a metal roof can also depend on the quality and scope of the repair. While a quick patch may cost less initially, temporary repairs can fail to address the underlying cause of a leak and may lead to additional expenses later.

Some limitations of temporary patching can include:

  • Failure to address movement at seams, fasteners, and penetrations
  • Shorter service life than a properly designed repair
  • Recurring leaks if the underlying problem is not corrected
  • The need for repeated maintenance or repairs

As you can see, it is important to look beyond the initial repair cost. A roof should be evaluated to determine the source of the problem and the repair method best suited to its condition.

A More Durable Approach to Localized Roof Repairs

metal roof repair exampleDepending on the condition of the roof, elastomeric sealants, coatings, reinforcing fabrics, or other compatible materials may be used to address localized problem areas. These types of repairs can be particularly useful around seams, fasteners, penetrations, flashing, and other details where leaks commonly develop.

Elastomeric materials are designed to remain flexible as a metal roof expands and contracts. When properly selected and applied as part of a compatible repair system, they can provide a more durable solution than simply covering a problem area with a temporary patch.

Contact a Choice Roof Contractor Group member to have your roof evaluated and discuss repair options appropriate for your building.

Avoiding Roof Replacement? Set the Stage for Full Restoration

Using compatible sealants, coatings, and reinforcement materials can be a useful way to take care of penetrations, seams, and localized problem areas. As a metal roof ages, however, there may come a point when the condition of the entire roof should be evaluated.

Like most building owners, you’re probably trying to get as much useful life as possible from your existing metal roof. When the roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, a coating system may provide an alternative to complete replacement. If deterioration becomes too extensive, restoration may no longer be practical.

Below we will show you the general steps involved in a metal roof restoration system.

How a Metal Roof Restoration System Works

roof coating applicationThe process normally begins with a thorough inspection and preparation of the existing roof. Dirt, debris, loose coatings, corrosion, and other conditions that could interfere with adhesion should be addressed before coating begins.

After the roof is cleaned and allowed to dry, areas of corrosion may require treatment or an appropriate primer. The exact preparation and primer depend on the existing metal, roof condition, coating system, and manufacturer requirements.

Seams, penetrations, flashing details, fasteners, and other potential leak points are then addressed using compatible sealants, reinforcing fabric, or other materials specified for the roofing system.

Exposed fasteners should also be inspected. Loose or damaged fasteners may need to be tightened or replaced, and compatible sealant may be applied where appropriate.

Once the roof has been properly prepared and detailed, the specified base coats and finish coats can be applied according to the coating manufacturer’s requirements. Application rates, number of coats, reinforcement methods, and finished thickness vary by system.

Benefits of Metal Roof Restoration

When an existing metal roof is structurally sound and a suitable candidate for restoration, a coating system may provide an economical alternative to a complete roof replacement. Potential benefits include:

  • Extending the useful service life of an existing metal roof
  • Addressing seams, fasteners, penetrations, and other common leak points
  • Reducing or avoiding extensive roof tear-off
  • Less disruption than many complete replacement projects
  • Potentially lower project cost compared with complete replacement
  • Reflective coating options that can reduce solar heat absorbed by the roof
  • A seamless protective surface over properly prepared roof areas
  • Warranty options that may be available depending on the manufacturer, system, and project

Not every metal roof is a good candidate for restoration. The roof should first be inspected for corrosion, damaged panels, structural problems, wet insulation, drainage issues, and other conditions that may require repair or replacement.

Why Work with a Choice Roof Contractor Group Member?

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Choice Roof Contractor Group is a nationwide alliance of independently owned commercial roofing contractors. Members perform their own roof inspections, make their own recommendations to customers, and complete their own roofing work.

If you are dealing with recurring leaks or trying to determine whether repair, restoration, or replacement makes the most sense for your metal roof, contact a member to have the roof evaluated and discuss the available options.