Roofing Training Program Opportunities

commercial trainingToday’s blog post will be of interest to quality-minded contractors who want to start their own roofing business. It also has educational value for current roofing business owners, business development managers, or company employees who are looking to take their organization to the next level.

We take a look at one of the most important parts of the commercial roofing industry and the construction sector as a whole: credible, professional training programs.

Opportunities in Commercial Roofing

For capable business owners and customer-minded roofing companies, there are many enterprising opportunities in commercial roofing. According to the research firm Principia, the commercial roofing industry will reach $5.3 billion in 2014. Thereafter, The Freedonia Group projects residential and commercial roofing sales will reach $27.2 billion in 2017.

This market growth potential is reflected in projections for the larger-scale construction job market as well. The Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the construction market as a whole will grow 2.6% each year between 2012 and 2022. Because of this growth, it anticipates there will be 1.6 million new jobs created in that time.

Along with this growth, however, there is another factor that enterprising and current roofing business owners should keep in mind. In the higher-end spaces of construction, such as commercial roofing, there will be a great need for professionally-trained workers. Because commercial work is very involved and detailed, skilled labor or craftsmanship will be more important than ever for meeting the growing demand and being able to perform at high quality standards.

What Are Some Tangible Reasons for Professional Roofing Training?

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    So, being well-versed in commercial roofing practices is essential for top performance. But what are some more tangible, personalized reasons for why professional training is essential? Here are a few things worthy of consideration:

    • Professional roofing training will keep you current in your roofing knowledge as well as up-to-date on any industry trends or developments. As the old saying goes, “Knowledge is power.” Being knowledgeable of what is going on in your industry, what business trends are current at play in it, and what developments may shape its future is essential for your business’ performance—and making sure you have skin in the game. Important things such as regulations, construction trends like energy efficiency, business licensing and certification, and different products available are just a few of the many factors of which you should be constantly aware. You need to keep up-to-date in your knowledge, or you will be left behind by local competitors. There is another advantage to ongoing education besides meeting minimal performance standards, too. Because the factors mentioned above can change quickly, being ahead of the educational curve means you will be ahead of the competition—and that will help you keep your competitive edge sharp.
    • Depthful product knowledge is an essential for maintaining profitability. This is an obvious benefit, but it is important to reinforce. Building product manufacturers offer training programs so contractors can become expert applicators of their product line. In them, contractors are given valuable information on the products themselves, including their key selling points. It is also advisable to remember that these training programs are not intended for only new contractors, but also industry veterans who are looking to keep their product application skills sharp, are learning the ins-and-outs of a new product line they are using, or seeking new insights of how a product line offers value. Knowing the nitty-gritty of the products you are using, their performance value and benefits, how they perform and why, and how this is of interest to customers, of course, will help in closing more sales.
    • New market opportunities can open up from new insights gained at a roofing training program. Sure, a professional training program gives your company and its workers more credibility. But what about the benefits of going through a training program multiple times? Even the most experienced roofing contractors have found value in going back to roof systems training and reacquainting themselves with best commercial roofing practices. For older hands at roofing, there is actually another plus—by becoming more familiar with a product line, you may see new market opportunities to take advantage of. You can gain new insights into the product you are using, and see more ways in which different products can be applied for greater customer value and market benefit for you. Then you can take that knowledge and put into action.
    • Attending professional roofing training programs can help in making connections and valuable business relationships. Oftentimes, roofing training programs host experienced contractors who have been using a particular product line for decades. These veteran contractors can be wellsprings of knowledge, insight, advice, and even sometimes business development opportunities. Just like in any other industry, networking is a critical part of commercial roofing, and roofing contractors who take the time to connect with others who are like them, or who are experienced professionals, can greatly benefit from those networking connections later. After all, robust professional networks are a key resource for making additional new contacts for roofing work prospects; opening up new business development ideas, strategies, or partnerships; and raising your own bullion in professional circles. Being connected to experienced professionals who can offer valuable mentorship and strategic guidance can help raise the professional capabilities of your workers or company team members, too. They can benefit from these individuals’ knowledge and expertise when needed.

    Choice Roof Contractor Group and Conklin Roof Systems Training

    At Choice Roof Contractor Group, we believe in giving every quality-minded contractor all of the resources he needs for success. So, if you are a current roofing business owner looking to add more to your bottom line, or a business development manager or worker wanting to strengthen your company’s performance, there may be something here for you.

    Our nationwide network provides roofing companies with a full suite of exclusive benefits for their success, including:

    • Conklin’s comprehensive roof systems training, which gives a roofing company everything it needs to enter into commercial roofing
    • Lifetime mentorship, coaching, and support from experienced, successful contractors in our network
    • Commercial roofing leads after becoming an endorsed member
    • Marketing and business development strategies that members are using with great success
    • Credible professional reputation provided by our nationwide organization’s record of excellence and customer-minded service
    • Shared expertise and resources among members and supported contractors
    • Valuable business suppliers and partners committed to your success and unique needs, such as full-service marketing support from Top Roof Marketing
    • So much more

    Should you be interested in learning more about how going through Conklin’s factory training program with us can help your company, please do not hesitate to contact us. We can help, whether you are an experienced commercial roofing company or just those critical first steps. You can quickly reach us at 800-670-5583. We will be happy to give you more information on how our members empower people for success as well.

    Commercial Roof Repair Cost

    Today’s post builds on top of previous analysis on commercial roof replacement costs. This time around, we examine what is involved with commercial roof repair costs.

    roof repair jobGenerally speaking, repair costs can be difficult to estimate because they often vary according to roof system type. Factors such as how many appliances are on top of a building, a roof’s configuration, and a roof’s age are also reasons for why roof repair costs differ on each building.

    Some building owners have turned to an increasingly popular roof repair option, roof restoration, as a way to shore up their roof’s damage and seal up the damaged area from outdoor extremes. Commercial roof restoration makes use of liquid-applied roofing products called coatings and can range from $2.00-3.00 per square foot. In a number of cases, many building owners opt to have their entire commercial roof coated because of the energy-saving benefits a coated roof can bring. Many roof coatings form a white, reflective membrane over the old commercial roof and may help reduce cooling demand depending on the building, climate, insulation, and other conditions.

    When it comes to putting an estimate on repair needs, there are more important things to consider than what the cost will be per square foot. It is more important to keep in mind the following:

    • The biggest determinant of roofing repair costs is the extent of the damage or neglect a commercial roof has suffered. Costs will fluctuate heavily from roof to roof depending on the magnitude of the damage itself on each roof.
    • It is advisable to think of roof repair costs in terms of roof lifecycle costs. Other expense burdens, including roof maintenance and roof replacement, are other important things to monitor.
    • Most commercial roofs are replaced before their service life expires or they actually need complete replacement, as most roof failure is localized around tears or damaged areas around features like appliances, flashings, or construction joints. In fact, some studies have found as many as 70-80% of commercial roofs are replaced prematurely.
    • Using an average roof repair cost per square foot is not ideal for estimating only a single project. In general, using an average cost for anything per square foot of roofing is more preferable for budgeting related to a portfolio of many building assets.

    Commercial Roof Repair Costs over Time

    bad commercial roofA study of buildings owned by Carnegie Mellon University provides insights into how much roof repairs can cost on multiple buildings over time. In the study, data gathered over nine years on 38 buildings in Carnegie Mellon University’s asset portfolio was used.

    The commercial roofing on these buildings totaled almost 100,000 square meters (or 1.08 million square feet). The data was taken from Carnegie Mellon’s maintenance database, which had information on the buildings’ roof repair costs, roof maintenance costs, and roof replacement costs, among other variables. Many types of roofing systems were represented and ranged in age from being new to 50-plus years old.

    Other important factors in the study included:

    • All of the buildings were located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and had enough closed-foam insulation under them to deal with local climate conditions.
    • The data was drawn from over nine years, which took place between July 1998 and December 2006.
    • The researchers did not provide any information on how many square meters, or how much square footage, of commercial roofing was repaired over the nine years.
    • The study focused on low slope roofing systems since they were the most likely to have problems with leaks.

    Results from the Carnegie Mellon Roof Lifecycle Costs Study

    From July 1998 to December 2006, Carnegie Mellon University’s maintenance database recorded 1,781 maintenance and work repair records related to roofing leaks. That, in turn, equals an average of 200 leaks per year or 5.2 leaks per building per year.

    • Roof repair costs over the nine years ranged from $15,416-$200,338.
    • Total roof repair costs over the nine years came to $961,891.
    • We do not know the square footage of roofing that was repaired. However, when averaged out across the 38 buildings, the average repair cost comes out to $25,313 per building over all nine years.
    • When total roof repair and maintenance costs were added together and adjusted for inflation in 2006 dollars, total roof replacement costs (also in 2006 dollars) were 3.6 times greater than they were.

    roof repair costs per year for Carnegie Mellon buildings

    In other words, the study showed just how much more expensive roof replacement can be over time than roof repairs or maintenance.

    Closing Thoughts on Commercial Roof Repair Costs

    Roofing Services

    Our professional commercial roof contractors provide:

    • Roof maintenance & repair
    • Inspections & leak detection
    • Energy efficient roof systems
    • Complete roof replacement
    • Roof life-extending solutions
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    All commercial roofs will have problems at some point. However, the damage they experience and their cost for repair can be determined by three things. These factors are:

    • How often a commercial roof has been inspected and maintained by a qualified roofing professional
    • The quality of the roofing products that make up the roof, and how those products hold up in an area’s climate and other outdoor conditions
    • The current age and condition of the roofing system itself

    When the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, commercial roof coatings may provide an option for extending the useful life of the roof and delaying replacement.

    A roof should first be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, damaged materials, failed seams or penetrations, and other conditions that may need to be corrected.

    A commercial roofing contractor can inspect the roof and discuss whether repair, restoration, recover, or replacement is appropriate.

    Why Conklin Contractors Sell Product to Roofers Instead of a Sales Team

    It may surprise you, but Conklin has no sales team and does very little marketing for themselves outside of attending tradeshows. Unlike most companies in the building products industry, Conklin uses a direct sales model (where contractors refer other contractors) to grow its business and it’s been a highly successful strategy.

    Main Benefits of Conklin’s Sales Model

    • Controls costs with lower overhead, making more funds available for higher quality ingredients
    • Customers who actually use and depend on the product are the ones selling the product
    • Contractors are incentivized to share trade secrets and go out of their way to ensure maximum success

    True Accountability

    Unlike the typical salesperson, contractors have tremendous liability when choosing a product. In addition to their reputation, they can lose their homes and businesses by selecting a bad product. But when approached about Conklin products, contractors know the person sharing has real-life experience with the product’s reliability and knows others who have used them first-hand for decades.

    Unparalleled Support

    In addition to trade secrets, marketing support, business strategy, and sales material, Choice Roof Contractors get a bunch of other great benefits like free lead generation. These leads can be generated from national chains who work with any one of our group members and want referrals in other states, or through our website as it shows up for hundreds of keywords on the first page of Google and other search engines. We gladly share these valuable leads at zero-cost because we only make money if roofs are being sold and we want our members to sell as many as possible. Our revenue directly depends on the number of roofs you do, so you can always trust we’re doing everything possible to help you.

    Conklin Isn’t the Only One Who Comes Out Ahead

    Many contractors have discovered the lifetime commissions received by referring others are a great 2nd income as well as a significant stream of revenue while in retirement. As an $80 million company with roots dating back to 1927, Conklin can be trusted to remain financially strong and maintain its commitment to delivering top-shelf quality products for years to come.

    Conservative Commissions Don’t Break the Bank

    It’s also important to note that the commissions are given at a small percentage. No one gets ripped off or taken advantage of like in many direct sales companies. Because just one 50,000 sq. ft. roof can easily mean a $56,000 product order, commissions don’t have to be large to make sure contractors have enough incentive to be there for those who have countless questions or need on-site help more than once. There is big money in commercial roofing and only a tiny fraction of it is a big deal; especially when it’s residual.

    Why Some People Still Oppose the Direct Sales Model

    No matter how wonderful these benefits are, almost everyone hesitates when they hear the news that the contractor telling them about Conklin roofing products is getting a small commission (even though the sales personnel at a different company is too). But this is completely understandable. Over the years, many companies have used direct sales to manipulate people to go after their friends and family to sell their products. People trust those closest to them and businesses know it. Because so many have been burned by direct sales (or know others who have), they have trouble accepting the fact that Conklin customers are the main ones selling.

    While it can be difficult trust in a model that has been heavily abused, Conklin has proven themselves and their products for decades; plus has undergone rigorous testing to secure UL fire classification, ICC code approval, FM approval, CRRC approval, Energy Star Rating, compliance with California title 27, SBCC, ICBO, and ICC code approval. If there is any doubt, try to find a bad review online. It won’t be easy, but you will if you’re persistent. Just keep in mind that any company that has been around as long as Conklin will have a bad review here and there, regardless of how great they are. If you really want to be thorough, choose any competing manufacturer and see what contractors and building owners are saying about its products. You will be surprised at how clean Conklin’s track record has been, even with over 2+ billion square feet featuring their product.

    To talk to successful contractors who are willing to share their experience working with us and the Conklin roofing systems, reach out to our group via the contact page.

    Commercial Roof Replacement Cost

    Today’s blog post takes a close look at something of interest to building owners and managers—commercial roof replacement costs. Replacing a roof can be one of the biggest capital expenditures a building owner or facility manager makes. This post builds on one of our earlier posts about commercial roof maintenance costs.

    roof replacementHow much does a commercial roof replacement cost? One study reports on a roof with average dimensions of 10,000 square feet, a new commercial roof can cost over $42,500, or over $4.25 per square foot. That study also found 80% of the roofs tracked had been replaced before they needed to be.

    In another case, the roofing and pavement consulting firm Benchmark presented a cost range from retail roofing projects it has examined. Benchmark reported on a majority of retail roofing projects it has looked at, roof replacement costs generally range from $3.50 to $6.50 per square foot. However, the cost depends on whether a project was aiming for roof recovery or consisted of a complete tear-off and replacement job.

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    Other sources have reported commercial roof replacement costs can vary from $7.00 to $12.00 per square foot. In all of these cases, there is one critical thing to keep in mind. Using an average commercial roof replacement cost for estimating a single project can be problematic, since project costs can vary depending upon labor inputs or project complexity. However, using it to budget for a portfolio of multiple property holdings is far more valuable.

    Commercial Roof Replacement Costs over Time

    commercial roof cost over timeOne well-known study looked at commercial roof replacement costs over time. The study drew upon data collected over a space of 9 years. The study concentrated on lifecycle costs for low slope commercial roofs that were chosen from among 100,000 square meters of roofing on 38 buildings owned by Carnegie Mellon University (or 1.08 million square feet of commercial roofing on 38 buildings, approximately). This overall roofing network ranged from newly-installed roofing systems to roofing systems over 50 years old. The entire network was valued at between $22 million and $32 million, when an average roof replacement cost of $215 to $323 per square meter (costs accumulated over 9 years) was used.

    All of the buildings were located within Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which made them subject to the same climate conditions and some other variables. All of the roofs had insulation installed under them that met the requirements set by local climate conditions.

    The low slope commercial roofs were chosen because they were the most prone to leaking problems. The researchers also said low slope EPDM and SBS modified bitumen roofs could be considered representative of the data used in this study.

    Carnegie Mellon University Roof Study Results

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    From July 1998 to December 2006, the university’s database for the entire roof network showed 1,781 roof leak-related work and repair records. It came out to an average of 200 leaks per year or 5.2 leaks on each building annually.

    In terms of 2006 dollars, the average roof replacement cost came out to $269 per square meter over 9 years, or $4.5 million spent on replacement of 16,900 square meters over a 9-year stretch. From 1998 to 2006, roof replacement costs, termed “owner capital costs”, ranged from $0 to approximately $1.62 million, or a total of $4.12 million for the entire time span.

    roof replacement study

    The variances in roof replacement costs show the importance of thinking about commercial roofing in terms of lifecycle. Among other things, roof budgeting relies upon two primary factors: the roof’s service life expectancy and how much square footage the roof’s dimensions consist of.

    Put Off Roof Replacement with Roof Restoration

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    As the first study indicated, it would seem many commercial roofs are replaced before they need be. In terms of the first roof’s protection value and additional benefits being cut off early, those translate into thousands, if not tens of thousands of dollars in sunk costs.

    There is a cost-effective, life-extending option that building owners or facility managers can consider when the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration. Roof restoration, or a process in which liquid-applied roofing products are installed over an existing commercial roof, can extend an existing roof’s useful life and help avoid or delay some replacement costs.

    In this process, the liquid-applied roofing products refer to commercial roof coatings, or coating products that are formulated to create a continuous protective surface over an existing roof substrate. Because it is a restoration process, it may involve substantially less tear-off than a complete roof replacement.

    The existing roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, damaged materials, failed seams or penetrations, and other conditions that may need to be corrected before restoration is considered.

    Commercial Roof Restoration Options

    roof coating applicationCommercial roof coating systems can provide a restoration option for suitable existing roofs. Depending on the roof condition, substrate, coating system, preparation, and project requirements, restoration may help extend the useful life of an existing roof while reducing the amount of tear-off required.

    Reflective coatings may also reduce solar heat absorption when appropriate for the building and climate. Actual service life, energy performance, warranty coverage, and project savings depend on the specific roofing system and conditions.

    A commercial roofing contractor can inspect the existing roof and discuss whether repair, restoration, recover, or replacement is appropriate.

    Another Craftsman Finds Dynamic Business Potential in Commercial Roofing

    We’ve heard many stories of how commercial roofing has brought new opportunities to life for new and experienced contractors. From encouraging tales of budding entrepreneurship to dynamite company growth, there’s been no shortage of stories to share. Today, we take a look at how roofing training and other timely resources are helping a young, capable Wisconsin craftsman carve out his emerging success story.

    Small Town Setting, Big-Time Potential

    Simon Troyer

    Based out of the small village of Coloma, Wisconsin, Simon Troyer says he’s always enjoyed doing construction. And now that he has a commercial roofing division up-and-running as part of his business, he is tremendously excited for the future.

    When asked to describe his professional background up to this point, Simon says it’s been a gradual process. With the opportunities in commercial roofing and dedicated support from Choice Roof Contractor Group, though, Simon truly feels confident in his business outlook.

    Like many great stories, Simon’s story is rooted in humble beginnings. It starts with his entrance into the construction industry around eight years ago or so.

    Setting the Foundation

    In 2007, he embarked on a career in construction, before he was married. In those days, Simon worked with family on various small construction projects and occasionally completed work that came his way. He had grown up in a sawmill and on a family dairy farm, and from there he had been looking for a change of pace.

    Over the years Simon honed his technique as well as his passion for construction and helping others, qualities which define his business to this day. Bit-by-bit, he learned the ins-and-outs of many aspects of carpentry, remodeling, roofing, and others. It set a firm foundation for when he would start out in business for himself.

    Entrepreneurship Beckons

    After five years of working with others, Simon decided he wanted to strike out on his own. He desired to provide a stable life for his family, and the independence and profit potential that come with business ownership were hard to dismiss. With his construction skill set, Simon was confident he would be able to run his own business. In late 2012, desire became reality. Simon launched Troyer Carpentry, buoyed by the craftsmanship skills he had developed over the years as a quality-minded construction professional.

    When Simon recalls those days, he says that times were good, but he remained on the lookout for additional business opportunities that would strengthen his family’s quality of life. It wasn’t clear yet, but Simon had actually come across a roofing business opportunity that would open up new doors for him later. In the months before he formally started his own business, a friend introduced him to the opportunity. Simon’s interest was piqued, but he wasn’t quite ready to take the leap.

    Timely Re-Encounter

    A few years later, Simon had built his business to be a respectable company that performed occasional residential repair work along with bigger-scale home construction projects. His desire to better his family’s well-being remained as strong as ever. He had examined other business opportunities, but close scrutiny had revealed them to be not so promising. A chance re-encounter with the roofing business opportunity proved to be a turning point.

    About two years or so after he had first heard of the opportunity, Simon was again reacquainted with it by fellow Choice Roof Contractor Group member John Miller of A-1 Roofing Systems. This time around, Simon was more impressed by the possibilities. As John shared more about the business, Simon saw the potential to improve his family’s financial security, spend more time with them, and help other people through his work.

    Taking the Leap

    After seeing what he could accomplish with this opportunity, Simon decided to take the plunge. He attended a manufacturer’s roof systems training in June 2013. At the training program, Simon says he was tremendously impressed by the depth of the instruction itself. It truly gave him the confidence that he could add a new division to his construction company—a commercial roofing business unit—and work toward giving his family the life he wanted them to have.

    New Developments and Emerging Opportunities

    In time, Simon heard of another appealing group that could support his move into commercial roofing. John Miller spoke of a group that offers dedicated support and resources to help contractors achieve success, Choice Roof Contractor Group. Simon says he was impressed by the network’s free lead generation as well as its mentorship and support programs.

    A prudent business owner, Simon slowly began interacting with Choice Roof Contractor Group and its support team. In time, he saw firsthand how he could benefit from it, and in April 2014, he signed on as a member.

    As an independent member contractor, Simon has been actively bidding on commercial roofs and taking on new opportunities to take his rebranded construction company, Troyer Roofing & Construction, in a new direction. It’s a dramatic change from where Simon says he was just seven years ago.

    Simon’s Thoughts

    When asked about advice he would give to new contractors or people who are considering taking up commercial roofing, Simon emphasizes that action is needed today. It doesn’t pay off if one waits to do something for months or years, because he or she is foregoing great opportunities that could be around the corner.

    Simon also expresses his confidence about the future and its potential for him, his business, and his family. He’s grateful for the support he’s been given by Choice Roof Contractor Group, and with a little bit of time and this great support network at his back, he feels there’s no limit to what he can accomplish. In a nutshell, he feels empowered to scale his business to new heights and to inspire others to do the same. After all, Simon says, they can look at what he has done—made a transformation from a budding craftsman to a capable professional who’s ready to take his business to the next level. All it takes is the determination and resolve to begin with that critical first step, and you can open the door to a world of boundless opportunity.

    Should you be interested in learning more about Simon’s experience in commercial roofing and the support available through Choice Roof Contractor Group, give Simon’s business a call at 855-552-2343. He would look forward to discussing his experience and the resources that have helped him build his business.

    Commercial Roof Lead Generation

    commercial roofing lead generationToday’s blog post takes a look at an area of importance for commercial roofing contractors—commercial roof lead generation. We examine the different methods of lead generation available today. The post then concludes by discussing how Choice Roof Contractor Group has helped create additional opportunities for members through its network and marketing efforts.

    Roofing leads are a staple of any commercial roofing business. Whether a roofing company is an established, respected enterprise or an up-and-coming roofing vendor, leads represent new opportunities to grow and scale. Their importance cannot be overstated.

    Methods of Commercial Roofing Lead Generation

    With the Internet and other technological innovations, there have been many new marketing methods for generating commercial roofing leads that have emerged. Here is a brief overview of several commonly used methods.

    • Direct mail. Despite the power of the Internet, there are some roofing marketing strategies that have not gone out of style. Direct mail campaigns can still be a useful method for generating commercial roofing leads when they are carefully targeted and properly executed. In this marketing strategy, mail pieces are sent to selected prospects within a defined area, often building owners or key contacts. When the message, offer, and targeting are right, direct mail can help create new conversations and opportunities for roofing contractors.
    • Telemarketing. The telephone can also play a role in roofing industry marketing. A commercial roofing company may work from a list of prospects or develop its own list of local businesses and decision-makers. Telemarketing can require significant time and persistence because the person being contacted may have little or no prior awareness of the roofing company. For that reason, it is often more effective when used as part of a broader marketing strategy rather than as the only source of lead generation.
    • Websites. Having a professional online presence is a powerful method for generating leads because it can provide useful information about a roofing company’s background, experience, services, and past work. A website can also showcase galleries of completed roofing projects, which can help prospective customers understand the contractor’s capabilities. An effective website should provide clear calls to action, such as contacting the roofing company to discuss a project, request an estimate, or arrange an inspection.
    • Social media. Social media platforms can provide opportunities to build awareness, stay visible to potential customers, and share useful information about a roofing business. For roofing companies, social media can support lead generation and brand recognition when the right audience and content strategy are used. Like other marketing channels, it is generally most effective when combined with other outreach methods as part of a broader marketing plan.

    These are just a few of the methods roofing contractors have at their disposal for commercial roofing lead generation. When used together with other marketing efforts, they can create a more complete outreach program and provide multiple ways for prospective customers to discover and contact a roofing business.

    Choice Roof Contractor Group and Lead Generation

    Choice Roof Contractor Group has historically helped members create additional business opportunities through the group’s online presence, professional connections, shared knowledge, and referrals among contractors.

    Lead generation has been an important part of the group’s history, but it is only one of the benefits of participating in a nationwide contractor network. Members can also benefit from sales and marketing resources, shared strategies, professional connections, partner introductions, and the practical experience of other commercial roofing contractors.

    Choice Roof Contractor Group is a nationwide alliance of independently owned commercial roofing contractors. Members meet the group’s current membership requirements, including third-party training or certification, proof of insurance, professional business conduct, and commitment to the group’s values.

    Additional information about the network can be found here: Achieve Greater Success with a Nationwide Support Network of Commercial Roofing Professionals.

    If you are interested in learning more about becoming a member or about strategic partnerships, contact Choice Roof Contractor Group for more information.

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      7 Things Successful Entrepreneurs Do Every Day

      entrepreneur dailyTake a good look at any successful entrepreneur, and you’ll likely notice one thing that’s probably common to them all. All well-to-do businesspeople set goals and then strive for them. In many ways, it’s common sense: goals provide a concrete sense of what you’re aiming for, a benchmark for how you’ll achieve it, and a baseline from which you’ll start. What may be surprising, though, is just how often successful entrepreneurs set goals—on a daily basis! In retrospect, though, it makes sense.

      Over the long term, achieving success requires good daily habits. After all, the most-successful businesspeople are constantly educating themselves and improving their knowledge, skill set, and overall capabilities. If someone desires to build and run a successful company, habituating and practicing these good habits is essential.

      7 Things to Aim for Daily

      1. Plan Your Day Out. Toward the beginning of the day—preferably as soon as it begins—it’s wise to take a look at your calendar and map out what your day’s going to look like. If you work better at a certain time of day, set aside time blocks in those hours for getting important things done. Be sure to keep on top of these tasks for the day, and follow through on them to ensure they are accomplished. Over time, those daily task completions will lead to new company developments that’ll be worth all the effort you put in.

      2. Put a Premium on Your Time. Of all the resources at your disposal, time is the one resource you can never get back or ever get enough of. Once it’s gone, there’s no getting it back, so strategic priority-setting is critical. Commit to doing the most important things for you, your company, your goals, and other things that are important, such as family. Avoid distractions, do your homework before any important phone call or meeting, and don’t be afraid to say no to some things.

      3. Listen to Others. No one person has all the answers. Being able to listen to others’ input is not only productive, but also necessary. Carefully listening to what others have to say without interrupting also eliminates opportunities for miscommunication or misunderstandings. Of course, those can lead to a need for clarification or shoring-up later on, so careful listening can strengthen a business’ operations, stabilize relations between colleagues, and keep workplace morale up. Don’t forget the importance and inestimable value of saying “please” and “thank you” as well.

      4. Remember Your Company’s Goals. As we’ve discussed in a previous blog post, successful businesses aren’t built in a day. It takes time to iron a business’ kinks out, establish proof of concept, and ensuring everything is performing well and up-to-speed. Be sure to take out a little bit of time each day to review your company goals. That’ll help keep you on par and focused on accomplishing what you need to for the day. Taking note of your company successes, such as the most profitable part of your business or a hard-to-get customer that you attracted, will strengthen your daily performance as well.

      5. Buckle Down and Focus. One of the most valuable things someone can learn to do is focus on the task in front of him or her. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to be tempted to multi-task or be distracted. Other things, such as small glitches or unimportant details, can be distracting and time-consuming as well. An entrepreneur should cultivate the virtue of flexibility so he or she can adapt when needed. But being able to singularly focus on the task-at-hand and get it done cannot be overstated enough.

      6. Get Some Social Time In. Being productive is essential for making sure your daily task list is dwindled down or completed. But one shouldn’t underestimate the importance of taking a small bit of time out for socialization, either. Human beings have a social dimension to them, and it is necessary to get that time in so you maintain a healthy balance between your workload and soundness-of-mind. Taking just a minute or two to fraternize with co-workers and discuss your company’s expansionary plans or what you’ve accomplished can truly do wonders.

      7. Keep in Mind There’s only 24 Hours in a Day. It may seem like a rehash of the second point, but it’s not. Since there’s only so much time in a day, prioritizing your daily goals and tasks is very important. Be aware of how this dynamic can play out with others, too. If you have any important calls to make to someone else, be aware of the time within the week that’s best to reach them. Do your co-workers have certain times at which they perform best? Then be respectful of their time so they can maximize their work output. Be committed to your business’ success, but don’t burn yourself or your colleagues out. After all, sometimes even the most-pressing challenges are best tackled with a refreshed outlook. Above all, an excellent guiding principle should be to aim for balance in your life— maintaining a healthy scale between your business, your family, your own responsibilities, your social and spiritual life, and yourself will be of tremendous value to yourself and those around you.

      And if you’re just starting off with a new business, be aware of how taking the first step can be the most difficult.

      Looking to Build up a Commercial Roofing Business? Choice Roof Contractor Group Can Help!

      If you’re looking to take your roofing business to the next level, or you’re just starting out, we can help. Choice Roof Contractor Group offers a specialized, full-support platform for helping you get access to the resources, knowledge, and experts you need for building an enduring success story. Among the many benefits our members enjoy are:

      • Free roof leads generation
      • Lifetime mentorship from highly-successful and highly-experienced roofing professionals
      • Top-of-the-line, effective coaching for closing sales
      • Customized, full-service marketing support
      • Huge profit potential with discounted roofing products
      • Creditable nationwide professional endorsement with our network behind you
      • Compelling sales materials and talking points for your success
      • So much more!

      Our group uses high-performance, energy-efficient Conklin roofing products on commercial jobs. We chose these products because they have been a proven line of roofing solutions for building owners across the United States for over 40+ years. With these great products, many new Conklin roofing contractors report adding a six-figure revenue stream to their bottom by the second quarter of the second year after they started using Conklin products.

      For more information about our unique program and how we can help you, please call 800-670-5583 or use our contact form. We look forward to hearing from you!

      White Roofs and the Urban Heat Island Effect

      dark commercial roofToday’s blog post takes a look at the “urban heat island” effect. This effect refers to urban areas being warmer than nearby rural areas because buildings, pavement, and other developed surfaces absorb and retain heat.

      Another topic we’ll examine is one strategy used to help reduce heat absorption: a white, reflective roof coating system.

      According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, urban areas can be warmer than surrounding rural areas, particularly after developed surfaces absorb solar energy throughout the day and release heat later.

      Buildings, roadways, parking areas, and dark-colored roofs can all absorb and retain solar heat. In more vegetated areas, plants and soil generally absorb and release heat differently than dense concentrations of buildings and paved surfaces.

      Consequences of the Urban Heat Island Effect

      The urban heat island effect can contribute to several concerns, including:

      • Higher cooling demand during hot weather
      • Higher air-conditioning costs in some buildings
      • Greater stress on the electric grid during peak periods
      • Higher local temperatures
      • Potential impacts on air quality and heat-related health risks

      The extent of these effects varies by climate, city design, vegetation, building density, weather conditions, and other local factors.

      White Roofs as One Heat-Reduction Strategy

      white roof vs black roofOne strategy used to reduce solar heat absorption is the white or reflective roof. Reflective roofing materials are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than many darker roofing surfaces.

      When a roof absorbs less solar energy, its surface temperature can remain lower under similar conditions. This may reduce heat transfer into the building and, in some cases, lower cooling demand.

      On a larger scale, widespread use of reflective roofing can be one part of broader urban heat-reduction strategies. The effect on local temperatures, energy use, air quality, and public health depends on many factors and should not be attributed to any individual roof alone.

      White Roof Coatings and Commercial Roof Restoration

      White and reflective coatings may also be used as part of a commercial roof restoration system when the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration.

      Potential benefits of a properly selected and installed reflective coating system can include:

      • A continuous protective surface over properly prepared roof areas
      • Reduced solar heat absorption
      • Potential reductions in cooling demand depending on the building and climate
      • Reduced tear-off and disposal when restoration is appropriate
      • Potential extension of the existing roof’s useful life
      • Repair and recoating options for some systems when conditions allow

      Reflective coatings are not appropriate for every commercial roof. Before restoration, the roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, severe corrosion, drainage problems, damaged roofing materials, failed seams or penetrations, and other conditions that may need to be corrected first.

      Performance characteristics such as reflectivity, durability, weather resistance, warranty terms, maintenance requirements, and expected service life vary by product and roofing system. These should be evaluated using current manufacturer documentation and the specific conditions of the project.

      A commercial roofing contractor can inspect the existing roof and discuss whether repair, restoration, reflective coating, or replacement is appropriate for the building.

      EPDM Rubber Roofs and Roof Coatings

      Today’s blog post looks at the performance value of single-ply EPDM rubber roofing and how, in some situations, it may be enhanced with a compatible commercial roof coating membrane system. We start by reviewing a few basic facts about EPDM rubber roofing and then take a look at how a reflective, white roof coating may add further value when the existing roof is suitable for restoration.

      A Few Basics about EPDM Rubber Roofing

      EPDM rubber roofingEthylene propylene diene monomer roofing, or simply EPDM rubber roofing, has been used in commercial roofing for decades. It is a single-ply membrane system commonly used on low-slope commercial buildings.

      EPDM rubber roofing is available in different colors and configurations, although dark-colored membranes are common.

      Like other commercial roofing systems, EPDM can provide long service when it is properly designed, installed, inspected, and maintained. Over time, however, seams, penetrations, flashing, surface damage, drainage issues, and other conditions may need attention.

      Commercial Roof Coatings Can Enhance a Suitable EPDM Roof

      A compatible roof coating system may provide additional protection and reflective performance when an existing EPDM roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration. Here are a few areas where a coating system may provide benefits.

      • Punctures and surface damage — EPDM membranes can be durable, but they can still be damaged by sharp objects, foot traffic, hail, equipment, or other impacts. A compatible coating can provide an additional protective surface over properly prepared areas, but damaged membrane should still be repaired before coating.
      • Seams — Many EPDM roofs contain seams that require proper detailing and maintenance. Over time, seams or related flashing may become vulnerable to water intrusion if they deteriorate or are damaged. A coating system may provide a continuous protective surface over properly prepared and repaired areas, while seams and other vulnerable locations may require additional reinforcement or detailing.
      • Sun exposure — EPDM roofing and its accessories are exposed to temperature changes and ultraviolet radiation throughout their service life. Some elastomeric coatings are designed to accommodate movement while also reducing solar heat absorption when they have a reflective surface.
      • Curbs and rooftop units — Penetrations, curbs, HVAC equipment, flashing transitions, and other roof details are common areas where leaks can develop if materials deteriorate or detailing fails. These areas should be carefully inspected and repaired as needed before or during a coating restoration project.
      • Roof surface — Dark EPDM surfaces can absorb substantial solar heat. Applying a compatible white or reflective coating may reduce roof surface temperatures and lower the amount of solar heat absorbed by the roof. Depending on the climate, insulation, HVAC system, building use, and other factors, this may also contribute to lower cooling demand and energy savings.

      Determining Whether an EPDM Roof Is Suitable for Coating

      commercial roof coating applicationA roof coating membrane system can be a useful restoration option, but it is not appropriate for every EPDM roof.

      Before coating, the roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, widespread membrane damage, failed seams or penetrations, trapped moisture, and other conditions that may need to be corrected first.

      Compatibility is especially important with EPDM. The selected coating, primers, repair materials, and preparation procedures should be suitable for the existing membrane and installed according to current manufacturer requirements.

      When the roof is a suitable candidate, a reflective coating system may provide benefits such as:

      • A continuous protective surface over properly prepared roof areas
      • Reduced solar heat absorption
      • Lower roof surface temperatures
      • Potential reductions in cooling demand
      • Reduced tear-off and disposal compared with full replacement when restoration is appropriate
      • Potential extension of the existing roof’s useful life
      • Repair and recoating options for some systems when conditions allow

      Performance characteristics such as reflectivity, elongation, tensile strength, weather resistance, warranty terms, maintenance requirements, and expected service life vary by product and system. These should be evaluated using current manufacturer documentation and the conditions of the specific project.

      A commercial roofing contractor can inspect the existing EPDM roof and discuss whether repair, restoration, coating, recover, or replacement is appropriate.

      What is a Public Adjuster?

      Today’s blog post covers the field of public adjusting and how it can be of value to building owners or anyone who dealing with a property-related insurance claim.

      When a commercial or industrial building has been damaged or destroyed, going through the insurance claim process can be arduous and time-consuming. Proceeding from filing an insurance claim to receiving a claim settlement can take lots of effort, and with larger settlement amounts it can be even more involved.

      A public adjuster is one of three kinds of professionals who become involved in the insurance claims process. The other two kinds of claims adjusting professionals are staff adjusters and independent adjusters. Staff adjusters are directly employed by an insurance company, and independent adjusters are hired by an insurance company as independent contractors. They report only to the insurance company employing them and are there to represent the insurance company’s interests.

      A public adjuster, on the other hand, exclusively represents the policyholder in an insurance claims process and helps him or her negotiate a settlement. They have no relationship with the insurance company and therefore serve as a third party, non-biased advocate for an insured party. For compensation, they typically charge “contingency fees”, or a percentage of the settlement paid to the insured by the insurance company. In this arrangement, public adjusters are incentivized to get the largest settlement possible.

      Public Adjuster Fees

      There is no industry standard for a public adjuster’s contingency fees. However, the insurance consumer advocacy group United Policyholders reports it is not unusual for public adjuster contingency fees to range from 5-15% of a total settlement value. Insurance company-employed claim adjusters are sent out by an insurance company for no cost, but they do not necessarily serve the full interests of a policyholder in their capacity.

      Should I Use a Public Adjuster?

      Since the claims process can be so confusing and involved, a public adjuster’s property loss expertise and experience with claim management can be invaluable. In many cases, public adjusters are able to get a settlement’s amount increased. After all, public adjusters are experts in comprehensively documenting and negotiating a claim. However, as is the case in other professional services, they differ in the expertise and knowledge they will bring to the table.

      Thus, there are many things to consider. The Insurance Information Institute recommends checking a public adjuster’s references, and checking up on his or her licensing and reputation by calling the Better Business Bureau or your state department of insurance. It is advisable to refrain from using a public adjuster who uses high-pressure sales tactics or goes door-to-door to solicit new clientele.

      Here are a few other things that United Policyholders recommends building owners keep in mind as well:

      • Are they licensed? Do they work on an individual basis or as part of a firm?
      • What is the volume of the claims they are dealing with? How will that affect the timing of getting your claim settled?
      • Is the person you are talking to the actual professional who will be handling your case?
      • Are they are a licensed public adjusting professional? Standards for obtaining an adjuster license will differ from state to state.
      • What can you expect from them over the long process of handling your claim? How committed will they personally be to your claim process? Will they handling the entire claim process or just a portion of it?
      • How many years of experience do they have, and in what areas of property loss management have they dealt with the most? How many years have they practiced in your state?
      • What will communication look like between you? What measures will the adjuster take to ensure you are well-represented and remain up-to-date about progress?
      • What will the terms of the adjuster’s fees be? How open are they to negotiating these fees? If the business relationship ends before a settlement has been negotiated, what will the payment terms be?
      • How many references do they give? What do the references say, and are they tied to the adjuster in any other way besides having used their services?

      United Policyholders provides a comprehensive list of information and questions to ask, as well as tips for consideration. There is also an “Ask an Expert” section on United Policyholders’ website, in which building owners can ask for expert advisement for free. Because the volume of inquiries they receive is so heavy, it is important to keep in mind getting an answer can take a little bit of time.

      Choice Roof Contractor Group and Strategic Partnerships

      In its bid to provide building owners with a comprehensive range of services for their needs, Choice Roof Contractor Group searched extensively nationwide for a national, reputable public adjuster firm. After going through dozens of firms, we found a quality-minded partner in Pride Public Adjusters, a worldwide firm providing insurance loss claims for commercial property, large buildings, business buildings, residential buildings, apartment buildings, and complex insurance losses.

      In line with their commitment to consumer education, Pride Adjusters offers an extensive list of what property owners should do after a loss. Should you be interested in having Pride Adjusters’ honed expertise in claims management services for your needs, give us a call at 800-670-5583 so we can connect you to one of their best associates.

      Note: This information is intended for consumer information purposes only and is not a replacement for professional advisement. While we are committed to accurate consumer education, we do not guarantee the complete accuracy of the information provided.