Hiring a Commercial Roofing Contractor Checklist

commercial roof contractor hiringIn this blog post, we discuss how to hire a commercial roofing contractor. Our previous blog post featuring five tips for hiring a roofing contractor could also be helpful.

In the face of tight economic conditions, effective cost management is a top priority for any real estate owner. Roofing is already an expensive investment, but even when it requires only simple repairs, due diligence is still advisable. Letting the wrong contractor onto your roof may not take care of your problems, but actually compound them. Poor workmanship or improper product application could leave a roof at risk for greater damage—and by extension more expensive roofing work.

Hiring the right roof contractor then becomes a balancing act between affordability and contractor quality. What are the things that a building owner should look for? Below, we offer a checklist of things to consider when you are hiring a roofing contractor for your needs.

Checklist for Choosing a Commercial Roofing Contractor

  • Does the roofing contractor have any business listings? Reputable roofing contractors will have some form of legitimate business listings, whether online or in print, such as in the local phone directory. Even though it is not always the case, more dedicated or established roofing contractors tend to have a website where you can see their work and testimonies from satisfied customers. A reputable roofing contractor will also have a permanent address. It is wise to never accept the bid of a roofing company that does not have a business or permanent address listing as proof of their business legitimacy.
  • Is the roofing contractor approved and have a good rating with the Better Business Bureau? Not all roofing companies are listed with the Better Business Bureau, but it does provide another layer of documentation by which you can assess a roofing contractor’s reputation. It is important to note one thing, though. The Better Business Bureau does not provide ratings of a roofing contractor’s services or reputation, but how well a roofing contractor has resolved customer complaints. Factors such as the roofing contractor’s product quality or service competency are not gauged. Nonetheless, the Better Business Bureau does provide another solid means of checking out a contractor’s reputation.
  • Does the contractor meet requirements for roofing contractors in your state? The requirements for becoming a roofing contractor vary from state to state. Be sure to check with your state’s licensing board or relevant licensing agency for information on state requirements. Things to watch out for include:
    • Contractor licensing that has not expired
    • Workers’ compensation insurance coverage
    • General liability insurance coverage
    • Relevant bond certification or holding
    • Local building permits, if required

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  • Does the roofing contractor have references? Reputation is the backbone of the roofing industry. Reputable contractors will be happy to share references from satisfied customers with you. It is important to be aware, though, that any references you receive will only be from satisfied customers. They will not be representative of any customers who had neutral or negative business dealings with the contractor, or are not people who are likely to negate your decision to accept the contractor’s bid. Be sure to get at least three references and contact them to confirm they are legitimate. More references are better, if possible.
  • Is the roofing contractor certified by the manufacturer of the product he installs? There can be tremendous consequences if a roofing contractor installs a product that he is not certified to apply, and then the product has problems. For instance, you can encounter difficulties in getting manufacturer warranty coverage. It is essential to check that a roofing contractor has certification from the manufacturer to install his particular roofing product brand.
  • What type of training does the roofing contractor provide to his employees? Making sure that a roofing contractor’s employees are fully-trained and certified to work on your roof is another critical step. Doing so will be an indicator of a worker’s skill level and professionalism. Another thing to look for is if the contractor’s workers are versed in job safety measures. That helps cut down on potential for accidents occurring at the job site.
  • What does the roofing contractor offer in writing? Make sure the roofing contractor will be offering you a written contract. Proper documentation will convey the terms of your business agreement, detail work to be done, and lay out the terms of payment. More specific details will be the roofing job’s scope, roofing materials to be used and their specifications, project beginning and completion dates, and itemized listings for material and labor costs. Asking for a written copy of the contractor’s warranty is not a bad idea, either.

Choice Roof Contractor Group’s Strong Reputation

These are a number of things to keep in mind. Members of our nationwide network have been carefully vetted for strong commitment to excellence in workmanship and servicing.  Should you want to work with carefully-vetted, professionally-trained roofing contractors, give us a call at 800-670-5583.

How Long Do Roof Coatings Last?

Today’s blog post covers the life expectancy of commercial roof coatings.

metal roof restorationAcrylic and other reflective roof coatings have become an established part of the commercial roofing industry. Along with other energy-efficient roofing technologies, reflective coatings have helped increase interest in reducing the amount of solar heat absorbed by commercial roofs.

Despite roof coatings’ established use, some negative perceptions of coatings still linger. One of these perceptions is that roof coatings are not built to last over time. As with any roofing system, however, performance and service life depend on the roof condition, coating type, installation, weather exposure, maintenance, and other project-specific factors.

Roof Coatings and Their Life Expectancy

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Like other roofing systems, coatings have a service life and will require attention over time.

Life expectancy for roof coatings can vary considerably depending on the type of coating, specified thickness, substrate, installation quality, climate, drainage, maintenance, and manufacturer requirements. For that reason, there is no single lifespan that applies to every commercial roof coating.

However, roof coatings have some characteristics that can make them useful for commercial roof restoration when the existing roof is a suitable candidate. These can include:

  • Roof coatings are typically applied directly to a properly prepared roof surface.
  • Many fluid-applied coating systems create a continuous, seamless membrane across the treated roof area.
  • A properly selected and installed coating system can provide additional protection against water intrusion and weather exposure while avoiding full roof replacement when restoration is appropriate.

older commercial roofWhen an existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, a coating system may help extend its useful life. Many coatings also have elastomeric properties that allow them to expand and contract as temperatures change.

Before a coating system is applied, the roof should be evaluated for conditions such as wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, failed seams or penetrations, and other issues that may need to be corrected first. A coating should not be expected to solve underlying roof or drainage problems simply by covering them.

One advantage of many coating systems is that they can be maintained and, when appropriate, recoated over time. The timing and extent of maintenance or recoating will depend on the specific system, roof conditions, weather exposure, and manufacturer recommendations.

The Takeaway

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Roof coatings should not be evaluated only in terms of a single expected lifespan. When the existing roof is a suitable candidate for restoration, a properly selected and installed coating system may extend the useful life of the roof while providing additional protection and avoiding the cost and disruption of a complete tear-off.

Their long-term performance depends on proper roof preparation, appropriate product selection, installation according to specifications, routine inspections, and maintenance when needed. Some coating systems may also be recoated as part of an ongoing roof-maintenance strategy.

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

The Importance of Sustainability in Commercial Roofing

Today, we will take a brief look at the definition of sustainability and how it has grown in popularity in mainstream American society. Then we examine its influence in the construction industry as well as in the commercial roofing marketplace.

The Concept of Sustainability in the American Marketplace

green buildingAccording to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “sustainability” refers to public and private sector efforts to bring social and business conditions in line with quality standards for environmental well-being. Parties that involve themselves in these efforts include the general public, small businesses, large corporations, not-for-profit organizations, and agencies at all levels of government. They strive to improve how they conduct themselves or do business in a way that “sustains” the environment and promotes human health.

From a consumer point-of-view, sustainability has become a key buzzword for how businesses of all sizes portray themselves to their customers. As consumer interest in environmental well-being has increased, other buzzwords including “going green”, “sustainable business”, and “environmental advocacy” have become all the rage.

These words’ growing popularity has been an indicator of another factor and how it has grown: consumer interest in companies that offer “green” products or services. In recent years, consumer surveys have shown this to be the case. Check out a couple of studies, at national and global scales, below that show this.

  • In a consumer survey from Ipsos, 51 percent of American consumers report they care about companies that are doing their part to help the environment.
  • On a global scale, consumers are interested in “green” company brands as well. The Fifth Annual Tork Sustainability Study found that 78 percent of global consumers purchase green products or services
  • In the Tork Study, that was a nine-percent increase from 2012.

In other words— the efforts a company takes to promote environmental protection have become a dealbreaker for many consumers in which products and services they purchase. This influence has grown in the construction industry, too.

Sustainability in American Construction

Consumer interest in environmental sustainability has driven many innovations in the American construction industry as well. “Green” building materials, construction products that are environmentally-friendly, and other “eco-oriented” building products have come to the fray. The foundation of environmentally-minded construction was first put down in the early 1900s during the Industrial Revolution. But it really became mainstream in the 1970s, when the United States struggled with its energy supply due to tense global economic and socio-political conditions. Demand for alternative energy sources to fossil fuels surged. The tangible beginning of what has become known as “green construction” emerged as a result.

Since then, green construction, or green building, has established a firm foothold in the construction industry. Just consider the following statistics from the U.S. Green Building Council:

  • According to McGraw Hill Construction, by 2015 around 40-48 percent of new nonresidential construction will be green.
  • By 2015, that means that new, green nonresidential construction will be a $120-145 billion market.
  • In a 2012 survey by McGraw Hill Construction, 58 percent of American responders said they expect 58 percent of their construction to be green in 2015.

This shift extended to the roofing industry as well.

Sustainability in American Commercial Roofing

In the 1970s, the American roofing industry was strongly impacted by the appearance of high-performance, earth-friendly acrylic roof coatings. These elastomeric roof coatings made it possible for building owners to have strong energy savings and make their buildings more environmentally-friendly. In other words, the arrival of acrylic roof coatings was groundbreaking for American roofing.

Conklin was the company responsible for bringing the first highly energy-efficient, white acrylic roof coating to market. With the appearance of roof coatings on the scene, the roofing industry shifted toward a greater focus on more energy-efficient applications for roofing. As a result, today some popular, environmentally-friendly applications for roofing are white roofs and green roofs.

Sustainability’s Impact on Today’s Commercial Roofing Companies

For existing and new commercial roofing companies of all sizes, the concept of sustainability has tremendous implications. Consumers are now likely to use products or services from a company that promotes green initiatives or offers green product or service offerings. In the roofing industry, this has a twofold impact—the products that a roofing company uses have a direct impact on how a roofing company is perceived. Plus, roofing products have a heavy, day-to-day impact on the lives of consumers, as they provide protection from outdoor elements or other hazards. The drive for commercial roofing companies to use environmentally-friendly roofing products, whether they help save energy or reduce energy usage, truly has never been greater.

Because reputation is so important in the construction industry, our nationwide network of commercial roof contractors exclusively use products from Conklin. Should you be interested in learning more about why Conklin roofing products stand out aside from their reputation of 40+ years of proven performance, give us a call at 800-670-5583.

White Roof Coatings versus White Paint

Today we build upon previous blog posts about white roofs versus green roofs, the market for white roof coatings, and the benefits of roofs with white elastomeric roof coatings on them. Today’s blog post provides answers to what seems to be a common question in the commercial roofing industry: “Is white paint the same thing as a white roof coating?”

In short, the answer is “no.” Although both may be white and reflective to some degree, ordinary paint and purpose-made roof coatings are designed for different uses. We examine some of those differences below.

White Roof Paint Compared to White Roof Elastomeric Coatings

According to the consulting firm The ChemQuest Group, in 2007 white elastomeric roof coatings accounted for almost two-thirds, or 67 percent, of the cool roof coatings market. At the time of the firm’s report, white roof coatings were growing at an annual rate of 11-12 percent.

As people have become more aware of white roofs and their potential benefits, there has also been some confusion about the difference between simply painting a roof white and installing a roof coating system.

Aside from differences in their composition, ordinary paint and elastomeric roof coatings are designed to serve different purposes. A roof coating is formulated specifically for roofing applications and should be selected according to the existing roof substrate, climate, drainage conditions, and manufacturer requirements.

To keep things simple, here are some general differences to consider.

 
White Paint:
  • Generally designed primarily as a painted finish rather than a roofing membrane
  • Performance and durability depend on the specific paint and surface
  • May provide some reflectivity, depending on the product
  • May not be formulated to accommodate the movement and weather exposure expected of a roofing system
  • Is not automatically a substitute for a purpose-made roof coating
  • Typically applied in a thinner film than many roof coating systems
Vs.
White Roof Coating:
  • Formulated specifically for roofing applications
  • May accommodate roof movement depending on the coating system
  • Can provide reflective and emissive properties designed for cool-roof applications
  • Performance around weather exposure and ponding water varies by product
  • Can provide a continuous protective surface over properly prepared roof areas
  • Applied according to specified coverage rates and dry-film thickness requirements
 

In summary, ordinary white paint and a white roof coating should not be treated as interchangeable products. A properly selected roof coating is specifically designed for roofing applications, but its cost, service life, reflectivity, maintenance needs, and overall performance depend on the product, roof condition, preparation, installation, climate, and ongoing maintenance.

White Roof Coating and Its Performance Value

white roof coatingWhen someone is evaluating a white roof coating’s performance, it is helpful to keep these things in mind:

  • What is the extent of the white roof coating’s elastomeric properties, often measured as elongation in product specifications?
  • What is the white roof coating’s specified thickness when applied, commonly measured in dry mils?
  • What are the white roof coating’s reflectance and emittance values?
  • What substrate or existing roofing systems is the coating designed for?
  • What preparation, application, and maintenance requirements apply?
  • What is the extent and duration of the coating system’s warranty coverage?

Different coating products have different specifications for thickness, elongation, tensile strength, reflectance, emittance, weather resistance, maintenance, and warranty coverage. These characteristics should be compared using current manufacturer documentation and the requirements of the particular roof.

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  • Inspections & leak detection
  • Energy efficient roof systems
  • Complete roof replacement
  • Roof life-extending solutions
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A white roof coating may also be used as part of a roof restoration system when the existing commercial roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration.

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

When the roof is a suitable candidate and the coating is properly selected and installed, a white roof coating may provide reflective performance, a continuous protective surface, and an opportunity to extend the useful life of the existing roof.

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

Commercial Roof Coatings Opportunities

Today, we take a look at the market opportunities for commercial roof coatings in the United States.

According to the research firm BCC Research, in 2011 the North American commercial roof coatings market was valued at $750 million. BCC Research reports that it expects this market to increase by a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% between 2011 and 2016—in 2016, the market is projected to achieve a total value of $984 million.

BCC Research pins the expected growth on a number of factors, including:

  • Governmental regulations and compliance standards
  • Increased demand for stronger business profitability
  • Tax law dynamics or changes
  • Increased heating and cooling costs
  • State-based building energy efficiency programs
  • Old roofs reaching their life expectancy or failing

At the time of its report, there were over 350,000 contractors serving customers in the residential and commercial roofing markets in North America.

Commercial Roof Coatings and Increased Demand for Green Building Materials

conklin roof coatingThe increasing market for commercial roof coatings lines up with projected increasing demand for green building materials in the United States. The Freedonia Group, a market research firm, said in one of its Green Building Reports that strong demand for green building materials in the United States will lead to a green building products market worth $86.6 billion in 2017. The Freedonia Group also projects that demand for U.S. green building materials will increase 11 percent per year.

Through the ENERGY STAR® program, the United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that green building construction has reached a new high. According to content on EnergyStar.gov, “in the United States, the green share of the U.S. nonresidential construction market grew from two percent in 2005 to 44 percent in 2012.”

Commercial Roof Coatings Industry Growth Driven by Energy Demands

energy efficient commercial roofThere are a few general economic indicators that can also illustrate the market growth opportunities for commercial roof coatings. One area in which these economic indicators can be found is in energy usage and increased governmental efforts to reduce American energy consumption. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, building owners and roof contractors have utilized cool roof products on residential, industrial, and commercial buildings for over 20 years. Cool roof systems stand out for their ability to reflect sunlight and heat away from a building as well as emit absorbed heat.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency also reports that roofing material suppliers have been steadily bringing-to-market roofing products that meet minimal, tailored standards for solar reflectivity and overall reliability. Through its ENERGY STAR® program, the agency has been pushing for private-sector suppliers and vendors to voluntarily produce and market cool roof systems that meet these criteria. This influence has become quite pronounced. In a 2006 survey of over 150 ENERGY STAR® partners, the Environmental Protection Agency found that cool roof products accounted for over 25 percent of the manufacturers’ commercial roofing products and almost 10 percent of the manufacturers’ residential roofing ones.

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At present, over 1.4 million new homes and 20,000 buildings and plants have attained the ENERGY STAR® logo. There are over 300,000 commercial buildings that are having their energy usage tracked and measured, which comes out to 30 billion square feet of commercial building space. Other notable statistics include the following:

  • There are over 5 million commercial buildings in the U.S.
  • Combined annual energy costs for these buildings is $202.3 billion
  • American energy usage is expected to climb by 40 percent by 2025
  • Inefficient or unnecessary energy usage in American buildings is 30 percent
  • Americans spend around $40 billion per year to cool their buildings

It is clear that American energy usage and demand can bring about greater market opportunities for commercial roof coatings.

Other Thoughts on Roof Coatings

metal roof coatingBecause the commercial roofing marketplace is already extremely competitive, commercial roof contractors must strongly position themselves to take advantage of these opportunities. For landing big jobs on sizable commercial roofs, they must present themselves as true professionals and show that they can provide exceptional value to prospective customers.

While staying competitive in often-hyper-competitive local roofing markets can often be a challenge, Choice Roof Contractor Group offers roof contractors the support they need. Members of Choice Roof Contractor Group benefit from an exclusive slew of advantages and benefits including:

  • High-quality leads that are likely to convert
  • Discounted top-quality roofing product pricing
  • Personalized, full-service support from a marketing firm focused only on commercial roofing
  • Lifetime access to highly successful and experienced commercial roofing contractors
  • Support and backing from a committed national support team
  • Strong reputation given by Choice Roof Contractor Group’s established nationwide credibility
  • Compelling marketing and sales materials that position you as a true, reliable roofing professional

Once you join Choice Roof Contractor Group, our team is 100% behind you! Call us today at 800-670-5583 to learn how our nationwide network of commercial roof contractors is changing the commercial roofing industry and building up their roofing businesses.

Why Roof Maintenance and Service Agreements Are Good for Roof Contractors

Today we examine roof maintenance and service agreements and their importance for commercial roofing contractors. We also cover the details of what makes up a roof maintenance and service agreement, and how it adds value for contractors.

Frequent roof maintenance is necessary for making sure a roof has a long lifespan and its warranty stays intact. Breaking it down, that involves regular roof inspections and roof maintenance when it is required. Both are necessary for ensuring that the roof lasts for its entire life expectancy—many studies have shown that roofs that are not regularly inspected and maintenanced last only one-third or one-half of their life expectancy. That is where roof maintenance and service agreements come into play.

More about Roof Maintenance and Service Agreements

commercial roof foamingRoof maintenance and service agreements are a key part of making sure that roofs get the long-term expert care they need. Commonly known as roof maintenance contracts, these agreements spell out details of the frequency and extent to which a roof contract should inspect and maintenance a roof. There are other important details contained within the maintenance and service agreements as well: the extent to which a roof contractor inspects a roof, the extent to which the contractor takes care of any identified problems, any timelines for getting things done, terms for the services that the contractor performs at each inspection and maintenance date, and more. In many ways, the agreement is a legal framework for a building owner’s roof maintenance program.

Perhaps surprisingly, roof maintenance contracts offer more than just legal benefits, though. They can also give roof contractors a way of getting their foot into the door with new customers. Many building owners do not think of their roof as an ongoing business expense. In many cases, a building owner may be thinking about his or her roof when it is having problems or seems to be on the brink of failure. Because it is not as involved or costly as commercial roof repairs or replacement, a commercial roof maintenance program can be of greater interest to building owners.

There are many upsides to a commercial roof maintenance program:

  • Identifies major problems before major damage occurs
  • Can increase a roof’s service life by as much as 50%
  • Can enhance a property’s value
  • Can be customized to a specific roof
  • Can provide a building owner with quotes for roofing work needed
  • Can reduce roofing expenses in the short and long terms

It is said that the average building owner will spend over $125,000 on his or her roof in a lifetime. Many building owners will pay even more than that. If the benefits of an ongoing roof maintenance program are clearly outlined, they will be likely to see the impact a roof maintenance program can have on their building’s protection and their wallet.

The Value of Roof Maintenance and Service Agreements to Roof Contractors

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From the roofing contractor’s standpoint, this represents a great opportunity for bringing on new customers. Contractors who are newer to the roofing industry can strengthen their presentation skills. They will sharpen their credibility and enhance how they are perceived professionally. Roof maintenance contracts also give newer contractors a chance to earn a building owner’s trust over time. As the contractor shows how he offers value, the building owner becomes more likely to engage him for bigger roofing needs or to recommend him to friends and business acquaintances.

Experienced roof contractors can benefit from roof maintenance and service agreements from a scaling standpoint. Companies with bigger buildings may require more time for demonstrating credibility. Some building owners may have been given unprofessional treatment in the past and may be skeptical toward roofing contractors. It may take awhile to earn their trust. Roof maintenance and service agreements represent an ongoing, noncommittal way to establish credibility and trust over time.

For experienced contractors, there is another upside for business scaling. In the construction industry, many professionals maintain tight, close-knit professional circles for doing business. These professional circles can consist of friends and partners in extensive referral networks. Many professionals are very careful about whom they recommend for these circles because of the impact such a recommendation can have on their reputation.

When a roofing contractor earns a building owner’s trust by giving authentic value, he could eventually be given the privilege of being included in the building owner’s circle. In the building industry, reputation is paramount, from local roofing markets to building markets that go beyond state borders or even across the entire United States. If you have a poor reputation, you will be hurting yourself for the long term.

Choice Roof Contractor Group and Nationwide Credibility

commercial roof foamingWith Choice Roof Contractor Group, roofing contractors with various amounts of experience can benefit from our network’s strong, nationwide reputation. Roofing contractors are carefully vetted before being accepted, and once in the network they agree to abide by high standards. 

Roofing contractors also benefit from our member-exclusive nationwide platform including:

  • Attentive, full-service support from the only nationwide marketing firm focused on commercial roofing contractors
  • Discounted pricing on leading roofing products
  • Lifetime mentorship and sales coaching should they be needed from highly experienced and successful roofing professionals
  • Complete dedication to their success from our network’s support team
  • So much more

Should you be interested in learning more about Choice Roof Contractor Group and how we can benefit you, please call us at 800-670-5583.

Understanding the Importance of Energy-Efficient Roofing Systems

energy efficient commercial roofToday we cover the importance of energy-efficient roofing systems and the role they can play in reducing energy use in commercial buildings.

Commercial and industrial buildings account for a significant amount of energy consumption, which is one reason building owners continue to look for practical ways to improve efficiency. Roofing can be one part of that effort, especially in buildings where solar heat gain contributes to cooling demand.

Energy-efficient building improvements can help reduce operating costs and environmental impact, but the actual results depend on the building, climate, insulation, HVAC system, roof assembly, and the specific improvements made.

Energy-Efficient Roofing Systems Can Be Part of the Solution

green buildingAs interest in energy-efficient buildings has grown, many property owners have looked to roofing as one area where improvements may be possible. One common option is the “cool roof,” which uses a reflective roof surface to reduce the amount of solar heat absorbed by the building.

Other approaches include white roofs and green roofs. White roofs use reflective surfaces, while green roofs incorporate vegetation and other system components designed for that type of roof assembly.

Energy-efficient roofing can offer a number of potential benefits:

  • Reduced solar heat absorption
  • Lower roof surface temperatures
  • Potential reductions in cooling demand
  • Improved indoor comfort in some buildings
  • Potential reductions in building energy use
  • Reduced environmental impact when energy consumption is lowered
  • Less temperature-related stress on some roofing materials

Actual savings and performance will vary depending on climate, insulation, roof type, building use, HVAC efficiency, reflectivity, installation quality, and other factors.

It is also important to note that energy-efficient roofing systems, especially coating-based systems, still require inspection, maintenance, and cleaning when needed. Dirt, discoloration, drainage problems, coating wear, and other conditions can reduce performance over time.

Choosing an Energy-Efficient Roofing System

cool roof systemThere are many commercial roofing products and systems designed to provide reflective or energy-efficient performance. The appropriate option depends on the existing roof, building design, climate, drainage, moisture conditions, structural condition, and the goals of the property owner.

Reflective coatings may be useful when the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration. They can create a continuous protective surface over properly prepared roof areas and may help extend the useful life of the roof while reducing solar heat absorption.

However, restoration is not appropriate for every roof. Before applying a coating system, the roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, 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, fire ratings, weather resistance, warranties, maintenance requirements, and expected service life vary by roofing system and product. These should be evaluated using current manufacturer documentation and the specific requirements of the project.

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

Contractor License Requirements

contractor licenseBuilding upon our “How to Become a Licensed Contractor” blog post, today we examine more of the details behind prerequisites for obtaining a contractor license.

Contractor License Requirements and Their Influence in the Construction Industry

Contractor license requirements differ from state to state. However, there are a few prequalification requirements that, generally speaking, are consistent across state boundaries. Consistent standards include age requirements, the level of education required, certification of U.S. citizenship or foreign residency, company registration, documentation of other occupational licensing an applicant holds, and documentation that proves one’s identity.

Generally speaking, contractor licenses have to be renewed every two years, but this also varies from state to state. Regardless of someone’s experience in the construction industry, these contractor license requirements typically apply to four groups of applicants:

  • Applicants who are new to the construction industry and looking to become more active in it
  • Applicants who have experience in some sectors of the construction industry (e.g., roofing) and are looking for certification for taking on work in other sectors
  • Highly experienced construction professionals who are renewing their licensing or certification because their expiration date has passed
  • Construction professionals or companies that will be performing work in a state that is outside their state of business registration

For companies that are looking to do work outside their state of registration, it is important to register ahead of time so that deadlines for bids or work initiation do not creep up and cause timing issues. Having deadlines such as these overlap with the time in which a building company is getting its license can create logistical, business-related, and ethical issues.

Qualifications for Becoming a Contractor

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    Now, how do the basic requirements, or pre-qualifications, for becoming a contractor play out? Consider each of these factors below.

    • Age requirements- Many states require that an applicant be at least 18 years of age upon application. At the federal level, according to the Department of Labor the Fair Labor Standards Act, 14 is the minimum age for most non-farm work. However, some state laws are “tighter” in their restrictions and set the bar at 16 years of age or higher. The reason why age requirements for getting a contractor license are higher than minimum age labor standards is because of the degree of responsibility involved with contractor certification. Many applicants for contractor licensing are people who have grown up in the construction industry and are looking now to branch out on their own. Licensing therefore becomes not just a matter of allowing contractors to be employed, but also to start and run their own businesses.
    • High school-level education or equivalent- When applying for a license, an applicant typically takes a written exam or two at some point. Many states have over 40 classifications of different contractor licenses available. The examinations for each of these licenses can be quite broad, and measure an applicant’s competency in finances, licensing and bonding, and other knowledge-intensive areas. A dedicated contractor can learn the ins-and-outs of these areas with hard work and focus. But education is a key resource in making sure that an applicant is able to understand and handle these details with competence. That is why many state laws spell out having a high school education or GED certification as one of their minimal qualifying standards.
    • Evidence of legal residency or citizenship in the United States- This is a requirement that is in line with state and federal laws for employment. It is also a measure that helps cut down on legal complications when cases of liability or other workplace issues arise. A valid ID or proof of residency will therefore be required for meeting this standard.
    • Documentation of other occupational licensing- This standard helps state agencies keep track of the construction sectors a building company is involved in. Documentation of other occupational licensing also helps to further solidify an applicant’s credibility. For some states, having an occupational license in another state can help speed up an applicant’s approval process. For instance, the state of California gives contractors who are licensed in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah the option of “reciprocity”, or being able to obtain a California contractor’s license without taking an exam. Reciprocity or similar options, though, may apply to only specific contractor classifications.
    • Company registration with the Secretary of State office or equivalent- Business registration is another key factor of obtaining approval. Aside from the marketing benefits of having a name for one’s construction business, having the company registered with the state ensures legal compliance. It also strengthens a construction business’ credibility. There are multiple options for how a company can be structured, with different financial and legal benefits and drawbacks attached to each company structure. Check with your Secretary of State office, or the agency that handles company registration, for more information and the pros and cons of each company structuring.
    • State-specific basic requirements- On top of these requirements, many states require proof of prior construction experience, a threshold for prior experience in the trade an applicant is applying for or a similar trade, bonding and criminal background checks, and reference letters from previous employers, among other things. With these requirements in place, you may have to prove that you have the financial means necessary for running a construction business, document that you do have on-the-job experience in a given trade, and show that you have personal credibility for offering services in that trade to begin with. Liability insurance, worker compensation, and other risk management plans and measures may also be required depending on the state’s laws. In some states, property insurance and other specialized insurance coverage may also be required.

    After the Basic Requirements for Contractor Licensing

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    Should you meet these basic requirements, you will have to undergo an exam or even a few to prove competency. Training courses and other related classes or proof of competency may be required as well.

    Because the contractor licensing application process can be so detailed, it may help to get assistance and verify the requirements that apply in the state where you intend to work.

    Choice Roof Contractor Group is a nationwide alliance of independently owned commercial roofing contractors. Members benefit from shared knowledge, sales and marketing resources, professional connections, and the experience of a larger contractor network.

    If you are interested in commercial roofing, you can learn more about the group and its membership benefits and support.

    Be sure to check out our e-book about making it big in commercial roofing, too.

    Commercial Roof Replacement or Roof Coating?

    roof coatingToday we briefly examine a couple of common pros and cons of commercial roof replacement and roof coatings.

    All types of commercial roofs have their strengths and weaknesses. Metal, EPDM, and other commercial roofing systems can provide long service when properly designed, installed, and maintained, but all roofing systems eventually require attention as they age and are exposed to weather.

    When a commercial roof system does have problems, building owners may think it best to replace the entire roof. In some cases that may prove to be necessary—a commercial roof may have undergone so much damage or deterioration that replacement is the appropriate option. In other cases, however, repair or restoration may be a practical alternative when the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration.

    So, when should a building owner consider one option over the other? We take a look at some of the factors below.

    Should I Go with Commercial Roof Replacement or Roof Coating?

    To begin, it is important to consider the additional work that may be involved in roof replacement. Depending on the existing system and project requirements, a commercial replacement job may include:

    • Old roof tear-off costs
    • Old roofing material disposal costs
    • Landfill or disposal fees
    • Additional labor
    • Costs associated with new roofing materials
    • Potential disruption to building or business operations

    A new roof will also require inspection and maintenance over time. Like any roofing system, its future performance will depend on the materials, design, installation, weather exposure, drainage, maintenance, and other project conditions.

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    Our professional commercial roof contractors provide:

    • Roof maintenance & repair
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    With a commercial roof restoration, some tear-off and disposal costs may be avoided when the existing roof is a suitable candidate. Coating-based restoration systems can also involve less disruption than a complete tear-off and replacement in appropriate situations.

    Roof restoration is not appropriate for every roof, however. Before applying a coating system, the existing roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, damaged or failed roofing materials, and other conditions that may need to be corrected first.

    For example, if a commercial roof has extensive deterioration, widespread moisture beneath the system, significant structural problems, or damage that cannot reasonably be addressed through repair or restoration, replacement may be the better option. A coating should not simply be applied over serious underlying problems in an attempt to postpone necessary corrective work.

    Roof Replacement – The Bottom Line

    Roof replacement can involve greater cost, material use, labor, and disruption than restoration, so it makes sense to determine first whether the existing roof can reasonably be repaired or restored. However, replacement should not automatically be treated as a last resort. There are situations where the condition of the roof makes replacement the most appropriate long-term solution.

    When the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, elastomeric roof coatings or other restoration systems may help extend its useful life. The appropriate approach depends on the existing roof system, its condition, moisture levels, drainage, the building’s needs, and the specifications of the proposed restoration system.

    Roof Replacement or Restoration Options

    Add Decades of New Life
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    Commercial roofing projects can involve many different repair, restoration, coating, and replacement systems. The appropriate system should be selected based on the existing roof condition, building requirements, climate, drainage, applicable manufacturer specifications, and the expected performance of the proposed roofing solution.

    Reflective roof coatings can reduce the amount of solar heat absorbed by a roof, and some coating systems may be recoated or renewed as part of an ongoing maintenance strategy. Actual energy performance, warranty terms, service life, and maintenance requirements vary by system and project.

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

    Choice Roof Contractor Group

    restored commercial roofChoice Roof Contractor Group is a nationwide alliance of independently owned commercial roofing contractors. Members meet the group’s current membership requirements and benefit from shared knowledge, sales and marketing resources, professional connections, and the experience of a larger contractor network.

    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 your commercial roof and discuss the repair, restoration, coating, or replacement options that may be appropriate for your building.

    Commercial Roofing Spray Foam Equipment

    Today’s blog post covers spray foam roofing equipment and its use in commercial roofing. We have previously looked at market opportunities for spray foam roofing, spray foam roofing myths and problems, and the benefits of spray foam roofing.

    Spray Foam Equipment and Commercial Roofing Today

    Spray foam proportioning and application equipment

    Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing has been used for decades. Even with its track record, however, SPF is not one of the most common commercial roof systems. Many older buildings still have built-up roofing systems made with layers of asphalt and reinforcing materials, often finished with gravel or another protective surface. These systems can provide long service lives, but like all roofs, they eventually deteriorate from ultraviolet exposure, thermal movement, weather, moisture, and age.

    Building owners seeking a restoration or reroofing solution may consider a commercial spray foam roof system. When properly designed, installed, and maintained, an SPF roof can provide long-term protection while adding insulation to the roof assembly. It is also relatively lightweight, which can be an advantage when compared with some replacement systems. The existing roof must first be inspected to determine whether it is a suitable candidate.

    Commercial roof contractors need specialized equipment to apply spray polyurethane foam. A typical setup may include a proportioner or reactor, heated hoses, transfer pumps, a spray gun, a generator, an air compressor, safety equipment, and a properly configured spray rig.

    Similar equipment may be used for interior spray foam insulation and commercial roofing, but the materials, application settings, protective coatings, safety procedures, and project requirements can differ. Contractors should receive appropriate training and follow the material and equipment manufacturers’ instructions for each application.

    Some suppliers offer complete equipment packages designed to help contractors organize and transport the components needed at a jobsite. Depending on the system selected, useful equipment features may include:

    • Consistent control of material temperature, pressure, and proportioning
    • Monitoring and diagnostic tools that help with troubleshooting
    • A jobsite-ready layout that makes equipment easier to transport and operate
    • Controls that support a consistent spray pattern and application rate
    • Automated setup or material-recipe recall, when available
    • Efficient generator and equipment operation
    • Accessible maintenance support and replacement parts

    These features can help a properly trained contractor apply foam consistently and manage equipment operation more effectively.

    Why Spray Foam Roofing?

    Contractor applying spray polyurethane foam roofingDespite some of the myths surrounding it, spray foam roofing remains a useful option for suitable commercial buildings. Both roofing contractors and building owners may benefit from it when the system is properly specified, installed, and maintained.

    For roofing contractors, spray foam roofing offers several advantages:

    • It can be applied over certain existing roof surfaces after proper inspection and preparation, potentially reducing tear-off
    • Materials are pumped to the roof through hoses, which may reduce some of the material handling associated with other systems
    • Its seamless application can simplify work around certain penetrations and roof details
    • Foam thickness can be adjusted to help improve slope and drainage, although underlying drainage problems still need to be addressed
    • Localized damage can often be repaired, and the protective coating can be renewed as part of a maintenance program
    • It gives properly trained contractors another restoration or reroofing option to offer commercial customers

    Building owners may benefit in several ways as well:

    • The insulation can reduce heat transfer through the roof assembly and help lower heating and cooling demands
    • The completed system may help reduce sound transmission through the roof
    • A reflective protective coating can reduce the amount of solar heat absorbed by the roof surface
    • The system can help limit air leakage when penetrations, transitions, and other details are properly installed
    • Its monolithic application eliminates many of the field seams found in membrane systems, although no roof is completely immune to leaks
    • The system is lightweight compared with many conventional roof assemblies
    • Periodic inspections, repairs, and recoating can help extend its useful service life

    When the system is appropriate for the building and the work is performed correctly, a commercial property can remain protected while benefiting from the roof’s insulating properties. Satisfied customers can also lead to referrals and future business opportunities for the contractor.

    Where Can I Get Spray Foam Equipment?

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    Choice Roof Contractor Group helps commercial roofing contractors make professional connections, exchange practical knowledge, and receive partner introductions as they evaluate equipment and new service opportunities. Contractors comparing spray foam equipment should consider the supplier’s training, technical support, replacement-parts availability, equipment service, material compatibility, and experience with commercial roofing applications.

    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 a commitment to the group’s values. Members also benefit from shared knowledge, sales and marketing resources, professional connections, and ongoing support.

    Call 800-670-5583 or learn more about our nationwide commercial roofing contractor network.