The Benefits of our Contractor Network Referral Program

Today, we discuss the benefits of a roof contractor network referral program and how it helps those in construction acquire more leads in their local roofing markets.

network memberOn the whole, today’s tight economic conditions are making commercial roof installation, repair, and restoration service opportunities even more competitive for local roofing contractors. The slowly recovering U.S. economy and its uncertain implications for the future are motivating business owners to tighten down on their budgets. As a result, many business owners are avoiding expenditures on things that do not appear to immediately need to be addressed.

One of those things on which many are diverting their attention and spending is their commercial roofs. Because many local business owners do not consider their roof to be the top priority, they might be opting to have it taken care of at a later date.

In the face of increasingly competitive job bidding, roofing contractors can derive great value from a contractor network referral program. Simply put, a contractor network referral program is a lead generation service that is usually created and managed by a roofing contractor network at a local, state, or national level. When a lead is pulled in, he or she is referred to the roofing contracting member who is closest to his or her building location.

At Choice Roof Contractor Group, we offer a nationwide lead generation service and commercial roof systems training exclusive to our membership. Below is a discussion of the benefits we offer with this program.

The Benefits of Our Lead Generation and More

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    1) You get access to quality leads.

    Choice Roof Contractor Group’s marketing team is constantly publishing content that is relevant to the interests of commercial building owners and managers. As a result, the traffic we bring to our website has greater chances for sales conversion, as they are likely looking for content or information related to a roofing problem they are facing.

    2) Qualified members are given leads that are located in their areas.

    When we capture information from a lead over the phone or on our online, interactive map, we refer that lead to the closest network member nearby. Because we are completely committed to our members’ success and strict quality standards, this is a standard that we stand by strongly.

    3) You are associated with a highly credible professional roofing association by the prospective customer.

    When you are given the name and information of a lead that we have gathered, you are being connected with a prospective customer who is likely to engage your roofing services. Upon contacting him or her, since you have been identified with our organization, the lead will automatically associate you with our network’s professionalism and commitment to excellence, thereby increasing your chances for locking in the sale.

    4) You are offered complementary extensive sales coaching by our top contractors for helping you close more sales.

    While identifying and pulling in a lead is only half of the sales process, the other half is actually convincing a business owner that you are the right fit for his or her needs. To ensure that you are able to fully explain the benefits of the Conklin products we use and our network’s value proposition, you gain access to our top roof contractors, who are highly successful roofing professionals. They will give you great insights and techniques for closing a sale each time.

    Should you ever have a question or concern, our top contractors are committed to making themselves available for your benefit.

    5) Our roofing contractor network makes sure you are well-represented with first-rate sales materials and marketing and sales services.

    Every successful roofing contractor can speak of the importance of professional sales materials as well as comprehensive, effective marketing and sales operations. At Choice Roof Contractor Group, we make sure our members enjoy access to both, so that they do not have to worry about them and can focus on growing on their businesses.

    Professional, engaging sales materials will grab the attention of a prospective customer the moment you put the material into his or her hands. Plus, our marketing and sales team will ensure that you stand out, drawing upon their years of successful marketing and branding efforts. With all of these network benefits and resources in hand, you will truly stand out and be marked for greater success.

    Our Group’s Commitment to Excellence

    In addition to the tremendous benefits listed above, we strengthen and maintain the professionalism and integrity of our organization by our members’ use of Conklin roofing products.

    Contractors join our group for:

    • Network-backed Guarantees
    • Support from Fellow Roofers
    • Group Discount Purchasing
    • Shared Marketing Strategies
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    Having been applied billions of square feet of commercial roofs across the United States since 1977, Conklin is highly respected and has an unbeatable track record. Plus, since the company’s roofing products extend so many benefits to commercial building owners the moment they are applied, Conklin roofing products now stand out for their quality, high performance ability, and overall appeal.

    To correctly use these products and provide warranties, all of our group members go through Conklin roof systems training. At this advanced training program, contractors are comprehensively schooled in how to use each of Conklin’s industry-leading roofing systems and given tips for selling their benefits to prospects. This training enables all of our members to become highly trained in commercial roofing in a short time, and to perform according to the same standards of excellence.

    Ultimately, that ensures that our members’ customers, no matter where they are located, can be assured that they are getting the same across-the-board, top-quality service that we are known for.

    5 Great Ways Roofing Contractors Should Use Social Media

    In today’s world, social media has grown so prevalent in usage that it is a must for local businesses to maintain their competitive edge. Social media has made it possible for just about anyone, including a small business, to engage thousands of people effortlessly. As a result, many local businesses have begun realizing the importance of this trend and adapting their efforts accordingly.

    Contractors join our group for:

    • Network-backed Guarantees
    • Support from Fellow Roofers
    • Group Discount Purchasing
    • Shared Marketing Strategies
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    Consider this: industry estimates say that 1 out of every 4 minutes spent online is spent on social media. More than half of users of Facebook, just one of the popular social media platforms today, sign in daily. From a local business’ perspective, the statistics are equally compelling. Social media lead conversion rates have been found to be 13% higher than the average lead conversion rate, and 79% of marketers have reported that they acquire higher-quality leads from social media marketing.

    Naturally, this applies to roofing contractors and their marketing efforts as well. But the world of social media is big, and using social media platforms can appear to be difficult and frustrating. How should a commercial roof contractor use these communications avenues for full effectiveness, then?

    Below are 5 tips on how to effectively market residential and commercial roofing services on social media for greater outreach efforts, and, more importantly, results that matter.

    1)    Showcase your work with pictures of completed projects as well as projects that are being completed.

    For residential and commercial roofing companies alike, this tip is a great way to show off the quality of their work. Many homeowners and business owners will ask or search for pictures to see what a completed project looks like, and social media is a great way to give them easy access to those pictures.

    It is important to ensure that all of your photos are professional and capture workers when they are dressed professionally and working. Take great quality photos, and you will definitely attract the attention of business owners and commercial building owners on account of your demonstrated service efficacy and professional standards.

    2)    Announce your company updates or developments, charity donations, customer testimonials, stories featuring your roofing company, or special deals.

    callSocial media offers a great opportunity for you to promote your commercial roof contracting business. Do not be afraid to let customers and prospects know of any new company updates, charities or causes you are sponsoring, positive customer testimonials you have received, or stories or articles that mention your roofing company.

    Because they are often time-sensitive. Special deals, such as a limited-time discount on metal roof repairs, are yet another great aspect to mention on your social media platforms as well. Implementing a roofing company blog and regularly updating it will likewise help you boost your exposure online. However, take care not to overpromote yourself, as you will turn off your followers, see a decrease in your online community, and undermine your marketing efforts online. Ultimately, the following maxim is a good rule of thumb to remember: compelling content that is interesting and satisfies your online audience’s questions or interests is king.

    3)    Promote pages from your websites by posting them on social media, and use unique sentences to describe them.

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      Since search engines such as Google or Bing are increasingly using social media for their results, it makes sense to promote pages from your website on social media with unique sentences as descriptions. Again, compelling content is best, so coming up with and posting a sentence that is unique but professional will help in gaining your online audience’s attention and driving more traffic to your website.

      Again, overpromotion may be a temptation, so avoid it to steer clear of the bad effects that will come as a result of it. Instituting a healthy balance of content that is self-promoting as well as driven toward or focused on your audience’s interests makes for a recipe for success.

      4)    Personalize your social media marketing with direct message to your audience, including well wishes, holiday greetings, notes of appreciation for their continued interest and support, and related themes.

      Just like how personalized service and attention is a surefire winner for roofing contractors, sharing a message tailored specifically to your audience is a nearly guaranteed way of gaining positive responses from your online followers. Adding this touch of personalization, especially during holiday seasons, is a great way to interact with social media users.

      This theme of personalization is especially appropriate, considering how it ties into our final and most important tip.

      5)    Update your social media profiles often, and interact with your online followers. Do not stop at just posting interesting content.

      Even though it is based in the digital world, social media draws upon our natural desire to communicate with one another. Updating your social media profiles often will show your online followers that you are still in business and care about maintaining their interest. Plus, you will build greater credibility with your followers as you do it.

      To sum it up, post compelling content frequently, do not be afraid to promote yourself but refrain from overdoing it, personalize your message, and interact with your followers. Following these tips, over time you will build greater awareness of your company online – and generate high-quality leads for conversion in the physical world.

      Why a Choice Roof Contractor is the Best Choice

      callAccording to the building products research firm Principia, U.S. demand for commercial roofing will increase to about 6 billion square feet of roofing products valued at around $5 billion in 2014. That is something of an indicator of how extensive the commercial roofing industry is nationwide, with as many as dozens of commercial roofing contracting companies competing for bids in the same local markets.

      It is clear that business owners have many options to which they can turn for servicing their roofs. However, not all commercial roofing contractors are equal in their service efficacy, cost competitiveness, or professionalism. This certainly begs the question: what gives one contractor a competitive edge over another?

      In this post, we will examine the answers to this question and showcase why members of Choice Roof Contractors offer business owners the greatest value.

      What Is at Stake?

      When choosing a contractor for his or her needs, a business or commercial building owner must take into account quite a few factors.

      These include:

      • Is the roofing contractor licensed, bonded, and insured?
      • What is the contractor’s local reputation?
      • What are other business owners or building owners saying about the contractor and his services?
      • What factors does a contractor point to as evidence of his expertise?
      • How long does the contractor take to complete work?
      • Does he stick to the deadlines he is given or within which he pledges to complete work?
      • What roofing products does the contractor use?
      • What roof types does the contractor handle and know about?
      • Does the contractor’s demeanor give assurance of his or her professionalism and expertise?

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      Our group works together to provide:

      • Larger Base of Knowledge
      • Group-Wide Accountability
      • One Source for All Projects
      • Set Standards for Service
      • More Peace of Mind
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      These are only a host of questions that must be answered. Above all, nothing beats careful research, insightful questioning, and deliberate consideration in determining whether a commercial roofing contractor is a good fit for your needs. Roofing contractors that are part of a nationwide association, however, often come with several factors that substantiate his professionalism and expertise. Things like across-the-board quality standards and a national reputation are such factors that can demonstrate a contractor’s suitability for your roofing needs.

      At Choice Roof Contractor Group, we offer a set of criteria that confirm our members’ efficiency, expertise, and effectiveness. A few practical reasons for why our members offer unbeatable value can be found at the commercial roofing services page.

      The Choice Roof Contractor Advantage

      As part of their membership, our commercial roof contractors pledge to perform at high quality standards so that our nationwide reputation remains strong. All of our members are fully committed to satisfying your needs while holding themselves to the highest standards of professionalism and care. In other words, that means you receive first-rate care and personalized attention to your needs at all times, from project bid to clean-up.

      The Choice Roof Contractor Difference

      callAnother factor for why Choice Roof Contractors stand out is that they are factory trained with Conklin roofing products. Used for over 40+ years, these roofing products have emerged as some of the highest performing building materials in the commercial roofing industry today. Billions of square feet of Conklin roofing systems have been applied to building rooftops in that time – an indicator of the trust business owners across America have in this brand.

      Another factor that no other commercial roofing contractor can claim: suppose that for some reason, your contractor is unable to complete the work he began on your roof. That can certainly create a dilemma. With Choice Roof Contractor Group, however, all of our members are familiar with the same roofing systems. Plus, they are mentored by leading successful contractors who have the ins-and-outs of proper, efficient product installation and application.

      In other words, based on our quality standards and extensive training, if one Choice Roof Contractor is unable to complete your work, another can step in and fill his shoes. The work will be done according to the same high standards, and you will reap the same full benefits in the end.

      Strong Non-Prorated Warranties

      Backing our members and their superior workmanship are industry-beating guarantees from Conklin. Namely, the roofing services they offer come with exceptional, non-prorated warranties from the manufacturer that cover 100% of labor and material costs. These warranties can last for up to 20 years, and they vary based on the roofing product that is used. The warranty’s “non-prorated” status means that during the entire warranty period, all costs of dealing with future issues are covered, period.

      The Choice Roof Contractor Commitment to Energy Savings

      From the moment your new roof is applied, the energy costs in your building are dramatically reduced. Conklin roofing systems create a “cool roof” that drastically reduces the heat on the surface of your roof by as much as 80 degrees. Just think of what that can do for your energy bills. A cooler roof, in short, means a cooler building. Air conditioning systems do not have to work as hard to keep the building cool, meaning you save on A/C costs, save on equipment maintenance and repair costs, and do your part to keep the environment clean.

      In fact, many of the Conklin roofing systems have been shown to pay for themselves in just 5 to 7 years in the energy savings they generate.

      Summing It Up

      When you choose a Choice Roof Contractor, you can rest assured that you are truly getting the best. All of our members receive extensive training and use the best roofing products in the industry. Choosing a Choice Roof Contractor is therefore the smart choice, and you and your building will know it for the short and long terms.

      Surface Preparation for Roof Coating

      Once you as commercial roof contractor have correctly identified the composition of the substrate, which we covered in our previous blog titled “Commercial Roof Substrates Overview”, and have determined it to be sound and dry, the next step is repairing flaws and preparing the surface for coating.

      Above all, the application surface must be smooth, free of grease, wax, dirt, contaminants, moisture and other matter, which would interfere with adhesion. It must also be free of loose roofing material or other debris.

      When preparing your substrate, you will need certain tools and equipment, depending upon the substrate in question. A complete listing of equipment used in roof preparation can be found at the following link: Roofing Tools and Equipment List. Consult this list for a guide of needed rental tools before you begin surface preparation.

      Proper Aging of the Roof

      Contractors join our group for:

      • Network-backed Guarantees
      • Support from Fellow Roofers
      • Group Discount Purchasing
      • Shared Marketing Strategies
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      Before repairing or coating a built-up asphalt roof, one must consider its age. Before applying the coating over recently-applied asphalt roofs, it is necessary to allow the asphalt to dry and cure properly. Asphalt must be free of oil or solvent surface residues in order to permit proper bonding of the coating. Consult the proper curing times chart for curing times. Under poor weather conditions, longer periods may be required.

      Proper Curing Times

      New hot mop roofs                                         30 days
      New cold process roofs                                  60 days
      Old roof recoated with cut-back asphalt        30 days

      Preparation of Built-Up Roofs

      Built-up roofs are prone to alligatoring, splitting, blistering, delamination, gravel turnover, exposed felts, and other signs of age. Exposure to ultraviolet light over time gradually causes loss of flexibility, encouraging brittleness and the inability to tolerate the normal expansion and contraction that occurs on a roof. Severe deterioration (more than 30%) requires tear-off and replacement with an approved substrate. Read the following brief descriptions and illustrations of many of the common problems and the treatments required prior to normal cleaning procedures.

      Alligatoring

      An alligatored roof is one in which the surface is severely weathered, usually with cracks that are criss-crossing and running in various directions. This is the sign of an old, brittle roof, with limited years of service left. Applying a new system over an alligatored roof will merely mask the problem and will not hinder the deterioration underneath. Alligatored roofs should be removed completely and replaced with new materials before a Conklin roofing system is applied. If the owner does not agree to this expense, you may want to reconsider taking the job, as the performance of your new system over this deteriorated substrate is questionable.

      Splitting

      Splits in a roof can result from a number of conditions. It could be that substantial movement has occurred in the roof deck, causing stress to the roof and resulting in cracks. This possibility bears careful investigation. If the whole building is subject to continued structural movement, your coating will almost certainly crack and fail prematurely.

      If structural movement is not apparent and the deck appears sound, the roof itself could be nearing the end of its life expectancy. In this case, splitting is a result of the roof becoming dry, brittle and intolerant of the normal expansion and contraction of the roof deck. A complete tear-off may be necessary.

      If the splitting is evident only in isolated areas, the cracked areas need to be cut out from the roof deck and replaced with new, stable materials. With the material removed, you should conduct a moisture check to determine if water has seeped in through the cracks down to the insulation. If so, the wet insulation must also be replaced.

      Blistering

      Blistering is a sign of trapped moisture. All blistered areas must be removed with the underlying insulation checked for dampness and replaced if necessary. An approved roofing material such as polyurethane foam or boardstock must then be used to fill in the void before coating with a Conklin system.

      Gravel Turnover

      On thick built-up asphalt roofs, the aggregate frequently sinks below the surface, bringing the asphalt to the top. This is indicative of excessive thickness and weight, either in isolated areas or over the entire roof surface. All such areas must be replaced with approved materials before coating.

      Felt Exposure

      This condition indicates that the asphalt has eroded away completely from certain areas, leaving a dry, brittle and unstable surface. Any portion of the roof where felt is visible must be removed. Replacement with approved roofing materials is required prior to coating.

      Delamination

      Delamination can refer to the separation of the various layers of a built-up roof or can refer to the actual pulling apart of the lamination of a plywood panel. In either case, an unacceptable substrate condition exists. The affected areas must be removed and replaced with approved materials.

      Removal/Replacement Guidelines

      Some rules to keep in mind whenever replacing faulty or deteriorated roof sections are:

      • Always use approved roofing materials in your replacements.
      • Ensure that the new surface is uniform; this will simplify the applications of your coating product.
      • Avoid the use of caulking compounds to fill in large gaps or voids; caulk may extend drying times.
      • After removing any portion of a roof, the same rules apply for the cleaning and preparation of the surface. Any dust or debris resulting from the repair procedure must be removed. The whole surface must be cleaned and dried before coating can take place.

      Preparation of Alligatored, Built-Up Roofs

      Alligatored roofs are nearing the end of their life span. Exposure to ultraviolet light and temperature extremes have made them a brittle and unstable substrate, which cannot be directly coated with any Conklin roofing product. Alternate methods include:

      • A complete tear-off of the built-up roof down to the original deck.
      • Installation of a divorcing membrane such as Conklin-approved isocyanurate insulation board to provide a stable substrate for the coating, prepared according to requirements for boardstock.
      • Installation of approved plywood by the American Plywood Association (APA); AC, BC, or CC plugged exterior sheathing (15/32” thick), mechanically fastened to the deck, then prepared according to requirements for plywood.
      • Sprayed-in-place polyurethane foam over the built-up roof.

      Graveled Built-Up Roofs

      Direct application of Conklin systems over a graveled built-up roof are difficult applications due to the poor adhesion and excessive amount of material needed to develop a continuous membrane on this irregular surface. Even calculating the true surface area and the amount of product to use is a challenge since gravel can increase the actual surface area by up to 75%. In addition, the likelihood of pinholes occurring in such an application is high due to the roughness of the surface.

      As with the smooth built-up roof, it is important to recognize the possibility of splitting in the substrate, leading to splits in the coating system itself.

      New Substrates Over a Graveled Built-Up Roof

      A preferred alternative to attempting to repair and prepare a graveled built-up roof is to remove gravel and install a new, sound substrate over the existing roof.

      The installation of a new, properly fastened substrate will “divorce” the new system and protect it from splits, which may occur in the graveled built-up roof underneath. With the addition of insulation board or foam you can expect increased energy savings, plus better drainage through added slope.

      Preparing Boardstock or Plywood

      The installation of boardstock or plywood is a common solution to the problem of unsuitable or unstable substrates such as wood decks, graveled built-up roofs and certain concretes.

      Preparation of these two materials for direct application of a Conklin roofing system is as follows:

      All joints and seams must be caulked and taped with Conklin SpunFlex fabric. For installation of polyurethane foam or the Hy-Crown single-ply membrane over boardstock, the caulking and taping procedure is not necessary.

      The taped boardstock or plywood installation should be checked for surface dust or debris and swept if necessary before any coatings begin. Check for moisture content if there has been rain or heavy dewfall. These materials must be completely dry before coating.

      Preparing a Metal Roof

      When preparing a metal roof for the application of the MR System, the following procedures must be followed:

      • Inspect the roof for signs of surface rust and remove by wire brush, sand blasting, manual scraping or acid etching.
      • Acid-etch surface of galvanized metal with a 1:20 solution of Rust Off rust and oxide remover and water to clean all conditions, which will affect bond of roof membrane. Follow with a thorough water rinse. Power wash and scrub all other surfaces.
      • Clean until free of loos, flaky rust, and prime whole roof with Conklin’s Metal Ready Universal rust-inhibiting primer.
      • On new exterior metal surfaces, remove oil contaminants by wiping the metal with a coarse cloth and mineral spirits. Conklin coatings require all galvanized surfaces to be “etched” (roughened) first. Most surfaces should be allowed to “weather-etch” by leaving exposed and uncoated for three to six months. As an alternative to weather etching, clean the metal with an acid such as Conklin’s Rust Off cleaner.
      • Retighten all fasteners and secure substrates firmly. Replace fasteners or washers where missing. When prior movement has enlarged the fastener hole, install a new oversized fastener to effectively tighten and secure the deck substrate. Kwik Kaulk all exposed fastener heads and seams wider than 1/8”
      • Just prior to application, remove all dirt, dust and other contaminants by brushing, vacuuming or power blowing.

      Preparing a Concrete Roof

      Concrete systems may take many forms. Most frequently used as a decking material, concrete can also serve as the substrate for your roofing system. However, there are special requirements for its successful preparation.

      First, check the surface for “efflorescing,” indicated by the presence of a white, powdery material (salt deposits), which has leached to the surface. If this condition exists, the surface must be etched with a ten to fifteen percent solution of muriatic acid and water, then rinsed with water to remove all traces of mineral deposits. The roof should then be allowed to dry thoroughly, verified by some method of moisture detection, before application of a Conklin product.

      Another phenomenon frequently encountered is “spalling,” the chipping, cracking or peeling of the top layer of concrete. In this case, all loose or chipped material must be removed and any depressions filled with an appropriate cement patching material, which must then be allowed to dry.

      Small cracks in concrete surfaces are a common occurrence, due to the seasonal expansion and contraction of roofing materials. Large cracks may indicate more serious structural damage to the building and this possibility must be thoroughly investigated before proceeding. Minor cracks of ¼” or less should be filled with Kwik Kaulk acrylic or 360-S caulking compound. Larger cracks must be carefully re-grouted and struck smooth. All patching treatments must be allowed to dry thoroughly before any Conklin coating is applied.

      Cleaning the Roof

      Assuming that all necessary repairs have been made to an existing substrate, you may proceed to the next step in surface preparation, cleaning the roof.

      Many types of equipment are available to provide the best possible cleaning for each roof.

      In general, a dry method of preparation is initially recommended. Professional sweepers, power brooms, scratchers, power blowers, spudders and similar roofing equipment should be used to remove any loose material from the roof.

      Removal of gravel from a roof is most easily accomplished when the asphalt is cool, such as in the early morning hours. Vigorous manual sweeping assists in this procedure. On a built-up or graveled roof, a high-pressure washer is extremely effective in removing embedded dirt. However, it is essential when using a wet method to first seal all cracks or holes in the existing roof prior to washing, so that no water seeps into the roof or insulation beneath.

      It is crucial that cleaning be thorough and complete. The longevity and performance of your roofing system depends on it!

      Preparing a Weathered Conklin Roof

      You can prepare a weathered Coklin acrylic roof for recoating by using Conklin’s Weathered Acrylic Roof Cleaner (WAC). WAC II is a highly-concentrated cleaner designed specifically for cleaning weathered Conklin acrylic roofing systems prior to recoating. The product is applied through a power washer or airless sprayer to thoroughly clean all dirt from roof surfaces in one step, followed by a water rinse. Extremely dirty areas may require scrubbing with a stiff bristle broom to remove all dirt. WAC II increases surface adhesion, enabling you to apply a new top coat over an older Conklin acrylic system without needing to apply a new base coat.

      Commercial Roof Maintenance and Repair

      Once a roof has been fully restored or replaced with a roofing system, the most important part of the project lies ahead: this is at least annual inspections and in some parts of the country (high UV exposure, coastal climates and areas subjected to high winds) semi-annual inspections.

      It should be noted that the best time for these inspections are spring and fall (just after the winter and just before the next rainy season). These inspection agreements should take the form of a contract, which specifies a time frame for these inspections.

      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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      These inspections will allow the owner immediate access to view what has been done to the commercial building and will allow for precise budgeting for repairs. In the event that an insurance claim needs to be filled, it provides leverage should any disputes arise.

      An inspection need not take an entire working day but these key components need to be verified and documented:

      • Refill the pitch pockets
      • Repair leaks on a warranty roof
      • Strip in pitch pockets
      • Recaulk & seal flashings
      • Clean and check drains
      • Secure copings and counter flashings
      • Coat entire roof with White Acrylic or Aluminum as appropriate (These will ensure that the proper reflectivity is being maintained)
      • Clean loose debris including branches, leaves and dirt
      • Add granules

      The building owner also has obligations in this process:

      • Maintain accurate and historical roof records
      • Control roof access
      • Report leaks or other roof damage immediately
      • Ensure routine maintenance
      • Use professional roofing contractors for all major maintenance
      • Collaboration with one of our commercial roofing contractor before the addition of new penetrations or equipment

      There is not one solution for all roofs as all roofs are not created equally. As professionals, our commercial roof contractors know about the potential problems with any given roofing system and can share this expertise with the owner, so that he or she can make an informed decision.

      When considering solutions to the owner’s problem, a Conklin coating may not always be the best answer for repair. The coatings solutions should be focused on these three categories:

      1. Functional (traditional) coatings are considered low technology. Similar chemically to the original roofing material, they are designed to prevent direct exposure to UV, atmospheric elements and water. Examples of functional coatings are fibered asphalt, coal tar coatings and bituminous emulsions. One of their benefits is that, typically, in-house personnel can perform these function to minimize the cost and potential scheduling issues.

      call2. Reflective Coatings protect and extend the life of the roof system by reflecting the solar radiation before it reaches the roof surface, potentially reducing the building energy costs. A Florida Energy Study indicates that cool roofs – those that reflect the sun’s rays – can reduce energy costs by ten to twenty percent for large buildings with moderate insulation. These materials use either aluminum metal or white titanium dioxide pigments and are considered moderate to high-tech products. Please keep in mind that these materials tend to be more sensitive to the exact type of roof membrane they are applied to, the cleanliness and preparation of the roof surface, and to weather conditions while the coating cures. These acrylics are not intended for areas that will be or are subjected to standing water. This is also the category of coatings that contains those materials that retard flame spread.

      3. Maintenance Systems are professionally applied combinations of coatings and reinforcing fabrics that essentially create a secondary waterproofing membrane attached to the first.

      Even maintenance systems cannot fix a failed roof. By utilizing a proactive, regular maintenance program that includes the judicious use of appropriate coatings, managers can extend the useful life of a new or existing roof membrane at a much lower life-cycle cost than an approach of neglect, repair and re-roof.

      Repairs of Conklin Systems

      As part of the Maintenance program, repairs to an existing Conklin Roofing System will need to be done. Below are some general recommendations for typical repairs.

      Acrylic Coatings

      callPreparation of the Conklin Roofing System coatings would essentially be the same. Our Choice Roof Contractors would first apply (undiluted) Conklin Weathered Acrylic Cleaner (WAC II) at a rate of 400 to 500 square feet per gallon taking care to thoroughly agitate the surface to remove all contaminants. This should be done with water, and a stiff bristle brush.

      The delaminated area should be allowed to dry and additional coating applied in all of those areas that are damaged, and thinner or not coated overlapping the damaged or delaminated areas at least 4” on each side.

      If the original substrate was a BUR or asphaltic material Prime Time, at the prescribed coverage rate, would first need to be used on those exposed areas. If pinholing or splits have occurred in the coating, the pinholed areas should be cleaned with WAC II, treated with Kwik Kaulk and recoated with the appropriate Conklin Top Coat at a rate of one gallon per square. A coat over the entire surface will bring back the reflectivity values, save energy and ensure the maximum energy savings.

      Sheet Goods

      The repair of Flexion would:

      • Utilize a thorough cleaning of the existing membrane with WAC II cleaner.
      • The patch is then placed over the top of the damaged area (with at least a 3” overlap) and heat welded in place.

      The repair of a Hy-Crown system has a couple of options:

      • Utilize the patch kit of cut the appropriate size patch from the Hy-Crown that is available.

      a. Clean the area to be patched with Xylene.

      b. Cut a patch from the material provided (circular) with no notched edges and at least 3” bigger than the damaged area.

      c. Wipe the existing area with xylene solvent as many times as necessary until the Hy-Crown membrane has developed a “tack.”

      d. Liberally apply seaming adhesive to the back side of the patch and utilize the heat welder to finish the job.

      For more information, talk to your Choice Roof Contractor, a senior mentor, or one of our support representatives.

      How to Tell if a Roof can be Restored with a Coating System

      Before you decide if you would prefer coating your commercial roof rather than replacing the entire thing, it is important to make sure that your roof is suitable for a restoring project. If your roof is not suitable, your entire property can get damaged in the long run. You will also need to make sure that the company you hire has a reputation for excellent services. If not, their shoddy work will cost you money and ruin your property at the same time.

      Important factors to consider before roof restoration

      Here are the factors that determine whether your roof can be coated or not:

      Is moisture present?

      Have Questions?800-670-5583
      One of the most important things to do before restoring a roof is to check whether there is any moisture trapped under the current roofing system. This is a problem that is caused by improper re-cover. If moisture is present, further investigation will be required; if moisture is present and its level is high, replacing the entire roofing system could be a more effective and cost-efficient option.

      How many roof layers are present?
      This is a question that roofing companies often ask before they attempt to coat a roof. It is an important factor in determining whether a roof can be restored. Building codes nowadays permit two roofing systems that are non-ballasted on one structure. This has to do with the weight of the materials used for roofing.

      Is the roofing layer attached well to the substrate?

      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
      Request Free Estimate
      Ensuring that a roofing layer is well-secured to the roofing substrate is critical for making certain that the existing commercial roof’s integrity remains intact. If the layer is not well-attached, coating a roof can lead to even more pronounced issues with the roof’s integrity later on or even heightened requirements for repairs. The presence of moisture is the leading cause of a roofing layer being detached or less secure than it should be from its substrate counterpart.

      Before you opt to restore your commercial roof rather than replace it, ideally you should consult a commercial roofing contractor and get a quote from him. Doing so will ensure that you can get the best service for the roof of your property. Once you have asked the above-mentioned questions, it is advisable to consider the following questions to determine whether roof replacement or restoration is the better option.

      Asking your contractor these questions will be a great way of assessing his expertise and being aware of the options at your disposal. If you would like one of our members to provide a free inspection and estimate, give us a call at 800-670-5583.

      What will be the impact on your business operations?
      Roof replacement can dirty, noisy, and time-consuming, therefore disrupting normal business operations quite handily. For instance, if a building has specialized electronic equipment underneath its roofing, it might be optimal to opt for coating the roof. Applying a roof coating system is much less disruptive to operations as it is usually completed within a very short time frame without any interference.

      What type of roof restoration system is best?
      rr1Different restoration solutions will be applicable to your roof based on the type of roofing system you already have. For instance, a rusting metal roof may simply require a simple, multi-layer coat application without any need for components replacement . Another roofing system may be found to require application of a membranous roofing layer on top of it for best results. It is ideal to clear up with your contractor exactly what your existing roof will demand or what will give the best protection outcomes.

      Our commercial roof contractors exclusively use Conklin products due to their reputation and time-tested reliability. Although Conklin is highly respected as the original inventor of acrylic roofing systems, it also provides the best TPO roofing systems on the market. For more information, visit our Conklin Roofing Systems page.

      What are the advantages, disadvantages, and costs?
      Any savvy business owner knows the general importance of knowing the pros and cons of any option that is available to him or her. The same especially applies to roofing, as the roof is arguably one of the most important parts of a building, due to the protection it provides. Having all information accounted for, including the costs of both, will greatly aid you in making your final decision.

      Why Roof Restoration is a Better Option than Replacement

      If your roof is damaged and needs to be taken care of, you might want to consider restoring it rather than replacing the entire roof. Many commercial property owners have benefitted greatly from opting to restore their existing roofs with a Conklin coating.

      Here are some of the benefits of roof coatings:

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      Lower expenses: Everyone is looking for ways to save money in this day and age. When it comes to your roofing system, coating it with a Conklin roofing system rather than replacing can save you a lot of money as the current roofing membrane does not have to be removed and disposed.

      No dumping in landfills: One of the major environmental concerns today is the growing amount of garbage disposed in landfills. With roof restoration, you do not need to be concerned about the remains of your roofing system going to landfills. You also save money as transporting the waste materials to landfills is quite expensive and you also do not need to pay for labor.

      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
      Request Free Estimate
      Thermal performance improvement: Another advantage of Conklin roofing systems is the improvement of your roof’s thermal performance. When a roof is restored, a section of insulation that is installed is a part of the package. This insulation section is what separates the membrane of the new roofing system from the one that has been there all this while.

      Little upkeep and maintenance required: Traditional roofing systems require maintenance and upkeep to avoid costly repairs in the future. Opting for a Conklin roof coating means that you get a roofing restoration solution that will require little maintenance or upkeep for optimal performance. That will save you time and energy in the long run.

      Savings on maintenance and repairs: With their maintenance and upkeep requirements reduced, re-covered roofs give you savings in maintenance and cost repairs. That is money you can reinvest in your business or put aside for other building improvements that you have been waiting to upgrade.

      rr1Greater environmental responsibility: Yet another advantage of a coating an existing roof is the environmental stewardship you will espouse. As the roof is restored, the Conklin coating that is installed over it has tremendous reflectivity properties, meaning it will bounce back almost 90 percent of the sun’s energy. That will be less taxing on your air-conditioner, so that it emits less carbon dioxide into the air.

      Longer roof lifecycle: When restoring your roof, you get a layer of protection that is leakproof, stays resistant against hurricane-strong winds and harsh inclement weather, and performs well year-round. It has been tested and confirmed to last for 40+ years or longer, whereas a traditional roof might be at greater risk for needing expensive repairs in the future.

      Easily repairable: Should your reinforced roofing system require any repairs, they are easily applied and in a short time frame, cutting down on disruptions to your business. In addition, you will enjoy the benefits listed above and more with the reapplication, while adding even more years of life to your roofing protection.

      How can you go wrong when a Conklin roofing system has so many advantages? Take a cue from the many property owners who have opted for roof restoration rather than replacement and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.

      Commercial Roof Inspection Tips

      The on-site roof inspection should be completed as soon as you have determined that the job is one you are qualified and prepared to perform. For more information on bidding on new construction and retrofit projects, consulting with the business owner, building a roof history and more, view last week’s blog: The Bidding Process. After obtaining satisfactory answers about the building’s construction and history, begin an investigation of the building itself.

      Your objective is to get a clear picture of the condition of the building and existing roof so that the bid you submit accurately reflects the costs involved. If extensive repair and construction work appears necessary, you will need to figure in the extra time, labor and materials. You may need to obtain estimates if subcontractors will be providing reconstruction or repair work.

      Taking Photos or Video

      During this physical inspection stage, using a camera or video camera is strongly recommended. Useful in putting together your bid, the photos or video you take during inspection also serve to document preexisting problems and conditions. In the event that a building owner later discovers damage to the building or property, your pre-inspection pictures are evidence that damage was in existence prior to the presence of you or your crew. Photographs or video protect you and your reputation.

      Interior Inspection

      When inspecting the inside of a building, begin by looking at the ceiling. Is there evidence of leakage? Look for sagging suspended roofing, water stains, and wet tiles, and make a note of their location. Later, in the actual roof inspection stage, you will check to see if they corresponded to flaws visible from the exterior. With metal ceilings, rust stains from condensation can be your clue. Up-close investigation will determine if the deck is still sound enough to roof over, or will require complete tear-off.

      Take note of the building’s ventilation provisions. While this is important in any case, it is of particular concern in buildings with metal roof decks. Voids or seams in the deck may currently be serving as building ventilation. Continuous roof membranes such as Conklin roofing systems tend to seal off these voids, preventing vapor and moisture escape. Serious condensation problems (which owners may interpret as a leaking roof) could result if new ventilation provisions are not made. This factor must be considered in your bid.

      Have Questions?800-670-5583
      Next, take a close look at the interior support walls. Look for signs of moisture seepage, which could indicate flashing leakage on the roof. Appropriate repair or replacement of the defective flashings may need to be included in your bid. Also, watch for cracks or buckling as an indication of serious structural movement. If you suspect this may be occurring, it is advisable to notify the owner and consult a structural engineer before proceeding. This consultation should be at the owner’s expense, since any reroofing project attempted on an unstable structure is a risky venture.

      Exterior Inspection

      Once you have assessed the building’s interior, an exterior investigation is in order. Follow the same procedure as before, taking pictures of the building grounds and exterior, noting any structural problems such as cracks in the walls or foundation, or evidence of settling or erosion. If such problems exist, bring them to the owner’s attention and request an engineer’s inspection to determine the building’s stability.

      Grounds

      You may want to go beyond the building itself and take a look at the parking facilities, sidewalks and landscaping surrounding the structure. It is an unfortunate fact that in the past, roofing contractors have been held liable for damaged sidewalks and shrubbery, which were, in fact, preexisting conditions. With documentation in the form of photographs, video and dated notes, you can help protect yourself against such claims.

      Inspecting the Roof

      In looking at the roof itself, there are several factors, which will affect your bid. First and foremost, consider the general condition of the actual roof. Evaluate its appearance both in the center and around the perimeter.

      On a built-up roof, look for signs of:

      • Checking, splitting, blistering, gravel turnover
      • Ply separation, ridging, bare felts

      In areas of the roof display severe blistering, splitting, or alligatoring, the substrate must be repaired or replaced before any coating can be applied. Failure to do so could result in later complications with the roof and coating, requiring you to make repairs at your own expense.

      Be sure to check the exterior parapet walls for deterioration. This can be the result of either flashing problems or structural instability. Also, check all roof protrusions such as skylights, vents and air conditioning units for signs of leakage. If the flashing or seals around any of these are defective, they will need to be replaced.

      On a roof of plain galvanized metal, look for evidence of rust and check out the method or attachment to the structure below. Examine the condition of the screws and nails holding the metal panels in place. Are they still secure, or have they worked loose? Any loose screws or nails will have to be retightened or replaced.

      Drainage

      callBesides the general condition of the roof, one of the most important things to note is the drainage provided. Minimum industry standards call for slope of at least ¼” per foot. However, even with this degree of slope a roof can settle and weather into depressions, which collect water.

      This commonly occurring problem, known as “ponding,” is a result of ineffective drainage. Ponding is defined as thirty-six or more square feet of water at least ¼” deep forty-eight hours after a rain. A ponding problem can threaten the life of the roof and the building underneath. This problem cannot account for more than 5% of the entire roof surface.

      Any roof you work on should shed water completely. If it does not, you must remedy the problem. This means either the addition of a new drain wherever ponding occurs of the installation of crickets, tapered boardstock or polyurethane foam to build up the low areas and guide water toward existing drains.

      Structural Load

      Due to the weight of roofing felts and bitumen, the maximum allowable layering is two built-up roofs. Frequently, you may encounter situations where more than two complete built-up roofs have been layered in an effort to solve chronic leakage problems. This places a tremendous load on the supporting deck. Also, roofs exceeding the two-roof limit tend to be unstable and should be removed to two built-up roofs or less. Some local building codes may also prohibit more than two roof layers due to weight loads.

      If the owner wishes you to put down new material, it is important to know the present roof load. If it is already near the building’s structural limits, the old roof must be completely removed and a new one installed. Tear-off and reconstruction involve a tremendous amount of time and labor, so it is important to determine this before you submit our bid.

      Taking Core Samples

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      Since each kind of substrate presents a different issue, it is necessary to identify a roof’s composition. The best way to accomplish this is by taking a core sample with a roof cutter or knife.

      Use core samples to determine the type of insulation in place and its thickness. This can help you decide whether additional insulation needs to be added, and at what rate. The sample will also reveal the moisture content of the roofing material. Even if the surface layers of the roof appear to be dry, moisture in the bottom layers can badly blister your new system. Knowing this moisture factor is essential. No Conklin Roofing System may be applied over a damp roof.

      Pay special attention to gravel built-up roofs, which can appear on the surface to be dry and level, but may be masking severe ponding problems. Always dig down through gravel or other loose aggregate and make certain the roof is not wet underneath. Core samples provide the best security.

      A core sample can also help you assess what the roof deck itself is comprised of. From the interior of a building, looking up, the deck may appear to be metal, but a roof sample may reveal it to be metal topped with wood or concrete.

      If the deck is made of wood, you need to determine its moisture content and assess the possibility of rot, mold or insect infestation. With concrete, important clues to look for are cracking, mildew and decomposition. These conditions often call for a complete roof tear-off, so an early diagnosis is critical.

      One final benefit of taking roof samples is the discovery of how the substrate was adhered to the roof deck. Since there are a handful of right ways and hundreds of wrong ways to fasten a roofing system to a deck, it is important to know how each substrate is adhered to the deck before you start. Was it mechanically fastened or simply “glued down” with a layer of hot asphalt? If an inadequate method of adhering was initially used, the whole substrate could eventually work itself loose, delaminating Conklin coating.

      Assessing a roof’s condition and getting a handle on the costs and risks involved can be somewhat difficult. No two situations are ever exactly the same. If there is ever a question in your mind about the integrity of a roof deck or substrate, or how to go about testing them, do not hesitate to call Conklin’s Building Products Department. These specialists can answer your roofing questions and offer tried and true suggestions.

      Nondestructive Moisture Detection

      One of the most important reasons for obtaining core samples is the need to identify and replace any areas of trapped moisture. However, should the owner object to your cutting into the roof for core samples, there are alternative, nondestructive methods for locating roof moisture. As the name implies, nondestructive methods provide this information without damage to the roof membrane.

      Nuclear Moisture Detection

      Nuclear moisture detectors work by identifying the hydrogen atoms in water by means of a radioactive source. The source contains about one milligram of radioactive radium or americium and a small about of beryllium. Neutrons are generated in the detection unit and travel outward until they encounter atoms in the roof system. The neutrons then slow down, and some are bounced back toward the unit. A counter on the nuclear detector records the number of returning neutrons, which translates into the number of hydrogen atoms, i.e. water, in the roof.

      These figures are plotted on a grid of approximately four square feet and take from one to five minutes per measurement. The hand-held detector itself is about the size of a lunch box and weighs approximately twenty pounds.

      Capacitance Methods

      Capacitance methods of moisture detection are based on the fact that most materials have dielectric constants. The capacitance unit has two metal pads, which sit on the roof while an electrical current is passed between them. The curve of the resulting electrical arc determines the dielectric constant present. While the dielectric constant reading of most dry, solid roofing materials is in the one to four range, a constant of nearly eighty is expected for water. Thus, elevated readings indicate both the presence and severity of the moisture problem.

      The capacitance equipment can take these readings within two minutes, but the roof surface must be completely dry for accuracy. Measurements are made on a grid, just as in nuclear detection.

      Infrared Imagery or “Thermography”

      Infrared imagery, or thermography, detects the loss of heat through the roof. When a roof becomes wet, its insulation properties are reduced. The most areas of the roof conduct more heat through the roof than the dry areas. This is revealed through light and dark areas on the film or video.

      This form of thermography is most often accomplished by flying over a roof at night while taking aerial infrared pictures. A lack of detail, however, often occurs when the images are recorded from such altitudes.

      Greater accuracy is actually achieved when hand-held equipment is used while the roof is walked. The wet areas are documented on film or video, then marked off on the roof with spray paint. With this type of close-range thermography, the entire roof is scanned, generating data on every square foot. Best results are achieved at dawn or dusk, when the temperature differential is greatest.

      To follow up any nondestructive test method, areas which indicate moisture should be core sampled as previously described to verify the degree of wetness. The results of the core sample will show if any material replacement is necessary.

      Evaluating the Job: Some Cost Considerations

      In addition to all typical major costs, such as the product and labor required, other factors will need to be considered before you submit our bid. One is “bucket loss,” the five to fifteen percent of the product, which remains on the sides of the product container. From a five-gallon container, therefore, you can expect to fully utilize only 4.25 to 4.75 gallons. Also, when using the spray application method, count on a wind loss of anywhere from 5-15%. The surface texture of the area to be coated also factors very strongly in the amount of product needed for adequate coverage.

      Equipment costs vary from job to job, depending on the Conklin system used, the condition of the existing roof and the specific substrate preparation required.

      Other costs, which are sometimes overlooked include:

      • Transportation of crew and equipment to and from the job site, with allowance for fuel and vehicle wear.
      • Wear and tear on rollers, brushes, ladders, and spray equipment. Also, figure in any fuel costs of operating your equipment.
      • Special insurance costs, which may apply when working around or above expensive equipment.
      • Costs to further inspections and repairs if a warranty agreement or maintenance contract is sold.

      These are just some of the “hidden costs” of the roofing business. As you gain more and more experience in a greater variety of roofing jobs, you will no doubt develop lists of such expenses and develop a greater ability to accurately estimate each job. Accepting small jobs and working with your sponsor initially will help you gain this experience while minimizing your financial risk.

      Many new construction and renovation projects run over-budget. Unfortunately, this roofing portion of the project is a common scapegoat for cost overrun. Because the roof is less noticeable, it is often the first area to suffer in a budget pinch. As you bid, bid specific work for a specific price. If either price or service change in the middle of a job, do not accept verbal changes. To protect yourself contractually and financially, keep every agreement exclusively in writing.

      Whether your project involves reroofing, retrofit or new construction, insist on a pre-job conference with all interested parties. Get a clear picture of what you are expected to provide and at what price, which area of the project your proposal addresses, and what materials and labor are covered in the proposal. This coordination between parties will help ensure a high-quality, timely project with fewer disputes over costs and areas of responsibility.

      The Bidding Process

      Because this topic is so important, we have broken it up into two parts. In next week’s blog, we will focus on inspecting the roof, taking core samples, detecting moisture, evaluating your costs of the job, and more.

      Bidding on New Construction

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      New construction can be bid in several different ways. Typically, an architect is hired by the development firm or owner to design a building, meeting requirements for occupancy, fire and safety, and national and local building codes. The actual construction of the building is then jobbed out. The work can be handled by a general contractor or by a design/build firm, which both designs the project and builds it from the top to bottom.

      In this case, the project architect is responsible for specifying the roofing portion of the project. If a job interests you, it is up to you to demonstrate to the general contractor or project architect that Conklin’s systems match or surpass the specified product. The long-range goal, of course, is for a Conklin coating to become the specified product.

      The architect’s specifications will sometimes list one of more manufacturers, with a qualifier such as “Product X or approved equal.” “Approved equal” generally means that in order to bid a different product, you need approval from the architect. If the wording “or equal” is used without “approved,” you must simply show that the material submitted equals or exceeds the specified product. Even when Product X is specified without the qualifiers, “equal” or “approved equal,” it is still common to submit voluntary alternatives. Architects and owners will usually consider these alternates if they are presented in a professional manner and promise cost-savings for the project through less expensive materials and/or labor.

      contractor-biddingIn the case of the General Contract award, as mentioned previously, subcontractors submit roofing proposals to the general contractors bidding on the job. The general contractors each evaluate their numerous subcontractor bids and submit a comprehensive bid to the owner. The winning contractor then awards the individual subcontracts for each different part of the job. Thus, a roofing subcontractor is contracted with, and employed by, the general contractor for the roofing portion of the project.

      These contracts can involve much interaction with architects and owners, and legal language, which binds the subcontractor to certain regulations and conditions, including possible union labor stipulations.

      Bidding on Retrofit

      While the bidding documents for new construction may sometimes be intimidating to a new roofer, in retrofit they usually take the form of a more straightforward proposal, submitted by the roofer directly to the owner of a commercial building. While your responsibility in retrofit is certainly no less than in new construction, the contracts and legal language are likely to be less complex. And, you will probably be dealing with the building owner unless your roofing project is part of a large-scale, overall building renovation. In this case, the job may more closely resemble a typical new construction project with more complex legal documents and regulations.

      Importance of Accuracy

      While consulting a lawyer to interpret contracts is not usually necessary, it is imperative that you fully understand all the requirements in the documents, and feel confident you can meet them. Carelessness in reviewing specs and contracts can lead to your liability for failing to follow stipulations. Your reputation and future job prospects depend greatly on this professional attitude toward your work.

      Since a majority of Conklin roofing projects involve retrofit treatment, the remainder of this blog post focuses on the steps and procedures in inspecting and bidding retrofit work.

      Consulting with the Building Owner

      When you have learned of a retrofit roofing job that interests you, the next step is to meet with the owner to discuss his or her needs and gain a more complete understanding of the job.

      To this initial consultation, you should bring a notebook or clipboard for jotting down information, as well as brochures and spec sheets on Conklin’s products. Also helpful are any professional references earned from past jobs. These factors will help maintain our image as a professional contractor network.

      Building a Roof History

      The building owner should have blueprints and specifications describing the roof’s structure and composition. However, be aware that these plans may have been created before such additions as new wings, penthouse suites, air conditioning, solar units, and other alterations. The city may also have building plans on file.

      Check to see if the ownership has been constant. If the building has changed hands, ask if the blueprints and documents are up to date. Do not proceed until you are satisfied that the information given to you is accurate and current. Once your bid is accepted and the actual work has begun, you may have little recourse if “surprises” occur concerning the roof’s structure.

      The owner or manager should be able to tell you what, if any, repair work has been done and when it was completed. Knowing how the building was constructed, where supports are located, and what roof deck materials were used can be invaluable, if, for instance, it becomes necessary to install a new drain of lay down boardstock prior to roofing treatment. Different materials, time and labor are required for different roof decks. Knowing all the facts ahead of time can help you make a quick and accurate assessment of the situation.

      Intended Use of Building

      Another important fact to establish with the owner is the actual and intended usage of the building. For instance, is it used for manufacturing, storage or shipping? Are high levels of humidity present? Are hazardous fumes generated that require special ventilation? Is the interior of the building subject to sudden or extreme temperature changes? All these factors are valuable background information, which can make accurate evaluations during the subsequent on-site inspection.

      Choice Roof Contractor Group Partners with Top Roof Marketing

      2013 already has been a very exciting year for Choice Roof Contractor Group™, as there has been an upswing in more prospective members expressing interest in our extensive member support and benefits. Recently, however, an exciting development became official: the announcement of our formation of a strategic partnership with Top Roof Marketing™, a nationwide full-service marketing firm that focuses exclusively on the needs of commercial roofing contractors.

      Contractors join our group for:

      • Network-backed Guarantees
      • Support from Fellow Roofers
      • Group Discount Purchasing
      • Shared Marketing Strategies
      Learn More
      In the partnership, the marketing firm will empower our network members for greater success by giving them priority treatment, high-quality marketing and sales support, and strategic advisement. Marketing support will consist of giving our members access to first-rate marketing services including direct mail, website development, search engine optimization, print design, telemarketing, video production, social media campaigns, and public relations. These efforts will be crucial in helping our membership drive business growth in their local markets.

      Samuel Hostetler, Chief Strategist and Senior Mentor at Choice Roof Contractor Group, made note of the marketing firm’s steadfast commitment to ensuring roofing contractors’ success and extensive track record for getting quality results. “As Top Roof Marketing is the only marketing firm focused exclusively on serving commercial roof contractors, no other company matches its specialized expertise in this complex and constantly changing industry,” he stated. “In fact, the owner himself completed Conklin’s roof systems training program in order to best serve the firm’s growing list of clients who use Conklin products. This high level of commitment to quality service really stands out!”

      Have Questions?800-670-5583
      To fully support the exclusive advantages and benefits offered by its nationwide platform, Choice Roof Contractor Group chose the marketing firm on account of its service efficacy and seasoned marketing expertise. Top Roof Marketing is owned and led by Jonathan Keim, Marketing Director for Choice Roof Contractor Group and a widely recognized, successful marketing professional in his own right.

      Keim’s background includes supporting more than 200 publically traded companies with their marketing strategies as the Communications Director of three investor relations companies. Over the course of his career, he has collectively added more than 2.5 million social media followers to client accounts, developed more than 30 individual brands from conception, executed hundreds of awareness campaigns, overseen countless email marketing initiatives, and helped numerous business owners increase their success.

      “Choice Roof Contractor Group’s business model offers a win-win across the board,” commented Jonathan Keim. “Not only are commercial building owners able to find a qualified, fully trained commercial roof contractor in their local area, but roof contractors and roofing companies who join the network are given a long list of tremendous advantages to jumpstart or accelerate their growth in this very profitable industry.”

      Both organizations look forward to developing this partnership and giving network members even more opportunities for success.

      To learn more about Top Roof Marketing, visit their website at http://www.toproofmarketing.com