Choice Roof Contractor Group Draws Strong Reception at Indiana Event

The callbeginning of 2014 has been a tremendously exciting period for Choice Roof Contractor Group: we are continuing to see greater interest from prospective members across the United States and rapid growth in our membership base. A recent event that our leadership hosted in Middlebury, Indiana, though, offered a glimpse into the gathering momentum that our contractor network is currently undergoing.

A local seminar was put together in Middlebury, Indiana on Saturday, January 18, 2014, for local contractors to learn of the benefits and advantages of our full-service, nationwide platform, as well as take home tips for increasing their own competitiveness. The state-by-state representation among the event participants was extensive: local contractors from Indiana and contractors from as far as Montana, Pennsylvania, Missouri, and Michigan were in attendance. Information on our partners and handouts explaining our platform’s benefits were also on hand.

Notably, callthe attendees’ reception of the powerful benefits that our network has to offer, along with the inspiring presentations by highly successful commercial roofing business owners within our network, was exceptionally strong.

Mr. Samuel Hostetler, Chief Strategist and Senior Mentor at Choice Roof Contractor Group, had this to say about the meeting: “It was great seeing so many young, enterprising individuals and seasoned business owners alike who were looking to better themselves with fierce entrepreneurial spirit. It was very inspiring to see all of the participants’ eyes open up and realize all of the opportunities that are available to them.”

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    • The presentation kicked off with a talk given by Mr. Hostetler on the history of Conklin and its industry leadership. He touched upon the reasons for why Conklin is so well-regarded in the commercial roofing industry.
    • Mr. Robert Brenneman, owner of Brenneman Roofing in Missouri, strongly inspired the audience with his story of how he and his wife had built up their roofing company to the success it is today, and how they are confident for continued growth in the future due to the support of Choice Roof Contractor Group. Mr. Brenneman noted that our network recently helped him with their online presence, and they have been getting greater interest than before.
    • Mr. Willie Shrock, a very successful, seasoned commercial roofer out of Montana, invigorated the participants’ appetites for success with his personal success story, business savvy, and insights, gained from his over 40+ years in the building industry. He also highlighted the unbeatable advantage offered by our nationwide network: building owners who partner with our members are able to have their roofs supported for the whole time they are up. They therefore can be without any fear of their roofing professional going out of business or relocating to another state.

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    • Mr. Hostetler showed the superiority of Conklin roofing systems by presenting pictures of different projects members have done with his help and their finished results.
    • Mr. Shrock and Mr. Hostetler presented effective strategies for closing sales by role playing an interaction between a business owner and a Choice Roof Contractor. Their passion for their businesses and helping others succeed was clearly manifest during their staging, and Mr. Shrock offered several invaluable business development tips and ideas that were beneficial for new and experienced contractors alike.
    • Mr. Hostetler showcased the superiority of Conklin products over others used in commercial roofing, highlighting upon advantages such as Conklin products’ non-prorated warranty coverage, huge long-term energy savings, and decades-long roofing protection against extremely hazardous weather or outdoor conditions.

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    • Mr. Jonathan Keim, Marketing Director of Choice Roof Contractor Group, illustrated our nationwide platform’s powerful online strategies for generating leads for all members as well as the other extensive benefits offered by our platform. He discussed how we offer lifetime mentorship, sales coaching, wholesale product pricing, nationwide credibility, expert marketing and sales support and consulting, and so much more.

    In short, it was a great opportunity for event participants to see the great team with which they will partner and work for greater market gains.

    Closing Thoughts

    callMr. Keim commented, “The meeting was a tremendous success, and I can hardly wait to do the next one. It was great talking one-on-one with many of the contractors who attended and seeing their excitement for what we’re doing. Notably, three of the contractors in the area who attended were actually in the commercial roofing industry already and actively using the Conklin roofing systems. They were very impressed by our nationwide platform, and all of them have already begun the membership process.”

    Based on this early success, Choice Roof Contractor Group will continue to hold local meetings throughout the United States. Our team looks forward to meeting new contractors, learning of their needs and circumstances, and giving new members the tools to build enduring legacies, one success story at a time.

    Starting a Commercial Roofing Business: Choosing the Name

    With callcommercial roofing sales projected to reach $5.3 billion in 2014 and residential and commercial roofing sales expected to increase to $27.2 billion in 2017, there has never been a better time for starting a roofing business. But it will not be easy to gain a sizable piece of this growing market, as economic conditions remain tight, building owners are trimming down their expenditures, and roofing contractors are becoming more competitive in their bidding.

    For the entrepreneurs who show a clear commitment to professional standards and usage of high-performance products, the opportunities are truly limitless. However, for those interested in pursuing a roofing business, the next step may be unclear: how exactly does one go about getting started?

    We will be discussing the steps required for a successful roofing start-up in a series of blog posts over the coming days. Today, we cover the first task, selecting a business name and taking the initial steps toward building your roofing business’ brand, and how our nationwide roof contractor network makes all of a cinch.

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      While this may seem like an obvious step, selecting a name for your business is definitely one of the biggest steps forward. Your name in turn determines your brand, or the market reputation for which your roofing business will become known.

      For illustration, consider the roofing industry’s dynamics. Business owners in the roofing industry rely heavily on referrals from satisfied customers for future work. Your work quality determines your reputation, and your reputation then becomes bullion. It is the means to unlocking new business opportunities.

      However, the first impression a roofing company’s name gives also plays a large part in whether a prospect perceives a company’s professionalism or lack thereof. Plus, the name you choose will be the one which your company is associated with for the duration of your business. As your reputation builds, consumers’ awareness of your company and its value grows along with it.

      Thus, since consumers’ perceptions of what you have to offer are not something which you can change overnight in a positive way, it is clear that choosing a fitting business name is crucial.

      How to Go About Selecting a Name

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        Touching upon the importance of selecting a good name above, we now come to the next step: how do you even go about selecting a name? We outline some tips below.

        Consider the following: what qualities do you want your company to be known for? For example, do you want your roofing business to be known for its attention to customers’ needs and expectations? Using language that conveys those values, and developing quality standards so that your business remains rooted in that foundation, will be the way to go.

        Should you wish to stay local, you might want for your roofing business to be known as family-owned and family-operated. Incorporating that language in your mission statement and marketing slogan, as well as that philosophy in your operations when they are up-and-running, will help establish you as such.

        Another selling point: you may prefer to focus more of your selling points on your work quality and product quality. Or you could emphasize your efficiency and service timeliness—some roofing companies are known for their immediate responses to customer inquiries and finishing their projects quite ahead of deadlines.

        Whatever qualities you choose to accentuate with your business’ name, Choice Roof Contractor Group offers all of the resources you need for taking this step. We have a free list of dozens of roofing names from which you can choose. Our marketing team can also help you in determining your value proposition and selecting the right name should you feel you need assistance.

        What Else Does Choice Roof Contractor Group Offer?

        Aside from the assistance we offer for name selection, we extend the benefits that are associated with having a nationwide reputation for excellence. In our shared commitment to giving our customers nothing but the best, our contractor members perform their services according to the same professional standards. That makes certain that all customers who use our network get the same high-quality, across-the-grid service; no matter their location.

        Why Contractors Join Our Network

        • Lead Generation
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        We also exhibit that same commitment to quality in the products we use. Our contractor group prefers Conklin roofing systems, the ultimate solutions that offer our customers durability, reliable, long-term protection, and affordability.

        Since 1977, Conklin roofing products have been installed on billions of square feet of commercial roofs across the United States. Conklin is the most respected seller of acrylic roof coatings in the United States, and the benefits this manufacturer offers are so extensive, they practically sell themselves.

        Our endorsed members also enjoy a host of exclusive benefits, including lead generation, sales coaching from our industry veterans so that you can land large jobs consistently, shared expertise and labor resources, all the documentation you need for success, expert marketing and sales support and consulting, and discounted pricing on Conklin roofing products.

        Plus, if you have never even been on a commercial roof before, you are given access to Conklin’s commercial roof system training, in which you undergo a comprehensive education of how to apply each roofing system, its benefits, and all of the in-and-outs. Extensive documentation and reference materials are provided at the end so that you always have sources available for reference.

        If you are interested in starting a commercial roofing business, check out all of our membership benefits and contact us to learn how we can help you build your business, one success story at a time.

        Demand for Commercial Roofing Today and in the Future

        Today, we take a short look at the state of commercial roofing in 2014, as well as what is expected for the next three years.

        Recent industry reports indicate that U.S. demand for commercial roofing is projected to grow over the next few years. That is certainly positive news for commercial roof contractors, as much of that demand is expected to be driven by new building construction across the United States.

        2014 Commercial Roofing Stats

        commercial roofFor 2014, domestic market estimates are positive. According to the building products research firm Principia, U.S. commercial roofing sales will top off at approximately $5.3 billion this year. Around 6.6 million square feet of roofing products estimated to be installed in 2014 will account for those roofing sales.

        Notably, domestic commercial roofing is projected to grow in the face of several challenges: stricter, more demanding building codes at local levels and new or existing binding energy conservation demands. The leader of Principia notes that “[roofing] products and systems are being developed for high performance, reflectivity, and increased insulation in order to provide opportunities for systematic energy efficiency gains.”

        Energy efficiency can be an important consideration when selecting or restoring a commercial roofing system. Reflective roofing surfaces can reduce solar heat absorption, while insulation and the overall roof assembly can also influence a building’s energy performance. Actual energy savings depend on factors such as climate, insulation levels, HVAC equipment, building use, and the roofing system itself.

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        Commercial building owners should also consider applicable building codes, energy-efficiency requirements, available roofing-system options, and warranty terms when evaluating a project.

        Commercial Roofing in the Future

        There is encouraging news in the industry projections for commercial roofing in the near future, too. According to the Freedonia Group, demand for residential and commercial roofing services in the United States will result in roofing sales climbing to a value of $27.2 billion in 2017. The firm gives this as a value for an expected 268 million squares of roofing products that it estimates will be installed in that year.

        This jump in roofing sales might be a market rebound from the industry declines from 2007 to 2012. In that period, domestic demand for roofing services fell as less building construction took place.

        In commercial roofing markets, it is expected that an explosion in office and commercial construction spending and increases in institutional and industrial construction spending will lead to increased demand for low slope roofing.

        Commercial roofing contractors may also have increased market opportunities in 2017 if domestic demand does sail up to these projections. Re-roofing will account for a large portion of U.S. roofing demand, meaning that roof restoration may be considered as an alternative to complete replacement when an existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration.

        Additional Resources

        Article on projections for aggregate U.S. demand for roofing in 2017: http://www.bdcnetwork.com/us-roofing-demand-predicted-rise-driven-new-construction

        Article on Principia’s 2014 predictions: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120820005413/en/Commercial-Roofing-Market-Reach-5.3-Billion-2014

        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 a roofing contracting member who is closest to his or her building location.

        At Choice Roof Contractor Group, contractors benefit from the resources, connections, shared knowledge, and opportunities available through a nationwide network of commercial roofing professionals. Below is a discussion of the lead-generation and related benefits offered through the group.

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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) 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 a nearby network member. This helps connect prospective customers with independent commercial roofing contractors serving their areas.

          3) You gain added credibility through your association with a professional roofing network.

          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, your association with a nationwide contractor network can add credibility and help reinforce your professionalism with the prospective customer.

          4) You gain access to sales guidance and experience from other contractors.

          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. Members can benefit from the experience of contractors throughout the network, including insights and techniques for explaining roofing solutions, presenting value to prospects, and closing sales.

          Should you ever have a question or concern, experienced contractors in the network can also be a valuable source of practical knowledge and support.

          5) Our roofing contractor network helps members with professional sales materials and marketing resources.

          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, members have access to resources and shared strategies that can help them focus on growing their businesses.

          Professional, engaging sales materials can help grab the attention of a prospective customer the moment you put the material into his or her hands. Members can also benefit from marketing guidance and strategies shared throughout the network. With these network benefits and resources in hand, contractors have additional tools to help strengthen and grow their businesses.

          Our Group’s Commitment to Excellence

          In addition to the benefits listed above, Choice Roof Contractor Group maintains current membership requirements designed to support the professionalism and integrity of the organization.

          Contractors join our group for:

          • Network-backed Guarantees
          • Support from Fellow Roofers
          • Group Discount Purchasing
          • Shared Marketing Strategies
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          Members are required to have third-party training or certification, provide proof of insurance, demonstrate professional business conduct, and commit to the group’s values.

          These requirements provide a common foundation for participation in the network while allowing each member to remain an independently owned commercial roofing contractor. Members perform their own inspections, provide their own recommendations to customers, and perform their own roofing work.

          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

            Choice Roof Contractor GroupAccording 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 look at some of the advantages contractors can gain through membership in Choice Roof Contractor Group.

            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 as applicable?
            • 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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            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. Participation in a nationwide contractor network can also provide additional professional connections, shared knowledge, resources, and experience that may benefit an independent roofing business.

            Choice 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. Additional information can be found on the commercial roofing services page.

            The Choice Roof Contractor Advantage

            Choice Roof Contractor Group members are independent commercial roofing businesses. Membership provides opportunities to connect with other contractors, exchange practical knowledge, access sales and marketing resources, and benefit from the experience of professionals throughout the nationwide network.

            Members are required to have third-party training or certification, provide proof of insurance, demonstrate professional business conduct, and commit to the group’s values. These requirements provide a common foundation for participation in the network while allowing each contractor to operate independently.

            The Choice Roof Contractor Difference

            One advantage of participating in a nationwide contractor network is access to the knowledge and practical experience of other commercial roofing professionals. Contractors can exchange ideas, discuss roofing systems and application methods, share business strategies, and learn from the experiences of other members.

            That collaboration can be especially useful when contractors encounter unfamiliar project conditions or want additional perspective on roofing options. Each member, however, remains responsible for evaluating its own projects, providing its own recommendations to customers, and performing its own roofing work.

            Roofing Systems and Warranty Considerations

            Commercial roofing systems and warranties can vary considerably depending on the manufacturer, roofing material, project conditions, and contractor. Building owners should review the specific warranty terms associated with any proposed roofing system and understand what is covered, for how long, and under what conditions.

            A roofing contractor can explain the systems available for a particular building and discuss the warranty options that may apply.

            Potential Energy-Saving Benefits

            Reflective commercial roofing systems can reduce the amount of solar heat absorbed by a roof. Depending on the building, climate, existing roof conditions, insulation, and roofing system used, reducing roof-surface temperatures may also help reduce cooling demands.

            Energy performance varies from project to project, so a building owner should evaluate the condition of the existing roof and the characteristics of the proposed roofing system before making decisions based on potential energy savings.

            Summing It Up

            Choosing a commercial roofing contractor requires careful research. Business owners should consider factors such as insurance, applicable licensing requirements, reputation, experience, roofing-system knowledge, professionalism, proposed materials, warranty terms, and the contractor’s ability to address the needs of the particular building.

            Membership in Choice Roof Contractor Group can provide an independent contractor with professional connections, shared knowledge, sales and marketing resources, and the experience of a nationwide network. Members perform their own inspections, provide their own recommendations to customers, and perform their own roofing work.

            For more information, you can contact a Choice Roof Contractor Group member serving your area.

            Surface Preparation for Roof Coating

            Once you as a 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 should be clean, dry, stable, and free of grease, wax, dirt, loose roofing material, contaminants, moisture, and other conditions that could interfere with adhesion.

            When preparing a substrate, the tools and equipment required will depend on the existing roof and the coating system being installed. A general list of roofing equipment can be found here: Roofing Tools and Equipment List.

            Always follow the current coating manufacturer’s requirements for substrate preparation, primers, cleaning methods, application conditions, and compatibility.

            Proper Aging of the Roof

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            Before repairing or coating a built-up asphalt roof, the condition and age of the asphalt should be evaluated. Newly installed asphalt materials may require an appropriate curing or weathering period before some coating products can be applied.

            The surface should be free of oil, solvent residue, moisture, loose material, and other contaminants that could interfere with adhesion. Required curing periods vary by asphalt product, coating system, weather conditions, and manufacturer specifications.

            Preparation of Built-Up Roofs

            Built-up roofs may develop conditions such as alligatoring, splitting, blistering, delamination, gravel displacement, exposed felts, and other signs of deterioration.

            Before coating, the roof should be inspected to determine whether these conditions can be repaired or whether the existing roof has deteriorated beyond what a coating system can reasonably restore. Wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, and unstable roofing materials should be addressed before restoration proceeds.

            Alligatoring

            An alligatored roof has a weathered surface with interconnected cracking that resembles alligator skin. This can indicate an aged or brittle roofing surface.

            Severe alligatoring should not simply be covered with coating. The affected areas need to be evaluated to determine whether damaged materials should be removed and repaired or whether more extensive replacement is necessary.

            Splitting

            Splits can result from several conditions, including roof-deck movement, membrane deterioration, thermal movement, or other stresses.

            If structural movement is suspected, the cause should be investigated before coating. Installing a coating over a roof that continues to move excessively may lead to premature failure.

            If splitting is isolated, damaged roofing should be repaired and the affected area checked for moisture. Wet insulation or other deteriorated materials should be replaced as necessary.

            Blistering

            Blistering may indicate trapped air or moisture within the roof assembly. Blistered areas should be evaluated before coating, and any wet insulation, deteriorated roofing, or unstable materials should be addressed.

            The repair method should be compatible with the existing roof assembly and the coating system being installed.

            Gravel Turnover and Irregular Surfaces

            Graveled built-up roofs can present challenges for direct coating because loose aggregate, uneven surfaces, excessive asphalt, and irregular profiles can make cleaning, adhesion, and consistent coating thickness more difficult.

            The roof should be evaluated to determine whether the existing surface can be properly prepared or whether removal of loose aggregate and installation of a suitable restoration substrate is more appropriate.

            Felt Exposure

            Exposed roofing felts can indicate that the protective asphalt layer has deteriorated. Areas with exposed, dry, brittle, or unstable materials should be evaluated and repaired before coating.

            Delamination

            Delamination can refer to separation between layers of a built-up roof or separation within another substrate such as plywood.

            Loose or unstable materials generally should not be coated over. Affected areas should be repaired or replaced with compatible roofing materials before restoration proceeds.

            Removal/Replacement Guidelines

            Some general principles to keep in mind when replacing faulty or deteriorated roof sections include:

            • Use materials that are compatible with the existing roof and the proposed coating system.
            • Create a stable, reasonably uniform surface for coating application.
            • Repair large gaps, voids, and deteriorated areas with materials designed for the specific condition rather than relying on surface coating alone.
            • Remove dust, loose material, debris, and contaminants created during the repair process.
            • Make sure repaired areas and the surrounding roof surface are sufficiently dry before coating.

            Preparation of Severely Weathered Built-Up Roofs

            A severely weathered or alligatored built-up roof may not be suitable for direct coating. Depending on the roof condition, options can include removing deteriorated materials, repairing or replacing unstable sections, installing an appropriate recover substrate, or replacing the roof system.

            The correct approach depends on the existing assembly, structural condition, moisture, drainage, applicable code requirements, and the requirements of the restoration system being considered.

            Graveled Built-Up Roofs

            Direct coating of a graveled built-up roof can be difficult because the irregular surface may make cleaning, adhesion, and uniform coating application challenging. Loose aggregate can also interfere with the formation of a continuous coating membrane.

            Any underlying splits, wet insulation, unstable asphalt, or other deterioration should be identified and corrected before deciding whether coating is appropriate.

            New Substrates Over a Graveled Built-Up Roof

            In some restoration projects, a new compatible substrate may be installed over an existing built-up roof after the roof has been evaluated and prepared.

            A properly designed recover assembly can provide a more stable surface for the new roofing or coating system. However, adding insulation, cover boards, plywood, foam, or other materials should be based on structural capacity, moisture conditions, fastening requirements, drainage, applicable codes, and the specifications of the selected roofing system.

            Preparing Boardstock or Plywood

            Boardstock, cover boards, or plywood may be used in some roof assemblies to provide a stable substrate. Preparation requirements vary by material and coating system.

            Joints, seams, fasteners, surface moisture, dust, and debris should be addressed according to the roofing system manufacturer’s requirements. These materials should be sufficiently dry before coatings or other roofing products are applied.

            Preparing a Metal Roof

            Metal roof preparation generally begins with a thorough inspection of the panels, seams, fasteners, flashing, penetrations, corrosion, coatings, and other surface conditions.

            Typical preparation may include:

            • Removing loose rust, oxidation, dirt, chalking, and other contaminants
            • Replacing or securing loose or damaged fasteners and washers
            • Repairing damaged seams, penetrations, flashings, and panel conditions
            • Treating corrosion using compatible preparation methods and primers where required
            • Removing oils or other contaminants using methods approved for the existing metal and selected coating system
            • Making sure the surface is clean and dry before coating

            Preparation methods for galvanized metal, previously coated metal, bare steel, aluminum, and other substrates vary. Current manufacturer instructions should be followed rather than assuming one cleaning, etching, or priming procedure is appropriate for every metal roof.

            Preparing a Concrete Roof

            Concrete can serve as a roofing substrate, but its condition and moisture content need to be evaluated carefully before coating.

            Efflorescence, spalling, cracks, laitance, contamination, and trapped moisture can all interfere with coating adhesion or indicate underlying problems.

            Loose or deteriorated concrete should be removed and repaired with suitable materials. Larger cracks may indicate structural movement or deterioration and should be evaluated before proceeding.

            Cleaning, surface profiling, moisture testing, primers, crack repairs, and curing requirements should follow the specifications of the coating system and repair materials being used.

            Cleaning the Roof

            Assuming that necessary repairs have been made, the next step is cleaning the roof.

            Different roof systems may require different cleaning methods. Loose material, dirt, dust, biological growth, oils, chalking, and other contaminants should be removed without damaging the roof or introducing unnecessary moisture into the assembly.

            Dry-cleaning methods such as sweeping, vacuuming, scraping, or power blowing may be appropriate in some situations. Pressure washing or other wet-cleaning methods may also be used when compatible with the roof system.

            Before using water, open cracks, holes, failed seams, and other paths for water entry should be repaired or protected so that cleaning does not introduce moisture into the roof assembly or insulation.

            After wet cleaning, the roof should be allowed to dry thoroughly before coating.

            It is crucial that cleaning and preparation be thorough. The long-term performance of a roof coating system depends heavily on substrate condition, adhesion, proper detailing, application, and maintenance.

            Preparing a Previously Coated Roof for Recoating

            A previously coated roof may be eligible for recoating if the existing coating and underlying roof remain sound and compatible with the proposed new system.

            Before recoating, the roof should be inspected for adhesion loss, cracking, blistering, ponding, damaged materials, wet insulation, failed repairs, contamination, and other deterioration.

            The existing surface should then be cleaned and prepared using methods and products approved for the coating system being applied. Adhesion testing, primers, repair materials, and additional preparation may be required depending on the existing coating and roof condition.

            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.

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            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 actually suitable for restoration. If serious underlying problems are present, coating over them can lead to additional damage and expense.

            It is also important to work with a commercial roofing contractor who can properly evaluate the existing roof and explain whether repair, restoration, recover, or replacement is the better option.

            Important Factors to Consider Before Roof Restoration

            Here are some of the factors that can help determine whether your roof may be suitable for coating:

            Is moisture present?

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            One of the most important things to do before restoring a roof is to check whether moisture is trapped within the existing roofing system or insulation.

            Moisture can enter a roof assembly for a variety of reasons, including leaks, failed seams or penetrations, condensation, drainage problems, or previous roofing work. If significant wet insulation or trapped moisture is present, those materials may need to be removed and replaced before restoration can proceed. In some cases, the extent of moisture damage may make replacement the more practical option.

            How many roof layers are present?

            The number and type of existing roof systems or recover layers can affect whether another roofing system may be installed over the existing roof.

            Applicable building codes, roof weight, deck condition, existing materials, moisture, fastening requirements, and the proposed restoration or recover system should all be considered before another layer is added.

            Is the roofing layer attached well to the substrate?

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            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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            Ensuring that the existing roofing system is adequately secured to the roof deck or substrate is important when evaluating a roof for restoration.

            Loose, poorly adhered, deteriorated, or unstable roofing materials may need to be repaired or removed before coating. Moisture can contribute to adhesion problems, but deterioration, installation issues, wind damage, substrate movement, and other conditions may also be involved.

            Before you opt to restore your commercial roof rather than replace it, a commercial roofing contractor should inspect the existing assembly and discuss the available options.

            What will be the impact on your business operations?

            Roof replacement can involve tear-off, material removal, noise, equipment, dust, and other activity that may affect normal business operations.

            When an existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, a coating system may involve less tear-off and disposal and may reduce some project disruption. However, the actual installation schedule and impact on building operations depend on the roof, project size, repair needs, coating system, weather, and site conditions.

            What type of roof restoration system is appropriate?

            commercial roof coating applicationDifferent restoration solutions may be appropriate depending on the existing roof system and its condition.

            For example, a metal roof may require corrosion treatment, fastener or seam repairs, and a compatible coating system. Other roofs may require reinforcement, membrane repairs, primers, additional insulation, or other preparation before restoration.

            The appropriate system should be selected based on the existing roof substrate, moisture conditions, structural condition, drainage, compatibility, climate, and current manufacturer requirements.

            What are the advantages, disadvantages, and costs?

            Any business owner should understand the advantages and disadvantages of each available option. The same applies to roofing, where repair, restoration, recover, and replacement can have very different costs, service-life expectations, maintenance requirements, and impacts on building operations.

            A coating system may provide a cost-effective alternative to replacement when the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration. Replacement may be more appropriate when there is widespread wet insulation, structural deterioration, serious drainage problems, extensive membrane failure, or other conditions that cannot reasonably be corrected through restoration.

            A commercial roofing contractor can evaluate the roof and explain the available options so the building owner can make an informed decision.

            Why Roof Restoration is a Better Option than Replacement

            If your roof is damaged and needs attention, restoration may be worth considering before moving directly to full replacement. When the existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, a coating system may provide a cost-effective way to extend its useful life.

            Here are some of the potential benefits of roof restoration:

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            Lower expenses: Roof replacement can involve tear-off, disposal, additional labor, and a large volume of new roofing materials. When restoration is appropriate, some of these costs may be reduced because the existing roof system can remain in place.

            Less material sent to landfills: Restoration can also reduce the amount of old roofing material that must be removed and disposed of. This may help reduce waste while also limiting some of the labor and disposal costs associated with a complete tear-off.

            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
            Potential thermal-performance benefits: Depending on the system and project, restoration may include reflective coatings or insulation improvements that can affect roof-surface temperatures and overall building performance. Actual energy performance will vary based on the existing roof, insulation, climate, building use, and materials selected.

            Maintenance and recoating options: Roof coatings still require inspection and maintenance over time. However, when a coating system remains in suitable condition, maintenance and recoating may help extend its service life without requiring a complete roof replacement.

            Potential savings on future repairs: A properly selected and maintained restoration system may help reduce the need for more extensive corrective work, depending on the condition of the existing roof and how the restored system performs over time.

            commercial roof restorationReduced tear-off and waste: By restoring a suitable existing roof rather than removing it entirely, building owners may reduce the amount of roofing material sent to landfills. Reflective coatings may also reduce the amount of solar heat absorbed by the roof, depending on the system used.

            Extended useful roof life: When the existing roof is a suitable candidate, restoration can add a protective layer and may extend the useful life of the roof. The actual service life will depend on the roof condition, coating type, installation, climate, drainage, maintenance, and manufacturer requirements.

            Repairable and renewable systems: Many coating systems can be repaired or recoated when appropriate. This can provide building owners with another maintenance option while helping reduce disruption compared with a full tear-off and replacement.

            Roof restoration can offer meaningful advantages, but it is not the right solution for every roof. Before a coating system is applied, the roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, failed seams or penetrations, and other conditions that may need to be corrected first.

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