What You Should Expect from a Commercial Roofing Estimate

Having a roof replaced on your commercial building can seem like a daunting task.  After all, you aren’t a roofer, you are a business person running whatever type of company that building protects.  How are you supposed to know if you are being treated fairly and if the estimate you are receiving is complete?

First, you should anticipate that the roofing company will want to conduct an inspection.  It is unfair to expect any form of estimate without allowing for time and opportunity to assess your current roof situation.  Some roofing contractors may choose to conduct their inspection either on the roof or via drones.

Second, give the contractor some time to prepare that estimate.  There are some contractors who are comfortable doing an “on the spot” quote, but others want to take the time to ensure it is a complete and full estimate.  You wouldn’t commit to an important project without doing your due diligence, would you?  Consider granting your commercial roofing contractor the same respect and understanding.

Part of the pre-estimate process frequently deals with discussing the type of system you are considering.  Not all roofs are appropriate for all systems nor do all commercial roofing professionals work with all types of potential roofing systems.  Sit down with the contractor and discuss your business goals as a part of this process.  Identify if your goals include energy efficiency, chemical resistance, improved longevity, or cool roof technology integration.  This information assists the contractor in determining the BEST system for both your building and your business.

Elements of a Commercial Roofing Estimate

Every contractor is different, so we’ve put together an overview of various elements you should look for in your commercial roofing estimate.

Materials:  Exactly what type of materials, including manufacturer, is the contractor planning to use?  Like cars, there is a wide variety in quality and cost between different manufacturers.  A good commercial contractor may even prepare you options between XYZ and ABC manufacturers on the same type of roofing system.

Labor.  Some contractors choose to include the cost of labor within the materials portion while others choose to make this a separate line item.  There is nothing wrong with either method.

Protection.  Again, some contractors include the cost involved in protecting your property and business from damage within their overall cost projection.  Other contractors choose to show this as a separate line item on their estimate.  Either is fine, but it is important that you clarify the steps that will be taken to protect your existing business while that roof is being replaced.

Warranty.  This area is important.  Your estimate should include a written outline of the warranty offered, both in terms of materials and labor.  You should anticipate paying more for a really great long-term warranty that includes ongoing maintenance.  Think of it as insurance for that roofing investment.

Timeline.  Your estimate should include the timeframe anticipated to complete the job.  Please notice the word “anticipated”.  Like every other business, there are times when the unexpected occurs.  Roofing contractors are subject to the vagaries of weather or supply chain interruptions to a greater extent than many other industries.  That timeframe is an estimate based on past experience.

Payment Due Dates.  Many large projects allow for payments to be made through the project completion.  If that is the case with your commercial roofing project, your estimate should include the exact date each payment is due, along with terms for noncompliance by either party.

Elements that Affect Your Replacement Costs

There are many elements that go into determining the cost of replacing a commercial roof.  Each is considered and calculated into that final estimate you will receive.

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Size.  This is pretty obvious.  The size of your roof is a HUGE consideration in the overall replacement project.  Not only in materials and labor, but additional considerations such as debris removal, movement of materials over the scope of the project and even increased safety considerations all can play a part.

System.  Different roofing systems have different costs.  That is also pretty straightforward.  If you and your contractor determine your roof is best suited for a PVC system, you will pay more than if it is determined that shingles will work better.  Why?  Because PVC costs more than shingles.

Roof Style.  This one may come as a surprise, but roofs with multiple peaks and valleys will generally cost more per square foot than flat roofs.  Why?  A good part of it is due to increased labor costs as those steep angles require more time and more protective equipment than an open flat roof.

Roof Access.  If your contractor is going to have to hire a crane to get materials and personnel up 10 stories, it is going to cost more than if they have to move those same items up 1 story.

The bottom line is there are a LOT of considerations that go into a good commercial roofing estimate.  That is the best reason to work with a qualified, reputable, professional commercial roofing company.  If you are looking for an estimate, feel free to contact the Choice Roof Contractor Group at (800) 670-5583 or complete the inquiry form and we will put you in touch with a roofing company in your area.

TPO or PVC – What’s the Difference?

TPOSo, you’re in the market for a new commercial roofing system.  You start talking with a roofing contractor and he begins with throwing around terms like PVC (I thought that was a term for pipes?) and TPO (some new brand of toilet paper?). How do you translate that into what product works best for you?

This is a problem many business owners and property managers face when beginning a new roofing quest.  An understanding of the terminology used in the roofing industry is paramount before anyone can possibly begin to determine what works for them and how best to proceed.

Single-ply Membranes

Both TPO and PVC are single-ply membranes.  As single-ply membranes, they are best suited to flat or low-slope roofing structures, though can be used on other styles.  These thin sheets of material are laid on top of the existing roofing system and may be connected to that system either chemically with adhesives or using mechanical fasteners.

Single-ply membrane systems offer specific benefits to building owners.  Some of those benefits are:

Energy Efficient.  Single-ply membrane systems come in a wide array of color and reflectivity levels.  The more reflective the material, the more the sun’s heat is reflected away from the building.  The reduced heat can lead to savings of up to 30% on air conditioning costs, depending on location.

Flexible.  The flexibility of the membrane system is a crucial component.  This flexibility allows for flexing and contraction as temperatures rise and fall and contributes greatly to the durability of the membrane.

Lightweight.  Every building is designed with specific weight limitation.  The lightweight nature of single-ply membranes contributes a negligible amount of weight to the overall structure.

Low Maintenance.  Most single-ply membrane systems are designed to be low maintenance, requiring little more than annual inspection and basic preventative maintenance.

TPO Pros and Cons

TPOTPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is made from rubberized materials, generally a blend of polypropylene plastic and ethylene-propylene rubber.  These sheets come in various thicknesses, ranging from 40mm to 100mm, with 45mm to 65mm being the most common for roofing applications.

TPO is manufactured primarily in 6’ to 12’ wide rolls.  Sheets are rolled out onto the roofing surface and cut to fit.  They are then secured to the roof in 1 of 3 ways:

  1. Mechanically fastened using nails, screws or anchors that attach to the building.
  2. Fully adhered utilizing an adhesive material.
  3. Ballasted using rock to hold the membrane in place (less common).

To reduce the risk of moisture getting into the seams, and to prevent seam separation, the seams are then generally heat welded or glued together to produce a primarily monolithic or one-piece system.

Benefits and drawbacks of TPO

TPO membrane systems offer specific benefits to their building owners.

  • Less expensive than PVC.
  • More chemically resistant than PVC.
  • Better for the environment than PVC.

However, there are some drawbacks. 

  • TPO is a newer material on the market, so there is less experience regarding longevity and durability.
  • Less fire-resistant than PVC.
  • Quality variations between manufacturers.

PVC Pros and Cons

TPO or PVC ComparisonPVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the 3rd most produced synthetic plastic in the world.  In its original form, it is the rigid white plastic that you’re familiar with in plumbing and other applications.  With the addition of “plasticizers”, it becomes the flexible version used in single-ply membrane systems.

This single-ply roofing system ranges in thickness from to 50ml to over 100ml, depending on manufacturer.  It comes in rolls ranging in width from 6’ to 12’ rolls, with custom sizes available from some manufacturers. 

PVC attaches to the roofing structure in the same manner as TPO, that is either chemical adhesive, mechanical fasteners, or ballast.

Benefits and drawbacks of PVC

PVC membrane systems have significant benefits.

  • More time on market, resulting in better information regarding durability than TPO.
  • More fire resistant than TPO.
  • More resistant to puncture and weathering than TPO.

PVC also has a few distinct drawbacks.

  • More expensive than TPO.
  • Tendency to shrink over time.
  • May be difficult to repair as it ages.

Most Important Consideration

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Whether you select TPO or PVC, even more important than the material is the installation process.  Both will fail if the installation is not done properly and professionally.

Selecting your contractor is actually more important than your material selection is.  The installation process, quality of adherence, seam welds and how protrusion are addressed are what will make or break your single-ply roofing system.

Let us help you.  Choice Roof Contractor Group is an association of roofing contractors that have met training qualification and are held to high levels of professionalism in order to maintain their membership. 

Choice Roof Contractor Group was founded to give contractors a firm base of resources for their roofing company in order to provide better service to building owners and/or property managers. Call one of our representatives today at (800) 670-5583. We would love to assist you in finding your next roofing partner.

Having a Commercial Roofing Safety Plan

When you established your company, you likely put together standard operating procedures. Among those should be an adequate safety plan. However, if you are new to the industry, you likely don’t know where to begin when it comes to creating a safety plan for your team, your crews, and your clients.

Where to Start

The roofing industry is a lucrative industry, but without proper safety, you will set your company up to fail. Your employees are your greatest resource. Without them, your company could not exist. This also goes for your clients, without them, you would be out of business sooner than you started. Your safety plan should focus on keeping both your employees and your clients safe.

To provide a safe work atmosphere for everyone, develop a safety plan that establishes policies and guidelines. Include workplace practices, safety equipment, personal protective equipment, hazard communication training, emergency, and any other procedure needed to maintain safety in your workplace.

It is also important that your safety plan comply with all federal, state, and local guidelines.

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    Instead of having to reinvent the wheel, there are many resources that can provide you with a base safety plan that you can customize to your unique needs. Choice Roof Contractor Group provides a generic model that our members can customize based on their company and local requirements.

    Follow OSHA Guidelines

    It is well understood that OSHA is there to protect everyone. While some of their policies might seem nit-picky, each one was established for a reason.

    Think of it like touching a hot stove. You know not to do it, but at some point as a child you had to be told NOT to do it. OSHA guidelines are created from the need that someone needed to be told. As you set up your company policies, it is recommended that you get to know the ins and outs of OSHA and what is expected from your company.

    Here is a helpful breakdown: OSHA Commercial Roofing Regulations

    Third-Party Safety Solutions

    If this all seems overwhelming, you’re not alone. There are teams of people dedicated to providing contractors with safety solutions and assessments. We live in an age of technology, with information right at our fingertips. You can find safety trainings online or in person that go over fall protection, safety hazards, OSHA regulations, and more.

    Safety Plan Goals

    The goal of your safety plan is to eliminate injuries and health hazards. You must recognize that there are potential safety issues on each jobsite and provide your team with solutions to handle them with caution.

    You should also understand the human component to safety. Most people feel invincible; until a safety event happens. Your team is likely to remember the detailed safety plan if you practice what you preach and preach often. This means having daily safety conversations, safety plans for each project, and leading your team by example.

    How Does Heat Affect a Commercial Roof?

    The roof covering a commercial building is there to protect that building, right?  Its primary purpose is to stand steadfast against the elements, environmental challenges and tantrums Mother Nature occasionally throws our way. 

    With such a stalwart protector over our head, why should we be concerned about a little heat?  The answer may surprise you if you haven’t checked the status of your commercial roof for a while.

    Heat and Your Commercial Roof

    The sun, with its heat, can really do a number on your commercial roof. 

    commercial roof temperatureChemical breakdown.  Depending on the roofing system installed, outdoor temperatures of a comfortable 90°F can quickly become a blistering 160° on the roofing surface!  Some roofing system materials absorb and retain that heat, rather than reflecting it away from the building.  With surface temperatures that extreme, the chemical compounds within the materials can begin to break down.  Over time, this leads to roofing system failure.  Unfortunately, this breakdown is almost impossible to see to the naked eye and you are only aware it has occurred when the next rainstorm advises you.

    Thermal fluctuation.  The fluctuation in temperature between the heat of the day and the cool of the evening can cause your roof and roofing system to expand and contract in response.  Over time, that constant movement in the roof will cause damage within the structure itself.  Depending on the type of roofing system installed, it can also cause fault lines to develop within the protective system, leading directly to future system failure.

    UV Radiation.  Though not specific to heat, UV levels do increase as the heat increases, so it seems appropriate to mention here.  Just like your skin, the chemical bonds within your roofing material are susceptible to UV radiation.  That radiation causes the bonds to weaken and eventually begin to break. As these microscopic breaks multiply, the overall system becomes weakened and the potential for failure increases.

    How to Save that Commercial Roof

    commercial roof heat reductionNow that the problem is better understood, the next step is addressing it.  Of course, there is the option to simply wait and hope, but that is potentially a pretty expensive “solution”.  A better idea is to be proactive. 

    Inspection.  Have the roof inspected twice a year.  Once in spring, in preparation for the upcoming heat and again in the autumn, to prepare for those upcoming frigid temperatures.  A scheduled inspection program with a reputable commercial roofing contractor is worth its weight in gold. 

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    Cool Roof Technology.  Take advantage of cool roof technology.  Coatings, single-ply membranes and even EPDM rubber roofing all offer options that include reflective properties built directly into the materials.  By reflecting up to 85% of the solar heat away from the building, you can keep that roof at a temperature much closer to that of the ambient air.  As a bonus – you can reduce your cooling costs up to 30% or more, depending on your location.

    Ventilation.  Ensure attic or crawl spaces are well ventilated.  This can help improve airflow throughout the area and reduce the ability of the roofing materials to absorb and “hold on” to the heat.  Additionally, it does offer some minor levels of insulating properties to keep the building itself more comfortable.

    If you’re ready to protect the roof that protects your business and livelihood, make an appointment today with a commercial roofing contractor.  Don’t have one yet?  Call the Choice Roof Contractor Group at (800) 670-5583 and we will put you in touch with a contractor in your area.

    Understanding PVC Single-Ply Roofing Systems

    TPOPVC, which stands for polyvinyl chloride, in the right hands will deliver high-quality, long-lasting protection for your building. These roofing systems have been delivering trusted protection for decades and continue innovation so they can adapt with the increasing demands in roofing today. Comprised of a single layer, PVC roofs are a member of the single-ply membrane family and are a thermoplastic.

    Because of their impressive weather resistance, they continue to grow in popularity throughout the country and perform well on both flat and low-slope roofs. An ideal option for commercial properties, they are durable enough to withstand oils and fuels, making them a common choice for the restaurant and aviation industries.

    Leading Benefits of PVC

    PVC roofs are a premium choice as they offer watertight protection in severe weather elements. Ponding water is no threat for a PVC roof when professionally installed and maintained. Other leading benefits a PVC roofing system can offer include:
    TPO

    • Easily recyclable
    • Energy efficient
    • Flexible
    • Versatile and customizable
    • Lengthy lifespan
    • High flame resistance
    • Heat-welded seams provide increased durability
    • Wind resistant
    • Chemical resistant
    • Limited maintenance
    • Lightweight
    • Straightforward application

    Application

    The three most common ways to apply a PVC roof are ballasted, mechanically attached, and fully adhered. When an experienced and professional roofing contractor is applying the PVC roof, you can trust that any of these methods will deliver a long-lasting, durable roof as the seams are heat-welded to create the monolithic bond required for watertight protection.

    To reduce heat loss and ensure elevated levels of energy efficiency, insulation board is installed prior to the PVC material. The type of insulation and the thickness can vary. PVC material comes in varying roll sizes and is rolled in a straight line over the top of the insulation board. Depending on the application type chosen, the PVC material is securely attached to the roof. Which method you choose will depend on your preference, location, season and more.

    Drawbacks to Consider

    With all investments, it is best to know the drawbacks as well as the advantages. Thankfully, with PVC roofing systems, there are few to consider. PVC roofing systems will perform best when installed on a smooth surface. This means that older roofs may not always be ideal candidates for a PVC roof and a tear off may be required. This can be a costly venture if it is necessary. PVC is a great option for varying weather conditions, although intense cold can cause it to become brittle and in turn crack; although we are talking about intense cold around -50°F, so it is still well suited in many parts of the country. Lastly, if you are looking at attaching your PVC roof with an adhesive, this is best done in the warmer months as the adhesive can freeze and therefore will not secure properly. PVC roofs certainly have more to offer than not, but location and other factors must be considered when looking into investing in a new roofing system for your property.

    Resistance You Can Rely On

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    PVC roofing systems are resistant to a variety of chemicals and conditions, and this makes them a leading option for many properties and environments. While they are a lightweight roofing solution, they are anything but vulnerable and they continue to provide the protection a variety of industries require.

    With an experienced roofing contractor installing and maintaining a PVC roof, it can have an expected lifespan of three decades. Thirty years is a great return on investment. With trusted protection and energy efficiency, they provide buildings with a better chance at maintaining value.

    If you are considering PVC and/or other types of roofing systems, feel free to give us a call at 800-670-5583.

    Making More with Less; Increasing Productivity

    The economy we all face today is full of shortages. Materials, labor, etc. It seems the only thing increasing is costs!

    residential roofingHow is a roofing company supposed to make a living with these issues and uncertainties? Maybe by increasing another option – productivity.

    Productivity is defined by how much is accomplished during a given time. The more tasks completed, the more productive you or your company are.  The more productive, the more profitable.

    Ways to Increase Productivity

    Regardless of how hard you work, there are only 24 hours in a day. Assuming you have any type of life or at least choose to sleep well, you are probably going to work no more than 12 of those hours. Making the most of that time is the key to increasing your productivity.

    Software. Take advantage of software options to help reduce the amount of time you spend on various tasks. For example, if you aren’t using estimating software, you could be wasting hundreds of hours annually on mental mathematics. 

    Another type of software you shouldn’t be without is a good CRM (customer relationship management). You can use this to not only track your customer base, but to trigger you for sending follow up sales email or even have them pre-written and ready to go. Though nothing beats the personal touch of a visit or phone call, by reducing that time to a fraction using automation, you can significantly increase your productivity.

    Technology. Take advantage of modern technology to reduce the number of man-hours necessary to complete a task. If it takes 7 men 10 hours to lay and weld an area of roof, but a machine uses 1 man in 5 hours, that is a machine worth investing in.

    Other examples include the use of drones and thermal imaging for roof inspections.  Not only safer for you and your employees, these technologies also look cool to your customer and at worse identifies those areas that requires a deeper hands-on inspection.

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      Better Planning. Have a big job coming up? First, congratulations! Second, take the time to truly plan out the best place for supplies in order to reduce wasted time back and forth. Pre-planning a job can eliminate tens to hundreds of wasted man-hours by simply having things where they need to be. This includes non-material items like water that your team will need to be productive.

      Another example of better planning is having handout materials available to your team.  If your team is on a roof and can see other buildings clearly in need of repair or replacement, having handout materials available for them to stop in and offer can be the key to getting that next project scheduled without you having to do a big marketing campaign that costs a lot of money. Offering a monetary bonus to your installers in the event of a new project can’t hurt either!

      Interns. In some areas of the country, local schools offer interns or job-placement programs for their seniors looking to move into a job after graduation. This is a great opportunity to get more hands on your projects without investing in additional employees.  It is also a truly irreplaceable way to assess skills if you may need additional help in the future.

      Marketing. Many of you still do cold-call marketing. There is absolutely nothing wrong with it and, in the right hands, it is an effective way to drum up new business.  However, coupling that with a direct mail campaign, and using your CRM to generate email follow up automatically will dramatically increase the probability of a sale, without significantly increasing the time you spend.

      For more ideas, reach out to the experts at Top Roof Marketing. They have worked with 300+ commercial roofing contractors and offer package options that will make your efforts more productive. Call today at 800-795-2187.

      Getting Your Commercial Roof Ready for Winter

      Are you prepared for winter? Like it or not, winter is coming in many regions throughout the United States. For many, it might already be here. If you haven’t had your facility properly prepared for the cold, ice, and snow, it’s time to take some steps to keep you properly protected.

      Step One: Schedule a Roof Inspection

      The first step is the most important step. Before the winter season, it is vital to have a professional commercial roofing contractor assess your roof. During these inspections, the contractor will walk your roofing unit, inspect the interior of your property, and your entire building envelope. They will assess areas of concern and provide you with solutions to address them.

      A few things of what your contractor will look for include:

      • Loose or separated seams
      • Ponding water
      • Cracked caulking
      • Blisters, punctures, or cracking
      • Loose roof perimeter
      • Drainage problems

      When snow and ice hit, a small problem can quickly expand into a major headache. A regular inspection before the winter season can make or break a roofing budget.

      Step Two: Clear all Debris

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      During the inspection process, all debris will be cleared from your roofing membrane and gutters. This can include leaves, branches, equipment, etc. Anything that does not belong on your roof should be cleared before the winter season. Not only is it a hazard for punctures, having anything sitting on your roofing system allows water to infiltrate your facility.

      Step Three: Evaluate Surrounding Areas

      During the inspection, an evaluation of the surrounding areas is paramount. If your region regularly receives multiple inches of snow or ice, surrounding trees can cause a hazard for your roof. Tree branches, when weighed down from winter weather, can dump a substantial amount of weight onto your roof. They can also break and cause punctures. It is important to identify these hazards and be prepared.

      Step Four: Have Emergency Plan

      Even with a fully proactive approach, Mother Nature is unpredictable and can throw hazardous weather your way. If you find your facility is in need of emergency services, try to plan ahead. Know who to call, when to call, and what to do in the event of a roof leak (or worse).

      There are many benefits of a proper roof inspection. To find a contractor near you, call the Choice Roof Contractor Group at (800) 670-5583.

      The Biggest Marketing Concerns for Commercial Roofers

      Attracting positive attention to your company is the purpose of marketing. No matter your industry, you started your business to make money. If people aren’t seeing you and your company, money won’t come in.

      residential roofingThere is no shortage of different marketing approaches and that leaves the door open to opportunities that will work for you. Determining which approaches will work best for you and your company to reach your goals is easier when you call on professionals.

      Marketing is a big world, and it is normal to have concerns regarding the marketing strategy your company should adopt. Marketing isn’t new for the commercial roofing industry but collaborating with professionals that are focused on your industry can certainly help you gain the attention you’ve been needing.

      Marketing evolves, just like everything else. This evolution changes what works and what doesn’t. We have gathered the top 5 concerns your company should address in your marketing strategy.

      Branding

      There is and always will be a lot of competition in the world of commercial roofing. Knowing how to set yourself apart and above your competitors is critical to ensuring you get the customers you need to succeed and keep your business in operation.

      If someone approached you and asked, “What makes your business different?,” would you know how to answer? If you are struggling to answer this question, then it is time you learn more about branding. Appropriately branding your business is necessary if you’re looking for an effective marketing approach.

      Not only do you need to make yourself stand out, but you need to do so consistently. Having a repetitive theme may seem like overkill, but it is one of the best proven marketing methods there is. When someone sees your logo, business design or even color combination, you want them to immediately associate that with you.

      Social Media

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        There is no shortage of social media platforms, and you should absolutely be utilizing them for your marketing approach. People are already on social media researching their corporate options; you simply must get yourself in front of them. More than 75% of consumers will turn to social media when they are considering hiring a company. This means they are searching for reputable companies on social media. That’s right, not Google, but on social media outlets.

        While Google rankings will always be imperative to your marketing, social media outlets are as also important. If your company does not have a strong social media presence, you are passing along your potential customers to your competition.

        Social media outlets can certainly be intimidating if you aren’t in tune with them. Fortunately, you aren’t left alone to figure it all out. Professional marketing companies will not only give you the tips and tricks you need to be successful, but many will take over your social media accounts for you, should you prefer.

        No matter who is doing the posting, the first step with social media marketing is determining which platforms make sense for your company. You don’t need to be active on every one of them to be successful but having a presence on one or two is crucial. Facebook is recommended for all businesses to have an active presence. It is the main social media source consumers will turn to when looking to learn about a company and their reputation.

        For business-to-business marketing for your commercial roofing services, LinkedIn is likely a wise platform to turn to as well. TikTok and Instagram are platforms more geared for young, trendy consumers and may not bring you the commercial roofing leads you are looking for. This is where knowing your target demographic is a necessity. With a targeted audience, it is easier to put out the right content they will appreciate and be caught by.

        Engaging content is an absolute must. Keeping your messages clear with correct grammar and sharp, clean pictures should be your goal.

        One of the most significant pieces of social media marketing is engaging. Stay active and keep your presence consistent. Posting once a month is simply not enough. You will not be seen on the consistent basis that is necessary for success. Posting at least once a week is recommended and it doesn’t hurt to post even more often. Be sure to use varying graphics, videos, polls and the like to get and keep your follower’s attention. Now more than ever, people get bored. Keep it interesting!

        Marketplace Expectations 

        There is no avoiding the fact that the pandemic changed the way people approach hiring companies. People are online more than ever, and your competition is stepping up their game. Having a social media presence used to be an option, but to be successful in today’s society, it is a necessity. Even if someone gives you a great review by word of mouth, a consumer will frequently go to Facebook to find your page and see what kind of engagement you have. If you lack a presence or have unfavorable reviews, you will likely end up with a lost customer.

        Let your followers know about you. Your website, social media platforms, and any other marketing outlets should highlight your online presence. While it may seem a bit redundant, it is beneficial.

        Do you use energy efficient products? Post about it, add it to your website, to your mailers, you name it. Put your efforts out there, make them known so that you can in turn, become known. Are you a big supporter of non-profits? Share that. Giving back to your community leaves a positive impression and your consumers love to see your efforts. Let them know what you are doing.

        Where to Spend Your Marketing Dollars

        If you are here and looking into the best marketing approaches, it is likely you don’t have an unlimited marketing budget. Let’s be honest, who does? Knowing where to allocate your money to see the greatest return on your investment is huge. Thankfully, you are not left to decide this alone.

        The first step is to determine your goal. Are you looking to gain a handful of customers and to do it fast? Or are you looking for long-term growth you can count on? Both? Whatever the case, determining your goal(s) is crucial. While the same marketing approach may not work for different goals, knowing the goals is the first key step.

        Once you have determined your goals, you can then work to begin to understand your target customer(s). Direct mail can be all it takes for some areas, while it might not work at all for others. If you do not know who you are aiming to target, no approach will be successful and investing in marketing will just seem like constant failures.

        Cue professional marketing companies. Finding a marketing company that truly understands and gets your industry is the best route to go. They will help you determine which marketing approach will be best, regardless of the goals you are working toward. Usually, to meet professional goals in a competitive market, you need to hire professionals.

        Time

        There is never enough time in the day, week or year. People are busy, and that includes you. While you are busy operating your business, taking care of customers and employees, taking care of your family, it can be hard to make the time for marketing. But marketing is often the key to any successful business.

        So how do you do it all? Well, thankfully you do not have to. Here’s where Choice Roof Contractor Group can jump in and help.

        We are backed by a team of marketing experts focused specifically on the commercial roofing industry. We have found the best ways to position your company and we are here to help you get yours seen. We tailor our marketing solutions to meet your needs and goals while staying within your budget. We offer website and social media management strategies as well as custom designed print pieces that can be used as examples to follow. Direct mail pieces like flyers and brochures still work to engage customers too. We can assist with integrating all these marketing tools seamlessly to ensure they work for you and your company.

        When you are ready, we are more than happy to sit down with you and offer our best solutions.

        Our goal is to be your marketing partner for years to come. We work to build relationships with our customers and love seeing you and your company thrive. With this goal, it has helped us help our clients grow in ways many companies can’t compete with.

        Have questions? Don’t hesitate to call us today at 800-670-5583 and learn exactly what we are about and how we can help you and your company get to the level you want.

        Should You Switch to Commercial Roofing?

        As the owner of a roofing company, you get to decide what roofs you choose to work on.  One of the questions we get frequently is “should I switch to commercial roofing?”.  Though this is a personal decision, there are many benefits to consider with commercial roofing, as well as a couple of drawbacks. 

        First and foremost, perhaps we should discuss what are the main differences between the two. 

        Commercial vs. Residential Roofing

        residential roofingIn the most basic definition, a “commercial” roof is one that sits over a business, rather than a personal home or multi-tenant building.  For most, that would include industrial buildings, strip malls, hospitals and the like.

        Residential homes tend to have steeper slopes, and are primarily shingle, tile or metal.   In this case, your clients are families, with little or no knowledge of roofing or how business truly works.  Residential roofs tend to be smaller than commercial roofs and can be very labor-intensive.  On the positive, there are a lot of them.

        Commercial buildings are frequently flat roofs, and may involve single-ply membranes, coatings,  EPDM, gravel, metal and other options, including the same shingles and tile you see in residential roofing.  Your clients are business owners or property managers.  Though they also may have little knowledge of roofing, they do understand business.  That can be a real plus when a material shortage or weather issue causes delays.  They are generally significantly larger than residential roofs and the work involved can be far less labor-intensive. Also, the profit margins are better in most cases. However, there are fewer commercial buildings than homes in the U.S.

        Benefits of Commercial Roofing

        Free Guide: How to Switch to Commercial

        Commercial Roofing Book

          Now that we’ve clarified the two different types of roofing, let’s look at the benefits of commercial roofing compared to residential roofing.

          Income.  Researching Google shows a nationwide average cost to replace a shingle roof on a residential home of about $4.50 per square foot.  Researching the same concept, single-ply roofing comes up with an overall average around $6.00 per square foot.  Now, consider the average home of about 2,000 square foot vs. a commercial building of 20,000 square foot and you can see the huge difference ($9,000 vs. $120,000).

          Labor.  Installing shingles on a steep, residential slope is very labor intensive.  Each shingle (even 3-tab) must be individually nailed into place, taking its toll on your team’s back, knees and other joints.  Conversely, coatings are simply sprayed or rolled on.  Membranes are rolled out in sheets, then connected.  There are even machines that can help with the process.  This reduces both your labor costs, your time and the physical demands on the body.

          Time.  In this case, we are talking about your time.  Due to the significantly higher profit margins involved in commercial roofing, most commercial contractors actually work less and do far fewer jobs than residential roofers.  This allows for more personal time.  Time you can spend fishing, with the family, traveling or even growing your business more, if you prefer.

          Competition.  Unfortunately, the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not differentiate between residential and commercial roofing companies.  However, anecdotal data points from our commercial roofing contractor friends and associates report a substantially lower level of competition for jobs. 

          Drawbacks of Commercial Roofing

          commercial roofingThere are a few drawbacks when considering switching to commercial roofing.

          Cost.  There is specialized equipment to purchase, materials are more expensive, and you will usually need to invest more in marketing to get started.  However, you may consider used equipment (think eBay) or rentals if they are available in your area.  You may even be able to borrow some items from a commercial colleague (our commercial roofing network shares equipment among members all the time).  Material costs are offset by increased profits and marketing can be set up in stages to help reduce the impact on your company’s bottom line.

          Education.  There is no doubt you will need some training and education.  Though a roof is a roof, a roofing system is not the same thing.  To apply coatings & SPF or install membranes properly requires training, experience and knowledge.  The place to get this education is in classes and hands-on workshops, not on the top of your new client’s roof. 

          For additional information on commercial roof systems training, or to learn more about transitioning from residential to commercial roofing, talk to the experts at Choice Roof Contractor’s Group by calling 800-670-5583. 

          Top 5 OSHA Violations by Roofing Companies

          We cannot completely resolve all OSHA violations simply because accidents can and will always happen. If we work hard, we can all reduce violations drastically. In the long term, this will help protect our men and women from getting injured, becoming disabled or even dying on our watch. Additionally, it will save your company money.

          osha fine violationThese are the top 5 OSHA violations to consider when trying to reduce your number of violations and minimize how much of your time is lost due to a bad situation.

          1. Fall Protection
          2. Respirator Protection
          3. Ladders
          4. Scaffolding
          5. Hazard Communications

          Fall Protection

          Free Guide: How to Switch to Commercial

          Commercial Roofing Book

            For the 11th year in a row, fall protection is the number one violation for roofing companies. There were a staggering 5,295 violations reported in 2021.

            This is an easy fix. The violations are a combination of inadequate equipment from the business owner and failure to use it properly by the employee. It is your responsibility, as an employer, to provide your employees with the equipment they need as well as mandating they use it properly and providing any necessary training.

            Maintaining a consistent plan of action against failure to follow protocol with fall protection equipment will help reduce the risk of your company being cited for this violation. Additionally, regularly inspecting the equipment on a regular basis, and replacing equipment that is no longer working at its best, will keep you in OSHA’s good graces.

            Respirator Protection

            In second place with a disheartening 2,527 violations is respirator protection. What does this mean? Simply using a face mask that is appropriate for the job at hand. Using incorrect masks or no mask at all allows the chemicals we work with to potentially cause serious and sometimes fatal results.

            Ladders

            Following the basic OSHA regulations on ladder length would significantly help in dropping the number of annual violations. There were 2,026 in 2021. Knowing these regulations will help you protect the men and women that keep your business up and running. Though this may be seen by some as common sense, not using the appropriate length is a problem that is easily resolved.

            Scaffolding

            As you are aware, scaffolding is as necessary as having the correct materials on the job. Yet it is the fourth highest on the list with 1,948 OSHA violations. Why? A variety of reasons such as guard rails not being the correct height, midrails not being placed at all, or exceeding the maximum capacity of the scaffolding. These violations are easy to correct but are overlooked by newcomers and old-timers alike. Yes, it is easy to cut this corner, but is it really worth the extra cost associated with violations? Most likely not.

            Hazard Communications

            In some workplaces, it is all about location, but in this instance, it is all about communication. There were 1,947 violations of communications when it came to hazards in 2021. It’s important that containers have their necessary labels, employees are properly trained and safety data sheets (SDS) are available.

            Summarizing Things Up

            As an industry, we can greatly reduce the number of OSHA violations and related injuries. Regular, thorough training is a good start. The presence of appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment) that is in good working order, having a strict reinforcement policy for OSHA’s rules and regulations, and keeping open lines of communication are other simple steps to follow.

            Working together as a community, we can improve our industry and help save lives.