North Carolina Builder June 2009 by North Carolina Home Builders Association

The official magazine of the North Carolina Home Builders Association

Vol. 39, No. 5, June 2009

Golf classic scores with members

Legislative Conference is June 9-10 Get the ball rolling at 21CBEC

Proudly expanding our extraordinary hardwood lumber, flooring, and molding product line by bringing TimberSIL® Wood Products to the market — the new GREEN from DEAN.

Building Green? We have the EPA’s Only Certified “Barrier” Wood Building Materials, replacing typically harmful chemicalpesticide “Treated” Wood.

TimberSIL® projects save money! Total costs for TimberSIL® projects actually cost less than projects built with pesticide-based treated wood or composite products.

TimberSIL® Products SPRINGFIELD,VA PRESS RELEASE – MARCH 31, 2009

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dean Hardwoods, Inc., effective immediately, as our North Carolina Distributor for TimberSIL® Products, our non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, safe silica Glass Wood building materials. TimberSIL® is approximately 50% stronger than wet treated wood, has 4 times more holding strength for screws and fasteners than ordinary lumber products treated with environmentally harmful chemicals, is non-corrosive, is more stable, and is both a Class “A” Fire Retardant and Ignition Resistant Material. TimberSIL® products are the greenest of green building materials. Look for

TimberSIL® was developed by an environmental toxicologist inventor to be the ultimate in safe, non-toxic building materials. TimberSIL® is the only material in EPA history to be certified as a non-toxic “barrier” building material, exempt from EPA’s pesticide regulations. TimberSIL® forms millions of barriers around and within the fibers of southern yellow pine.The microscopic coating is harmless flakes of silica which is a barrier to insects, and is harmless to human health both in the building process and after. TimberSIL® Products come with a 40 year transferrable warranty.

TimberSIL® — coming soon to your favorite building supply company. Distributed by

DEAN HARDWOODS, INC. Exclusive Distributor in North Carolina for

For more information on TimberSIL® Wood Products please visit:

www.timbersilproducts.com

Features

V ol . 39, N o . 5, J une 2009

The official magazine of the North Carolina Home Builders Association

2005 Communicator Award Winner

Dedicated to the advancement of the home building industry, North Carolina Builder (ISSN 1552-8685) is published monthly for the members of the North Carolina Home Builders Association, P.O. Box 99090, Raleigh, N.C. 27624-9090. (800) 662-7129 • http://www.nchba.com Mike Carpenter Executive Vice President and General Counsel

Lisa Martin Director of Government Affairs

SkillsUSA Conference showcases students’ talents

NCHBA members participated as judges in the annual SkillsUSA Conference in Greensboro and the students outdid themselves in five competitive events related to the building industry.

Annual charity tournament is a big success

More than $9,600 was raised for the North Carolina Home Builders Educational and Charitable Foundation Inc. during the annual Builder Classic Golf Tournament sponsored by Builders Mutual Insurance Co.

Make the most of your home’s curb appeal

Keep your homes looking sharp and performing well, whether it’s with the latest exterior paint or with an eye-catching cladding.

Get the ball rolling at the 21CBEC

The 21st Century Building Expo & Conference is the place to be if you want to meet the current economic challenges head-on and find new approaches to doing business in this tough economy. Make plans now to attend the southeast’s premier industry event Sept. 16-18 in Charlotte.

2. President’s Message 4. Capitol Insider 4. NCHBA Calendar 6. Code Corner 12. Build-Pac Contributors 16. Knowledge Builder 20. Spike Member Update On the cover: Antiquity, a new home community in Cornelius, N.C. developed by The Cunnane Group Inc., exudes curb appeal with its historic American architectural style. (Photo courtesy of Simonton Windows.)

June 2009

lmartin@nchba.org

To be named Director of Regulatory Affairs Robert Privott Director of Codes and Construction rprivott@nchba.org Jessica Hayes Director of Political Affairs

jhayes@nchba.org

Kathryn Atkinson Director of Membership Services katkinson@nchba.org Deborah Alford Director of Exhibitions and Education

dalford@nchba.org

Tracie Garrett Director of Exhibitor Services

tgarrett@nchba.org

Kep Paylor Vocational Education

kpaylor@nchba.org

Linda Hall Controller

lhall@nchba.org

Erin Jones Manager of Political Operations

ejones@nchba.org

Heather Crews Director of Communications and Managing Editor

hcrews@nchba.org

Wendy Spaziani Assistant Education Coordinator wspaziani@nchba.org Beth Gray Receptionist

bgray@nchba.org

Advertising Sales Executive Sharon Freeman (888) 364-5271 freemanfour4@cox.net Graphic Designer

Contents

mcarpenter@nchba.org

Paige Takach

Publisher

Association Publishing Inc. www.associationpublishinginc.com Sandra Amidon and Joyce Hearn, APR (757) 420-2434

Acceptance of advertising in North Carolina Builder does not imply endorsement of the product or service by NCHBA. Opinions expressed in articles are those of the authors and people quoted and not necessarily those of NCHBA, nor does mention of specific products in editorial content imply endorsement by NCHBA. No material may be reproduced for further publication without the express permission of the association. North Carolina Builder is published for the principals and employees of all member firms of the North Carolina Home Builders Association Affiliated with the Association and its receipt is included in the membership fee. National of Home Builders. North Carolina Builder is published monthly except for January. Since the mailing list used by North Carolina Builder is compiled according to membership records, address corrections should be directed to your local association. Nonmember subscriptions are available from the publisher for $30 a year. Dues paid to NCHBA are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes. However, they may be deductible as ordinary and necessary business expenses subject to restrictions imposed as a result of association lobbying activities. NCHBA estimates that the nondeductible portion of your 2009 dues — the portion that is allocable to lobbying — is 28 percent.

North Carolina Builder   1

President’s Message

2009 NCHBA Leadership

by Frank Wiesner, 2009 NCHBA President

Keep the debate healthy, the stand unified

President Frank Wiesner President-Elect Lyle Gardner First Vice President Bill Daleure Secretary/Treasurer Rick Shields Executive Vice President Mike Carpenter Immediate Past President & NAHB Executive Committee State Representative Ray Rhodes NAHB Executive Committee Rick Judson Vice President, Region I Patrick Mann Vice President, Region II Glenn Morrison Vice President, Region III Barry Tutor Vice President, Region IV Ralph Doggett Vice President, Region V Jackie Trinchitella Vice President, Region VI Brian Robinett Vice President, Region VII Erik Anderson Vice President, Region VIII Darrel Hamilton Vice President, Region IX Kevin Annas Vice President, Region X Zac Koenig Presidential Appointee Elizabeth Cubler Presidential Appointee Larry Howard Presidential Appointee Mike Gerber Chair, Associate Members Committee Tammie Smoot President, EO/ES Council Caroline Sutton President, Professional Women in Building Tammie Smoot

2   North Carolina Builder

was talking with someone the other day and the comment was made that we are halfway to our goal of surviving this year and just need to make it through the end of this year. I pointed out that we are halfway through the year … but my goals are shorter term. In a nutshell, my goal today is to be here tomorrow. He laughed and stated again that getting through 2009 was going to be the fix to the economic woes that have befallen our industry. We began a healthy debate about when and why the economy, and in particular housing, would begin making a comeback. While our debate at all times remained civil, it was obvious that we, and the other two folks who joined in, all had different opinions of when, why and how we could expect to see a meaningful recovery. I do not in any way think that any of us were overly negative, but the point that we all agreed on was that ultimately Wiesner time would be the deciding factor. None of us I am glad that we in know exactly how much time it will take for a return to normalcy. I believe debates such as the one I described are healthy and North Carolina are constructive, and for me it helps satisfy my fascination with the still solidly standing political process in a democracy. There is a danger that I believe we should be sensitive to with regard to our families and businesses, and together as a home I include our local HBAs in this group because they can sometimes building industry encompass both of these areas of our lives. — defending and As I stated earlier, time is the factor that I believe we can all agree will determine when we see a return to something resembling supporting one another “normal” in our housing markets. However, none of us know exactly as we optimistically wait how much time it will take.We have now been fighting through this for the opportunity that downturn for more than two years and some in North Carolina have we all know by faith been engaged for well over three years now. As the battle rages on and troops get weary from the fight, we can is on the horizon, like have a tendency to begin reacting to situations, rather than responding land on a long ocean to them. I will concede that there can be a fine line between the two, but the danger is that we begin to see the bond that holds us together voyage. Until we get begin to crumble.The unified stance with which we have supported there, I encourage all of one another can become compromised. our NCHBA members Once that happens we can begin to fight among ourselves and lose focus and perspective as to what we are fighting for in the first to remain vigilant and place. Our civil and healthy debates may become nasty and personal unified in our stance, to the point that in our families, businesses and HBAs, relationships and to continue helping are destroyed, and the solidarity with which we once proudly stood can become a concept rather than a practice.We, as an industry, cannot one another achieve today’s goal of being allow anything that poses a threat to our unity enter the camp. I am glad that we in North Carolina are still solidly standing here tomorrow. together as a home building industry — defending and supporting one another as we optimistically wait for the opportunity that we all know by faith is on the horizon, like land on a long ocean voyage. Until we get there, I encourage all of our NCHBA members to remain vigilant and unified in our stance, and to continue helping one another achieve today’s goal of being here tomorrow. I believe in the power that we all possess to encourage, build up and make a difference in each other’s lives today. We are thoughtfully responding to our situations with not only a self-preservative motive, but also with the bigger picture of the positive and practical impact that we — unified as an industry and also as individuals — provide in our communities, in the lives of our friends, families and neighbors, and in the great state of North Carolina.

Frank

June 2009

Southern beauty that lasts. Benjamin Moore® Exterior Aura® delivers more than just a beautiful finish. Its Color Lock® formualtion enables it to meet the most stringent environmental regulations, and it lasts longer, even in tough environments.

for participating retailers, visit bmaura.com

June 2009

North Carolina Builder   3

Capitol Insider by Lisa Martin, NCHBA Government Affairs Director

Celebrate homeownership

he home building industry is celebrating National Homeownership Month in June. We take this month to recognize the essential role that homeownership plays in our national economy, in individual financial security and in fulfilling the American Dream. Before individuals can purchase a home, they must be able to afford it. Housing affordability is tops on the list of items the North Carolina Home Builders Association fights continuously for because it is often put in jeopardy — from efforts to impose Martin impact fees and land-transfer taxes to predatory lending practices. Recently, we’ve heard some good news when it comes to affordability. Nationwide, housing affordability is at its highest level in at least five years. In fact, the National Association

Area Rank

% of homes affordable to median income

2008 median family income

Winston-Salem

77.5

$57,300

Greensboro-High Point

76.3

$56,100

Fayetteville

75.3

$49,300

Charlotte-Gastonia-Concord

72.2

$64,300

Resources for information on housing ownership and affordability: • North Carolina Housing Finance Agency - www.nchfa.com • Homes4NC - www.homes4nc.com • Mountain Housing Opportunities – www.mtnhousing.org • N.C. Housing Coalition – www.nchousing.org

of Home Builders estimates that 55 million American households have the ability to make their dream of homeownership a reality today — up from 38 million two years ago. This increase is due in large part to the $8,000 tax credit available to first-time home buyers from Jan. 1 to Nov. 30, 2009, and to nearrecord low mortgage interest rates.

According to the latest NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index, which measures the share of homes sold in an area that would have been affordable to a family earning the local median income based on standard mortgage underwriting criteria, four areas in North Carolina (shown in the chart above) rank in the top 100 for affordability in the nation.

Make your voice heard at annual Legislative Conference

NCHBA Calendar

he North Carolina Home Builders Association Legislative Conference and 2nd Quarter Board Meeting will be held at the Renaissance Raleigh Hotel at North Hills June 9-10. The first day will consist of scheduled committee meetings. A reception for legislators will be held Tuesday evening at the North Carolina Museum of History. On Wednesday morning, members will visit the North Carolina General Assembly and meet with representatives and senators. The 2nd Quarter Board Meeting will follow in the afternoon. The Associates Committee is hosting a Lunch & Learn seminar from 12:15-2:45 p.m., Tuesday, June 9, at Bonefish Grill at the Lassiter, across the street from the Renaissance Hotel. The seminar topic is “Where is the ROI for Social Media?” and features Carol M. Flammer, MIRM, CAPS, CSP, managing partner of mRELEVANCE L.L.C., as the speaker. Lunch & Learn tickets, which include lunch, are $23 in advance and $28 at the door. With so many issues facing our industry, including the current economic crisis, it is more important than ever to have our voices heard by our legislative delegation. Don’t miss this chance.

June 9-10 NCHBA Legislative Conference & 2nd Quarter Board Meeting, Raleigh, N.C. July N.C. Executive Officers Council Seminar, Hickory, N.C. July 14-19 NAHB Summer Executive Board Meeting, Washington, D.C. Aug. 11-15 NAHB Executive Officers Council Seminar, Louisville, Ky. Sept. 16-19 21st Century Building Expo & Conference, STARS Awards Gala and NCHBA 3rd Quarter Board Meeting, Charlotte, N.C.

4   North Carolina Builder

Summer Schedule of Events

June 2009

The essential tool for every homebuilder.

Natural Gas. More and more new homebuyers are demanding it. Building homes that offer the comfort and energy efficiency of natural gas heat, water heat and fireplaces can give you a real competitive advantage. Let PSNC Energy show you how to make natural gas work for your business. Call 1-866-750-1880 or visit psncenergy.com/builder

June 2009

North Carolina Builderâ&#x20AC;Żâ&#x20AC;Żâ&#x20AC;Ż5

Code Corner by Robert Privott, NCHBA Director of Codes and Construction Privott

North Carolina Building Code Council update Highlights of 2009 residential code changes

he North Carolina Building Code Council will meet Sept. 7-8, 2009, at a meeting location to be determined. The council will hold a work session at 9 a.m., Monday, Sept. 7, followed by a public hearing at 1 p.m. The council meeting will be at 9 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 8. The agenda for the council meeting can be found at http://www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/Engineering/ BCC/engineering_bcc_agenda.asp. about two weeks prior to the meeting.

Code changes to the 2009 North Carolina Residential Code continue to be the focus for this issue of Code Corner.

CHAPTER 7 – WALL COVERING SECTION R702 INTERIOR COVERING R702.4.2 Cement, fiber-cement and glass mat gypsum backers. Cement, fiber-cement or glass mat gypsum backers in compliance with ASTM C 1288, C 1325 or C 1178 and installed in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations shall be used as backers for wall tile in tub and shower areas and wall panels in shower areas. IRC change – New Section. “Green gypsum board” is no longer allowed to be used as backer behind tiled tub and shower stalls. The three specific materials must be used: Cement, fiber-cement or glass mat gypsum backers. If grout or tile cracks, water penetration can be absorbed by the paper facing on the green board.

6   North Carolina Builder

SECTION R703 EXTERIOR COVERING R703.1 General. Exterior walls shall provide the building with a weather-resistant exterior wall envelope. The exterior wall envelope shall include flashing as described in Section R703.8. The exterior wall envelope shall be designed and constructed in a manner that prevents the accumulation of water within the wall assembly by providing a water-resistant barrier behind the exterior veneer as required by Section R703.2. and a means of draining water that enters the assembly to the exterior. Protection against condensation in the exterior wall assembly shall be provided in accordance With Chapter 11 of this code. Exceptions: … IRC change – Modification clarifies that a means of draining water to the exterior must be provided for

exterior wall assemblies and includes provisions for water management through exceptions. R703.4 Attachments. Unless specified otherwise, all wall coverings shall be securely fastened in accordance with Table R703.4 or with other approved aluminum, stainless steel, zinc-coated or other approved corrosion-resistive fasteners. Where the basic wind speed per Figure R301.2(4) is 110 miles per hour (49 m/s) or higher, the attachment of wall coverings shall be designed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2(2), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2(3). IRC change – Added section dealing with basic wind speed areas needing to have attachment of wall cladding material designed to resist cladding loads adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2(3). R703.8 Flashing. Approved corrosionresistant flashing shall be applied shingle-fashion in such a manner to prevent entry of water into the wall cavity or penetration of water to the building structural framing components. The flashing shall extend to the surface of the exterior wall finish.Approved corrosion-resistant flashings shall be installed at all of the following locations: 1. Exterior window and door openings. Flashing at exterior window and door openings shall extend to the surface of the exterior wall finish or to the water-resistive barrier for subsequent drainage.... IRC change – Changed the language in item #1, code no longer recognizes self flashing windows in the text and the reference has been removed. R703.11 Vinyl siding. Vinyl siding shall be certified and labeled as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D 3679 by an approved quality-control agency. IRC change – Added language specific to vinyl siding stating that siding shall be certified and labeled meeting ASTM D 3679 by an approved qualitycontrol agency R703.11.1 Installation. Vinyl siding, soffit and accessories shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. IRC change – Added language to specify that vinyl siding installation shall be per manufacturer’s installation instructions. June 2009

June 2009

North Carolina Builder   7

Students compete at SkillsUSA conference

igh school students from across the state traveled to Greensboro April 21-23 to show off their hands-on skills and talents at the 44th annual North Carolina SkillsUSA Skills & Leadership Conference. The conference featured nearly 1,500 participants, with students competing in more than 85 contests on the secondary and postsecondary level, including those relevant to the home building industry such as masonry, carpentry, cabinet making, residential wiring and TeamWorks competitions. In this year’s carpentry competition, 54 students were given a set of plans for a doghouse and five hours to complete the project. Habitat for Humanity picked up the doghouses after they were completed and judged, and will sell them at the Habitat ReStore that helps local affiliates fund the construction of Habitat houses within the community. The first-place winner of the carpentry contest was John Williams of Wakefield High School, whose adviser was Frank Cuda. Past NCHBA President Buddy Hughes organized a large group of volunteers and judges for the carpentry competition. A special thanks goes to Danny Adams, Erik Anderson, Kevin Annas, Don Betsworth, Eddie Boswell, Jerry Cowan, Greg Fitchly, Mike Gurley, Darrel Hamilton, Hughes, Kaye Leonard, Kep Paylor, Paul Mullican, Hershel Redding, Brian Robinett, Richard Soderquist and Kelley St. Germain for their time. In the masonry contest, students were required to build a 4-foot by 4-foot brick-and-block wall section. Jared Gandy of Mount Pleasant High t NCHBA members (from left) Kevin Annas, Paul Mullican, Don Betsworth and Hershel Redding judge the carpentry competition at the SkillsUSA Conference.

8   North Carolina Builder

s Students compete in the TeamWorks competition, where teams made up of an electrician, carpenter, brick mason and plumber, worked together to complete a project. Builders Mutual Insurance Co. donated hard hats for the students to wear during the conference.

School was the winner of this event. His adviser was Ryan Shaver. Five teams, comprised of four students per team, took part in the TeamWorks competition, which challenged students to build a 4-foot by 8-foot bathroom from the ground up in teams of four. Each team was made up of an electrician, a carpenter, a brick mason and a plumber. Under the leadership of Jim Shallow of North Pitt High School, Kelly Harris, Josh Johnsen, Lee House and Stuart Perry took home the first-place prize. The first-place winners of the contests will travel to Kansas City, Mo. June 21-26 to compete in the SkillsUSA National Conference. Congratulations to all of the winners. We wish you the best of luck in the national competition and all future endeavors. (SkillsUSA is a national student organization that develops employability, participatory and leadership skills to complement the occupational skills developed by students in technical education classrooms or work-based learning sites. SkillsUSA is an integral part of approved technical education occupation programs.)

Many thanks to the organizations that sponsored this year’s event. Without the generous contributions from Gregory Poole and Carolina Caterpillar, Snap-on, Lowe’s, PRO-Build, Carolina Concrete Masonry Association (CCMA), BIA Southeast and Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), the conference could not take place. Several organizations and companies deserve recognition for their sponsorship of individual events. Cabinet making: DeWALT Tools, N.C. Architectural Woodworking Institute Carpentry: DeWALT Tools, North Carolina Home Builders Association, PRO-Build Masonry: North Carolina Masonry Contractors Association, Brick Association of the Carolinas, Carolinas Concrete Masonry Association, Masonry Instructors Association Residential wiring: North Carolina Association of Electrical Contractors, Greensboro chapter of Electrical Contractors, Bayou Electrical Services Inc. TeamWorks: Contractors Yard, Central Piedmont Community College Thanks also to Pella Windows & Doors for donating bags and pencils. June 2009

June 2009

North Carolina Builder   9

Members hit the greens for NCHBECF scholarship program t

The bluegrass band of J.P. Johnson, Pearl River Resonators, Jimmy Fedney (retired), Tim Glasson, Sanford Kitchen and Bath, and Glasson Tool Company, and Bob Fox (retired), entertain attendees at the BBQ Pig-nic on Thursday evening. (Also pictured (center) is Darrell Patterson of Overhead Door Company of the Capital City.)

Buddy Hughes, with his Lexington-style BBQ, took home the Pig after defeating Larry Airey’s Western-style BBQ and Robert Privott’s Easternstyle BBQ at the Pig-nic Cookoff sponsored by Builders Mutual Insurance Co.

olfers playing in the annual Builder Classic Golf Tournament teed off April 17 at Whispering Pines Country Club to raise money for the North Carolina Home Builders Educational & Charitable Foundation Inc., which provides scholarships for students entering the building industry. The tournament, sponsored by Builders Mutual Insurance Co., turned out to be another big success this year as 100 golfers helped raise more than $9,600 for the foundation. The foundation would like to thank the many companies that helped support this event through contributions of door prizes, gift bag items and hole sponsorships. First- and second-place teams won gift certificates to the proshop at WPCC. The festivities began Thursday evening with a BBQ “Pig-nic” Cook-Off hosted by Moore County HBA member Pete Mace and sponsored by Builders Mutual Insurance Co. Lake Norman HBA Executive Officer Larry Airey competed against Robert Privott, NCHBA Director of Codes and Construction, and Davidson County HBA member Buddy Hughes. Attendees cast monetary “votes” for the best BBQ, which raised an additional $430 for the scholarship program. Buddy Hughes, in his first year participating in the cookoff, was voted the winner.

t Ray Rhodes accepts the trophy as winner of the President’s Cup in which former local, state and national HBA presidents compete for the top prize. Rhodes is pictured with teammates Matthew Rhodes (right), Dane Northcutt (left) and Bernice Rhodes, along with golf chairman Darrell Patterson (pictured fifth) and NCHBA President Frank Wiesner.

s First-place honors at the Builder Classic went to the team of Butch Clark, Ermon Rush, Harold Rush and Mike Lynch.

10   North Carolina BuilderBuilder 10   North Carolina

June 2009

The North Carolina Home Builders Association would like to thank Builders Mutual Insurance Co. for sponsoring the Builder Classic Golf Tournament. Proceeds benefit the North Carolina Home Builders Educational and Charitable Foundation Inc. It was through the insurance company’s generous support that this worthwhile event was made possible.

Heather Crews, Laura Wiesner, Jodi Sauerbier and Lori Hopper teamed up to take on the guys at the Builder Classic. t NCHBECF Chairman Ray Rhodes presents Buddy Hughes with a new putter donated by Crescent Bank of Sanford after he won the Closest to the Pin Contest.

Door prizes were donated by: BB&T of Sanford BC Custom Builders Ltd. Bonded Builders Home Warranty Carey Bayol Interior Design Carolina Glass & Mirror Crescent Bank of Sanford Crescent State Bank First Bank of Sanford Forest City Land Group GolfTEC Atlantic Avenue Leesville Tap Room MetLife Moen Inc. Piedmont Natural Gas Pro-Build Progress Energy Service Building Supply Stuart Law Firm Kwikset Four Oaks Bank Countrywide Home Loans Gift bag items were donated by: 84 Lumber ALSCO Metals Corp. BB&T Forest City Land Group Lance Snacks Moore Printing & Graphics Mortar Net USA Ltd. Piedmont Natural Gas Raleigh News & Observer Residential Warranty Company LLC Simpson Door Co. SkyeTec Toll Brothers Triangle New Home Guide

s The team of Mike Rhodes, Keith Thomas, Currie Howell and Brad Cummings came in a close second during the tournament.

June 2009

Hole sponsors were: Bank of America Builders First Source Custom Home Exteriors (2) Cohen Schatz Associates HomeTeam Pest Defense North Carolina Builder   11

Product Roundup:

Exteriors

Like a rock Whether you’re building a dream home, remodeling an existing home, refacing a church or adding stone to a fireplace, Quality Stone Veneer will make your project rock. With a product line that offers 10 stone styles and in more than 40 different colors, the East Coast-based company has been casting molds from locally quarried stone for more than 30 years. The manmade stones authentically replicate the shapes, hues and textures of natural stone found throughout North Carolina and neighboring states. The company’s installation crews have the ability to execute any project, from conception to completion. For more information, visit www.qualitystoneveneer.com or call (717) 786-3229.

Paint with an aura Benjamin Moore Aura, which was first introduced as a super premium interior coating, is proving to be a superior exterior coating in its house paint version. Introduced last year, Aura’s exterior edition delivers a smooth, durable one-coat finish that lasts for years. Its high-build properties yield a thicker

s Accenting a home with stone veneer can make it a standout in the neighborhood. (Photo courtesy of Quality Stone Veneer.)

coating that contributes to the paint’s extreme “hide” trait. A primer or additional coat is often eliminated as the paint is formulated to fill in minor cracks, crevices and other substrate imperfections. Special coalescing agents balance the open time and dry time, allowing touch-ups to begin within just a few hours of application. It can be applied in temperatures as low as 40º F. (See EXTERIORS on page 20)

2009 NCHBA build-pac Contributors

Look for the Major Contributor list in the July issue of North Carolina Builder.

(Pledges/Contributions received as of May 5, 2009)

VIP ($500-$999)

Dollar-A-Day ($365-$499)

Alamance-Caswell HBA Ashe County HBA Darrel Hamilton Jay Burke

Carteret County HBA Joe Tarascio

Durham, Orange & Raleigh-Wake County HBA Chatham Counties HBA Stephen Eastman Larry Howard Wayne Holt Lance Youngquist

McDowell County HBA Gary Hensley

Outer Banks HBA Duke Geraghty

Bicentennial ($200-$364) Alamance-Caswell HBA Brunswick County HBA Durham, Orange & Forrest Taylor Chatham Counties HBA James Collins Dante Berini Ashe County HBA Carson Stanley

McDowell County HBA Christina Clark Mitchell Clark Kay Justice Jamie Lunsford Roger Maney Gene Potter Ken Spencer

Northeastern NC HBA Curtis Chambers

McDowell County HBA Robert Boone Ray Burnette Phillip Davis Charles England Gary Justice Don Mitchell Craig Morgan Roger Pittman Ron Richardson Alfred Shiver John Simmons Marcus White Northeastern NC HBA Jay Hart Bill Waters Onslow County HBA Grace Haubrich Todd Haubrich Outer Banks HBA Dave Stormont

Raleigh-Wake County HBA Sharon Andrews Tom Hankins Charles Barnes Suzanne Harris Carolyn Baxter Patti Montanarella George Brantley Martha Nelson Katherine Brewer Michael Reiser Debbie Combos Edd Roberts Michael Debnam Tammie Smoot Ron Garber Marty Tart Mike Gerber Connie Tench Harold Glazer C. B. Tyson C. Brooks Gulledge Robert Weintraub

Raleigh-Wake County HBA Jay Beaman A.J. Critelli Patricia Hanchette Vanessa Jenkins Shelley Mitchiner R. Lawrence Smith

Winston-Salem HBA Erik Anderson Grover Shugart

Century Club ($100-$199) Alamance-Caswell HBA Judi Baker Susan Black Kester Brown Clifton Fogleman Allison Franklin Vaughn Jarrett Steven Scott Mike Wilkinson Phyllis Wolfe Brunswick County HBA Doug Hughes Jeff Wadman Ron Zemke Carteret County HBA Patrick Mann

Craven-Pamlico HBA Milton Askew Vincent Clifton Phil Kaylor Bill Pope Donna Russell Richard White Durham, Orange & Chatham Counties HBA James Anderson Bill Beasley Joseph Johnson Barry Tutor Simon Vincent Britney Wallace Fayetteville HBA Jonathan Elliot

12   North Carolina Builder

Hendersonville HBA Rene Sutton Hickory-Catawba Valley HBA Randy Bowman Darbie Crouch Jim Grover Rob Howard Thomas Miller Linda Rollins High Country HBA Frank Girard Dave Parks David Scott Johnston County HBA Beth Collier Lake Norman HBA Larry Airey

Robeson County HBA B. G. French Salisbury-Rowan HBA Eric Beaver Mac Butner Chad Vriesema Vance-Granville HBA Robert Lloyd Wilmington-Cape Fear HBA Donna Girardot David Thomas Wilson HBA Frankie Rice Winston-Salem HBA Chris Haddock

Results for “May is BUILD-PAC Month” will be featured in the July magazine. June 2009

Put Your Time & Effort Where You Make Your Money:

Building and Selling Your Homes Let Us Handle Your Warranty Service You specialize in building and selling. Bonded Builders Warranty Group (BBWG) specializes in warranty. By putting your warranty responsibilities in our hands, you: • Reduce or eliminate warranty department expenses, like payroll, workers’ comp, vehicle and equipment-related costs, etc. • Eliminate warranty cost uncertainty with one premium paid at closing • Transfer your workmanship, materials and structural risks to BBWG • Provide your buyers with peace-of-mind protection, adding value to your homes

Bonded Builders has a menu of plans designed to fit your business. Give us a call and we’ll show you how we can help.

John Lashley 800 749-0381, x3806

Harry Hudson 800 749-0381, x3807

Barry Tutor 800 749-0381, x3828

Peyton Williams 800 749-0381, x3811 Protecting the American Dream for over 20 Years

June 2009

North Carolina Builder   13

“ D o n’t watch it ha p p m ak e it happ e n .”e n –

An organization’s ability to learn, and translate that learning into action rapidly, is the ultimate competitive advantage. Jack Welch (business leader and author)

21st Century Building Expo & Conference Meet Current Challenges with a New Appr ach Exhibits: September 17-18, 2009 Conference: September 16-18, 2009 Charlotte Convention Center • Charlotte, NC • New concepts and solutions • Innovative products and trends Information and Registration: www.21BuildingExpo.com 1.800.662.7129

• Networking with industry professionals Presented by the North Carolina Home Builders Association

$10,000 Grand Prize

14   North Carolina Builder

Golf Tournament

STARS Awards Gala

June 2009

Get the ball rolling at the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference

he 21st Century Building Expo & Conference is the place to be if you want to meet the current economic challenges head-on and find new approaches to doing business in this tough economy. At the Expo, you’ll find educational courses, seminars and new products and services that will help you get an edge on your competition and get the ball rolling toward better times. The educational conference portion of the Expo runs Sept. 16-18, and the exhibit hall floor will be open Sept. 17-18 at the Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte. Read on for an overview of what you will find at the seventh annual 21CBEC.

Register online now! The first step to getting to the Expo is visiting www.21buildingexpo.com. Here you can take advantage of the free online registration by following a few easy steps.While you’re there, take a look around to see the list of exhibitors, extensive variety of continuing education courses and spectacular array of door prizes.

Be prepared for opportunity in the exhibit hall Exhibit hall hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 17, and 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 a.m., Friday, Sept. 18. You do not want to miss this chance to tour the southeast’s premier Expo floor and spend quality face-to-face time with the top providers of today’s innovative products and services. You will find great ideas, cutting-edge materials and breakthrough technology on display at this year’s event. A preliminary list of companies represented, as well as the virtual floor plan of the exhibit hall, is available online at www.21buildingexpo.com. There you can learn more about the exhibitors, find contact information and products offered, plus gain access to the exhibitor’s Web sites.

Take advantage of learning opportunities The 21CBEC offers 50 continuing education courses and general session seminars to keep you up-to-date in the home building industry. If you are facing some downtime in your business, take this chance to earn a professional designation through the North Carolina Builder Institute or NAHB University of Housing courses. June 2009

Nationally-recognized speakers will be teaching general session seminars ranging from “Thriving in Times of Uncertainty” to “Romancing Financing: What You Need to Know to Close More Sales.” (Look for more information about these seminars in the July issue of North Carolina Builder magazine or visit www.21buildingexpo.com.)

Win a vacation just by registering!

Have some fun at the golf tournament The annual 21CBEC Golf Tournament tees off at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 16 at The Tradition Golf Club. Don’t miss out on the action at this challenging event. Enjoy an excellent networking opportunity as you play 18 holes at The Tradition Golf Club, located just a short drive from uptown Charlotte.Transportation is not included.

If you register by Sept. 15, you could win a three-night, four-day stay at the fabulous Amelia Island Plantation in Amelia Island, Fla. One lucky winner’s name will be drawn at the conclusion of the Expo at 3:30 p.m., Friday.The only requirement is that you registered before Sept. 15. You can mail your registration, fax your registration or take advantage of the easy and free online registration at www.21buildingexpo.com. (The prize package is compliments of Amelia Island Plantation.)

Party at the Builder Blast

Could you use $10,000 cash?

Shine brightly at the STARS Awards Gala

It’s not often you get the chance to win $10,000 cash on back-to-back days. But at the Expo, you can. We know you could use some extra cash, so don’t miss this chance to win the grand prize on both Thursday and Friday of the Expo, plus many other exceptional prizes that will be given away. All you have to do is pick up your Fast Cash Card at registration on Thursday and Friday, and take the card to all 20 exhibitors listed for a stamp. Return it to the North Carolina Home Builders Association booth (#1039). The grand prize drawing will be held at the conclusion of the Expo each day. You do not have to be present to win.

A new event at the Expo this year, the Builder Blast will be held from 8-11 p.m.,Thursday, Sept. 17, at the Charlotte Convention Center. Enjoy a night of drinks, a dessert bar and dancing to the band “Sleeping Booty.”The party is open to everyone, including SPIKE members, exhibitors and Expo attendees. (The Builder Blast is sponsored by Builders Mutual Insurance Co. Brede Exposition Services is a co-sponsor of the dessert bar.)

Join other industry professionals for “A Night Among the Stars” at the seventh annual STARS Awards Gala. We will celebrate the outstanding achievements of the industry’s builders, associates, Realtors, media and advertising professionals and many others from across the southeast at the Gala Wednesday, Sept. 16. The festivities begin with a reception at 6 p.m. at the Hilton Charlotte Center City Hotel, followed by dinner and the awards presentation at 7 p.m.The event showcases the work of STARS Award recipients in 47 categories through a beautiful multimedia presentation. The deadline for award entries is July 31 and the awards program is open only to NAHB members. Contact Kathryn Atkinson at (800) 662-7129 or visit www.21buildingexpo.com for more information.

Don’t miss out! Register NOW! There are so many reasons to register early for the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference. Registering online is the quickest way and it’s so easy! Just go to www.21buildingexpo.com and click on the “Register Now” button and follow the simple directions. “Meet Current Challenges with a New Approach” at the 21CBEC. North Carolina Builder   15

Knowledge Builder Tips from your industry experts at Builders Mutual

A hurricane season opener

igh school, college or pro, fans can hardly wait for the start of their favorite sports season. They impatiently count down the days until the season opener, practically glued to shows like Sports Center, eagerly listening to predictions.

On the other hand, when hurricane season rolls around, only the diehard weather buffs muster the same level of enthusiasm. For most of us in the building industry, we need to spend our energy preparing for “the big one.” Atlantic hurricane season kicks off June 1, leaving us vulnerable until Nov. 30. The

Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory reports that more than 97 percent of tropical activity occurs in those six months.

The calm before the storm Contractors have two basic areas of concern — active job sites and business operations — which demand thorough hurricane preparedness planning. With the proper strategy, you will find a calm before the storm, knowing you’ve done all you can do to prepare.

Protecting and preserving your business let us help you grow your business . Visit one of these locations : Charlotte, NC 28206 (704)377-5443 (800)438-5908 Fax(704)376-3559 elizabeth City, NC 27909 (252)338-2737 (800)841-0408 Fax(252)338-3123 Fayetteville, NC 28306 (910)483-3360 (800)542-7448 Fax(910)483-3499 FletCher, NC 28732 (828)654-8953 (888)809-8181 Fax(828)654-8957 GreeNsboro, NC 27406 (336)273-8681 (800)722-2200 Fax(336)273-0521 hiCkory, NC 28601 (828)322-7080 (800)236-5607 Fax(828)322-7274 New berN, NC 28560 (252)672-8900 (800)548-1610 Fax(252)672-8904 raleiGh, NC 27603 (919)772-6220 (800)262-1394 Fax(919)772-8782 rural hall, NC 27045 (336)969-2201 (800)633-0842 Fax(336)969-2301 wilmiNGtoN, NC 28405 (910)815-0501 (888)868-4695 Fax(910)815-0105

Stop Fishing Around. Once You See Our Products You'll be Hooked!

That’s because Norandex Building Materials Distribution offers builders the largest selection of top name, top quality exterior building products. Our name is catching on with leading builders around the country because we offer value, unmatched service, and strongly back every product we sell. See us for:

SIDING & SOFFIT WINDOWS SKYLIGHTS

DOORS STORM PRODUCTS VINYL FENCE GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS SHUTTERS

SPECIALTY ROOFING ACCENT PRODUCTS

DECK & RAIL MANUFACTURED STONE and MORE!

Norandex. When you hook-up with us you’re landing what you’ve always wanted in an exterior building products supplier.

wiNterville, NC 28590 (252)321-5632 (888)643-0120 Fax(252)321-5682

www.norandex.com

16   North Carolina Builder

Long before landfall, begin to implement your plan. For example, keep contact info for your insurance agent and company handy. Understand your coverage and review your insurance needs with your agent periodically. Likewise — if failing to do this hasn’t already burned you — routinely back up all electronic data, such as financials, plans, accounts payable and receivable, 1099s, and payroll. Store them off site in a safe place. A few mouse clicks may save hundreds of headache-filled hours trying to recreate data. Finally, before any storm poses a threat, familiarize yourself, your family and your employees with safe evacuation routes inland, so when the threat of a hurricane does become imminent, you can put your short-term action plan into play. • Identify nearby shelters. • Stock up on food and water. • Fill your gas tank(s). • Fully charge cell phone batteries. • Cover electronic equipment, such as fax machines and computers, with plastic bags to reduce water damage. • Gather a current set of records so you know which subs have been paid to date and how much. • Keep cash on hand to pay subs or buy materials if banks don’t open and stores can’t accept credit cards. • Take photos of covered property, such as office buildings and business personal property. Often, the media offers a variety of useful hurricane-readiness tips for homeowners, which you may want to consider for your business, too. (See KNOWLEDGE BUILDER on page 19) June 2009

Meet Code the Better Way ALL THE FACTS ARE NAILED DOWN. Full scale combined shear and uplift testing has been done with Windstorm in addition to the testing by the NAHB Research Center. Simple and fast to use, Windstorm helps you easily meet the requirements of the IRC, SSTD 10-99, ASCE-7, and the AF&PA Wood Frame Construction Manuals without blocking, filler-strips, or stud-to-plate connectors - just nails. Those same qualities also mean Windstorm can save you up to $1,000 or more per house. Windstorm comes in the right sizes for slab, raised floor and multi-story applications. So, if you want to meet high-wind code and save money, make sure your wall sheathing says Windstorm. Specify Windstorm by name.

THE EXPENSIVE METHOD: • Nails and 4’ x 8’ panels • Blocking - Filler strips • Threaded rod systems • Stud-to-plate connectors • Increased labor • More air leakage and waste

THE WINDSTORM METHOD: • Nails and Windstorm panels

: Windstorm Ask ushe about tode new c ents amendm

Supporting Your Green Initiatives www.WindstormOSB.com June 2009

North Carolina Builder   17

, don, t thank us,

As you receive your dividend check, don’t forget to give yourself credit. You’re the one who made this year’s $3 million dividend possible. Because safety is one of your top priorities, it’s reflected in our bottom line. At Builders Mutual, we don’t just ask you to work safely—we give you the tools to make it happen. We hear our safety programs have set new industry standards: Fall Protection Certification, Builders University, our Risk Management CD—even on-site risk management consulting. But a safety program is only as good as those who participate in it. Since you’ve shared the responsibility, you share the reward—over $44 million to date. At a moment like this, aren’t you glad you have Builders Mutual? 18   North Carolina Builder

P.O. Box 150005 Raleigh, NC 27624-0005 (800) 809-4859 | www.buildersmutual.com

0192-0109-03

you ve earned it.

June 2009

Knowledge Builder (continued from page 16)

Preparing your job sites With your business operating in storm-safe mode, throw your energy into securing your job sites. About 48-72 hours prior to probable landfall, cancel all job site deliveries, unless the materials help you secure the site. Then at least 24-48 hours prior, stop all construction activities and engage subs in preparing the job site: • Clean up loose debris that could become flying objects, including signage. • Remove the permit board. • Band any leftover materials together and place them inside the structure (if the construction phase allows) ideally anchored to an L-shaped wall for protection, raised on a pallet to prevent minor water damage. • Install brackets on gutters and flashing which can easily break free. • Shut off all utilities. • Secure portable toilets by weighing them down with concrete blocks or sand, if vendors are unable to remove them for you. • Take photos for insurance purposes. Commercial buildings, in particular, often have HVAC units on the roof. If necessary, tie them down and anchor the units and exhaust vents to a joist, if possible, to prevent them from going airborne, causing further destruction. Again, depending on the construction phase, an inadequate or unfinished roof may make a housing start that is near completion most vulnerable. Portions of the North Carolina Residential Code, specifically Chapter 44 for High Wind Zones and 45 for Coastal and Flood Plain Construction Standards,dictate construction methods designed to meet the meteorological demands of at-risk areas. However, meeting code does not guarantee that a home will survive a storm. Remember, even if you haven’t fully prepped your job sites, immediately evacuate when emergency officials make the request, and wait out the storm in a safe place.

property from further damage, whether wind, water or otherwise, and keep a record of those expenses in the event you need to file a claim. • Contact both your insurance agent and company with your findings. A good plan will account for the likely need for tarps, chimney caps and immediate contact with roofers and window installers for repairs to projects that are near completion. Consider this — the sooner your business resumes normal operations, the sooner your

business can help others rebuild. A wellconstructed hurricane-preparedness strategy will position you to do just that. We can’t promise that outlining your business’ plan will incite your excitement over the start of hurricane season, but at the very least it surely will help you find your calm before the storm.

Look for “Knowledge Builder,” compliments of Builders Mutual Insurance Co., in each issue of North Carolina Builder. More risk management resources are available on www.buildersmutual.com.

Shine Brightly at the 2009 STARS Awards Gala during the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference Wednesday, September 16, 2009

When the winds die down When emergency officials signal an “allclear,” the general contractor should return first and subs should wait for the GC’s permission. As the GC: • Observe extreme caution returning to inspect property because of downed power lines, rushing water and loose boards with protruding nails. • Snap more photos of any property damage to compare to photos taken prior to the storm for insurance purposes. • Take all reasonable steps to protect the June 2009

For more information, contact Kathryn Atkinson at (800) 662-7129 or katkinson@nchba.org www.21buildingexpo.com

North Carolina Builder   19

Spike Member Update

SPIKE credits as of March 2009

Highest year-to-date current credits Spike Name Tasha Soto Alma Jacobs Jerry Cowan Kenny Murphy Van Vreeland Warren Smith Frank Ramirez Robert Rouse Thomas Anhut Carlton Dial

Credits 56.00 54.00 50.50 35.25 29.00 26.75 26.00 24.50 24.00 20.50

Cumulative Credits 320.00 954.50 750.00 153.50 1,037.25 385.00 26.00 68.00 88.75 182.00

HBA Raleigh-Wake County Charlotte Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Gaston County Raleigh-Wake County Robeson County

Highest year-to-date total new credits Spike Name Tasha Soto Alma Jacobs Frank Ramirez Carlton Dial Jimmy Barnette Jerry Cowan Van Vreeland Jim Moore Warren Smith Grady Thomas

Credits 50.00 31.00 26.00 18.00 9.00 8.50 8.00 8.00 7.50 6.50

Cumulative Credits 320.00 954.50 26.00 182.00 71.00 750.00 1,037.25 437.50 385.00 44.50

HBA Raleigh-Wake County Charlotte Raleigh-Wake County Robeson County Hendersonville Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Wilmington-Cape Fear Raleigh-Wake County Charlotte

Highest year-to-date retention credits Spike Name Jerry Cowan Kenny Murphy Thomas Anhut Alma Jacobs Van Vreeland Warren Smith Robert Rouse Ernest Crews Tim Gallimore William Reaves

Credits 42.00 34.25 23.50 23.00 21.00 19.25 18.50 17.00 17.00 14.50

Cumulative Credits 750.00 153.50 88.75 954.50 1,037.25 385.00 68.00 173.00 42.50 2,214.00

HBA Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Charlotte Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Gaston County Brunswick County Brunswick County Moore County

Outdoor rooms provide new areas for living, relaxing and entertaining.

They offer you another way to boost profits.

They increase a home’s value.

These days, the backyard is fertile ground for sales. And propane has been fueling that booming trend. From traditional patios with grills to full-fledged kitchens to pool areas fit for country clubs, propane takes outdoor spaces and transforms them into whatever your clients can dream up. In other words, it’s another place for you to generate revenue. For other hot ideas, contact your local propane retailer or visit usepropane.com.

North Carolina Propane Association 5109 Hollyridge Drive, Raleigh, NC 27612 919-787-8485

20   North Carolina Builder

Four new darker shades guaranteed not to fade have been added to Norandex/Reynolds’ premium siding lines. (Shown here is Great Barrier Firebrick red.)

Exteriors (continued from page 12) Like Aura Interior, Aura Exterior features Color Lock technology, a proprietary advancement that encapsulates color pigment in the paint resin. The coating maintains its color integrity and resists fading, mildew and weathering in general while hailing a lowVOC, low-odor formula. It’s available in flat, low-luster and semigloss finishes in thousands of colors. For more information, visit www.benjaminmoore.com.

Unafraid of the dark side Norandex’s Great Barrier and Reynolds Grand Junction vinyl siding recently expanded their palettes with the addition of four darker hues to the premium siding lines. In addition to 15 classic colors, the deeper shades of Russet, Steel Blue, Evergreen and Firebrick are now among the companies’ siding options thanks to advanced technology that protects these hues against fading. The new colors are protected by Norandex ColorHold technology and guaranteed with a lifetime limited fade-protection warranty. The acrylic-fused capstock prevents the vinyl from developing a whitish film from its exposure to ultraviolet rays, air and moisture. If you or one of your customers would like to see what the dark siding would look like on a particular home or model, the companies’ new HomeVisions design visualization tool will let you take the guesswork out of choosing from a small swatch, paint chip or product sample. The interactive service is free. For more information, visit www.norandex.com. June 2009

The benefits of Home Advantage are

easy to grasp

Get a competitive advantage in today’s market. With Home Advantage from Progress Energy, you can stand out when you build ENERGY STAR® certified homes that are 15 percent more energy efficient than standard homes. You’ll also receive valuable cash incentives starting at $400 per home. Plus, each home you build to Home Advantage standards comes with a 5 percent Progress Energy homeowner discount for the lifetime of the home.

home advantage

For details on becoming a Home Advantage builder visit progress-energy.com/CarolinasHA or call 1.800.327.8704

June 2009

North Carolina Builder   21

5580 Centerview Drive Raleigh, NC 27606

Route to: l President l Purchasing l Sales/Mktg. l Superintendent

22   North Carolina Builder

June 2009