Contractor Advantage March / April 2010

Contractor Advantage COMPLIMENTARY

C a n a d a’ s

March/April 2010

M a g a z i n e

f o r

P r o f e s s i o n a l

C o n t r a c t o r s

IRON AGE FENCING

Plus: DECK DEMANDS BETTER BOARDS PRESSURE TREATED WOOD EXTERIOR PAINT HOME VENTILATION

®

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March/April 2010 Vol. 16 No. 2

Contents ®

Castle Building Centres Group Ltd., with building supply outlets in every province, is Canada’s leading supplier of lumber and building materials to professional contractors, builders and renovators.

Publications Mail Agreement #40006677 Return undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: 6375 Dixie Rd., Suite 400 Mississauga, Ont. L5T 2S1

Editorial Director Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. Diane Jones Managing Editor Paul Barker Art Director James Wardell Contributors Nestor E. Arellano Patricia Atallah Mark Beckham Lawrence Cummer Joelle Jay Paul Rhodes John G. Smith Advertising Enquiries Vendors whose products are carried in Castle Building Centres stores have the opportunity to advertise in

Contractor Advantage C a n a d a’ s

M a g a z i n e

f o r

P r o f e s s i o n a l

C o n t r a c t o r s

For more information or to reserve space in the next issue, contact: Diane Jones Advertising Manager, Phone: 905-564-3307 Fax: 905-564-6592 E-mail: djones@castle.ca Published and designed exclusively for Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. by Business Information Group Material Contact: Jessica Jubb 416-510-5194 Copyright 2010

Features Iron age fencing / 22

Fencing contractors say that while there is still a substantial demand for wood, some vinyl and even the odd request for chain-link, requests for iron are on the rise.

Deck demands / 28

When decks are viewed as a true extension of a home’s living space contractors have the chance to explore an array of other options.

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Better boards / 36

Celebrate Mother Nature and her trees all you want, but it still takes the skills of an engineer to perfect many of the wood products that are used on a modern job site.

PT myth busting / 42

Pressure treated wood dramatically extends the life of the product; however, misconceptions exist that contractors should know about.

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Going the eco way / 46

The exterior paint and stain market can be a potential goldmine for contractors who use ecologically-friendly paint practices.

An air clearing tutorial / 52

There is a growing need for contractors who know how to properly install home ventilation and filtration systems.

52

Departments NEWS WATCH / 5

Top 10 green building trends

NEW PRODUCTS / 8

New and improved products

LEARNING CURVE / 15

Delving into estimating

BUSINESS STRATEGIES / 16 SMART MONEY / 18

Decision time has arrived

ECONOMICS 101 / 20 CASTLECARE / 62

Marketing to the public sector

What is your personal leadership IQ?

Income risk management

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News Watch

Photos: photos.com

Green Building Hot List Released Earth Advantage Institute, a nonprofit green building resource that has certified more than 11,000 sustainable homes, recently announced its selections for the top green building trends to watch in 2010.

The trends, which range from energy “scores” for homes to Web-based displays that track energy usage in real time, were identified by the Institute based on discussions and transactions with a range of audiences over the latter part of 2009, including builders, architects, real estate brokers, appraisers, lenders, and homeowners.

“While we know the building industry had a rough year in 2009, not all of the industry has been in the doldrums,” said Sean Penrith, executive director, Earth Advantage Institute.

The appeal of sustainable housing is highlighted in the 2009 McGraw Hill Construction report on the Green Home Consumer, which shows that green homes are generally secure from price erosion.

The trends and an explanation from Earth Advantage on each appear below: The smart grid and connected home. While utilities will continue to make upgrades to the grid for more effective generation, storage and distribution of power, the big news is in the home. The development of custom and Web-based display panels that show real-time home energy use and even real-time energy use broken out by individual appliances will go a long way towards helping change homeowners’ energy behavior and drive energy conservation.

Energy labeling for homes and office buildings. The advent of more accurate energy rating systems for homes and office spaces, not only can make a building-to-building or home-to-home comparison easier, but a publicly available score on the multiple listing service could galvanize owners to make needed energy improvements, while add-

ing value to their building.

Building information modeling (BIM) software. The continued evolution of CAD software for building design has produced new add-on tools with increasingly accurate algorithms for energy modeling as well as embedded energy properties for many materials and features. This will prove instrumental in predicting building performance. BIM developers will soon be offering more affordable packages aimed at smaller firms and individual builders.

able building smaller homes and smaller add-ons.

Eco-districts. Defined as greener communities where residents have access to most services and supplies within walking or biking distance.

Water conservation. Water will be the essential resource in the next decade.

Carbon Calculation. With buildings contributing roughly half the carbon emissions in the environment, the progressive elements in the building industry are looking at ways to document, measure, and reduce greenhouse gas creation in building materials and processes.

Financial community buy-in to green building. Lenders and insurers have come to see green homes and buildings as better for their bottom line and are working to get new reduced-rate loan products, insurance packages, and metrics into place “Rightsizing” of homes. A larger home no longer translates into greater equity.

Given that the forecast for home valuation remains conservative and that energy prices are expected to rise over time, homeowners will likely feel more comfort-

Net Zero Buildings. This is a building that generates more energy than it uses over the course of a year, as a result of relatively small size, extreme efficiencies and onsite renewable energy sources. Sustainable building education. The continued demand for greener buildings, especially in progressive cities, will supply new learning opportunities, not just for designers and builders but for the entire chain of professionals involved in the building industry, from real estate to finance, and insurance.

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DUST CONTROL™ Drywall Compound by CGC is the first and only joint compound to reduce airborne dust.

HOME RENOVATIONS

OFFICES

HEALTHCARE

SCHOOLS

FOOD SERVICE

Dust Falls Straight to the Floor!

Introducing DUST CONTROL™, a revolutionar y new dr ywall compound by CGC. DUST CONTROL™ is the first and only dr ywall compound engineered to significantly reduce airborne dust from sanding.

It is ideal for those jobs where protection from dust infiltration is crucial such as homes, schools and office environments. With DUST CONTROL™ Dr ywall Compound, dust falls straight to the floor, making clean-up faster and easier than ever.

The CGC logo and DUST CONTROL are trademarks of CGC Inc.

News Watch Construction withstands impact of recession, survey reveals

Quebec housing starts increased in December According to the results of the latest monthly survey conducted by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), residential construction grew this past month in Quebec’s centres with 10,000 or more inhabitants. In all, 3,696 dwellings were started in December 2009, compared to 2,747 a year earlier.

Moreover, the seasonally adjusted annual rate of starts for this same month (44,400) was stronger than the pace recorded in December (37,700).

Nationally, the seasonally adjusted annual rate of urban starts was 157,100 units in December.

The jump in residential construction registered in December in Quebec was due to the increase in activity in both the single-detached (46%) and multi-family (30%) home segments.

“The level of activity recorded in 2009 corresponds exactly to our forecast of a year ago,” said Kevin Hughes, Regional Economist at CMHC. “As we expected, new homebuilding in Quebec did indeed decline in 2009; however, not to the extent observed in other provinces.”

2008 to July 2009, employment has been rising since August. This will likely continue because of new infrastructure projects, renovation and maintenance work, and strengthening housing starts.

“Construction did not take the recessionary hit that some other industries took, and is well-positioned to lead other sectors out of the recession,” says George Gritziotis, executive director of the CSC, a not-for-profit organization that bills itself as a partnership between labour, business and government.

“Government infrastructure projects provided a buffer to offset losses the industry would have felt. The 2010 CSC scenario assumes that 20% of the stimulus spending takes place in 2009, 50% in 2010 and the remaining 30% in 2011."

The preview shows a varied employment picture across the country, with Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia reporting the greatest decrease in employment in 2009.

At the same time, driven by major industrial, engineering and infrastructure projects, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador recorded employment gains over the first 10 months of 2009.

Construction investment declined by less than 10% in 2009 and will rebound in 2010, surpassing the peak reached in 2008.

“Although construction has experienced a slowdown in varying degrees in some areas of the country, given the promise of the stimulus and the overall strengthening of the economy, it should regain momentum,” says Tim Flood, CSC Business Co-chair and President of John Flood and Sons, a construction company active in commercial, industrial, institutional and residential construction in New Brunswick.

Engineering construction in roads, bridges and other heavy construction and

commercial and institutional building sectors where employment growth is strong through 2010 will create jobs and strong labour markets for a number of trades, the CSC says.

These include concrete finishers, non-residential construction estimators and managers, crane operators, heavy equipment operators and mechanics, ironworkers, trades helpers, labourers and welders.

The oil sands and related development in Alberta and key utility sector projects will be driving work in Quebec, Saskatchewan and Manitoba for several key trades, including construction millwrights, pipefitters, sheet metal workers, ironworkers and welders.

“Recruiting and training need to continue to be top priorities,” says Bob Blakely, CSC Labour Co-chair and Canadian Director of the Building and Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO. “We are working to meet the challenge of having enough skilled workers who can shift from a region of under-employment to one where opportunities are more plentiful.”

The CSC’s annual national and regional scenario-based forecasts provide colleges, labour and industry with accurate information on labour supply and demand to support the future needs of the construction industry in Canada.

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Photo: photos.com

Canada’s construction industry is emerging from the recession relatively unscathed, thanks to its pre-recession record levels of investment and the more recent government stimulus initiatives, says the Construction Sector Council (CSC).

A preview of the Construction Sector Council’s (CSC) 2010-2018 scenariobased forecast says that though building and employment decreased from October

New Products

Building Blocks

Innovative Products for Today’s Renovators EXAkTIME RELEASES NEW ADDITION TO ITS JOBCLOCK SYSTEM The JobClock System from Exaktime is a time and attendance solution that replaces the traditional handwritten timecard method of tracking workers’ attendance. According to Tony Pappas, Exaktime president and CEO, “businesses using the system typically see a substantial decrease in payroll expenses, including a 19%-48% reduction in overtime expenses and dramatically reduced payroll processing time.”

The battery-powered JobClock remains at a work site 24/7 and workers simply touch in and out with colored keytabs kept on their own key rings (green for go, red for stop). The information from The JobClock is later collected with a PDA and transferred to Exaktime software where it can be reviewed, reports can be printed, and the information can be easily transferred to a number of different accounting and payroll programs.

The newest addition to JobClock is FastTrakker, a handheld device that workers carry with them to quickly clock in for up to 1,000 activities (cost codes) of the company’s choice. With FastTrakker, companies can track work activities by cost code at every jobsite, adding highlydetailed activity information to companies’ time and attendance tracking.

FastTrakker recently earned the 2009 Most Innovative Product Award for business tools at the World of Concrete trade show.

GEORGIA-PACIFIC GYPSUM DENS PASS 12-WEEK MOLD TEST Georgia-Pacific Canada, LP has announced that DensArmor Plus High-Performance Interior Panel* and DensShield Tile Backer each passed the 12-week test, conducted in accordance with ASTM D 6329 ** protocol. The test, which is three times longer and much more rigorous than ASTM D 3273, the current industry standard, was conducted by an independent third party, RTI International between February and June 2009.

No other gypsum products manufacturer has announced test results showing zero mold growth for 12 full weeks for any product, the company says.

DensArmor Plus panels feature fiberglass mats on both the front and the back for the best in interior protection from moisture currently available. They resist damage such as scuffs, surface indentation and abrasion that can mar traditional drywall.

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New Products

ROOF-TOP SYSTEM SUPPORTS WATER RETENTION AND DRAINAGE The new Delta-Floraxx from Cosella-DĂśrken Products Inc. of Beamsville, Ont. is an effective drainage board and water retention system in one. A unique dimpled membrane specifically developed for garden roofs makes this product suitable for extensive green roof systems.

The octagon-design of the dimples in the membrane and additional reinforcement ribs give the product high compressive strength. In addition, it can be quickly installed on flat roofs.

Meanwhile, a filter of geotextile installed over the top prevents the drainage from being clogged with fine particles.

The product provides a drainage capacity of 10 litres of water per square meter, while retaining water of up to 7 litres of water per square metre. Surplus water drains through perforations where it freely drains through the roof drain. The high compressive strength of the Delta-Floraxx (200 kN/m²) makes it suitable for high substrate loads.

More information can be found at www.cosella-dorken.com.

DUSCHESNE GUARDS KEEP SNOW AND ICE AT BAY Duschesne Snow Guards are rooftop devices that help prevent damage caused by avalanching snow and ice.

They can be used on nearly every kind of steel roofing as well as asphalt shingle, wood shake and synthetic slate roofs.

Snow guards are available in two styles: tube-type and individual.

Fast and easy to install, they help to keep snow and ice from avalanching off the roof all at once, thereby protecting people, property and landscaping below and prevent snow build-up in the gutters.

The tube-type snow guard is suitable for both residential and commercial use. It provides a greater level of protection than the individual snow guard, which is more discreet and used primarily for residential buildings.

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Designed to meet the toughest standards… YOURS.

It’s your job, your reputation, your neck on the line… that’s why you choose All Weather Windows’ award winning window and door products on every project.

Designed to suit Canada’s distinct climate zones and building codes, they’re energy efficient, cost effective and CSA certified.

We look forward to providing our support, advice and expertise on your next project.

All Canadian made for all Canadian weather All Weather Windows is a CSA Certified Manufacturer

Visit www.allweatherwindows.com to find a dealer near you

V a n c o u ve r - K e l o w n a - E d m o n t o n - R e d D e e r - C a l g a r y - L e t h b r i d g e - S a s k a t o o n - R e g i n a - W i n n i p e g - To r o n t o - H a li f a x

AWW Home Builder Award Ad July 2009.indd 1

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New Products

ADJUSTABLE STAIR-STRINGER CONNECTOR PROVIDES VERSATILITY The new LSCZ adjustable stair-stringer connector from Simpson Strong-Tie provides a versatile and concealed connection between the stair stringer and carrying header or rim joist and replaces the need for costly additional framing and toe-nailing.

Field slopeable to all common stair stringer pitches, Simpson Strong-Tie says the connector is suitable for both solid and notched stringers, for installation on 2x10 and 2x12 header or rim joists, and may be installed flush with the top of the carrying member or lower on the face.

The LSCZ is interchangeable for right and left applications, and is coated with Strong-Tie’s ZMAX coating for corrosion protection making it suitable for interior and some exterior applications.

More information on the LSCZ and ZMAX coating is available at www.strongtie.com.

TREX TRANSCEND NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH TAIGA Taiga Building Products is now distributing the recently released Trex Transcend decking and railing system, which is engineered with a low-sheen, high-traffic formulation.

The Trex Company says the decking combines a finish that resists stains, scratches and mold with a distinctive and natural-looking, high-definition wood grain pattern in rich, deep colours. The product requires no sanding, staining or painting, and its protective shell defends against fading, while being extremely low maintenance. In fact, spills wash off with soap and water.

Each deck board is available in two profile options, square and grooved.

The grooved boards accommodate the Trex Hideaway Hidden Fastening System, which allows for a smooth, unfettered finish, free of nails and other visible fasteners. The system’s clips create a seamless look with no screws or screw holes to interrupt the smooth texture and comfortable feel of the decking.

The collection is also backed by a 25-year Limited Fade and Stain Warranty

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BlackBerry® CurveTM 8530 smartphone

Sanyo Pro-700

The best tools for the job.

Add a BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone to your toolbelt and stay on top of your work schedule with mobile asset tracking solutions and Vizu digital forms. If durability is a must, stay connected with the ultra tough Sanyo Pro-700 with 10-4 walkie-talkie.

Visit a Bell store • 1 866 BELL-BIZ • mobilebusiness.bell.ca/construction

Available with compatible devices within network coverage areas available from Bell (EVDO) and its partners’ network coverage areas where technology permits. Sanyo is a registered trademark of SANYO Electric. Co., Ltd. BlackBerry,® RIM,® Research In Motion® and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of Research In Motion Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries around the world.

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New Products MOEN RELEASES THE ARBOR PULLDOWN KITCHEN FAUCET The Arbor pulldown faucet from Moen Canada contains a unique S-shaped handle, high-arc spout, multi-function pulldown wand and docking mechanism that combined, provide both form and function Available in a single-hole mount, Arbor blends into granite and other solid-surface countertops and a coverplate is included for threehole sink applications. The faucet’s single-lever handle offers easy-touse temperature and flow control, while the ergonomically designed pullout wand and high-arc spout make performing everyday tasks, such as filling large pots or vases, in and around the sink easy.

With the touch of a button, users can switch between several water flow patterns, including aerated spray, stream or Moen’s patented pause button, to reach areas outside of the sink. The faucet also includes a fibre pulldown hose with a ball joint at the end of the wand for quiet operation and easier maneuverability when rinsing the hard to reach corners of the sink or when reaching outside of the sink area.

regal ad

6/19/07

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Regal...

...turning backyard dreams into reality!

Regal Aluminum Railings will give your customers years of elegant, carefree outdoor living.

Our superior railings feature: ● Maintenance free, no more painting ● Easy

installation

● Quality ● 20 ●4

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attractive styles to choose from

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in white, black, beige, new taupe and yard bronze in a textured finish

To learn more about Regal Products please contact:

1 800 819 4344 or www.regalrailing.com

Virtually Maintenance Free CONTRACTOR ADVANTAGE

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With its standout protection, strength and impressive architectural design, why choose anything but IKO Cambridge Series shingles?

CAMBRIDGE LT & 30 ARCHITECTURAL

SHINGLES

The IKO Advantage.

The larger the shingle, the bigger the savings. 路 A larger shingle means increased profitability - you save time and labour by using fewer shingles and fewer nails.

One of the heaviest asphalt-based shingles on the market. 路 Laminated shingle construction provides superior resistance against thermal cycling, tearing and high wind.

For additional information on our full line of premium roofing products please call: Eastern Canada 1 - 888 - 766 - 2468, Western Canada 1 - 800 - 661 - 1034, or visit our web site at: www.iko.com

Learning Curve

Delving Into Estimating

New handbook from DeWALT provides the “how to” essentials as well as free access to online materials.

book DeWALT Construction Estimating Complete Handbook Delmar, Cengage Learning

The DeWALT Construction Estimating Complete Handbook, a comprehensive but concise guide covering all aspects of the construction estimating process, is useful for both experienced professionals who want to polish their estimating skills as well as for junior estimators, assistant project managers, and students studying construction management.

The book covers key industry profit-making factors including bid planning, scope review, quantity take-off for all trades and divisions and cost analysis.

The handbook is especially useful for general contractors or construction managers who need to have knowledge of a widerange of trades involved on a jobsite.

Focusing on “how-to” essentials, it offers tips, checklists, worksheets and data tables that provide direct answers to on-the-job challenges around construction estimating.

• Topics covered include: • Budget estimating • Managing hectic bid processes • Risk assessment and mitigation • Mark-up analysis • Value engineering • Reducing estimate mistakes • Contract language wording • Meeting project management turnover Tutorials are also included for using Excel spreadsheets for estimating, and in addition, purchasers gain access to online resources and documents.

book Construction Management: Subcontractor Scopes of Work CRC Press/Taylor & Francis Group

Construction projects generally require the work of numerous specialty trades and contractors that must sub-contract to the prime contractor.

This, say the authors of this guide, can lead to costly mistakes, either when bidding or executing on a job.

Construction Management: Subcontractor Scopes of Work from CRC Press/Taylor & Francis Group aims to help estimators and project managers properly scope the work of sub-contractors in order to avoid costly mistakes and run more efficiently. Using the examples and problem solving presented, prime contractors can learn how to best address some common problems that may arise.

Authors Jason G Smith and Jimmie Hinze offer in-depth looks into all phases of the construction process by presenting various

problems solutions and numerous examples. It is designed to advise the reader on the aspects of projects that can become a burden if not properly addressed and provides specific guidance and instructions around each particular trade being performed at a construction site.

According to the guide’s publisher, an extensive variety of topics are covered off.

They include demolition; shoring and under pinning; mass excavation and site grading; below grade waterproofing; reinforcing steel; concrete form work; concrete placing and finishing; structural steel; metal decking; miscellaneous metals; expansion joints; spray fireproofing and above grade waterproofing; plaster; precast concrete; masonry; metal panels; roofing; flashing and louvers; glass and glazing; storefronts and curtain walls; caulking and sealants; framing and drywall; building insulation; doors, frames and hardware.

Both books are available at www.amazon.com.

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Business Strategies

Marketing To The Public Sector

It can bring great opportunities during a residential and commercial slowdown, but in order to succeed, contractors need to understand it is a different animal.

By Patricia W. Atallah

The public sector in Canada has always been a major purchaser of construction.

This trend will continue for at least the next five years as new transportation, infrastructure, school, hospital and public building projects enter the pipeline. Many of these capital programs are fully funded and ready to go now.

With expectations that the commercial and residential real estate and construction markets will remain weak for the foreseeable future, it is not too late to revisit your business development efforts. Consider shifting your energy in the direction of the public sector so that your firm can benefit from live opportunities and achieve diversification in your project portfolio.

Until today, most government agencies that undertake or sponsor construction projects are required to publicly advertise bid opportunity and must accept all bids for consideration. Unless a problem is uncovered after bid opening, the “lowest responsive bidder” wins the job.

Concerned with contractor performance and project costs, many public sector agencies in Canada are raising the bar on this “lowest bidder” approach by requiring contractors to under-go a registration and/or pre-qualification process before they can bid on work.

They might require contractors to register with the agency and submit detailed company information. Instead of only issuing public bid notices, they might also

put out a “request for qualifications” and create a short list of qualified bidders who will be selected based on price.

Criteria for pre-qualification may include: company history and track record, company organization and personnel, relevant experience, financial capacity, insurance coverage and safety record.

To make your foray or expansion into the public sector more successful and painless, it is advisable that you take a

To make your foray or expansion into the public sector more successful and painless, it is advisable that you take a proactive approach instead of simply responding to bid announcements. proactive approach instead of simply responding to bid announcements. Some recommendations: • Make a list of the active municipal, provincial and federal agencies and study their Web sites to learn about their bidding policies, procedures and requirements (e.g., Public Works and Government Services Canada or PWGSC). You may also get this information from industry associations such as the Toronto Construction Association.

Tricia Atallah is Principal of VantagePoint Strategy Group, a strategic and management advisory firm serving the construction industry. She is also author of Building a Successful Construction Company. Further information on the book is available at www.constructbiz.com.

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• Register your company with these agencies so that they have your company contact information on file.

• Keep track of project bidding opportunities and “request for qualifications” that are listed on their Websites or announced publicly. If there is a mailing list, be sure your company is on it.

• Consult government agency Websites to confirm which standard forms must

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be completed. To avoid last-minute aggravation, down-load these forms from agency Websites, complete them correctly and keep them on digital file so that they can be up-dated and printed at any time for inclusion in a pre-qualification or bid package.

• Prepare a basic marketing package that is up-to-date, well-organized, comprehensive, responsive and professional. If necessary, seek assistance from a business development expert.

• Prepare a Contractor Qualifications Statement with the following information: letter of interest stating why your company should be pre-qualified for the project; company history, including years in business, company organization, types of construction, track record, typical project size, current work load and safety record; project

Business Strategies experience and references; financial capability including bonding capacity, insurance coverage and financial statements; and, project organization and staffing plan, with resumes of project personnel.

• Put your financial and insurance information in order. Make sure that most recent financial statements are available and that your surety confirms bonding capacity. Request your banker to provide a letter confirming financing arrangements and borrowing history.

Also, make sure that your insurance coverage is current and meets the agencies’ minimum requirements.

• Attend conferences held or sponsored by the agencies you would like to work for.

You will learn about current and planned project activities and capital plan funding. You will also have a unique opportunity to introduce yourself in person to agency staff, construction managers, con-

Ask your banker to provide a letter confirming financing arrangements and borrowing history. Also, make sure that your insurance coverage is current and meets the agencies’ minimum requirements. tractors and consultants with whom you would like to work.

• If you are a trade contractor, obtain information about prime contractors who do work for the agency. Contact them directly and send company information; • Get plugged into affirmative action programs. If you are a minority, disadvantaged or woman-owned business, familiarize yourself with municipal,

provincial and federal public agency outreach programs.

• Make it a priority to certify your company in your province or other relevant jurisdiction and inform yourself about special mentoring, training and “set aside” programs that are offered specifically for minority, disadvantaged, small and women-owned companies. You will find the information you need on public agency Websites.

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Smart Money

Decision Time Has Arrived

With new private financial accounting practices on the horizon, business owners need to take a hard look at how it will affect them.

By Paul Rhodes

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) will shortly become mandatory for Canadian publicly accountable entities. In this space in the last issue, we described some of the factors that owners of a private entity should consider in deciding whether or not to voluntarily adopt IFRS. This article describes some of the features of the alternative accounting rules for a private entity that does not volunteer for IFRS, the Generally Accepted Accounting Practices for Private Enterprises (PE GAAP) that are also effective for annual financial statements relating to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2011.

The intention behind PE GAAP is to lessen the burden and costs on private business, while still meeting the needs of users of their financial statements.

Reducing the number and complexity of accounting standards: A number of accounting standards and interpretative guidance that are generally not applicable to private entities have been excluded from PE GAAP. For example, many of the principles in the Emerging Issue Committee Abstracts and Accounting Guidelines have been excluded, although some principles (including some relating to revenue recognition) have been incorporated into the PE GAAP standards.

For some complex accounting standards the cost to private entities of applying the rules has often been found to exceed the benefit to be derived by users of the financial statements. For example, a

new standard on financial instruments has been developed for PE GAAP that simplifies many aspects of the previous accounting, in particular: The requirement to apply fair value accounting has been reduced considerably under the new standard. Most financial assets and liabilities, with a couple of exceptions, will be measured at cost or amortized cost.

There is a fair value option permitting an entity to elect fair value measurement for any financial asset or financial liability.

The election is irrevocable and has to be made on initial recognition of the financial instrument to which it is applied.

In the year of adopting either IFRS or PE GAAP, transitional disclosures and certain reconciliations must be made in the financial statements.

Options are available for accounting for certain items, including: Investments: For example, management has the choice of consolidating subsidiaries, or accounting for them on either the historical cost or equity basis.

Income taxes: Management can decide whether to recognize future income taxes or to only recognize current income taxes payable/receivable (calculated based on the current year’s taxable income only) in the financial statements.

Paul Rhodes is a partner of Soberman LLP and a member of the firm’s IFRS Advisory Group. His professional experience includes construction, manufacturing and real estate and internal audit engagements. Paul is a member of the Toronto Construction Association and can be reached at 416 963 7217 or prhodes@soberman.com.

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While these options are currently available to private enterprises (known as the “differential reporting options”), use of them requires the unanimous consent of the entity’s owners. Under PE GAAP the decision can be made by management only, so owner consent will no longer be necessary. This may be an important difference where unanimous consent could not be obtained in the past, preventing management from making use of a differential reporting option.

Financial statement disclosures required: Many of the disclosure requirements in the existing standards catered to the needs

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of large public entities and did not necessarily serve the needs of owner-managed businesses. Because of this, significant reductions have been made in required disclosures.

According to the Accounting Standards Board (AcSB), PE GAAP contains half as many required disclosures as the previous accounting standards.

In the year of adopting either IFRS or PE GAAP, transitional disclosures and certain reconciliations must be made in the financial statements. Similarly, the general rule on adopting either IFRS or PE GAAP is that the new accounting standards must be applied retrospectively (that is, as though they have always been applied), but the entity can apply certain optional exemptions in specified accounting areas where the cost of retrospective application would be excessive.

Smart Money

photo: photos.com

The requirement to apply fair value accounting has been reduced considerably under the new standard.

Most financial assets and liabilities, with a couple of exceptions, will be measured at cost or amortized cost.

It is important that a transition plan is developed, which includes the timing of conversion and the transitional disclosures that are required.

While early adoption is permitted, it may not be practical for many entities given that January 1, 2010 has already passed.

Decision-making: The coming years will present a number of challenges for ownermanagers. The decision that needs to be made is which framework you are going

to adopt: PE GAAP or voluntarily adopt IFRS. That decision should be based on an analysis of the pros and cons of each framework in the context of the forward looking business plan.

Soberman LLP has been actively involved in these accounting developments by taking part in discussion groups and by responding to comment papers and exposure drafts.

Our professionals are knowledgeable

of both PE-GAAP and IFRS and can support management in this important decision making process. The goal should be to ensure the decision makes good business sense, both now and for the continued success of the business.

This article has been prepared for general information; specific professional advice should be obtained prior to the implementation of any suggestion contained.

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Economics 101

What Is Your Personal Leadership IQ? Leading in business involves having a compelling vision, developing strategies and inspiring people to use their talents.

By Joelle Jay

As a leader, you likely know how to lead your company or department, but how are you doing in terms of your personal leadership?

If you are wondering what it is, here is a definition: personal leadership is the leadership of the self. It is the ability to define a direction for your leadership and life, and to move in that direction with consistency and clarity.

When you practice personal leadership you “lead from the inside out.” The process involves asking yourself, “How do I need to be, act and think in order to be my best?” To do that, you must periodically turn away from the concerns of the day, the people, the problems and the pressure, to explore and discover your inner edge.

To practice personal leadership apply the same principles of leadership that make businesses a success to yourself. For example, leading in business involves having a compelling vision, developing strategies and inspiring people to use their talents to meet a goal of improved business results. Leading yourself means applying these same principles to your role as a leader and your life. You also need a compelling vision and a strategy for reaching it. You need a team supporting you. You need results, as well as a sense of contribution and purpose. The difference is that personal leadership does not just make for better business; it makes you a better leader.

When you practice personal leader-

ship, use every ounce of your potential through inspiration instead of perspiration, synergy instead of sacrifice, and wisdom instead of work. Personal leadership is so important, in fact, renowned management expert Peter Drucker once called it the only leadership that is going to matter in the 21st century.

So now the key question is: are you succeeding in leading yourself? Take the following quiz to find out.

Answer each of the following questions with a “yes,” “sometimes,” or “no” response.

1. I am clear on what I want and know how to get it, both the big things and the small.

Yes Sometimes No 2. I practice a strategic, reflective approach to leadership.

Yes Sometimes No 3. I know where to focus my attention on a daily basis.

Yes Sometimes No 4. I am able to maintain peak performance at all times.

Yes Sometimes No 5. I maintain my sense of stability and equilibrium in times of change.

Yes Sometimes No 6. I have identified my talents, strengths, skills, and weaknesses.

Yes Sometimes No 7. I know how to maximize and leverage my unique talents and abilities.

Yes Sometimes No

Joelle K. Jay, Ph.D., is president of the leadership development practice, Pillar Consulting. As an executive coach, author and speaker, Joelle helps leaders achieve top performance and business results. She can be reached at joelle@pillar-consulting.com or via www.Pillar-consulting.com.

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8. I am delighted with my quality of life both on and off the job.

Yes Sometimes No 9. I feel very little stress and overwhelm in my life.

Yes Sometimes No 10. I make a meaningful contribution every day.

Yes Sometimes No 11. I have plenty of time for people, activities and events that are most important to me.

Yes Sometimes No 12. I take regular action toward my most important goals, not just what is most pressing.

Yes Sometimes No 13. I have a wide network of people who support me, and whom I support in return.

Yes Sometimes No 14. I am constantly learning and improving myself.

Yes Sometimes No 15. I intuitively recognize and take opportunities.

Yes Sometimes No 16. I am often astounded by the way the opportunities I want and the solutions I need present themselves at just the right moment.

Yes Sometimes No 17. I achieve a sense of renewal and restoration on a daily basis.

Yes Sometimes No 18. I am proud of my ability to maintain my values and the essence of who I am, even when life gets hectic and/or as I get more and more responsibility.

Yes Sometimes No 19. I have achieved “success” as I define it.

Yes Sometimes No 20. I can say with confidence that every day I am at my very best.

Yes Sometimes No

Economics 101

Ultimately, personal leadership offers you the chance to create true prosperity, the kind of happiness that comes not just from financial gain, but also from the richness of life.

photo: photos.com

Tally Your Score For each “yes” response give yourself 2 points.

For each “sometimes” response give yourself 1 point.

For each “no” response give yourself 0 points.

What Your Score Means 0 to 13 points If your score is low, you are likely new at personal leadership. You are so focused on the image you are putting out to the world that you are neglecting your personal leadership. The chances are you are doing what you have always done and, as a result, you are not being very strategic about what you do and why. It is time to take a break from the action of business, go backstage and do the inner work of developing who you are as a leader, what you want to contribute and how you can find the ideal strategy for achieving what it is you want to achieve.

14 to 27 points If you scored in the mid-range, you are spending some time on yourself, but you are not being strategic in terms of getting the right balance. You might often feel that both business and life are “hit or miss.” You are getting some benefits, but you are not getting all the benefits you could. Take a look at where you excel; these are your strengths. Find a way to refine those strengths even more, so you can capitalize on them better.

Then, look at where you rated yourself low. Those are your weaknesses. Find a way to develop those areas so you get more power.

28 to 40 points If your score is high, congratulations are

in order. You are very often thoughtful and strategic on what you do and why. You are capitalizing on your talents, and as a result, you are maximizing your business results. However, do not get comfortable and rest on your laurels. Continue developing your skills. Yes, you can strengthen your competitive edge and be even more strategic. Think about how you can build on what you have now to leapfrog the competition and break through to a new level of potential. Remember, the stron-

ger you get in personal leadership, the stronger you get in your business.

Take leadership personally: The bottom line is that as a leader, you must learn to lead yourself to stay effective. Just as the way you lead helps shape your life, the life you live will help you lead. Ultimately, personal leadership offers you the chance to create true prosperity, the kind of happiness that comes not just from financial gain, but also from the richness of life.

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Cover Story

Iron Age

photos: nuvo iron (tm), photos.com

Fencing

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Cover Story

There is still a demand for wood, some vinyl and even the odd request for chain-link; however, requests for iron from their customers are on the rise.

By Lawrence Cummer

T

here was a time when the only detailed information most contractors needed to know about a fence job was what, where and how high.

That is no longer the case anymore. Today with more and more homeowners enjoying the refuge of their custom decks, pools and gardens, many are looking for fencing that enhances the ambiance of those areas, and iron is emerging as a way to bring old-world charm to a modern environment.

Fencing contractors say that while there is still a demand for wood, some vinyl and even the odd request for chain-link, requests for iron from their customers are on the rise.

“There is a unique split these days,” suggests Neil Viveiros, a contractor based out of Waterdown, Ont. “It is between having a sort of boundary fence designed to keep things secure and people looking for the elegance of iron.”

He said iron gives his clients an opportunity to build something attractive that is not seen as tacky and really brings out their landscaping work.

Even for wooden fences, Viveiros says it has become far more common for his customers to request a customized, highly-individualized fence. This demand for more high-end looking wood and iron fences can be attributed to less money spent on the cottage.

“People are starting to spend more time in their backyards,” says Viveiros. “Landscaping tends to be really big in urban areas because people would rather put the money into their house as opposed to taking a second mortgage on a cottage. If they are going to spend the time out there, they want it to look really nice.”

Upper-end fences are definitely where the margins are.

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photos: nuvo iron (tm), photos.com

Cover Story

Contractor Stephen Del Zotto has seen little or no reduced spending from his high-end clientele who look for custom-designed, highly-aesthetic fences.

Proponents of iron note that because it is made of steel it is as durable as wood, and it can be painted any colour the customer wants.

In comparison with vinyl fences, iron will take much more impact and is less brittle in the winter months, says Carlos Pacheco, president of fence manufacturer Nuvo Iron of Bolton, Ont. For the homeowner, one key advantage is that maintenance of iron fencing is almost non-existent when compared with wood, including cedar and pressure treated wood.

“There is very little maintenance required, just some sprinklings of a garden hose to clean off the bird do-do,” Pacheco says.

Iron fencing has been growing steadily for the past 35 years, he says, and he is betting on continued double-digit growth in the market for another 15, which is good news for fencing contractors.

Still, there are special considerations around iron use. The life expectancy of an iron fence can be between 15 to 35 years, but that depends on the location. In homes close to oceans or areas subjected to high amounts of road salt the fence will rust more quickly.

Fortunately, the material components of iron fences have improved over time making them more durable and easier to use. In addition, the arrival of modular, bracketed components eliminate the need for welding wrought iron pieces.

For high-traffic areas, such as an urban

boulevard, Del Zotto says traditional solid iron fences are more appropriate.

Solid-iron welded fences can have remarkable life spans (some are still around after more than 100 years), but do require maintenance because the process of welding burns away protection. Welded iron fences must be sanded, primed and painted every few years or rust will appear. They are also approximately twice as expensive.

Although iron has a premium attached to the material cost when compared to wood, bracketed iron products (sometimes called ornamental iron) can save much time on installation. While a 200’ wood fence can take three to four days to install, a similar 200’ ornamental iron fence would take around two days. For con-

tractors, this means they can often offer multiple options with little difference in final costs.

“When I look at the average ball-park cost of a wood fence, the difference in the cost of iron comes out in the wash,” Viveiros says. “They are almost equal in cost when looked at on a project basis.”

He notes that a typical wood fence project has a material

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cost of roughly $15 per foot and a labour cost of around $7 to $8 per foot; an ornamental iron fence costs around $19 per foot in materials, but only about $4.50 per foot in labour. Depending on a contractor’s margin structure, iron can be a better money maker, he says.

Because of the similarity in final costs, it becomes that much more important to be plugged into the needs of the client.

Communicate for success: Communicating with the homeowner to determine all aspects of the fence’s function is crucial, since many customers have not even considered some of the issues themselves. A successful fence contractor will tailor each fence to each client’s needs.

Even a few simple questions will get the client talking, and have them consider elements they initially had not: • Will the fence need to provide the clients with privacy?

• Do they want to allow for wind-flow?

• Do they want to allow rain-flow or sun

for a garden?

• Do they have children to keep in (or, as in the case of pools, out) with the fence?

• What about pets?

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• Is there an unsightly part of the yard, for instance a shed, they want to mask?

For privacy fences most homeowners still want wood, often simple PT wood or cedar. Vinyl is also starting to become requested, but can be too costly for some. More often than not, a privacy fence is more likely to be found in an urban setting.

In the Greater Toronto Area, for example, Del Zotto says his high-end clients often want solid-wood cedar fences for privacy from their neighbours, but look to accessorize them with elements of iron (or that appear to be iron), such as aluminum post caps or iron lattice.

Such small details combine the ambiance of iron with the privacy of wood to create happy customers who increase word of mouth.

Despite the longevity of a fence project, repeat business is still a very important consideration for fencing specialists, because typical homeowners move every five to ten years to new homes needing new fences.

“We are forever getting people calling us who we have already done two or three jobs before,” Del Zotto says.

Pools provide another consideration for fencing contractors, especially in the many communities that have enacted municipal by-laws forcing private pools to be enclosed and separated from the residence. This pool area in particular, Del Zotto says, is one where his customers often

photo: nuvo iron (tm)

Cover Story

photos: nuvo iron (tm)

Cover Story

have heavy demand for ornamental iron and very elaborate looking fences.

Play well with others: Being a successful fence contractor is not just based on one’s ability to weld iron or hammer wood, but it relies on the earliest grade school skills: cooperation and collaboration. At the end of the day, the biggest challenges to a fencing project are often carefully navigating landscapers, other builders and unruly neighbours.

Working well with other on-site contractors and landscape architects means the fence job does not get treated like, or worse end up, looking like an after thought.

Perhaps even more important is building solid relationships with the landscapers, who can become a great source of repeat business.

If working on large-scale municipal or corporate welded-iron projects, having a quick paint contractor to source is also beneficial. Rather than become directly involved in maintenance contracts, Del Zotto recommends building a reserve of reliable painters to recommend.

It is important to fight the urge to try to be all things. An ecosystem of other contractors means more reliable repeat business and reduced advertising expenses.

It also means the time will come when the fencing contractor’s team shows up on a site and are unable to work without stepping on the toes of others. Handle these situations delicately, Del Zotto warns.

“It gets frustrating, but you have to be flexible.

Sometimes you will have to pack up after only getting a bit of the job done. You just have to settle

down and leave and not get upset, instead of screaming and yelling like the oldschool guys did.”

With fencing jobs, navigating neighbours can also become a constant source of woe. Tread carefully. The fact is a lot of fence jobs are predicated on the troubled relationship that already exists between neighbours. As the adage goes ‘good fences make good neighbours.’

The biggest challenge in a fence install is rarely the complexity of the job or the material, Viveiros says, but rather the property lines of the residence. Know those lines and other aspects of the property intimately before setting out.

“I think we have got the toughest trade,” he says. “Roofers only have a set area; landscapers only have a set area. They know where their guidelines are.

“We have to encroach on neighbours.

We have underground utilities and grades to deal with. There are so many different aspects of the property; we have to ensure all are assessed before we even step on it.”

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How To

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How To

Deck Demands Tips, trends and techniques to enhance an outdoor living area.

T

here is no escaping the vision of a deck as a simple 16'x12' platform made of pressure-treated lumber.

It is a design that reaches into the back yards of virtually every major subdivision across Canada.

When decks are viewed as a true extension of a home’s living space; contractors have the chance to explore an array of other options along with the new revenue opportunities that come along with them.

Consider these tips, trends and techniques that can be used to enhance any outdoor project.

1. Think outside the pressure treated box The use of exotic materials presents one of the best ways to transform any deck into a showpiece. Hardwoods such as Indonesian Ipe, Jatoba or Cumaru will offer a smooth, long-lasting surface in addition

to an exotic look. Tigerwood, meanwhile, can come complete with distinctive brown and black streaks.

Exotic looks are not limited to a choice of wood, either. Composite boards can deliver realistic wood grains and a broader array of colours than ever before. It may seem odd to use something other than wood to create the look of lumber, but this material will also retain vivid colours for longer periods of time and help to resist enemies in the form of insects or rot.

The added advantage is that composite materials can be easily curved into different shapes using no more than a salamander heater, Sonotube and rebar supports to guide each bend. That will truly support some thinking that is outside the squared corners of a box.

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photo: trexconnect, castleguard preserved wood, livoutdoor

By John G. Smith

photos: castlegurard preserved wood, forestfence, photos.com

How To

2. Expand the space and define it Trends in raw material sales prove that homeowners are embracing bigger decks than ever before. The most common composite boards are still those that come in 16’ lengths, but 20’ spans have replaced 12’ lengths as the next most popular option. If builders are ordering longer boards, they are obviously looking to limit the number of joints that would otherwise cut through a larger surface.

In addition to creating more space for people and furnishings, a larger deck often presents the opportunity to incorporate naturally occurring features such as a mature tree or an outcropping of rocks. The lumber can easily reach around any features like these as long as space is left for the boards to expand and contract.

A few additional features can transform the larger space into a series of distinct areas. A pergola, for example, can help to establish the location for a kitchen or outdoor bar. Privacy walls that incorporate decorative insets or lattice work can separate a seating area from the walls of an adjacent spa. Rather than using 2x2 pickets to complete a railing, the sleek look of aluminum tubing will help to maintain the line of sight into a nearby lake or ravine.

The space can be further refined with some built-in benches around the perimeter of each area, as long as the seats are positioned to offer a view of the surrounding landscape or the living area on the deck.

When building a raised deck, it may even be possible to create some additional living space down below. A product such as UnderDeck will transform the deck surface into a waterproof cover for the lower level, making it possible for a homeowner to enjoy

the great outdoors regardless of the weather.

3. Match the fasteners to the job The choice of fasteners used in any deck project will play a role in the overall appearance as well as the structural integrity of the work.

Traditional deck screws will always need to be long enough to reach at least an inch into the wood found underneath the deck board, particularly when crews are working with a non-dried jack pine that can be prone to warping and bowing. Those who are ordering the supplies should also pay attention to the amount of bare shank that exists above the threads.

If the shank is not long enough, the threads closer to the head of the screw will continue to strip through the upper board as the two pieces of lumber are pulled tight. Enhancements such as a series of “nibs” near the head, meanwhile, will help to countersink each fastener without producing any splinters.

Few things will seem to age the surface of a deck more than corroded fasteners, but the options coated in epoxy will withstand the challenges of every-

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D R A H S A T S U J S K R O W AS YOU DO Honda Big Red

with torque converter, truly sets the Big Red apart Automotive style 3 speed automatic transmission from the competition and occupant protection structure roll cage, headrests Wide stance, high sill doors, side nets, four pillar safety ved impro offer help tor (ELR) style seat belts automotive-style, 3 point, Emergency Locking Retrac yees for company and emplo ing g system similar to that of an automobile provid Only vehicle in its class to use a “failsafe” brakin ed front and rear braking even if one line gets sever a that is corrosion resistant and large enough to fit Plastic-coated cargo bed with replaceable side panels unload helps bed cargo on ulically assisted tilt feature standard 42” by 48” pallet with tailgate down. Hydra ately). receiver hitch (draw bar and hitch ball sold separ style otive autom 2” with g haulin heavier loads. Easy bed Quick clean up with rinse out interior and cargo floor es rear mesh screen, split windscreen, interior Contractor's accessory package available, includ plug er draw bar and hitch receiv mat, winch / mount kit, bed mat, aux. battery box,

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How To

photos: photos.com

).

thing from acid rain to the arsenic used to preserve pressure-treated lumber.

Unlike a ceramic coating that serves the same purpose, it is also easier to fit a bit into the recesses of an epoxy-coated screw.

Those who work with specific types of lumber will likely benefit from special fastener designs of another sort. When working with hardwood, for example, a Type 17 point will help tap the fastener into place with ease when compared to traditional deck screws that may require the help of pilot holes.

Projects which incorporate plastic lumber will require fasteners with heads that are just a little bigger than the shank itself, since everything compresses into the board. The thread pattern in this case will be aggressive at the bottom of the screw, but more like a machine screw near the top, with every inch of thread reaching into the building material.

Granted, there are cases where builders will want to limit the number of holes they create. Every fastener introduces a new pathway for water that can seep under the deck boards, inevitably leading to wood rot.

One option to protect against wood rot is to incorporate the Rot-Not Deck Protection System, which includes caps that eliminate contact between different pieces of wood, and protects the portions of a plank that would otherwise be unprotected by applications of a liquid sealer.

Another choice is to consider hidden fastening tools. Systems such as the Tiger Claw will grip boards from underneath, limiting traditional challenges such as cupping, splitting and cracking, while the milled boards of a Trex decking system are held together by the Trex Hideaway hidden fasteners.

The use of a Tiger Claw installation gun can be particularly handy for installers who are using these fastening systems on a regular basis. One side of the head is com-

patible with the Tiger Claw TC-G or TimberTech CONCEALoc, and the other side works with the Trex Hideaway fasteners.

4. Cook up a new kitchen No deck would be complete without a barbecue, and some advance thinking can turn a cooking area into a space that would be the envy of any chef.

In addition to incorporating a dedicated space for the barbecue, an outdoor kitchen will include surfaces to prepare food, wet sinks to eliminate the need to run back and forth to the house during prep time, and even coolers to hold condiments and chill beverages.

Like the kitchen indoors, there should be enough room for the cook to move around each appliance with ease. An unobstructed path between the prep area and the grill will certainly eliminate unwanted spills.

The planning for a natural gas line, meanwhile, will eliminate the need to store propane tanks nearby.

5. Wire the project for lights and sound The days may be longer in summer months, but some extra lighting will be needed for the parties

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that extend well after dark.

Just like a space indoors, the trick is to do more than simply flood the space with a single source of light. In addition to some well-aimed floodlights that define the surroundings around the deck, a few low-level lights can accent architectural features such as railings, while others can help to draw attention to toe-stubbing steps.

Some options will not even require any additional wiring, thanks to the growing number of solar powered LEDs on the market.

When working with hard-wired options, it will be important to incorporate an appropriately sized transformer and a heavy gauge of wiring to overcome any voltage drop that would otherwise occur in the far reaches of a bigger deck. A little advance planning will also ensure power for additions such as outlets for appliances in the cooking area, water features to mask the sounds of surrounding traffic, or even a spa.

The wiring is not limited to electrical needs, either.

The addition of some weather-resistant audio speakers around a seating area will make it possible to bring the sound of the family stereo outdoors.

6. Finish with a flourish The user of a pressure treated deck might be willing to accept some rougher cuts, but a premium deck demands more in the way of finishing touches such as sculpted corners and enhanced trim.

Rather than coating the premium lumber with a solid stain, an annual application of oil will enhance the premium appearance. Even a basic 6x6 post can be topped with products such as a Postcover from the DecKorators to simulate the look of stacked stone.

They are the finishing touches that will create the inviting space that any customer would want.

This is what people must mean when they talk about the great outdoors.

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photo: trexconnect

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How To

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Feature

Better Boards Engineered wood products deliver better performance, as long as you know where they can be used.

By John G. Smith

C

elebrate Mother Nature and her trees all you want, but it still takes the skills of an engineer to perfect many of the wood products that are used on a modern job site. When compared to a traditional piece of sawn lumber, there is simply no mistaking the fact that engineered wood products are stronger and straighter than their counterparts.

They are the types of features that can have a dramatic impact on a building project in more ways than one. Higher strengths

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make it possible to increase the lengths of different spans, limiting the number of beams and supporting walls. That, in turn, makes it possible to create the open concepts that are more popular than ever.

The uniform nature of the products can also help to reduce the amount of waste on a job site. Builders who have needed to cull between 5% and 10% of their sawn lumber supplies have been known to waste less than 2% of the engineered wood prod-

photos: Steve Nagy Photography, Christopher Grabowski

Feature

ucts when constructing a typical home. It is not the only impact that these products can have on quality control, either. Since the pieces are dried in a factory setting, there is little worry about any potential shrinking as they dry.

In an era when greener products are in demand, engineered wood products can even be better for the environment. Fingerjointing offers a prime example, transforming short pieces of wood into the longer spans that can match the size and grade of

a similar length of sawn lumber which would only be available by cutting into a larger tree.

The finger-joint lumber can be superior by many other measures as well. From a quality control perspective, levels of moisture in finger-jointed wood are measured at five individual points, while sawn lumber is graded for an average moisture content that still allows for wet spots. Since they are created with shorter pieces, the engineered products are also less prone to twisting and warp-

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ing in the face of heat or humidity, limiting problems such as popping nails in a sheet of drywall.

Of course, there are differences in the available products.

The finger-joint lumber used in vertical studs needs to be manufactured with a white glue (officially known as polyvinyl acetate) spread along each “finger�, while supplies destined for load-bearing applications such as beams and joists are joined together with a brown glue (phenol-resorcinol formaldehyde). The important thing to understand here is that there is a difference.

Veneers and sheets:Advantage One of Ad_March09.pdf the most established types 08:16:46 of engiContractor 09/02/09

neered wood of all has come in the form of plywood, which continues to be used by many contractors, particularly in the form of spruce sheets that are used by many roofers. Softwood sheets continue to be found everywhere from roofs to floors, wall sheathing, single-layer floors, siding, or underlayment. The hardwood options, meanwhile, offer the best choice for decorative wall panels and cabinets.

There can be a significant difference in the quality between one supplier of plywood and the next, however. The veneer on the face of a 4x8 sheet could be produced from a selection of

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PVC siding

photos: lp building products

Feature

photos: lp building products

Feature

13 species, while the layers inside could be created from 20 different options, each of which will have its own characteristics. The quality of the veneer itself will largely depend on the size of logs that were used by the producer.

The type of wood used in the plywood can affect available thicknesses as well. A sheet of softwood plywood can be between ¼” to 1¼” thick, while its hardwood counterpart will range from ¼” to ¾”. True thicknesses have also been known to vary from one supplier to the next, making it important to source as much as possible from the same batch.

Unfortunately, the layers of an individual sheet can include the voids that will sacrifice overall strength, and the layers themselves can be prone to delaminating.

These potential weaknesses, along with the related costs of each sheet, have led many builders to embrace Oriented Strand Board (OSB).

The OSB panels, typically produced with an aspen poplar, are made by compressing thin strips of wood with a mixture of wax and adhesives. Since the 1980s, these sheets have gradually replaced particleboard, otherwise known as chipboard.

The latter material is simply more prone to expanding and discolouring when exposed to moisture.

That is not to suggest that particleboard has disappeared altogether. Builders continue to use this material as a substrate for cabinets, carpeted stair treads, and subflooring in manufactured housing projects. It can even be used as the sub-floor under the vinyl in a spare bathroom or

mudroom as long as any uncovered edges are sealed.

Particleboard just cannot match OSB in terms of structural integrity. Because of that, pieces of OSB have emerged everywhere from siding to the webs of I-beams, and are used in applications as varied as floors, roofs and wall sheeting.

Engineering strength: The benefits of engineered wood products are not lim-

ited to the types of material that are used.

The production process or the design of the individual pieces can have a dramatic impact on the qualities that emerge. Consider how an I-joist is formed. Engineered I-joists are stronger pound for pound than their counterparts that were created from a piece of dimensional lumber, largely because of the way the highest forces are directed to the extreme edges of each piece.

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Feature With the added strength comes the potential to increase the ever-important lengths. A 91⁄2” I-joist can add about a foot to the potential span created with a typical 2x10. Meanwhile, builders who commit themselves to sawn lumber are limited to beams that are 16” on centre, while the engineered products would allow them to establish centres that are as much as 24” wide, as long as they increase the related floor sheeting.

The added benefit of reduced moisture content in the material itself will limit the level of pops and squeaks that would otherwise cause customer complaints.

These I-joists lead to another form of engineered wood, since they will typically tie into sheets of Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), a product that has the grain of each layer leading in the same direction.

This material is often used to create headers and beams.

As strong as these products can be, contractors should be careful not to sacrifice the added strength by blindly drilling holes into the web of a beam.

Every application of a drill bit will have some sort of affect on the overall capacity of the joist.

Sawn lumber has also found a home in some of these engineered products. Some Ijoists incorporate flanges that are made of 2x3's or 2x4's instead of the more costly Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) or Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL). It can be a necessary step when budgets are particularly tight.

That being said, LSL still has a role in today’s construction projects, particularly when builders want to incorporate tall walls or are working wherever they require a perfectly straight span.

It has certainly found a place when builders are creating the rim board over the opening for a window, and it offers better spanning capabilities than any counterparts made of OSB. Those who are working with the denser LSL simply need to be aware that they might need to pre-drill the holes for different fasteners.

The engineered products are not limited to framing work, either. The right options can also be used to establish the final appearance of sawn lumber. Those who want to incorporate an exposed beam into a building project, for example, might want

to use a span of Glued Laminated Timber, which is graded for both strength and appearance.

It is hardly the only engineered option that can deliver a finishing touch. One of the most well-known engineered products of all comes in the form of Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), which has emerged as a very popular source of moulding and is available in exterior grades when moisture might be an issue.

A Wood Plastic Composite (WPC), meanwhile, will transform sawdust and waste plastic into products with a simulated wood

grain that can easily be curved into any shape. In addition to offering another type of moulding and trim, it is also used in cladding, siding, and frames for windows and doors. Since it resists rot, it has even become a popular choice when building decks that require little maintenance.

The evolution of engineered wood products will continue.

Wall panels that were once limited to Europe were beginning to emerge in North America prior to the recent down turn in the construction industry. If they prove to be popular in the domestic market, contractors may soon find themselves working with more of these pre-manufactured walls that are simply tilted into place and nailed on to a floor plate.

This is simply another sign that the power of engineering continues to transform the products that make any project a reality.

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Feature

PT

Myth-Busting

Pressure treated wood dramatically extends the life of the product, but misconceptions exist that contractors should know about. If nothing else, being able to set the record straight will alleviate any fears a customer may have.

By Lawrence Cummer

I

n a world swelling with information and misinformation on the environment, and increasingly filled with fears around man-made chemicals, pressure treated (PT) wood often gets a bad rap.

The reality, say experts in the PT industry, is that there are a lot of myths and misconceptions around pressure treatment and the various chemicals used in it, and this confusion can create problems for contractors.

For decades the most common form of timber treatment was the wood preservative CCA (chromated copper arsenate), which was a mix of copper, chrome and arsenic formulated as oxides or salts. Copper was the primary agent in fighting the fungi that decay wood, while arsenic combatted insects like termites and marine borers. The chrome in the solution did not act as a preservative itself but helped bind the chemicals to the wood.

While still used as a heavy-duty preservative in some non-residential applications, market pressures and public perception that preservatives using arsenic were a health hazard caused Canadian treatment companies to voluntarily move to non-arsenate woods preservatives that, while still based on copper, use different chemicals to support the fight against fungal decay and pests.

Since 2004, the industry has been transitioning to two alternative preservatives, ACQ (alkaline copper quaternary) and CA (copper azole), for most residential applications. CCA has been limited for use in shakes and shingles, permanent wood foundations and most nonresidential uses such as utility poles.

ACQ replaces arsenic with a quaternary ammonium compound (called “quat” for short) as the secondary fungicide.

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Some quats are used to clean pipes at breweries and dairies, while others are used in antiseptic wipes and eyewash. CA uses an organic secondary fungicide (azole) instead.

Both alternatives are available in Canada and registered by the Pest Management Regulatory Agency for use in decks, patios, gazebos, residential fencing, landscaping timbers, walkways, boardwalks and freshwater docks.

There are three main myths around PT wood that can risk the health of contractors and the success of their businesses.

Myth #1: PT wood is unhealthy for people or pets Experts stress that, when used properly, PT wood is safe for adults, children and pets.

Cliff Baker is a wood preservation consultant for Timber Specialties Co., the Canadian subsidiary of the wood treatment company Osmose Inc., and has been in the treatment industry for three decades.

Timber Specialties has replaced CCA with ACQ preservatives, but Baker attests they are both safe products.

“There was a lot of misconception around the products, and as a result the companies that were producing CCA voluntarily withdrew the application for residential applications,” he says. “We just said enough is enough and withdrew them.”

James Doiron, product manager for pressure treated lumber at Goodfellow Inc. agrees. He notes that the arsenic levels that were once found in CCA were comparable to those found in “every living thing, like grass, trees and shrimp.” He says new methods are similarly safe.

According to Wood Preservation Canada, an association dedicated to the wood treating industry, studies show that PT wood properly treated retains its CCA preservatives

Feature

photo: goodfellow

with virtually no leakage for decades and that risks are negligible.

Still, for contractors working with PT wood, or any woods, there are important safety considerations (see sidebar).

Perhaps the greatest danger comes from the reverse of this myth; the belief that woods other than PT are perfectly safe for all uses. They are not.

Studies suggest that wood dust is a carcinogen, notes Baker, and safe exposure limits vary between different breeds of woods.

Because of this, dust masks should always be worn when cutting and sanding wood.

Contractors should reference the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) outlining the health risks associated with the work place use of any wood. Health agencies say the work place where wood is being cut or sanded should be properly ventilated.

In many cases safe handling of PT wood is also common sense.

Gloves and goggles should be used to prevent splinters and pro-

tect against wood particles. Because of the chemicals used, PT wood is also not to be burned or used as mulch.

Myth #2: PT wood is bad for the environment Homeowners sometimes request that contractors not use PT wood because they believe the manmade chemicals in the wood harm the environment. This is another myth, says Tom Moryto, vice president of RAM Forest Products.

He compares the decision to use more naturally durable wood to that of shoppers gravitating to the organic isles in groceries, noting that chemicals are found in natural, untreated woods as well as PT. In fact, he notes that particularly durable wood, like cedar, have naturally occurring fungicides and pesticides.

“The only difference is with PT we put the fungicide in, and with other woods nature does,” says Moryto, adding that many of the concerns about PT wood are simply an individual’s fear of chemicals.

“Sometimes it is really hard to fight people’s opinions with science. Even if the science proves products safe, there are some people that are just going to say: ‘cedar is natural and I do not want the chemicals.’ It is a personal preference at that point.”

Moryto does say the chemicals used in wood treatment are closely monitored. To that end, three government watchdogs strictly regulate PT wood in Canada, each with different mandates: Health Canada regulates around the effect on workers and

customers; Environment Canada on the operations of treatment plants; and, the Pest Management Regulatory Agency provide a final passing or failing grade on the use of preservatives for various applications.

The goal, says Moryto, is to balance the introduction of preservative and pesticides into the environment with the environmental benefits.

According to the Wood Preservation Canada, pressure treated wood is a benefit to the environment by helping to conserve Canadian forests. The organization says that by extending the life of wood destined for outdoor use, Canada saves a forest the size of Prince Edward Island from harvest every year. It notes that pressure treated wood, like that used for railway trestle bridges in the Rocky Mountains, has lasted more than 70 years under harsh conditions and heavy loads.

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Feature

Feature

Proper handling of PT wood When using PT wood the following handling checklist should be followed: • Do not burn preserved wood • Wear dust mask and goggles when cutting or sanding wood • Wear gloves when working with wood • Do not use as mulch • Do not use preserved wood in direct contact with aluminum • Use only corrosion-resistant fasteners with preserved wood (Source: Goodfellow Inc.)

Myth #3: PT wood is invincible While PT wood can have a remarkable ability to withstand the environments, one of the myths most dangerous to a contractor’s business is that many homeowners and contractors believe it is maintenance free.

Untreated woods have a lifespan of about eight years, notes Moryto, who suggests that pressure treatment extends the life by up to five times. Still, without proper care, homeowners might become disgruntled with the job done by their contractors if it quickly starts to show unexpected wear.

PT wood’s enemy is water, since wood swells with rain and then shrinks when the sun comes out. This exposes untreated pockets of wood that become subject to rot.

Wood is at greatest risk in the fall, because during the summer the sun checks (or chinks) the timber causing it to crack, and in the fall heavy rain soaks into those cracks. When the temperature drops and that water freezes those cracks expand, exposing untreated areas.

The end result is that the wood ends up prematurely rotting and costing potential future business through unsatisfied customers.

“It is all just a question of telling the consumer the right way of maintaining what they have in their yard,” says Doiron. “If you have a $10,000 to $15,000 deck on the back of your house, you want to keep it in good condition. If in only 10 years it looks all cracked and horrible they are going to think the contractor has taken them for a ride.”

Doiron says this is avoided easily by reminding homeowners that PT wood still needs to be water-sealed and that they should do it on an annual basis. He recommends water-sealing in September and notes that a gallon of sealant costs only about $10. Only one-quarter gallon of sealant and 10 minutes of application might be needed each year, but will keep a PT deck

looking brand-new for decades.

Further to that, PT woods do not need to be “weathered” for months (or a year) before applying sealant, paint or stain.

“Wood of any nature is ready to be stained as soon as it will absorb a little bit of water,” says Baker. Tell clients to test an area with a few drops of water, if it bubbles or beads it is not dry and not ready for stain or repellant.

In addition, contractors need to be aware of the corrosive effects PT wood has on metals. It is crucial not to have PT directly in contact with aluminum siding or alu-

minum handrails. A simple piece of rubber, a moisture wrap or a layer of paint on the aluminum will prevent this corrosive effect.

Treated wood is also much more corrosive to common steel, making it necessary to use hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel nails and fasteners. In addition, under a deck, it is similarly important to use stainless steel or treated bolts to prevent rotting.

“If the structure rots this way, the customer does not associate the damage to the bolts, they associate it with terrible contractors,” says Doiron.

To avoid catching a reputation as a “terrible contractor,” Doiron urges contractors to educate themselves and their customers on the proper use and maintenance of their pressure treated decks, fences and outdoor structures.

The Web contains an abundant amount of information on PT wood. Doiron and others point to the Canadian Wood Council (www.cwc.ca) and Wood Preservation Canada (www.woodpreservation.ca) as excellent sources.

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Feature

Going The

eco way

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Feature The exterior paint and stain market can be a potential goldmine for contractors who use ecologically-friendly paint practices. To find out how and why, we turned to a team of experts.

By Nestor E. Arellano

photos: photos.com, pittsburgh paints

T

he growing interest in green practices has pushed many paint and stain manufacturers to produce more eco-friendly lines, and contractors who are nimble enough to catch a ride on the environmental wagon will reap the rewards of a growing clientele.

Even though volatile compounds pose considerably less harm to people when used on exterior coatings, paint and stain manufacturers continue to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in their exterior product lines, according to Andrew Fedele, technical services manager for Para Paints.

“Zero VOC emission is where the market is headed,” he says.

“The contractor that knows the lines that best suit the eco-friendly trend will be ahead of the competition.”

One painting contractor agrees, but adds that it takes more than green products to corner the market.

“It is not all about the material,” says George Zarogiannis, owner of Eco Painting Inc. “Ecological painting takes into account the whole process from prep work to painting to clean up.”

Green opportunities: The experts agree that the current emphasis in green home building practices offers a golden opportunity for the smart and flexible contractor.

“The simple knowledge of ideal green products or cheaper alternatives is already a definite differentiating factor for any businessman,” says Fedele.

For instance, a cheaper recycled paint product is currently enjoying consumer popularity and government funding in Quebec.

Boomerang Paints, which are formulated from recycled paints and stains recovered from job sites, are considerably cheaper than their mainstream counterparts, yet the paint is manufactured within government quality and environmental standard, says Fedele.

Para Paints recently began distributing Boomerang Paints across Canada.

There are also many latex paints and stains that use natural raw ingredients such as plant oils and resins, beeswax and talcum powder mineral dyes.

SoyGuard offers soy-based exterior stains, water repellants and wood sealers. It has a very low VOC content and 100% biodegradable; however, the company recommends that users may need to treat wood with a mold remover solution such as MoldAvenger before applying the stain.

Zarogiannis says demand for painters who can provide ecopainting services such as this has steadily grown since he launched his business ten years ago. He advises contractors to specialize in green practices rather than merely dabbling in them.

For example, they should be familiar with disposal regulations in the municipality they are working in and the waste disposal depots in the neighborhood.

Contractors should also read up on environmentally-friendly maintenance practices, so they can advise homeowners how to take care of their homes.

“By mastering these techniques a contractor can up-sell his service and differentiate himself from others,” Zarogiannis says.

Meanwhile, some tips contractors should consider are listed below: Prep work: More than half of the complaints Para Paints receives from homeowners stem from faulty prep work, Fedele says, who was a professional painting contractor for several years: “Bad prep work will always ruin a good paint job.”

First, keep the work area clear; and use fabric drop cloths to cover driveways, walkways, lawns and decks. Tie back or prune

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Paint Performance Zero-VOC paint is better for the environment and for your nosebuds.

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The first national paint brand to receive the Green Seal® Class A certification, Pure Performance is also certified

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Feature

foliage. Runoff from washing the house or fumes from the paint may damage plants, so consider consulting with the homeowner or gardener if some plants need to be moved.

Washing: Many professionals begin exterior painting or staining jobs by thoroughly washing the area with a power washer to blast away grease, dirt, mildew and lose paint. Detergent and bleach can be added to the water in the power washer.

Do not power wash old or weathered wood siding with cracks or gaps in it. The high-pressure water might get into the walls. Scrub down the areas you are going to paint with a solution of TSP and water instead. Use a scrub brush or an abrasive sponge and add household bleach (about one quart per gallon of water) to get rid of mildew.

Wash areas with a garden hose after power washing.

Scraping and sanding: Make sure wood has dried before you scrape and sand off old and peeling paint. Use a wide scraper about 3” across and a narrower one for detail work. Larger areas might require a disk sander designed for paint removal.

After scraping, use coarse (50- to 80-grit) sandpaper to smooth out uneven areas. A random orbit sander can be of great help for this work. Painted masonry surfaces such as brick, concrete, stone and stucco can be cleaned with a long-handled wire brush.

Fasten loose trim with hot-dipped galvanized nails or screws. Use a nail set to push old nail heads below the surface.

Replace any decayed or damaged trim.

Small areas of rotted wood may be stabilized with a penetrating epoxy wood rebuilder that seals out moisture and oxygen while solidifying the wood fibers.

Priming: Bare wood and heavily scraped areas must receive a coat of primer. Masonry and rusted metal will require a different primer than the one you use on wood, siding or stucco. Consider a rust converter product for treating rusted metal, the liquid dries clear and chemically neutralizes the rust.

Caulking: Use vinyl-based exterior patching compound to fill nail

heads, holes and small craters. Also use exterior-grade siliconized latex or tripolymer caulk to fill open joints, cracks and gaps between mouldings. Avoid pure silicone caulk because it will not bond to paint.

Taping: Painter’s tape, also known as crepe tape, has a very high adhesion and is ideal for attaching paper or plastic to any surface, but may be difficult to remove after a few hours. Safe release tape, often blue, is ideal if the tape will be left in place for more than a day. It also reduces the possibility of removing or damaging existing finishes. Solvent tape, typically green, is designed for use with hot solvents found in lacquer and enamel.

Paper masking tape and plastic film are staple masking systems. Both can be used with a hand-held masking device that automatically attaches and cuts the tape to desired lengths.

Essentially, exterior paints and stains are latex-based, alkyd or oil-based.

Latex paints: This type of paint is primary water based, quick to dry and nearly odourless. Latex paints have some limitations, for instance, many have a high sensitivity to cold and should be applied when temperatures are above 10°C. Latex also has a tendency to show brush marks.

According to Bob Fierheller of PPG Canada Inc., the best latex paints use acrylic resins, such as Pittsburgh Paint’s Manor Hall Timeless line of premium exterior paints. The Timeless line can be applied on wood, masonry, vinyl siding, fibre cement and primed metal surfaces.

This self-priming paint can be applied even in temperatures as low as 2°C, says Fierheller.

“Latex finishes with 100% acrylic resin binders offer greater spatter and chip resistance, plus better sheen retention,” he explains.

Oil-based or alkyd paints: These are more durable, stain resistant, dry with less brush marks and are a dream to apply with a paint sprayer.

Some alkyds; however, come with higher VOC content because they are oil-based. Alkyd paint also dries slower and tends to sag when applied thick. The slow drying quality of alkyds mean these paints are able to attain outstanding sheen.

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Stains: Just like paints, stains are either water-based or oil-based. They are thinner in composition and therefore reveal more wood grain than paints.

Stains are typically classified under three categories, says Joe Peltzer, manager for specialty products for the building product division of Nicholson and Cates Ltd., Burlington, Ont. based suppliers of Cabot Stains products.

Semi-transparent stains have well defined colour, but will show grains and texture of the wood. This stain’s average lifespan is two years. Semi-solid deck stains, such as those produced by Cabot, have more pigment than semi-transparent ones, but will still allow some grain to show. This stain can last anywhere from three to four years on a properly prepped deck.

Solid-colour deck stains cover the wood grain completely, but allow some texture to remain. They have a painted look and might have a satin sheen depending on the manufacturer. Available in many colours, they can last four or more years depending on exposure to the elements and colour choice.

“The type of stain to apply generally depends on aesthetic preference and the type of protection that the homeowner seeks,” says Peltzer. “In recent years, more and more clients are showing a preference for water-based stains.”

Contractors who master the ability to identify the appropriate coating for specific surfaces do a great service to their clients.

“These contractors are making sure that their customers get the most out of the materials they purchase,” says Fedele.

He warns it is unlikely that manufacturers will honour the warranty on their product if they were applied improperly.

photos: photos.com, para paints

Feature For instance, masonry such as brick, stucco, concrete, cement, and asbestos surfaces are best covered by latex or acrylic-based paints.

Oil-based paints tend to bubble on porous masonry surface.

Some latex-based masonry paints require a special pretreatment, or bonding primer, to “tie down” old chalk and dust before application.

There are also waterproof latex paints for exteriors exposed to moisture and rain.

Vinyl and metal surfaces can be coated with both latex and oil-based paint.

Ordinary high gloss enamel coatings are not suitable for walk-on surfaces such as floors. The slippery coat produced by such products can result in slips and falls.

Contractors should guide homeowners towards oil or latex floor enamels or stains, which withstand weather and wear, but also provide some grip.

Oil-based paints are not recommended for many concrete surfaces, especially those in contact with year-round moisture such as basements and patios, because they will not adhere to damp surfaces.

The Alkali in concrete may combine with the oil to form a film resulting in poor adhesion, peeling and paint lifting from the surface.

Conventional floor paints work poorly on garage floors since car tires can scrape the paint off. Many gloss floor paints are slippery when wet and a nonskid additive should be considered, Fedele advises.

Both latex and oil-based paints adhere well to galvanized steel and aluminum gutters. Oil based works better on tin gutters.

Galvanized gutters require priming both inside and out and should be cleaned with a coarse cloth dampened with paint thinner before they are painted, or should be left unpainted for three to six months so the weather can etch the surface for better paint adhesion.

Oil-based paints should never be applied directly to unpainted galvanized metal. They will eventually peel off. A galvanized metal primer must be applied first.

Acrylic-latex paint can be applied directly

to un-painted galvanized metal as long as it has been cleaned thoroughly.

Many stains are low in pigment content, leave a light color on the surface, and are used primarily to provide surface protection for wood shingles and deck floors.

Stain may be applied without a primer.

Where the surface is badly weathered, contractors should call for a companion primer, two finish coats. Most stains have an oil or alkyd-resin base, which thins with turpentine or similar solvent.

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Feature

An

Air Clearing

Tutorial

Fresh profits are in store for contractors who take the time to learn the principles of sound ventilation and filtration.

By Nestor E. Arellano

O

ut with the stale and in with the fresh is essentially the rationale behind proper home ventilation.

Apart from controlling indoor humidity and improving air quality to reduce airborne contaminants, proper ventilation is a requirement of the Canadian Building Codes and on many home component manufacturers’ product warranties.

An essential ingredient in today’s “sealed envelope” philosophy of home construction, the knowledge of ventilation principles, trends and new products can be valuable additions to a contractor’s arsenal of skills.

There is a growing need for contractors who know how to properly install home ventilation and filtration systems, say product experts.

“Quite a lot of haphazardly installed systems began surfacing during the last construction boom in many parts of Canada,” says Marc Ducette, account manager for Broan NuTone Canada Inc. Besides being unhealthy, improper ventilation adds to the dete-

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rioration of the home’s building walls, attic, foundation and exterior.

“Humidity and increased heat build up are the leading cause of failing shingles in many roofs,” says Phil Woolfrey, global sales manager of Canplas Industries Ltd., makers of Duraflo vents.

Up until three decades ago, ventilation in many North American homes was more or less built in, says Martin Renault, technical representative for Montreal, Que. based Ventilation Maximum Ltee. Air moved freely through doors, windows, soffits and vents.

“It was around the 1990's that R2000 type homes, which were sealed airtight, became the norm.”

Sealed homes are easier and cheaper to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer, and, therefore, are more energy efficient.

The downside is that airtight homes tend to be stuffy, and they accumulate more moisture and humidity as occupants go about their normal kitchen and bathroom activities, Renault says.

Ventilation contractors can help homeowners cut cost in the long run by reducing energy consumption, while simultaneously

photos: photos.com, ventilation Maximum

Feature

prolonging the life of the house and helping avoid ailments.

Summer heat trapped in the attic creates a furnace effect. It heats ceiling insulation, which then conducts heat through to the ceiling. This heat is then radiated downward to persons and objects in the rooms below. It can also cause the curling, or the bleeding, of shingles and the warping of the sheathing. The air conditioner is also forced to work continuously to cool down the living area.

During the winter months, air inside the home is warmer and carries more water vapour than the colder, dryer air in the attic.

Cooking, laundry, showers, humidifiers and other activities using water contribute to this condition.

There is a strong natural force, termed “vapour pressure,� that causes water vapour to migrate from high-humidity air (or materials) to low-humidity air. This migration of water vapour passes through ceilings, insulation and wood and even successfully circumvents a vapour barrier.

It moves into the attic space, where it can readily condense

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source: broan-nutone canada inc.

An air exchanger is an appliance that expels the polluted and humid air from a home to the outside and replaces it with fresh air several times a day. This clean fresh air is then filtered and distributed throughout the house. It can work independently (below) or be connected to an existing central forced air heating and airconditioning system (left) without compromising the efficiency of your appliances.

into water on the cooler structural members: rafters, trusses, and the cold roof sheathing.

Condensation moisture within an attic or ceiling space can dampen and compress insulation. Even small amounts of condensation can have a substantial effect in reducing the R value of the insulation and creating faster heat loss into the attic space. This will eventually lead to mold, mildew, rot, and ice damming.

Poor ventilation also fails to expel indoor contaminants such as harmful fumes from glues or paints, off-gas from carpets, emissions from particle board or household cleaning compounds, as well as particulates and carbon monoxide from gas burning appliances.

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Left: Broan NuTone's QTRE100H humidity sensing fan.

niture, for instance, could be under-ventilated. Fans can help circulate the air around. There are basically two types of ventilation systems that help control harmful contaminants and humidity.

Spot ventilation draws air from a particular location then exhausts it outside the home. Exhaust fans installed in bathrooms and kitchens do not only remove odour but also get rid of humidity, carbon monoxide and other harmful gasses.

There is a huge selection of spot ventilation systems and features that contractors can now present to their clients.

For example, Broan NuTone’s Ultra Silent humidity-

photos: broan-nutone canada inc., photos.com

In addition, inadequate air filtration systems allow outdoor contaminants into the home.

These could be pollens and other particulates or allergens that can trigger asthma attacks or allergic reactions.

Ventilation is used to describe three distinct types of air movement: Infiltration – Homes get some fresh air from natural infiltration. This is sometimes measured as house air changes per hour (ACPH). An air exchange rate of 0.5 ACPH means that half of the house air is changed every hour.

The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corp. Web site says exfiltration, or the amount of air that leaves the house, should always equal infiltration.

Distribution – Fresh air needs to move around the house particularly to rooms with closed doors. Earlier homes accomplished this with open windows. Today’s sealed homes, and older but retrofitted houses, require fans and duct systems.

Circulation – Fresh air introduced to a room also needs some help to be circulated to parts of the room. Rooms with a lot of fur-

photo: ventilation Maximum

Ventilation should equalize the temperature in the airspace with the outside air to eliminate moisture, condensation, ice dams and mold. source: sigma exteriors

sensing fan activates automatically when its sensors pick up humidity. When this Energy Star rated product senses a rapid rise in humidity in an inside room it goes to work and exhausts the moisture and then automatically shuts off when the job is done.

“Automatic sensors are the trend,” says Ducette. “They help reduce energy cost and make sure that fans are on until moisture is removed.”

Dilution ventilation, meanwhile, addresses the entire living space.

Air exchangers (exchanging indoor air with outside air) and air cleaning help determine the effectiveness of dilution. Air changes result from a combination of natural ventilation (infiltration, leakage, windows) and mechanical, controlled ventilation. Air cleaning occurs when particulates are filtered and when air is dehumidified to remove moisture.

A filtration system installed on the furnace or central air can advise homeowners on the type of filtration or purification process ideal for their home. In wet climates, select a system that will destroy mold spores. Allergy sufferers need to focus on a unit that will collect or destroy pet dander, pollen, dust mites, mold spores, mildew, smoke and other irritants.

There are a number of different types of filtration systems for contractors to recommend: Ionizers – These systems emit a small electric charge to the air stream which draws air through it. This creates a magnetic-like attraction for pollution particles and causes them to adhere to the filter.

Electrostatic precipitator – The devices filter the air by creating opposite charges on metal wires or plates that attract and holds dust, pollen, smoke and particles as small as .0001 microns to a metal, glass or fiberglass component that can be washed and re-used.

High efficiency particulate air (hepa) – The cleaners capture airborne pollutants .3 microns or larger, including some tobacco smoke, household dust and pollens. They are designed to remove 99.97% of the particulates that pass through their filters, which

RIDGE VENTS

cannot be cleaned and re-used but must be replaced. They have no effect on fumes, viruses, bacteria, smaller mold spores, and some tobacco particulates.

SOFFIT VENTS Ultra hepa - A more efficient version of the hepa, the makers of these filters claim that they remove 99.999% of the particulates that pass through them.

One of the key recommendations a contractor can give a homeowner is the type of ventilation to install.

“Very few people are even aware of the difference between static and passive ventilators,” says Renault. continued on page 61...

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Green Friendly:

Tips And Advice For The C What Is A LEED Home?

A LEED home has been certified by an independent third party, the Canada Green Building Council, as having met the requirements of the LEED Canada for Homes rating system.

What is different about a LEED home?

• Lower energy and water bills • Reduced greenhouse gas emissions • Less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins • Operational cost efficient • Best industry practices What is similar?

• LEED homes can be any ‘style’ • Have same functions as regular homes Source: LEED Canada For Homes

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Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) Substances are often found in new homes that release vapours at room temperature. These chemicals are inhaled and absorbed into the skin of inhabitants which can be unhealthy.

Careful selection of paints, adhesives and other materials with limited or no VOCs combined with an effective ventilation system reduces these toxins and produces a healthier living environment.

Source: Effect Home Builders Ltd.

6,000+ LEED APs More than 6,000 people have become LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) in Canada since 2001. LEED APs work in every sector of the building industry, and

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have demonstrated a thorough understanding of green building practices and principles and familiarity with LEED requirements, resources, and processes.

Source: Canada Green Building Council

Green Building Study A study by CoStar Group found that sustainable “green” buildings outperform their peer non-green assets in key areas such as occupancy, sale price and rental rates, sometimes by wide margins.

The results indicate a broader demand by property investors and tenants for buildings that have earned either LEED certification or the Energy Star label and strengthen the “business case” for green buildings, which proponents have increasingly cast as financially sound investments.

he Contractor Professional According to the study, LEED buildings command rent premiums of $11.24 per square foot over their non-LEED peers and have 3.8% higher occupancy.

Rental rates in Energy Star buildings represent a $2.38 per square foot premium over comparable non-Energy Star buildings and have 3.6% higher occupancy.

Making A Pitch For Wood Wood products require less energy to extract, process and transport than steel or concrete, and wood-framed buildings are more energy-efficient, costing less to construct and operate over time.

Wood is 400 times better than steel and 10 times better than concrete in resisting the flow of heat. Wood buildings require much less insulation to retain their warmth.

Source: PlanetFriendlyCanada.com

LEED Canada-NC 1.0 The LEED Canada-NC 1.0 rating system applies to new construction and major renovations of commercial and institutional buildings, i.e., buildings regulated

by Part 3 of the National Building Code.

It also applies to retail, mid- and high-rise multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs), public assembly buildings, manufacturing plants, and other types of buildings.

Provision is also made for up to 10% of

the building floor area (20% in the case of mixed-use buildings) to be completely exempted.For details, see the Application Guide for Core and Shell Buildings and Leased Tenant Spaces. The guide can be downloaded from the ‘my documents’ section of “MyCaGBC”. The document is free to CaGBC members, and available for $55 for non-members. The Web site is www.cagbc.org.

Source: Canada Green Building Council

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Duraflo’s Weather Pro Ridge (left) and Weather Pro Turbo (right)

photos: duraflo

...continued from page 57

A static ventilator such as turbine allows for air exchange, while a passive ventilator allows for evaporation. Passive ventilators are low-profile vents, like ridge vents, mushroom vents or gooseneck ventilators for flat roofs. They do not allow for air exchange, but merely let the air evaporate out through them. The air enters through the soffits into the attic, then gradually escaping out through the ventilator.

A passive vent releases the attic air, but is unable to exchange or replace it frequently. Being so low, it is usually buried by snow after the first snowstorm, rendering the ventilation system useless just when it is needed most, says Renault.

Woolfrey of Canplas also notes that contractors must use compatible systems.

“Passive roof vents should not be used with turbines, because this would cause uneven distribution of air flow.”

Contractors should also consult manufacturers on the proper installation and use of their products. For instance, soffits, gables, flat roofs, sloped roofs or building foundations require different vents.

Duraflo’s new Weather Pro Turbo provides a “silent alternative” to turbine vents. This passive vent is equipped with a UV-resistant cover that prevents snow, water and debris from entering it. It has no moving parts, making it virtually maintenance free.

Soffits must also be well ventilated and air circulation must not be obstructed by insulation. Attics should have a minimum insulation rating of R30.

Air evacuation ducts from hood ranges or bathroom vents should not be discharged into the attic or this will create extra humidity in the area.

Opportunities for contractors: Taking the time and effort to study and train on ventilation techniques would be a good source of additional income for many contractors, says Renault.

For instance, roofers can bump up

their fees if they can add ventilation installation (or upgrade) to their services. “A typical $10,000 roof job can easily go up to $12,000 or $14,000 if you can add ventilation installation,” he says.

Contractors should take the role of teaching homeowners their ventilation needs, but before doing this familiarize themselves with local air quality regulations and trade guidelines, says Ducette.

For air quality standards, contractors can consult the Websites of Health Canada or Environment Canada. Canadian ventilation and home air quality guidelines are also available from the CMHC or trade associations such as the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada.

Various manufacturers also provide area coverage calculators and information about their products.

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Income Risk Management

You insure everything else including your life, your home and your car.

You name it, it is all insured yet what is the biggest asset you have?

By Mark Beckham

A friend of mine named Dave, who owns a small business, was doing some weekend warrior work around the house. While cleaning the eavestrough, he fell off the ladder he had been standing on and injured himself. Until Dave sat waiting for Xrays that day, he had never thought about the impact of losing his income.

He had never considered how a lack of income could affect his family and his lifestyle. Quite frankly, he never thought this could happen to him.

You insure everything else including your life, your home and your car. You name it, it is all insured yet what is the biggest asset you have? Your income.

Imagine for a moment, how much you would lose if you lost it. You might even lose many of those things you have insured (e.g. car payments), but unfortunately, very few people have any kind of income replacement coverage to protect them.

Here are some interesting statistics from the Commissioners Individual Disability Table. During any one-year period: • 1 in 105 Canadians will die • 1 in 1,300 Canadian homes will catch fire • 1 in 70 cars will be involved in an accident • 1 in 8 Canadians will be disabled (either temporarily or permanently) Notice the last statistic: how much higher the probability is of losing your income.

One in eight Canadians will be disabled to some degree. Compare that to the probability of being involved in an accident, or having your home catch fire, or death.

Once you are ready to put more thought into covering your income than my friend Dave did, give me a call. Here are a few of things about disability insurance that we can discuss: • How much do I want to get paid?

• How long do I want to be paid?

• How quickly do I want to get paid?

try to maximize the amount of non-taxable disability income you receive at the least premium.

Next, we will talk about how long you want to be paid. Group LTD will continue until age 65. Individual Disability “top up” products can be designed to pay to age 65, or you can elect to be paid for five years.

We start by implementing Castlecare’s group Long Term Disability coverage. It provides basic coverage at a very inexpensive cost for both you and your employees.

Group LTD only replaces your T4 income. We may need to look at additional coverage to replace your bonuses and dividends. That is when we might “top up” with an individual product.

This combination of insurance products then provides you with a complete income replacement portfolio. We are aware that price is always an issue, so we

The rationale is if you are so disabled that you are off for five years, you are not likely to return, and would sell your business. This creates the income asset. It is supplemented by the Group LTD that provides you and your loved ones with a comfortable lifestyle even though you are unable to work. The five-year benefit also reduces the cost of the product.

The last thing we want to consider is how quickly you want to get paid. Group LTD begins after the 120th day of disability. We usually start the Individual Disability at that time as well, again to keep premiums lower.

In summary, Castlecare provides an affordable tax effective income replacement package. It was designed by Castle to provide peace of mind for the contractor as well as Castle dealers across Canada.

Mark Beckham, BSc, is one of the Principals of Bencom FSGI (Financial Services Group Inc.) His professional experience includes employee benefits and financial services including retirement products and insurance. He can be reached at mark@bencomfsgi.com or by telephone at 888-664-5555 ext. 301.

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THE PINK PANTHER™ & ©1964-2008 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. All Rights Reserved. The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning. 60% recycled content applies to Canadian PINK FIBERGLAS® and QuietZone® Insulation product. GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified is Reg. U.S. Pat & TM Office. ©2008 Owens Corning. All Rights Reserved.