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Three Musketeers’ motto inspires Ray Fertig’s presidency.
4 President’s message
20 The workplace motivation myth
We challenge you.
Five ‘tips’ for increasing productivity and workplace satisfaction.
6 Builders try ‘speed dating’ to connect with suppliers First-ever Meet the Builder event is a huge success!
22 Dazzle your customers: PBA presents nine more ways to stand out Simple changes can make your business stand out.
8 Not too good to be true Porous asphalt is a cost-effective and green alternative for stormwater management.
11 Scrapping by Proposed legislation could make theft of precious metals less attractive.
12 Open, but not free, space
25 Member spotlight Mike Landis of Landis Builders Inc. is piloting his own course in the homebuilding industry.
26 Final word Protect yourself and your workers by cultivating a culture of safety. Remind your employees to protect themselves on work sites with just a few simple rules.
Balancing requirements with economic realities.
Member Insider Member briefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A PBA Inaugural Builders Gala. . . . . . . . . B,C On the hill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D
Keystone Builder cover designed by Chris Anderson
Keystone Builder
Volume 5 • Issue 1 • January/February 2008
16
Building relationships, polishing images
Associate Vice President Jim Miller, BIA of Lancaster County Secretary Chauncey Wirsing, Somerset County BA Treasurer Richard Clawson, Indiana-Armstrong BA Immediate Past President Stephen Black, BIA of Lancaster County executive vice President David Martin Editor Eric C. Wise Associate Editor Chris Anderson
PrintComm Staff Publisher Kevin Naughton Assistant Editor/Publication Director H.J. Hormel Graphic Design Jason Gabel Advertising Sales Manager Brenda Poe Advertising Sales Jeff Pinwar • 800-935-1592, ext. 118 Address correspondence to: Keystone Builder 600 North Twelfth Street, Suite 200 Lemoyne, PA 17043 Phone: 800-692-7339 or 717-730-4380 Fax: 717-730-4396 Web: www.pabuilders.org
President’s message
VICE PRESIDENT Gene Kreitzer, Lebanon County BA
By Ray Fertig • PBA President
President Ray Fertig, York BA
We challenge you
T
he Pennsylvania Builders Association unites those in the state’s homebuilding industry, giving us the chance to work toward goals that benefit us. Instead of just discussing the ways PBA can help you, we are challenging you, our members, to take the following 10 suggestions as a starting point for bettering your business, our industry and our association. • A fter you read Keystone Builder, make it available for employees and customers to read. • Contribute one remarkable programming idea to your local association leaders. • Bring a guest (potential member) to a local meeting. Follow up and alert him or her of the next meeting, too. • Share something you learned from your association involvement with your employees. • Join PBA’s Hammers and Gavels Club to show legislators that issues are important to the business leaders in their districts. • Use PA One Call, PBA’s Member Rebate Program, PBA’s worker’s compensation program and other benefits, so your membership pays for itself. • Use one remarkable idea picked up from a builders association meeting in your business. • Volunteer and contribute to a local Habitat for Humanity project, either with your local or on your own. Frame a picture of you working on the project to hang in your office to send a message to your customers. • W hen you are pricing a job, contact a PBA Premier Partner to see what they offer. • Become a leader in green building as PBA begins its own certification program. Our businesses have passed through some murky economic waters in 2007. Let’s use our association’s power to get us back in the prime commerce channel this year. s
Advertising does not imply acceptance or endorsement of the products contained in the publication.
2929 Davison Rd. • Flint, MI 48506 Phone: 800-935-1592 • www.printcomm.com An Exclusive Publication of the PBA Keystone Builder magazine is published six times a year by the Pennsylvania Builders Association®, Editorial Offices, 600 North Twelfth Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043. With the exception of official association announcements, the statements of fact and opinion that are made herein are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not reflect an opinion or philosophy of the officers or the membership of the PBA. Materials may not be reproduced without written permission from the PBA headquarters. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Pennsylvania Builders Association, 600 North Twelfth Street, Lemoyne, PA 17043. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Subscriptions available through membership to the Pennsylvania Builders Association.
I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
“
We are challenging you, our members, to take the following 10 suggestions as a starting point for bettering your business, our industry and our association.
“
Publishing and advertising sales services provided by:
Builders try
‘speed dating’
to connect with suppliers by Chris Anderson ennsylvania Builders Association’s first-ever Meet the Builder event was a success. Hard to believe? Take it from Joe Galantino, owner of Illustrations Plus and a member of the HBA of Berks County: “I received six contracts during those three hours, and one is already finalized and signed. I had a job in hand when I left there – that can’t be beat. I’d pay $500 for this type of event, and I’d travel from one end of the state to the other, if needed, to have this opportunity.” Still skeptical? Read what Vinny Stiaccini, sales assistant with Yenason Mechanical and 2008 president of the BIA of Northeast Pennsylvania, said: “To be honest, I was concerned it would be a waste of my time … I was skeptical of meeting people I don’t see, people I don’t do business with. As it turned out, it was a tremendous opportunity. The networking capability during those three hours was something I couldn’t have gotten all year.” Meet the Builder, held Oct. 23 in Wilkes-Barre, brought together 20 builders and more than 110 associates from the northeast region of Pennsylvania for a three-hour reverse trade show. It used a “speed dating” format during which associates had five minutes to meet oneon-one with builders. Because of the event’s success, PBA is anticipating holding more Meet the Builder opportunities in 2008. Keep watching for announcements regarding future Meet the Builder events! s
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January/February 2008 • Keystone Builder
I
Not too good to be true
By M.H. Morrison orous asphalt is a cost-effective and green alternative for stormwater management and paved construction. First developed in the 1970s, porous asphalt, which may also be referred to as pervious asphalt, consists of standard bituminous asphalt into which the small aggregate particles have been screened and reduced, allowing water to pass through the asphalt. During construction, a bed of aggregate is placed beneath the pavement. The aggregate generally has a void space of 40 percent so when the stormwater drains through the paved surface, it can be held in this bed to slowly infiltrate the underlying soil. Alex Durán, land use and development specialist for the Pennsylvania Housing Research Center at Penn State University, said an appeal of a porous asphalt pavement system is that water is not being managed downstream, in a water detention basin, for example. Additionally, there is the environmental bonus of reducing the amount of dirt and debris washed into streams and waterways by stormwater because the water on the site is discharge below ground for runoff control. “It’s the way Mother Nature works before we build. We’re trying to imitate the regular cycle,” said Thomas H. Cahill, president of Cahill Associates, a leader in the field of porous pavement use.
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Porous where we live? Most often porous asphalt and the similar porous concrete is used in commercial
I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
applications in parking lots, walkways or similarly paved areas. Cahill said that he does not recommend porous products for residential use, in general. “One problem for individual lots is the issue of maintenance,” he said.
In addition to the porous pavement in parking areas, driveways and paths, there were also infiltration beds, which provided for all the stormwater management needs, eliminating four large detention basins from the plans.
Let the iceman cometh
Porous pavements require less plowing and provide better traction for pedestrians and vehicles.
He explained that maybe five years down the road, the porous asphalt driveway begins to show its age, so the homeowner decides to seal it. That one act destroys the driveway’s permeability, and to restore it, the entire drive would need to be replaced. Cahill said that it also is recommended that porous pavement be “vacuumed” once a year. In residential developments where the paved areas would be regularly maintained, such as parking for a group of condo units, Cahill sees this technology working well. He said that this was the case at a large multi-unit residential development in Cumberland County.
Winter maintenance for porous asphalt also can make this technology an attractive option. According to a 2005 report co-authored by Cahill, freezing has not been an issue for porous pavements, which require less plowing and provide better traction for pedestrians and vehicles. Durán pointed out that if the stone reservoir below the pavement becomes filled with water, so that new water on the surface cannot move down, then there could be freezing that would heave the pavement. A well-designed system eliminates this possibility.
Municipal anxiety Durán said that because inspectors and other municipal officials may be less familiar with porous asphalt, it is more likely to be denied as a means of stormwater management. Cahill suggested that developers or builders show the state’s best management practices manual that explains the technology and its use to officials. He added that a help in the near future will be an ordinance that is being developed by the state to address porous asphalt. Cahill also said that the state is looking at porous asphalt and similar technologies to be the future standard for stormwater management.
Dollar and sense
Flushing with rainwater
Porous asphalt does not usually cost more than conventional pavement, according to Cahill’s 2005 article. While both types of asphalt cost about the same, the underlying stone bed of a porous asphalt application is usually more expensive than a conventional compacted sub-base. This cost difference may be offset by the reduction in stormwater pipes and inlets, as well as the need for less earthwork and deep excavations. After the initial investment, both systems call for maintenance, such as vacuuming for porous pavement and sediment clean out for detention basins. In a nutshell, porous paving is generally not used for high traffic paving nor for most residential applications. Where it can be used, porous asphalt or concrete can mean lower snow removal costs; may eliminate or reduce additional stormwater management requirements, thus reducing overall construction cost; and provides a green alternative for the building industry and its customers. s
Using green building technology and state funding under Growing Greener II, the J.S. Wilson Middle School, part of the Millcreek Township School District in Erie County, was able to build a rainwater collection system that supplies the building’s toilets and urinals. The school district received $400,000 to install approximately 15,000 square feet of porous pavement, a rainwater harvesting system to collect stormwater, a onequarter-acre wetland and a 2,000-square-foot green roof. Gene Hlifka, consulting engineer, Hlifka Associates in Erie, said that the rainwater harvesting system includes eight concrete storage tanks, pumps, a control panel, a day tank in the school’s mechanical room to hold water and chlorinate it, a sediment filter and another pump to push water to the building’s toilets and urinals. The system also needed detention ponds to take care of any additional runoff not held in the tanks. Because of the cost of water in the Erie area, the payback on the project is something like 55 years, Hlifka said. The school’s administration was not really looking at cost savings, but the educational opportunity the system provided to its students. Tim Polaski, Urban Engineers of Erie, said that cost difference between porous pavement and conventional paving for this project was in the base layer. Porous pavement as an alternative construction material is catching on as more projects are trying to get Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, he added. Also, changes at the state and federal level in stormwater policies addressing runoff mean that porous pavement is gaining popularity as one way to meet these regulations. For homeowners, the feasibility of rainwater harvesting to provide water to toilets, for car washing or irrigation would be dependent on the cost of water or a commitment to environmentally friendly building. s
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Scrapping by Proposed legislation could make theft of precious metals less attractive. by M.H. Morrison ary Shuler put a “for sale” sign on his late mother’s York County home and never expected that the first visitors would be thieves, looking to steal not only memorabilia left in the home, but also its copper water pipes. In the basement, about 50 feet of copper piping was taken by apparently cutting the pipes with a torch, Shuler said. He estimated that it cost his family around $70, plus their labor to replace the missing pipes, but not with copper; this time they decided to use plastic. As scrap, the stolen copper pipe was worth less than $30. Cases like Shuler’s and those of builders across the state have prompted the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to draft House Bill 1742, which will aid police in tracing stolen materials. The legislation would require scrap buyers to record sellers’ information, such as license plates and driver’s license numbers, when a transaction is more than $50. If the scrap is later found to be stolen, these records could be vital in a police investigation. Kent Stanko, president of Travois Construction, Hollidaysburg, suggested that identifying the source of scrap materials by requiring sellers to certify where scrap came from and a licensing process should be added to the legislation.
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Builders as victims Members of the Pennsylvania Builders Association increasingly have been the victims of thefts of copper and other materials.
Frank Pascoe, president of Pascoe Builders in New Castle, said that in the last two years thefts have increased, especially thefts of precious metals like copper. In one incident, the thieves caused $8,000 in damage when they used a pick up to rip the copper piping from a house under construction. Pascoe said that the value of copper on the scrap market was between $800 and $1,000. Another area that has been a costly target is aluminum scaffolding. One such incident racked up a $4,000 bill for Pascoe. He said that his insurance deductible and worry about turning in too many claims has resulted in his company absorbing the cost of some of the thefts. Shannon Cawley, general manager of Zawarski and Sons in Bethlehem, said the cost of replacing piping and repairing damage for one house alone was $4,000-$5,000, because the piping was “yanked” out, making it more difficult to repair and replace.
On the defensive To combat the thefts and damage, Pascoe has contacted local and state police, asking for increased patrolling of Pascoe Builders’ remote job sites. The company has instituted additional precautions including locking up sooner on the job site and asking subcontractors to not let things lay around, which makes the site less inviting to thieves. For Cawley at Zawarski and Sons, installation of surveillance cameras on every site has halted the thefts.
Gary Shuler
Thefts on job sites are not new, but with increased frequency combined with the difficulty that police have in tracing the stolen goods, the new legislation may make the crime less attractive by limiting the market for stolen building materials. s
The problem: Theft of materials from job sites that can be sold easily at scrap facilities, such as copper piping, is on the increase and tracing the stolen materials is difficult.
Commonly stolen materials: Copper piping, copper wiring, scaffolding, windows and doors.
Proposed law: House Bill 1742, as proposed, would require scrap buyers to record information on sellers when the transaction is more than $50.
Ways to protect materials: On job sites, fencing, locking up equipment, securing doors and windows, and surveillance cameras are effective deterrents. Other suggestions include contacting local police so a site can be added to the “patrol” zone and getting to know the area’s scrap dealers. January/February 2008 • Keystone Builder
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Open, but not free, space
By M.H. Morrison evelopers and builders have been trying to balance open space requirements with economic realities for years, and state programs like the 2005 Growing Greener II do not necessarily make it any easier. The Pennsylvania Builders Association has recognized the need to preserve open spaces for conserving natural resources and providing for public recreation. “The state shouldn’t be spending money for open space,” said Stephen Artz of Your Towne Builders, Lancaster. “Utilizing public dollars is not the ultimate goal of capitalism and capitalistic markets.” PBA and many developers support some use of public money for open space acquisition, but they do have concerns with the system as it stands. For example, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, through the state’s Growing Greener mandate, has $90 million for land acquisition purposes. It intends to use this funding, in combination with other public and private dollars, on an investment strategy that is the result of discussions with the major foundations and conservancies.
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I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
PBA members believe that when tax money buys land for open space, it should be accessible and freely available for public use, like the pictured Memorial Park in Broomall. (Photo by Joe Zlomek)
Setting priorities for open space PBA has suggested that there should be priorities for purchasing open space and that any land bought with that intention should be available for public use. Joseph Dolan, president of Dolan Construction, Reading, said that he believes the best places in which to
purchase land are those that are environmentally sensitive or not usable for development, such as steep ridges. He added that areas that are already serviced by public water and sewer should not be considered for open space. DCNR has guidelines for its Growing Greener funding. In a 2006 publication, the department describes the four most important reasons why DCNR would
seek to acquire, or assist in acquiring, certain special lands: 1. For protecting existing public resources, which could include buffers, and connections to other public lands. 2. Ecosystem and habitat conservation, which could include areas that support the life needs of endangered, threatened, rare or declining species, as well as areas of high ecological integrity. 3. Protection and conservation of water resources, such as forested watersheds that include water impoundments. 4. For public recreation and open space protection, which would be acquired for public parks and greenways, and significant local and regional open space conservation.
“The state shouldn’t be spending money for open space. Utilizing public dollars is not the ultimate goal of capitalism and capitalistic markets.� — Stephen Artz of Your Towne Builders, Lancaster
Planning for open space Like many developers and builders, James Moulton, president of Moulton Builders, Lansdale, said that some of the difficulties could be headed off if municipalities had a comprehensive plan. “Then there is no question as to what should and should not be developed,� he explained. PBA concurs and even supports municipal purchase of land when it is well planned and designated for that purpose on the municipal map. Dolan weighed in that without a comprehensive plan, municipalities often have a “knee-jerk� reaction to development – trying to grab the land and make it open space. “Generally speaking, I really believe it is to stop development, rather than for open space,� he said.
Is eminent domain a preservation tool? Over the years, the specter of eminent domain has entered into attempts to preserve open space. While this legal option is used in cases of public good, like widening a roadway, the taking of open space by eminent domain is considered a stretch of the law by many. Artz echoed the sentiment of others that tax money should never be used for an eminent domain proceeding to preserve open space. To him, the municipality, governing body or special interest group should instead purchase the land with private dollars. s
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Q U A L I T Y F O R G E N E R AT I O N S QUALITY STONE VENEER 1 . 8 0 0 . 7 9 5 . 3 2 2 9 Q u a l i t y S t o n e Ve n e e r . c o m
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MemberInsider January/February 2008
Member briefs
Leading your association in 2008 Introducing the Senior Officers Ray Fertig, President Ray Fertig, vice president of Richard D. Poole LLC, is a member and past president of the York County Builders Association. In 2008, he moves from vice president to president. Gene Kreitzer, Vice President Gene Kreitzer, owner of Gene Kreitzer Construction, has moved from secretary to vice president of PBA. Kreitzer’s experience includes service as a PBA regional vice president and regional legislative officer. He has served as president of the Lebanon County BA. Jim Miller, Associate Vice President Jim Miller of Miller-Warner Construction in Lancaster has been elected associate vice president of PBA. In addition to his active role in the BIA of Lancaster County, Miller serves on PBA’s governmental affairs committee. Richard Clawson, Treasurer Richard Clawson, executive officer of the IndianaArmstrong Builders Association, will serve as PBA treasurer in 2008. Chauncey Wirsing, Secretary Chauncey Wirsing, the owner of Somerset-based Wirsing Builders, has been elected as PBA’s secretary for 2008. Stephen D. Black, Immediate Past President Stephen D. Black, president of Stephen Black Builders in Lititz, completed his term as 2007 president of PBA, and he has moved on to duties held by the immediate past president.
Regional Leaders PBA’s eight regions elected regional vice presidents and regional legislative officers during regional meetings in October and November. PBA President Stephen Black introduced the new leaders at the November board meeting: Ron Agulnick, RVP, southeast; Mike Kurpiel,
RLO, southeast; Charlie Begley, RVP, southwest; John Lieberman, RLO, southwest; Robert Hutchins, RVP, northeast; Joe Harcum, RLO, northeast; Jim Grieshober, RVP, northwest; Kenneth Pascoe, RLO, northwest; Ray Venema, RVP, northcentral; Betsy DuPuis, RLO, northcentral; Larry Eberly, RVP, southcentral; Steve Artz, RLO, southcentral; Joe McCorkel, RVP, mideast; Jane Miller, RLO, mideast; Warren Peter, RVP, midwest; and Tom Steele, RLO, midwest.
Pennsylvania’s NAHB delegation NAHB State Representative – David Knipe, HBA of Bucks/Montgomery Counties Builder State Director to NAHB – Herb Miller, BIA of Lancaster County Alternate Builder State Director to NAHB – Ray Venema, West Branch Susquehanna BA Associate State Director to NAHB – Jim Pigott Jr., HBA of Metro Harrisburg Alternate Associate State Director to NAHB – N. Eugene Minnick, Central Susquehanna BA and West Branch Susquehanna BA Representative to NAHB Executive Committee – Frank C. Thompson, BA of Metro Pittsburgh s
Correction: In the November issue of Keystone Builder, the “Covering your costs” article included quotes from Mike Graham that were taken from a video on file with Pennsylvania Builders Association. The writer erred in using this material as if Graham had been interviewed for the piece, failing to indicate the source. The video was meant to serve as background information for the article, not as a primary source. After publication, members reported that Graham is deceased and could not have been interviewed. PBA regrets this error and intended no disrespect to Graham, a remodeler from Mercer County, who was a well-respected and active member of his local association. s
Member Insider • Keystone Builder
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By Tracy Miller
Students from Messiah College in Grantham provide classical music during the 2007 PBA Builders Gala.
Janette Regola, wife of state Sen. Bob Regola (RWestmoreland), becomes part of emcee John Carfi’s performance during the 2007 PBA Builders Gala.
I Keystone Builder • Member Insider
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ore than a dozen builders and associates were honored Nov. 16, during the Pennsylvania Builders Association Inaugural Builders Gala, held at the Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Farmington. While PBA has a long history of recognizing members’ professional achievements, the inaugural gala served as a single, majestic event at which all award winners were commended for exceptional homebuilding as well as their service to the community. More than 200 PBA members, associates and distinguished guests were on hand for the festivities. Nationally known comedian John Carfi, who has opened shows for Kenny Rogers, Gladys Knight and Michael Bolton, provided entertainment and emceed the evening’s award ceremony.
Housing advocate honoree Brian Hudson (left) and his wife, Gena Hudson, pause for a moment during the festivities with Verna and Rick Lenker.
Representatives from Studio26homes, a member of the Lehigh Valley Builders Association, receive the 2007 Building Innovation Award from PBA president Stephen Black (left).
Mack L. Smith’s
achievements span 43 years York County Builders Association president Betsy RosengrantStein (left) and YCBA member Shonna Stock (right) receive the Best Community Service Project honorable mention award from American Home Bank’s Yana Pieffer.
2007 Builders Gala Honorees Mack Smith, York, Distinguished Achievement Award James Conner, New Castle, Builder of the Year Rob Jones, Milton, Associate of the Year The Duck Harbor Company, Equinunk, Developer of the Year William Patrick, Lancaster, Remodeler of the Year Studio26homes, Orefield, Building Innovation Award Lou Tepes Jr., Northampton, 50-plus Housing Champion Lou Tepes Jr., Northampton, Multifamily/Multiunit Housing Champion Steve Artz, Lancaster, Hammers and Gavels Club Member of the Year Brian Hudson, Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, Housing Advocate Award Wayne County Builders Association, Association Leadership Award Lehigh Valley Builders Association, Best Community Service Project Building Industry Association of Lancaster County, Best Local Newsletter (association with a staff of three or more) Lackawanna Home Builders Association,
By M.H. Morrison It doesn’t happen every year — the awarding of the PBA Distinguished Achievement Award — but in 2007 Mack L. Smith, a 43-year member of the York County Builders Mack Smith, Association, was so honored winner of PBA’s by his fellow builders. 2007 Distinguished “From the time I became Achievement Award involved in PBA in the mid1980s, Mack has been a role model of commitment to the betterment of the industry, the association and its members,” wrote Frank C. Thompson of Sweetwater Builders in his nomination letter. Smith started building in 1954 and developing in 1964, doing mainly single-family homes and some commercial work in York. His accomplishments on the local, state and national level cover everything from holding office on association boards to beginning PBA’s insurance program. “Mack’s most significant achievement for PBA was his vision and execution of a statewide insurance program … He leads by example,” said Robert Basile of The Basile Corporation, Douglassville. Smith also found time to reach out to others as the founder and president of the not-for-profit Haiti Outreach Ministries. Closer to home, he is vice president and charter member of the York County Farm Land Preservation Board and was recognized by the York County Conservation District with the “Outstanding Stewardship” award. David E. Knipe of Rock Hill Builders, Furlong, summed up in his nominating letter: “Mack Smith has made an extraordinary commitment through his timeless hours of volunteering to this industry and his fellow mankind … He is a giant in our industry.” s
Best Local Newsletter (association with a staff of two or fewer) Member Insider • Keystone Builder
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PBA fights state licensing expansion
On the hill
Pennsylvania Builders Association opposes proposals to license homebuilders and other industry professionals, which are separate from contractor registration bills. Registration is intended to avert fraud by helping authorities track down scam artists. In contrast, licensure bills give state employees authority to decide which people are qualified for a profession. Background: PBA created a task force in 2006 that successfully negotiated a registration process — introduced this year as Senate Bill 100 — that’s fair to consumers and contractors. PBA leaders have spoken out against attempts to create licenses for homebuilding-related professions. Proposal: The General Assembly is considering bills that would license the following professions: plumbers (SB 660), primary sponsor, Sen. Ted Erickson, R-Delaware; crane operators (House Bill 647), primary sponsor, Rep. Mario Civera, R-Delaware; interior designers (HB 807), sponsor, Rep. Marc Gergely, DAllegheny; and home inspectors (HB 1805), sponsor, Rep. Sean Ramaley, D-Allegheny. Reaction: PBA members assert that the Uniform Construction Code already protects public safety and licensing will offer no public benefit. Instead, professional licensing restricts new professionals to the field while adding unneeded state bureaucracy. What builders are saying: “Licensing is only as good as the ability to police that license, and all of the organizations that oversee licensing are already spread pretty thin,” said Ray Fertig of Richard D. Poole LLC and president of PBA.
Council would consider relevance of Uniform Construction Code changes PBA supports legislation that provides expert construction input any time state government considers changes to the state building code and its enforcement. Background: HB 1096 would establish a technical review and advisory council that will advise the General Assembly and the administration on proposed changes to the Pennsylvania Construction Code Act. Additionally, the council will review new editions of codes proposed by the International Codes Council before they are implemented to determine if changes are appropriate for Pennsylvania. Update: HB 1096 passed the House unanimously. PBA expects Senate consideration during January. What builders are saying: “Legislators often feel compelled to address constituent requests and ‘fix’ the code. This technical review and advisory council will be a great addition, because we can look at a proposed change to see if it makes sense,” said Frank Thompson of Sweetwater Builders.
DEP revises on-lot septic regulations The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is in the process of making major revisions to its regulations governing on-lot septic systems. Proposal: To date, DEP has released draft versions of Chapters 72 (sewage facilities permitting and certification/duties of sewage enforcement officers) and 73 (standards for on-lot septic systems). Highlights: The revised Chapter 72 would create minor and major permit categories and require municipalities to certify in writing that they are responsible the long-term operation and maintenance of many on-lot septic systems. With regard to the Chapter 73 draft revisions, several of the proposals would tighten the standards for determining the characteristics of the proposed sewage area/septic absorption field, and significantly affect site feasibility parameters, while others would impose stricter testing and maintenance requirements for on-lot septic systems. Reaction: The revised Chapter 72 has raised concerns about delays in the issuance of septic permits and municipal restrictions. The revisions in Chapter 73 could increase the cost and complexity of installing and maintaining on-lot septic systems. What builders are saying: “Overall, there are some changes in these regulations that would be positive for builders, but there are several key proposals that, if implemented, would reduce both the buildable and septic area for existing lots of record,” said John Gigliotti, director, building site approval department, LTS Builders.
Homebuilders support congressional push to expand funding for tax-exempt bonds Proposal: Pennsylvania’s U.S. Reps. Phil English and Paul Kanjorski sponsored a bill that would amend the federal tax code to allow the Federal Home Loan Bank system to provide financing for tax-exempt bonds funding community and economic development projects. Highlights: If allowed to offer these bonds, Federal Home Loan Banks could address the growing need for low-cost financing for community and economic development projects that generate jobs and additional demand for housing. Reaction: “If this bill is successful, municipalities, small colleges and healthcare providers with poor credit ratings or none at all will be able to tap less costly funding,” said Bill Miller, FHLBank Pittsburgh. “This, in turn, will strengthen communities in much the same way the FHLBanks have been doing since their creation.” s
I Keystone Builder • Member Insider
, S P I H S N O I T A L E R G S N E I G D L A I BU HING IM S I THREE L O P MUSKETEERS’ MOTTO INSPIRES RAY FERTIG’S PRESIDENCY
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I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
By M.H. Morrison ince he helped his father with cabinet making and woodworking, Ray Fertig has enjoyed designing and building things. Now, after decades in the industry and numerous hours spent as an active member of various builders’ associations, Fertig has been elected as the 2008 Pennsylvania Builders Association president. “I hope I can do as good a job as previous presidents,” Fertig said. Fertig, who is vice president and director of residential development at Richard D. Poole LLC in York, added that when he became president-elect in July 2007, he decided on a theme for his year in the top job: “All for one and one for all.” He admitted that the Three Musketeers’ motto may sound “hokey,” but he hopes it will make people think and consider the fact that “all of us are builders.” “The strength of PBA is its members,” Fertig said. “That’s what sets us apart from other trade organizations – we’re really member driven.”
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Keeping the ball rolling Fertig’s face is not new to PBA members. He was secretary of PBA two years ago, then served as vice president this past year, when he visited many local builders association meetings. There has been an understanding, during the past five to six years, that as board members change, the goals and guiding principles of PBA will remain the same.
This directive has resulted in positive strides toward the aspirations outlined in the strategic plan. “It helps us all to stay focused and gives us the opportunity and initiative to look for new programs to help all of our members,” Fertig said.
He said that even on a program like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the builder is never highlighted. On a smaller scale, builders regularly help out their communities, by doing a Make-a-Wish project, for example, but those ventures don’t get publicized.
Goal 1: Polishing the image
Goal 2: Building legislative relationships
Fertig said builders are perceived in the media as ripping off little old ladies. “Many people don’t see the good things the guys do.” He wants to work on changing this image. “We’re as much a professional as an architect or an engineer,” Fertig added.
Continuing to build coalitions and partnerships with legislators will allow PBA to promote good legislation while working to halt proposals that would cost people money needlessly. Continued on page 18 January/February 2008 • Keystone Builder
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BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS, POLISHING IMAGES Continued from page 17
Take for an instance, the building code that was passed by the state legislature. While it took time, it finally provided a uniform, statewide building standard. “What’s good for builders is also good for the consumer,” Fertig said.
It’s what PBA can do for you With decreasing membership numbers, Fertig knows that he and the board must 18
I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
work diligently to retain members and bring new ones on board. One strategy will be to show the value there is to being a PBA member. PBA lobbyists in Harrisburg monitor many issues – a valuable service that is difficult to quantify. Lobbyists prepare and support members testifying on behalf of Pennsylvania homebuilders. “We’re constantly watching what’s going on in the industry,” Fertig said.
PBA also is an information source for the local builders associations and members. Fertig hopes to introduce new programming that will give a membership in PBA even more value.
Construction in his veins While Fertig was born in Pottsville in one of the state’s coal regions, he and his family moved to Ephrata, Lancaster County, when he was a young boy.
“What’s good for builders is also good for the consumer.” He graduated from Ephrata High School and during the summers worked in the construction industry. “Construction and woodworking are in my veins,” he said. Fertig attended Millersville University with the intention of becoming an industrial arts teacher but had to leave in his second year when his father had a heart attack. He later applied and got a job as a draftsman and, by 1987, he had enough experience with different companies that he started his own business designing residential and commercial projects, as well as consulting. Then, in 1992, Bob Plumeri, now president of Poole, contacted him for a condominium project. This job evolved into much more, until Fertig finally agreed to become a full-time employee. While at Poole, he has been very active in industry associations, including serv-
ing in 2004 as president of York County Builders Association.
Beyond building Because his wife, Betty, has multiple sclerosis, Fertig volunteers with the MS society, including with its capital campaign. He also makes sure to have time for his children and grandchildren. He’s an avid hunter, fisherman, golfer and trap shooter. What does he do with any other spare time? It’s spent in his Corvette, a C-5 manufactured in 2000. “I try to take it whenever I can… it’s a coupe with a removable glass roof.”
It takes a team Fertig credits his terrific support staff with his success in running the residential construction division at Poole that had a record year in 2007. Typically, they build 15 to 25 homes each year, although they once built 45 in a year. About 10 percent of Poole’s business is homebuilding. With his team, Fertig has been able to keep projects “on focus, on time and on budget.” “I wouldn’t be able to do what I did in the past and what I will do in the future … they let me look at the big pie.” s
Serving Pennsylvania Builders Association members from 7 locations. Dial (800) 883-8800 to find the locations that best serve your needs.
January/February 2008 • Keystone Builder
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I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
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The workplace motivation
MYTH
By Ken Mueller hese days trade publications seem to be filled with articles touting the latest methods of motivating your workers while increasing productivity and workplace satisfaction. But really, that whole motivation thing is, as my kids would say, “so overrated.” So here’s a better list: intimidate and motivate. The fear factor. There is no better motivator than fear. Your employees should always feel as if they are under constant scrutiny and that their jobs are on the line. Pretend your workers don’t have outside lives. Work is what they live
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for and deep down they really want to work long hours. The alternative? Going home to the spouse and kids. ‘Nuff said. Keep praise and rewards to a minimum. Your employees are getting paid to do a job, and they should do it, and do it well, without expecting bonuses and accolades. A well-placed “attaboy” is about all they need. They’re lucky to have a job in the first place, and even luckier to be working for someone like you! Fun? Bah humbug! Work isn’t supposed to be fun. That’s why it’s called work. If your employees are smiling and enjoying themselves, then they probably
aren’t working. There’s a reason why the thesaurus lists words like toil and drudgery as synonyms for work. Play is fun, work is work. Throw out the suggestion box. Sure your employees have opinions and so-called “ideas” that they think will make your company bigger and better. But remember: you’re the boss and the brains. They work for you. Any ideas they have are most likely stupid. After all, you hired them. How smart can they really be? You may know someone who thinks these tactics will keep employees focused, but if you want to motivate them, try the opposite. s
January/February 2008 • Keystone Builder
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Dazzle your customers
PBA presents nine more ways to stand out
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I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
By Richard Ensman and Eric C. Wise ou can thrill and delight your customers with homespun care and concern, or with sophisticated events and customer service programs. In today’s world, it’s hard to dazzle anybody with gimmicks. Yet sometimes, simple changes or additions can make your business stand out.
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Does your barber have operating hours that always suit your needs? Can you be more flexible with your customers?
total contribution at the end of the year.
1. Hang photographs of customers and their children on your bulletin board or “customer wall.” It’s fine to proudly display your Parade of Homes awards, but save enough room in your office for a bulletin board, showing customers at their new homes or in their remodeled kitchens.
5. Offer a competitive college scholarship each year to children of your customers, or the surrounding community. Even $500 offsets the cost of textbooks, and it will earn news coverage for you.
2. Schedule “customer appreciation” days or weeks. Plan a cookout or barbeque, and celebrate with open houses, refreshments, raffle prizes or gifts.
6. Provide customers with shopping lists and product reviews to show them how much you care about the products they select for their new or remodeled homes.
3. Meet customers at times and places convenient for them. Does your dentist, cable installer or barber go out of their way to suit your needs? Earn trust from potential customers by showing how much more you care.
7. Ask new customers how they chose your business. Use this information to surprise existing customers with thank you gifts – $20 gift cards show you value what customers say about your company.
4. Are you already supporting Habitat for Humanity? Show your support by telling every customer that you will donate $50 for each customer who spends a day working on a Habitat project. You can work out in advance how much you plan to contribute and determine how much you will donate for each customer who volunteers. Send customers cards announcing your
8. Sponsor an annual customer picnic or open house. Ask them to invite a friend or family member. Avoid trying to include sales pitches, but have information available. It’s your chance to make an impression that will lead to sales later. 9. Are you selling to families? A modest investment in crayons, coloring books and a child-sized table will earn major points with parents. s
January/February 2008 • Keystone Builder
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I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
Member spotlight
Landis Builders Inc. Piloting his own course
By M.H. Morrison fter building two homes for his family and working on a friend’s addition, Mike Landis took the leap from flying to construction. “After six years as a pilot with US Airways, the demanding lifestyle and time away from family began to overshadow my love for flying,” explained Mike Landis, president of Landis Builders Inc. in Jonestown, Lebanon County. Landis’ career in aviation began at 16 when he received his private pilot’s license. After graduating from high school, he went to flight school, eventually becoming a commercial pilot. These early accomplishments prepared him well to operate his own construction business, which has grown over the past 10 years, based on continuing high standards of quality workmanship and the glowing reports of his customers. The business, which focuses on custom homes and remodeling, was opened with Landis, several part-time helpers and his wife Lori, who served as office manager and, when needed, a construction assistant. Now, the company has four full-time and three part-time employees. Landis is proud to head a family-owned business and works to inspire everyone at the company to take as much pride as he does in the reputation for quality construction that has been built up over the years. “We work hard to provide our customers with the level of quality and service we would expect ourselves,” Landis explained.
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It takes a team to build a reputation Landis said that he has found it an ongoing challenge to delegate responsibilities to key employees, instead of trying to manage everything himself. Landis said that he most enjoys seeing a customer’s dreams and ideas come to fruition in a custom build or remodel. Even better for Landis is when he and his team of employees can exceed these expectations.
Having a team of meticulous craftsmen and a professional staff has aided the business in providing personal interaction with customers throughout any project, in accommodating customers’ needs and desires, and in building an outstanding local reputation. “I feel very fortunate to have great employees to whom I can pass responsibility,” he said.
Beyond building houses Landis Builders is an active member of Lebanon County Builders Association, where Landis serves on the board of directors. The company also holds membership in the Chamber of Commerce of Lebanon Valley. Landis commented that he supports the builders association because it always looks out for the industry’s best interests. “I would encourage members to actively get involved with their association,” he said. Landis also takes the time to volunteer as a Habitat for Humanity Builders Blitz task leader and to watch his daughter play sports. Besides hard work and dedication to quality, why does Landis think he has been so successful? The straightforward answer is his commitment to continuing education and learning, which helps him, his company and employees stay abreast of the ongoing changes in the building industry. s
Business quick facts: Landis Builders Inc. Owner: Mike Landis Years in business: 10 years County of operation: Lebanon County Development community: Chestnut Ridge Local association: Landis is a member of the Board of Directors of Lebanon County BA. • Company’s slogan: “Building our reputation for quality.” • • • • •
January/February 2008 • Keystone Builder
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Final word
Protecting yourself and your employees To cultivate a culture of safety, remind your employees to protect themselves on work sites.
Head Hard hats are needed to help workers avoid serious injuries, including comas, concussions, traumatic brain injury and closed head injuries.
Eyes Today’s safety glasses look like and are as comfortable as sunglasses, so there’s no excuse for not wearing them. They can help workers avoid getting bits of wood, metal, plastic, dust, fibers and other particles in their eyes.
Ears Do your employees a favor and don’t let them forget to protect their hearing.
Back, neck and abdomen Teach your employees safe lifting procedures and proper ladder use to avoid serious and permanent injuries to the back and neck.
Arms and hands These – from shoulder to fingertip – are susceptible to cuts, lacerations and puncture wounds. To reduce these risks, proper protection such as electrical or framer gloves, elbow pads and heat sleeves for the cold should be worn when working, and safety procedures followed when handling saws, drills and nail guns, etc.
Lungs Construction sites harbor many chemicals and dust particles that infiltrate the lungs and can cause respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis, mesothelioma, cancers and even death. Protective masks are available to avoid many air-borne hazards.
Legs and feet Sprains, strains, bruises and fractures are common injuries of the legs and feet. Workers should wear knee and ankle braces to prevent sprains or strains. High-top, steel-toed boots should be worn to help prevent rolling or fracturing of the ankle and to protect toes from being crushed by foreign objects. Knee pads should also be worn for cushioning when kneeling for long periods of time. s
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I Keystone Builder • January/February 2008
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