FALL 2010 IN THIS ISSUE:
THE VOICE OF PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTORS
Vol. 7, No. 3 • FALL 2010
FEATURES: New Construction Safety Alliance up and running.............8 Close encounter with TPO: roofing medium popular with Olympic architects............10 Game changer: 3D aerial roof measurements a boon to roofing industry .................. 14 Flashing techniques: standing seam metal roofs.... 16 ASSOCIATION: President’s message .................. 3 Top RCABC apprentices receive awards............................ 5 RCABC readies for campus grand opening.......................... 15 INDUSTRY NEWS: Green roof fire resistance guide published.......................... 4 Omnidirectional roof vents defy high winds ...........................8 Home builders increase production despite HST ......... 12 UDI closes award entries ....... 12 Rooftop solar panels: popular but cost-prohibitive? ...............13 How much is your plant and land worth?....................... 15 Major projects valued at $5 billion.....................................15 Concrete houses exported ......18 Pipeline buzz in the NWT......................................17 Roofing Expo books majority of space ......................18 COLUMNS Bottom Line: Marketing roofing companies in 2011 ..... 6 Legal Matters: Employees and alcohol a poor mix ................... 9
Roof shingles made from recycled rubber, from Euroshield Roofing, have been installed on a demonstration environmental home in Kamloops. Photo: CHBA – Central Interior EQuilibrium™ Communities is a collaborative sustainable community demonstration initiative of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) under the Government of Canada’s ecoACTION initiatives. The initiative will continue until the end of 2012.
Rubber hits the roof in Kamloops A roof made of recycled rubber by Euroshield has been installed on the EQuilibrium™ NetZero home in Kamloops. This joint project between Thompson Rivers University and the Canadian Home Builders Association Central Interior addresses the need for training a new generation of skilled home building professionals. For the 14th consecutive year, the CHBA local plans to sell the house to the YMCA/YWCA for use as their annual Dream Home lottery fundraiser. For the past three years, the training houses have met the high Built Green standards. This year, the project has raised the bar by building the house as an EQuilibrium™ NetZero home, a sustainable housing demonstration initiative led by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. EQuilibrium™ housing combines a wide range of technologies, strategies, products, techniques and innovations designed to reduce a home’s
environmental impact to an absolute minimum. At the same time, EQuilibrium™ housing also features commercially available, on-site renewable energy systems to provide clean energy to help reduce annual consumption, costs and the carbon footprint. The two-storey home with a walk-out basement is located in the Sun Rivers Resort Community five minutes from downtown Kamloops. It will be open to public and industry tours when complete. Euroshield roofing is designed to replicate the style of traditional roof shingles. It weighs about the same as typical 40-year asphalt shingle roof, and is made from over 75 percent recycled materials, the primary ingredient being rubber from recycled tires. Any scrap materials generated from the installation can be returned and recycled to produce more Euroshield roofing materials, the company explains. ■
PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40014608 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:
Roofing Contractors Association of BC 9734 201 Street Langley, BC Canada V1M 3E8
Marketing roofing today Your customers’ fingers are still doing the walking, but now it’s over a computer keyboard. See page 6
Safety – on the job and off Working hours or after hours, you are your brother’s (and employee’s) keeper. See pages 8 and 9
Active Members Professional Roofing Contractors that support an educated and committed workforce 101 Industries Ltd.
Interior Roofing (2001) Ltd.
Admiral Roofing Ltd.
Kelowna Roofing (1984) Ltd.
Advanced Systems Roofing and Waterproofing Ltd.
Laing Roofing Ltd.
Alpha-Duron Roofing Ltd. Alpha Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc.
Associate Members companies focused on the manufacture and distribution of quality roofing products that meet or exceed changing industry standards A. Proctor Group Ltd. Atlas Roofing Corporation Blue Ridge Fiberboard, Inc. Building Products of Canada Corp. Canada Metal (Pacific) Limited Carlisle SynTec Systems Canada Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau CertainTeed Corporation Convoy Supply Ltd. Dow Chemical Canada ULC Duro-Last Roofing, Inc. Firestone Building Products GAF/Elk Garland Canada Inc. GenFlex Roofing Systems LLC Georgia Pacific Canada HAL Industries Inc. Henry Company Canada IKO Industries Ltd. Intertek InterWrap Inc. Johns Manville Corporation Louiseville Specialty Products Inc. Makin Metals Ltd.
Mansonville Plastics (B.C.) Ltd. Menzies Metal Products Mercury Metals, a Div of Vicwest Mule-Hide Products Co., Inc. Owens Corning Canada Pabco Roofing Products Pacific Roof Centre Phoenix Vinyl Sundecks Ltd. Plasti-Fab (Div. of PFB Corp.) Posi-Slope Western Pro-Line Construction Materials Ltd RMAX, Inc. Roofmart Pacific Ltd. Roxul, Inc. Sika Sarnafil Simplex Asphalt Products
Aquaproof Membrane Services Inc. Arbutus Roofing & Drains (2006) Ltd. Arcona Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Arctic Roofing Ltd. Aurora Roofing Ltd. BF Roofing Ltd. Bollman Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Bond-A Ply Roofing Ltd. Broadway Roofing Co. Ltd. Cambie Roofing Contractors Ltd. Campbell & Grill Ltd. Cascade Roofing & Waterproofing (2007) Inc. Chilliwack Roofing Ltd. Coast Hudson Ltd. Continental Roofing Crown Roofing & Drainage Ltd. Design Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. D.M. Henderson Roofing Ltd. Eby & Sons Construction Ltd. Flynn Canada Ltd.
Siplast Slegg Lumber Soprema Inc. Steels Industrial Products Ltd. Tech-Crete Processors Ltd. Tremco Ltd. Western Wood Truss Association Westform Metals
G & G Roofing Ltd. GRC Columbia Roofing Inc. Harmon Roofing Ltd. Harvard Industries Ltd. Heritage Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Homan Contractors Ltd. Hunter Roofing Ltd.
Malarkey Roofing Company
BUILDING ON 50 YEARS OF INNOVATION 9734 - 201 Street • Langley, BC V1M 3E8 • Tel 604-882-9734 • Fax: 604-882-1744 • www.rcabc.org
Laing Roofing (Vernon) Ltd. Lam Metal Contracting Ltd. Langley Roofing Co. Ltd. Mack Kirk Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Mainline Roofing Co. Ltd. Marine Roofing (1996) Ltd. Metro Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Mica Holdings Ltd. Mid-City Roofing & Sheet Metal (2008) Ltd. Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Nielsen Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Olympic Roofing Ltd. Pacific Restorations (1994) Ltd. Pacific Waterproofing Ltd. Parker Johnston Industries Ltd. Peter Magas Roofing Ltd. Pocklington Building Systems Ltd. Prince Sheet Metal & Heating Ltd. Raven Roofing Ltd. Roy Dennis Roofing (2005) Ltd. Standard Roofing Corporation Tomtar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Top Line Roofing Ltd. Totem Roofing & Insulation Ltd. Trail Roofing Ltd. Transwest Roofing Ltd. Universal Sheet Metal Ltd. Villa Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Western Roofing (Master Roofers) Ltd.
A
S
S
O
C
I
A
T
I
O
N
From the President
the natural leaders in our companies or organizations lack some of the other necessary qualities necessary to run complex operating entities. Some lack the specific knowledge of the work performed, while having a good grasp on other parts of the A lot of planning goes into a business. positive succession plan for your While nepotism is always a business. Accounting, legal, and favoured avenue of financial costs can quickly mount. transition/succession, statistics tell How do you know if you have the us that this is often less successful right plan? than bringing a nonThe right plan family member into a starts with the right management/succession person, or group: a role. group sharing a Other options include common purpose, promotion from within, willing to make or looking outside the common sacrifices, organization for new and with a thorough and invigorating knowledge of the management. Also process and desired plausible is the end result. consolidation of smaller As discussed in organizations into larger Rod Parker earlier columns, one organizations to take of the most difficult items to advantage of the multitude of navigate in any succession plan is talents that may not be common to the human aspect and the complex two or more companies. We are and emotionally charged seeing this model play out south of atmosphere that is created during the border with mixed success. the succession planning process. Regardless of the option chosen, Many studies indicate that a there will inevitably be new succession is complete only when leadership at the helm. In an the successor has gained legitimacy industry where mutual respect and they are able to exercise between owners and staff is appropriate leadership of the paramount, the importance of business. obtaining the right leader cannot be But how do you know if you’ve overemphasized. In some cases, this picked the right leader? Many of may take a couple of tries, or may
Succession Planning Volume 3: Picking the right horse
ROOFING BC
Tel: 604-882-9734 • Fax: 604-882-1744
ADMINISTRATION Executive Vice President Brian Hofler, M.Ed. executivevp@rcabc.org Executive Assistant Barbara Porth bporth@rcabc.org Controller Johanna Kuker, CGA johanna@rcabc.org Receptionist/Administrative Assistant Adele LaRiviere roofing@rcabc.org
require a long maturity period. Selecting a successor involves choosing a set of criteria by which predecessors can evaluate the successor’s abilities to fit into the strategic plans of the business. These criteria often include education, managerial and financial management skills. Also important is the ability of the successor to gain the respect and credibility of non-family employees, to make key decisions, and to demonstrate experience and self-confidence. Existing ownership may prefer characteristics such as creativity, independence, and willingness to take risks in successors. The criteria for choosing a successor should also involve an assessment of the importance of technical proficiency, personal
FALL 2010
characteristics and human interaction skills. The criteria chosen by an existing owner is usually based on their interpretation of personal and business values, with a focus on aligning their values to the criteria used for choosing a successor. Without a succession plan existing owners often lack the structure to adequately choose the appropriate successor. Focus on the long-term vision for the business can lead to the successful transition and a long-term vibrant legacy for the company, as well as for our industry. Best wishes for a successful fall and winter. Roderick M. Parker GSC, President, Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia ■
RCABC Educational Foundation Education & Training Manager Shirley Caldwell, PID scaldwell@rcabc.org Registrar Michelle McKinnon, PID registrar@rcabc.org Instructor / Inspection Auditor David Rice, I.P., PID, RRO instructor1@rcabc.org Instructor / Risk Management Roger Sové, I.P., PID, Ad.Ed. instructor2@rcabc.org RCABC Guarantee Corp. Technical Manager Jim Watson, PRC, RRO technicalmgr@rcabc.org Assistant Technical Manager Rob Harris, RRO rharris@rcabc.org Guarantee Administrator Karen Esbensen guarantees@rcabc.org
MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia is to provide its members with the training, support, and leadership required to enable them to offer customers the highest quality roofing practices, guarantees and business ethics in the roofing industry.
3
Green roof fire resistance guide published RALEIGH, NC: In a study of green roofs planted with vegetation, the U.S.-based Roofing Institute has found no examples of such roofs involved in a fire, but notes that it has been difficult develop an accurate fire test for green roofs. This year, a green roof design guide for minimizing fire risk was published by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as a consensus based standard for the design and construction of green roofs. The design guide is ANSI/SPRI VF-1. The guidelines note that the building owner needs to properly maintain a vegetated roof to retain fire resistance. One of the important ways of preventing fires is to keep the roof adequately watered. The need for water will vary greatly due to climate and types of plants chosen. Designers should be aware that plantings are to be specific for the roof being installed and that rooftops are at best hostile places for vegetation. Removal of dead foliage should occur on a regular interval for most roofs, and that may be at least once a month. The moisture level of the growing media should be checked weekly. By regularly removing excess biomass that could become fuel for a fire on the rooftop, the risk of fire spreading beyond the six-foot Class A fire rated separation setback to combustible vertical surfaces is minimized.
Standards The requirements of ASTM E108 (Standard
4
Planted green roofs not likely to burn, study says. Photo: Smart Farms
Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings) are rather straightforward, RCI notes. First, a burning brand placed on top of the roof covering shall not result in flaming that uncovers the roof deck or creates burning brands on the floor. However, if the application is for noncombustible decks, the test is generally waived. Basically, the brand will not burn through three inches of soil, as most of the soils used are largely inorganic
and frequently use expanded shale and other lightweight rock that is not combustible. The second major test is the spread-offlame test. Moist succulents will pass this test easily. There is concern, however, as to the performance of dry materials, particularly grasses. The big question is how would a test agency run these tests? Should the test be run on vegetation that is in a good, moist, growing condition, or should the test be run
FALL 2010
on dormant or dry plants? What happens if the planting is neglected? The Institute wonders if there is a real concern for fire performance of green roofs in any case. “Again, we need to look at the history. A Google search revealed no matches for ‘green roof fire’ or ‘garden roof fire’ in over 2,000,000 citations,” notes a study published in Proceedings of RCI’s Symposium on Building Envelope Technology. ■
ROOFING BC
Roofing BC is published quarterly on behalf of the Roofing Contractors Association of BC and the professional roofing industry by Market Assist Communications Inc.
Roofing BC online at: www.rcabc.org Managing Editor and Publisher J. Michael Siddall Phone: 604-740-8369 E-mail: msiddall@eastlink.ca
Top left: Matthew Gorham of Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd., winner for Vancouver Island; Top right: Ryan Wilford of Harvard Industries Ltd., winner for the Lower Mainland; below left: Tyson Nordby of SL Roofing: winner for the Interior Region and Apprentice of the year; Right side top: Joshua Kilkenny of Prince Sheet Metal & Heating Ltd., winner for the Northern Region; Right side bottom: Most Improved Apprentice Robert Pallos of Marine Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.
Top RCABC apprentices named The Roofing Contractors Association of BC has given out its annual awards to the top apprentices in each region of the province, and named an overall provincial winner. The winners are chosen based on the marks they attain throughout their training. Each winner received a plaque, a $400 cheque and a torch kit, generously donated by Roofmart Pacific Ltd. The 2010 winners are: – Interior Region: Tyson Nordby, SL Roofing. Nordby was also named the Apprentice of the Year. – Northern Region: Joshua Kilkenny, Prince Sheet Metal & Heating Ltd. – Lower Mainland: Ryan Wilford, Harvard Industries Ltd. – Vancouver Island: Matthew Gorham, Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. – Robert Pallos of Marine Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. was named the “Most Improved Apprentice” for 2010. Congratulations to all the hard-working winners. ■
ROOFING BC
FALL 2010
Editor Frank O’Brien Consulting Editor Brian Hofler, M.Ed. E-mail: executivevp@rcabc.org Phone: 604-882-9734 Circulation Barbara Porth Phone: 604-882-9734 E-mail: bporth@rcabc.org Production/Art Director and Advertising Associate Paddy Tennant Phone: 604-507-2162 E-mail: misspaddy@telus.net Contributing Writers: Robert Smithson Rod Parker Brian Hofler While information contained in this publication has been compiled from sources deemed to be reliable, neither the publisher nor the RCABC will be held liable for errors or omissions. The opinions expressed in the editorial and advertisements are not necessarily those of the publisher or RCABC.
WE HAVE MOVED! The new mailing address for the Roofing BC publishing office is: Market Assist Communications 6412 Marmot Road Sechelt, BC V0N 3A4
5
Bottom Line
Marketing roofing companies in 2011 New fundamentals include social media, effective Web presence By Greg Hoffman
Marketing your roofing business today is not as simple as it was just two years ago. The advent of social media sites like Facebook and YouTube have become a regular part of millions of people’s lives. Yellow Pages’ advertising effectiveness has dropped. Newspaper readership continues to decline. Google ‘searches’ continue to climb. It’s all evolving right before our eyes and as a roofing contractor, you need to recognize
these changes, educate yourself and adapt your marketing accordingly.
Your website Your company website should be looked at as a capital expenditure. It’s not like a direct mail piece or some other marketing piece. Your website is the visible, accessible virtual salesperson for your company that is available 24/7/365. It’s a “living document” that evolves with your business and when developed, maintained and updated properly should last you for years. If you suspect your website is weak, it’s like knowing you have a bad roofing crew out there – you
Premeasured.
That’s up from 100 million 10 years wouldn’t let it happen because it will cost you money and reputation. ago. Search engines drive consumer traffic. It’s the modern Yellow Pages Invest in a professional website but with so much more potential. developed by a professional Consumers tend to look only at company. A free site from your page one for their buddy is not the right answer. “Your website results – especially when searching for a local Your website should should business. Therefore, you generate LEADS. If it generate must be on page one of does not, there is a LEADS” Google. reason or perhaps several reasons. You should expect When you search “Roofing your website to compel a visitor to Vancouver” or “Roofing Company call you or submit a form. (insert your city name here)”, is your company listed on page one – and Get ranked on Google preferably in the top three listing? Over two billion Google searches The secret to getting on page one will have been conducted in 2010. in Google is to hire a qualified SEO (Search Engine Optimization) specialist. This is a complex process and you need someone who knows the science of preparing your website to be graded by Google as an “authority” website. Finding a great SEO specialist is hard to do but easy to recognize when you find one. They only need to show you the results for other roofing clients on Google. Getting your site listed in Google’s “Natural” or “Organic” results is a new fundamental that can pay long-term residual benefits to your company.
Prefabricated.
Pre-engineered.
At Duro-Last,® we sweat the details. You get the credit. Each Duro-Last® roofing system is precision-fabricated to perfectly fit the building it’s designed for, right down to the stacks and flashings. Duro-Last works with you every step of the way to make sure your Duro-Last roof is delivered to the job site on spec, with all components included, and up to 85 percent of the seaming completed in our factory. That means you can install faster with less labor, in all kinds of weather, with less chance for callbacks. Best of all, the proven performance of a Duro-Last roofing system will continue to deliver value to your customers for years to come, with significant energy savings, little to no maintenance, and the best warranties in the business. If you want to satisfy your customers and build your business, it’s no sweat. Install the precision-fabricated roofing system: Duro-Last.
Pay-per-click advertising Pay-per-click advertising is when you buy “clicks” for targeted searches you want to show your ad to. This form of advertising has become rather complicated and again, not recommended as a “do it yourself” project. We recommend utilizing a company that does this for a living. There are solid benefits of payper-click advertising. First of all, you only pay for “clicks”, so your money is spent only if a prospect likes your ad enough to click on it. Second, your ads are served only to those searching for what you are selling. There is very little waste with this form of advertising. Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising is not perfect however. There is the annoying reality that a dishonourable competitor may click on your ad knowing that it’s costing you money, especially when you first start a campaign. Additionally,
there is a “learning curve” that happens with each PPC campaign. It takes a month or so for the campaign to improve and to gather intelligence on what is working and what is not working.
Facebook and social media Facebook is a huge global deal, and there are some things you can do to take advantage of it. Set up a company Facebook page, Twitter account and YouTube account. Integrate your Facebook page into your website and send out posts on the latest happy customer testimonial or perhaps a special offer or promotion you have going on. Start developing your social network now – even if you don’t know what to say to people. You will eventually figure out how to add value. The key today is to start. The times they are a changin’ As stated earlier, the effectiveness of the “old standby” advertising methods for roofing contractors has diminished substantially over recent years and new advertising opportunities have taken their place. A re-prioritization of your marketing strategy is needed to move ahead and stay ahead of the competition for 2011 and beyond. ■
Greg Hoffman is President of Roofing Contractor Marketing, a marketing company committed exclusively to the roofing industry. RCM serves clients across North America with comprehensive marketing products and services. Greg will be a guest speaker at the International Roofing Expo in February of 2011. His speaking topic is “The Top 10 New Marketing Fundamentals”. Learn more about Roofing Contractor Marketing by visiting www.RoofingContractorMarketing.com or calling 888-474-7276.
To find out more, call us or visit www.duro-last.com/top and request our free brochure.
800-248-0280 • www.duro-last.com
6
FALL 2010
ROOFING BC
Selecting the right product takes time, not to mention knowledge and experience. That’s why since 1965, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum has been standing behind its products while providing the expertise you need, when you need it. Because it’s not about selecting “a” product, it’s about selecting the “right” product. Visit www.gpgypsum.com or call 1-800-387-6823 to locate your GP roofing specialist.
Building Reputations Together™
© 2010 Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC. All rights reserved. BUILDING REPUTATIONS TOGETHER and the Georgia-Pacific logo are owned by or licensed to Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC.
Construction Safety Alliance launched
centralizing resources and expertise. I am encouraged that this will enhance worker safety while making tools and resources more accessible to industry employers.” The BCCSA will concentrate its programming and resources on the top three causes of injuries and death (falls, being struck and NEW WESTMINSTER: Workers overexertion) to construction falling on construction sites – and workers. Their approach to these the number of older workers being problems will be evidence based injured – will be and the solutions among the issues “One association will will be developed addressed by the and implemented make it easier for new BC through consultation employers to Construction Safety with WorkSafeBC implement health Alliance (BCCSA), and the industry. and safety programs formed this “The BCCSA’s and services based September with the primary goal is to on the tools and amalgamation of reduce construction resources developed workplace illness the Construction by the BCCSA.” Safety Network and and injury,” said the Construction Wayne Fettback, Safety Association of BC. chair of the BCCSA Board of Goals and priorities which Directors. “One association will founded the previous two make it easier for employers to construction safety associations will implement health and safety continue into the new BCCSA with a programs and services based on the concentration on the Certificate of tools and resources developed by Recognition (COR) Program. the BCCSA.” Under the new BCCSA delivery Older workers post more format, construction employers accident claims throughout BC will have greater The BCCSA notes that older accessibility to COR certification workers are experiencing more courses. accidents than younger workers, “The safety of workers across showing that on-going education is British Columbia is a priority for my vital. ministry,” said Murray Coell, In BC, workers between 15 and Minister of Labour. “The Alliance 24 are considered young workers. will provide a focused approach to They are 23 percent of construction workplace safety at all levels across workers, but incur only 11 percent the BC construction industry by of claims costs. Workers aged 45
L-R: Hon. Murray Coell, Minister of Labour; Dorothy D. Barkley, BCCSA Interim GM; Wayne Fettback, BCCSA Board of Directors Chair; Dave Anderson, President and CEO, WorkSafeBC. Photo: BCCSA
and above comprise 27 percent of injured workers and incur 37 percent of the claim costs. The number of claims from young workers dropped by 45 percent in 2009, compared to a 27
percent drop for other workers. The BCCSA will partner with WorkSafeBC to deliver safety education and training to all BC construction employers. The new BCCSA office is located
at #400, 625 Agnes Street, in New Westminster. To learn more about the BCCSA programs and services call 604-636-3675, toll free 1-877860-3675, email info@bccsa.ca or visit www.bccsa.ca ■
“Omnidirectional” roof vents defy high winds
HAVE YOU HEARD? The BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA) is raising awareness and reducing injuries, working in partnership with WorkSafeBC. The BCCSA delivers all the programs and services formerly offered by CSN and CSABC to the construction industry of BC.
Raising awareness, reducing injuries
www.bccsa.ca 8
WEBSIT E UNDE R CONS TRUCT IO
N
FALL 2010
VANCOUVER: A new U.S.-made roofing vent may protect roofs from high wind damage, according to Elizabeth J. Grant, a Virginia Tech research team member, who wrote her doctoral thesis on omnidirectional vent development. Grant spoke during Vancouver’s recent International Conference on Building Envelope Systems and Technologies (ICBEST) 2010 in June, explaining how the system can be used. The importance of the vent is not just in preventing existing roof membranes from lifting off or tearing, but in preserving new forms of roof membranes, such as reflective ones that are now becoming popular. The new vent for low-sloped membrane roofing systems has been a collaborative effort by U.S. roofing company Acrylife principals Chuck and Pat Johnson and a research team Omnidirectional vent helps keep roof membrane from Virginia Tech College in place during high winds. Photo: Acrylife of Architecture and Urban Studies and College of Engineering. “Wind actually creates a suction on the roof,” Grant told the Journal of Construction. “And, the wind is worse at the corners and edges of the roof.” The omnidirectional vent captures wind from all directions, and creates a Venturi effect, which then produces the suction needed to keep the roof or membrane in place. Essentially, the wind is constricted as it enters the lower half-globe and as it is directed upward, this powerful constricted wind stream pulls out air below in the roofing system, creating the suction effect. Issues being looked at include what is the correct spacing of the vents on the roof, how are they impacted by infiltration, how do they react to different roof membranes and also what is the suction impact on the various kinds of insulation used on roofs. ■ ROOFING BC
LEGAL MATTERS
Alcohol and employees a poor mix Employer responsibility extends to staff celebrations Canadian court cases have firmly established the employer’s duty of care to take active steps to prevent injuries as a result of its employees’ alcohol consumption. If banning alcohol from staff events altogether isn’t satisfactory, there are many steps the employer can take towards reducing the likelihood of an accident. Among other things, employers may implement a policy governing service and consumption of alcohol at company events. The first objective of such a policy is to put employees on notice that staff events are not an excuse for consuming alcohol to the point of posing a danger to themselves and others. The policy may state that the employer opposes overconsumption and, in particular, opposes the operation of a vehicle (or engaging in other inherently dangerous activities) while impaired. It may also emphasize that the purpose of the policy is to establish a protocol for responsible consumption of alcohol at staff events.
The second objective of the policy is to establish basic rules to ensure the manner in which the event is organized and run discourages excessive consumption and minimizes the risk of injury. The employer might also distribute to its event organizers specific instructions on how to, and how not to, organize and monitor a staff event. Event organizers may be made to understand that arranging and monitoring company events is considered to be an element of their job and that failure to comply with directions could have ramifications for their employment. Employers may also communicate to the employees, in writing, that they are invited to attend on the conditions that they will take responsibility for their
own consumption, will moderate their intake of alcohol, and will cooperate to ensure their safety (and that of others). There are many other practical steps which may be utilized to reduce the risk of impairment and of a resulting injury.
Falling down drunk A stark example of the extent of injuries, and resulting damages, which can result from intoxication played out recently in BC Supreme Court. Michelle Danicek was an articling student at a Vancouver law firm, Alexander Holburn Beaudin & Lang, when she was injured at a nightclub. She had been out for the evening with about 20 of the firm’s students and associate lawyers for a firm-funded event at a local restaurant.
Danicek had consumed alcohol at both the restaurant and the nightclub. So had another of the participants, a male associate lawyer who happened to be 6’2” and weighed some 220 pounds. Although nobody had a clear recollection of the events leading to the accident, it is known that Danicek and the male lawyer were dancing. He fell over backwards, landed on top of Danicek, and her head struck the dance floor. The male lawyer, trying to recall the accident, admitted to being intoxicated at the time. The Court found that, on all the evidence, the accident was due to the negligence of the male lawyer. He had breached the duty of care (which he owed to Danicek) by consuming alcohol to the extent that his impairment caused him to lose his balance and fall on top of her. Although the Court noted that Danicek was not a “reliable reporter” of her symptoms, it found that she suffered a traumatic brain injury which has had a profound effect on her life. The medical evidence suggested she is not likely to completely, or even substantially, recover from certain of her symptoms.
$5.9 million awarded The Court awarded Danicek damages totaling over $5.9 million. The largest portion of that amount was $5.1 million awarded for loss of future earning capacity, due to the Court’s conclusion that Danicek will not be capable of working as a
lawyer in the future. The Court did not make any finding that the visit to the nightclub could be characterized as a workplace event or what might be casually referred to as an office party or a staff event. The outing did follow a regular dinner outing which appears to have been sponsored by the employer (and the employer was one of the named defendants in the lawsuit). There are many good reasons for employers to be active about limiting the consumption of alcohol by their employees. Doing so is a good strategy for ensuring the employees’ safety and for staying out of BC’s case reports. ■
Robert Smithson Robert Smithson is a partner at Pushor Mitchell LLP in Kelowna, practicing exclusively in the area of labour and employment law. For more information about his practice, visit www.pushormitchell.com. This subject matter is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice.
www.interwrap.com/titanium Manufactured by: InterWrap Inc. 32923 Mission Way, Mission, BC, Canada
Toll free: 1-888-713-7663 Tel: 1-604-820-5400
RCABC_SPRING_2010
E-mail: info@interwrap.com
ROOFING BC
FALL 2010
9
A close encounter with TPO Popular roofing material used on majority of Olympic projects Courtesy of Mike Russo/Western Roofer TPO was used to roof the PNE Coliseum and 23 of 24 other Olympic-related buildings for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. Photos: Len Coughlin, Enercorp Inc.
LEONARD M. COUGHLIN leonardc@enercorp.ca P 604.531.7046 C 604.290.6480 www.enercorp.ca
CARLISLE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS GEORGIA PACIFIC . OWENS CORNING XPS INSULFOAM HD EPS SYSTEMS . ATLAS ISO
teamwork
The majority of the 2010 Olympic buildings were roofed in TPO single-ply roofing, according to industry insiders, who note that nearly three million square feet of the popular material was used on training facilities, housing and sports venues for the Vancouver Games. Len Coughlin of Enercorp Inc., and Canadian agent for Carlisle SynTec of Pennsylvania, was instrumental in selling TPO as the top Olympic roofing material. With 33 years of experience in the roofing industry, Coughlin teamed up with distributor Convoy Supply and some of BC’s top roofing contractors and consultants to the Winter Olympics. “There were 24 different projects, all with different architects, and all but one went with TPO,” Coughlin said.
In some cases, the choice of TPO was obvious, according to Sean Lang, president of Interprovincial Roof Consultants Ltd. of Surrey. “On large-scale, wide-open buildings without a lot of roof traffic, TPO performs well for a long period of time. It’s also easy to keep clean,” he said. Lang’s company specified TPO for the re-roof of the PNE Coliseum, which hosted Olympic skating events. The roof is dome-shaped with a gutter running around the building. “A smooth, thick membrane like 60-mil TPO alleviates problems with debris, roof granules or other gravel collecting in the gutters and moving down to the draining system,” Lang explained. The Coliseum was built with a tongue-and-groove wood roof deck and the building owner, the PNE, was worried that dust and debris would interfere
Thermoplastic polyolefin Inter-Provincial Roof Consultants Ltd. provides third party, independent, professional consulting services throughout the province of British Columbia, including Vancouver Island. Our roof consultants and roof inspectors are all ticketed Journeyman roofers and Registered Roof Observers (RRO) with additional education and certification provided by the Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia (RCABC) and the Roof Consultants Institute (RCI). Free quotations: Usually provided within 24 hours, depending on detail and complexity of project and can easily be requested online at www.iprc.ca. or by contacting our office at 604-576-5740. Roof Condition Reporting: Surveys of existing roofs, leak investigation and reporting, roof repair and replacement advice. Thermography: Determine which areas are suffering from moisture ingress or determining water ingress origin. Is it really the roof leaking, or could it be the wall or nearby window seals? Following nondestructive testing, we can confirm moisture presence by taking core samples and taking moisture readings of the suspect area. Specification Writing and Tendering: Preparation of specifications, tender documents, and tender reviews upon request to assist in decision making. Inspections: We provide site visits while work is in progress on new construction and reroofing projects. Upon completion of the project, we perform a final roof observation and submit a final roof observation report ensuring the client that all work has been completed in accordance with specifications or contrarily listing any/all outstanding deficiencies thus ensuring the integrity of the application.
Phone: 604-576-5740 #201 - 19232 Enterprise Way, Surrey, BC V3S 6J9 www.iprc.ca 10
with events and construction. B building alread off the second system in place “Mechanical effective and fa unnecessary di The specifica gypsum cover b insulation. This TPO membrane Lang explained Flynn Canad Olympics-relate Richmond Spee in Vancouver, t
FALL 2010
Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) is a compound of ethylene and propylene, which is used as an elastomeric roofing membrane. TPO membranes are arguably the fastest growing commercial roofing products in North America. Some of the reported characteristics of TPO roofing membranes include: • high elasticity and tensile strength; • resistance to ultraviolet, ozone and chemical exposure; • as heat-resistant as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer); • resistant to static electricity; • energy efficient; • resistant to aging and weathering; • heat reflective; • durable: the membrane shows 20 years after testing and based on the type of testing should last 50; • flexible at low temperature, adaptable to cold conditions; • root resistant for use on green planted roofs; • fine puncture resistant with joint peel strength and joint shear strength; • UV-resistant, no pollution to environment; • easy to weld and install; • can be heat-welded as easily as PVC (polyvinyl chloride); • easy to treat on delicate areas (corners and edges); • convenient to maintain with low cost. ROOFING BC
d result in lot of clean-up during ecause there were two roofs on the dy, the roof design team opted to tear roof and leave the original roofing e. ly attached TPO was more cost airly quick to install without any sturbance to the interior,” Lang said. ation also called for one-quarter-inch board on top of 1.5 inches of polyiso s provided a clean substrate for the e and helped lessen thermal bridging, d. da Ltd. was involved in a number of ed roofing projects, including the ed Skating Oval, the Olympic Village he Nordic venues, the Media Centres,
the Vancouver Convention Centre and the Pacific National Exhibition facility for the Vancouver Olympic Organizing Committee.
1,000 squares on one roof One of the most challenging jobs was installing more than 1,000 squares of mechanically-attached Sure-Weld TPO on the new Thunderbird Stadium at the University of BC, according to Flynn general manager Jim Matsuo. The Thunderbird Stadium’s new dome roof tied into a smaller rink that was roofed with SBS modified bitumen. In addition, there was a large secondary TPO lower roof level adjacent to the SBS roof. Working through a wet winter, Flynn’s crews installed the TPO membrane and also installed steel decking to ensure that the roof installation remained
seamless. “The main area was all barrel roof and extremely steep, and in winter the footing was slick,” Matsuo recalls, noting that safety became paramount for the roofing crews. A 1/2” gypsum cover board was installed over the steel deck, followed by a six-mil poly vapour barrier and two layers of 1.7-inch Carlisle polyiso insulation. The 60-mil TPO membrane was then mechanically fastened through the deck. “The versatility of TPO in terms of area coverage and speed are big factors,” Matsuo said. “With the TPO sheets being larger, we can get more square feet down in one day than with any other roofing system.” Flynn worked with Bird Construction of Toronto on the project, with Bird handling site management and coordination. Matsuo added that the reflectivity of TPO also
scores points under LEED-related construction, which is becoming more important in the Vancouver area. Raven Roofing of Langley BC, another RCABC member, showed the speed of TPO when it won the contract to roof the Langley Events Centre, an Olympic training venue. Raven bid on and finished the 150,000-square-foot project in three months, using both ballasted and mechanically-fastened TPO. Raven’s crew installed 2.3 inches of Carlisle polyiso insulation over the mechanically-attached portion of the roof and EPS insulation over the ballasted system. A vapour barrier was primed and adhered to the roof deck. “The popularity of TPO is a combination of cost, performance and aesthetics,” said Raven Roofing owner Neil Rook. ■
CARLISL LE’S
RG ROOFGARDEN
A
vailable in shallow, medium and ddeep assemblies, Carlisle SynTec’s Roof Garden Systems are easily installed over our time-tested EPDM and
TPO membranes. Roof Garden Systems from C Carlisle help improve air quality and aid in storm water management. Through consttant innovation, Carlisle offers not only the most dependable roofing products, but also the most environmentally friendly. For more information, contact your local Carlisle represenntative.
Investing in Roofing Solutions for Over 45 Years 800-479-6832 • P.O. Box 7000 • Carlisle, PA 17013 • Fax: 717-245-7053 • www.carlisle-syntec.com Carlisle is a registered g trademark of Carlisle. © 2010 Carlisle.
ROOFING BC
FALL 2010
11
Home builders ramp up production
(IIHFWLYH WLPHO\ '(%7 &2//(&7,21
5HFRYHU WKH PRQH\ RZHG WR <28
12 &267 WR VXEPLW D &/$,0
ZZZ HOOLVODZ\HUV FRP
SUPPLIER OF ROOFING & WATERPROOFING Phone 604.596.3787 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax 604.596.4559 Email prolineconstruction@telus.net
Heronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing in Chilliwack is one of the new home projects underway across the Lower Mainland. Photo: Re/Max Nyd
expensive single-family-home construction has slowed down a bit since July, which may be related to the HST. Peter Simpson, CEO of the Greater Vancouver Home Buildersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association warned that the starts may not continue strong if there is a delayed impact of the HST this fall. But Simpson added that
developers are â&#x20AC;&#x153;confident that the market will continue to at least be stable compared to other markets in the country.â&#x20AC;? Across the Metro Vancouver Region, builders have started work on 9,493 new homes as of the end of August, up 98 percent from 4,786 units started over the same period in 2009. â&#x2013;
UDI closes award entries The Urban Development Institute, Pacific Region, has closed entries to its 2010 Awards of Excellence. The awards are presented to the top achievers for the exceptional impact that their projects have made on the urban landscape. Most of the large projects involve contractor members of the RCABC. Awards judging is now underway, with the winners to be announced this November. â&#x2013;
Photo Courtesy Jasalyn Thorne Photography
13385 Comber Way, Surrey, BC V3W SV8
VANCOUVER: Despite the introduction of the HST, BC housing starts are bucking a national trend with impressive increases this year, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). CMHC counted 2,253 new-home starts in August, up from 1,817 in July, when the HST was introduced. That raised the pace of construction to an annual pace of 25,400 units from 20,100 in July. Nationally, the seasonally adjusted rate of housing starts slipped three percent in August to 183,300 units from 188,900 starts in July. CMHC analyst Robyn Adamache said BCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boost may have come from a settling out of the market following the introduction of the harmonized sales tax. The tax appears to have had minimal impact, encouraging builders to start new projects, she said. Adamache said the pace of more
5500 YEARS YEARS OF OF PERFORMANCE: PERFORMANC CE: SOLID SOLID GUARANTEE GUARANTEE RCABC R CABC hhas as earned earned the the trust trust of of architects, architects, municipalities, municipalities, ccompanies ompanies aand nd developers developers tthroughout hroughout the the building b uil din g iindustry ndustr y bbyy ssetting et ting tthe he pprofessional rofessional standards standards for for roofing roofing in in BC. B C. N Not ot only only have h a ve w wee set set tthese hese standards, standards, we we ssupport uppor t tthem hem with with a G Guarantee uar an te e P Program. rogram. RCABC RC A B C M Members embers are are tthe he only only professional p r o f e s sio n a l C Contractors ontractors that that can c an ooffer f fer tthe he 5 oorr 1100 yyear ear RGC RG C G Guarantee uarantee tthat hat bbrings rings you you ssuch uch a sense sense ooff ssecurity. ecurit y. RCABC Guarantee Corpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IInvesting nvesting iinn tthe he ffuture uture bbyy ddrawing rawing oonn tthe he eexperiences xperiences ooff tthe he ppast ast â&#x20AC;&#x201C; tthatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tthe he R C A BC G ua r a n t e e C orpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
ROO ROOFING OFING CONTRACT CONTRACTORS ORS ASSOCIATION ASS SOCIA ATION OF BRITISH BRIT TISH COLUMBIA COLUMBIA 9734 9734 201st 201st Street Street | Langley, L angley, BC BC | V1M V1M 33E8 E8 12
ssuccessful uccessful aapproach pproach ttoo ssustainability. ustainabilit y.
Tell 6604 Te 04 8882 82 97 9734 734 Fa Fax x 6604 04 8882 82 11744 744 Em Email ail roofing@rcabc.org roofing@rcabc.org FALL 2010
www.rcabc.org w w w.rcabc.org ROOFING BC
“The gap between awareness and action is mainly due to concerns about cost”
Left: Sunset Magazine’s 2010 Dream Remodel Home in California, a 1920’s bungalow, has been outfitted with solar panels, in this case SRS Energy Sole Power tiles that mimic a barrelstyle clay roof. Above: The Green Dream Home in Kamloops also has solar panels installed. Photos: Sunset Magazine / CHBA - Kamloops
Solar panels installed on just 5% of homes Ninety percent of Canadian homeowners are aware that using green energy reduces a household’s environmental impact, yet only five percent are generating electricity by installing rooftop solar panels,
according to a new survey from TD Canada Trust. The survey found that more than 20 percent of consumers didn’t know what to do or where to start when undertaking a solar project. The survey reveals 33 percent of homeowners have considered installing solar panels, but threequarters of them say expense is the number one deterrent.
“The gap between awareness and action is mainly due to concerns about cost,” says Karen ClarkeWhistler, chief environment officer of TD. So there’s still a lot of education to be done around the benefits to homeowners who choose to use solar energy, which include: • Save money. Installing solar panels means reducing the
Serving the Lower Mainland from the Fraser Valley to Squamish
amount of energy required from the electrical grid, which means buying less. In BC, solarproduced power can be sold to local utility providers, earning money for the energy produced. • Increase home value: A home that costs less to run may be worth more. • Low maintenance: Solar panels require little maintenance.
• Reduce impact on the environment: Solar power is a renewable, natural energy source that is non-polluting. To help Canadians understand the steps to take when considering renewable energy projects, TD has created “Going Green: A homeowner’s guide to solar energy”, available at www.td.com/renewableenergy. ■
s Full line of IKO commercial products s Safety equipment and tools s Atlas Roofing products s Feltex roofing underlayment s RoofAquaGuard UDLX high performance roofing underlayment s RoofRoc synthetic slate & cedar shake tile s MonierLifetile energy efficient concrete tiles s Chutes International construction debris chutes s US Tiles authentic clay tiles s Metro Roof Products s Mule-Hide Products s ArrowLine Roofing system s A.R. EPS foam silver rigid insulation board s Custom Flashing
One Stop Roof Shop s Same Day Delivery
10870 120th Street, Surrey www.roofingproducts.ca or www.pacificwesternroof.com Tel 604-581-5863 s Toll Free 1-800-918-ROOF Fax 604-581-5864 Email pacificwesternroof@hotmail.com ROOFING BC
FALL 2010
13
3D aerial roof imaging provides extremely accurate roof measurements, allowing contractors to figure costs for materials, waste management and labour. Photo: EagleView Technologies
A roof to be measured by EagleView, and the resulting length and pitch diagrams. Photo: EagleView Technologies
Game changer 3D aerial roof measurements provide accuracy for contractor bids By Frank O’Brien
The ability to photograph roofs accurately from the air and then provide detailed measurements for every hip, valley and protrusion may prove a game-changing
technology for British Columbia roofing contractors, according to Chris Barrow, president and CEO of EagleView Technologies (www.eagleview.com).
Accuracy You Can Rely On.
Guaranteed.
EagleView It! EagleView® offers unmatched aerial roof measurements featuring the extraordinary accuracy of 3D technology. With accuracy that promotes profit on every job, EagleView’s exceptional customer service offered seven days a week makes this technology easy. Build your business and profitability with the first and foremost aerial 3D roof measurement company who now also offers an industry leading solar report. Accuracy You Can Rely On. Guaranteed.
Call 1-866-447-3741 or visit www.eagleview.com.
14
on the roof, thus EagleView saving time and Technologies, based negating safety in Seattle, concerns,” Barrow Washington, notes in an recently introduced exclusive report to its proprietary ‘Roofing BC’. “In technology into BC. reality, many “Contractors are contractors find the able to provide technology is extremely accurate, Chris Barrow, president and CEO of offering far more.” third party verified EagleView Technologies: The Seattle The 3D roof measurements company has moved into the BC roofing for their customers, market. Photo: EagleView Technologies technology provides such accurate increasing the value measurements it can be used for and accuracy of their bids,” Barrow material ordering and waste explained. management, he said, at lower cost The two founders of EagleView than labour-intensive hand Technologies, a roofing contractor measurement and sketching. The and an image software developer, basic cost of an EagleView invented the technology. EagleView commercial report is $108.00. takes aerial roof images from an “Extra squares of material airplane and runs them through needed or worse yet, the possibility image processing software to create of running short of material on a a 3D model of the roof. From that job can destroy job profitability. model, incredibly accurate With roofing contractors looking for measurements, diagrams and every opportunity to win bids and reports are created. keep jobs profitable, the accuracy “Instead of measuring by hand of 3D aerial roof measurement or sketching from satellite images, reports can be the key difference,” contractors are able to receive Barrow said. accurate, detailed dimensions and “The technology is also satisfying 3D diagram files via email,” said one of the most important needs in Barrow, who will speak on the new roofing: certainty. When contractors technology at the International have a question or discrepancy on Roofing Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, roof measurements between in February 2011. suppliers, crew or insurance, it is Recently EagleView moved into often difficult to properly resolve BC with the company’s launch into the conflict. Now roofing companies the Canadian market. have a third party source they can “At first glance, many contractors trust,” he added. may think the technology simply Roofing contractors are using the enables their sales force and reports to enhance their bidding estimators to get roof and selling process. They present measurements without climbing up FALL 2010
their bids to customers with a detailed roofing report that is an excellent means of communicating plans and proposals to the building owner. In the end, they have a very accurate and important document for their records, according to Barrow. “Aerial roof measurement have been proven through numerous tests of thousands of roof measurements run by large insurance carriers. The results show that the most accurate and most reliable measurements came from the use of 3D models. With several patents pending and some now beginning to issue, EagleView is the only aerial roof measurement company that can provide this cutting-edge software and process,” Barrow said. He believes that BC roofing contractors will find that 3D aerial roof measurements will be a game changer for the industry, providing superior bid presentations and higher profits. Rob Harris, RCABC assistant technical manager, said the technology, if proven and cost competitive, could prove popular. “It takes at least two hours to hand measure a typical commercial roof, like a multi-family building,” Barrow said. Many BC roofing contractors are using Google-Earth satellite images and RoofCAD programs for measurements, he said, but aerial photos in 3D imaging should be more accurate. “They would also look very professional on a bid presentation,” Harris added. ■ ROOFING BC
How much is your plant and land worth? VANCOUVER: Wondering what the market value is for your plant and the industrial land beneath it? Development sites in Burnaby currently cost $50 to $60 per buildable square foot, CB Richard Ellis reports, while prices in South Surrey run from $35 to $45 a buildable square foot. In Abbotsford, a recent raw land sale netted $9 million for a 10-acre site, half the price of when it was first listed two years ago.
Average prices for zoned and serviced land have likely fallen 10 percent in desirable areas and approximately 25 percent to 35 percent in secondary locations since peaking in mid-2008, according to Avison Young. Values for designated land (i.e. rezoning required) in secondary locations are estimated to have plummeted 50 percent. To put this in perspective, average land prices doubled between 2003 and 2008, reaching approximately $900,000 per acre in Abbotsford to $2 million per acre in Vancouver (and a record $4 million per acre in some Vancouver locations) before cresting in the latter part of 2008. Land prices will remain soft until
current inventory is absorbed, and lenders agree to fund for construction of speculative product, according to Avison Young. Today, typical industrial land prices range from approximately $400,000 per acre for designated (but not zoned or serviced) land in Campbell Heights (Surrey) to $1.5 million per acre for zoned and serviced land in central Burnaby (excluding Vancouver and the North Shore where values remain at $2 million-plus per acre). Over the past 12 months, the market has witnessed a decade-low 29 transactions comprising parcels of one to 10 acres in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. ■
SERVING THE NORTHWEST SINCE 1946 Complete Roofing Service NEW • REROOFING • REPAIRS • Built Up Roofing • Flexible Membrane SBS/APP • Cedar Shakes • Metal Roofing
COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL APPROVED APPLICATORS OF
A MEMBER OF THE ICOPAL GROUP
Tel
250-627-1311
Fax 250-627- 4711 1060 Saskatoon Avenue Prince Rupert, BC
Turn roof tops into useable, attractive roof decks
RCABC readies for ASM campus grand opening The new campus for the Architectural Sheet Metal training at the RCABC headquarters in Langley is nearly complete, with a grand opening scheduled for October 28. Watch for special coverage of the opening and a profile of the project in the next issue of ‘Roofing BC’. ■
New $900-million RCMP headquarters in Surrey is among major projects underway. Photo: RCMP
Major projects valued at $5 billion By Helmut Pastrick
According to the most recent Major Project Inventory (MPI) compiled by the BC Ministry of Economic Development, a number of new major projects were proposed during the second quarter of 2010 with a combined capital cost of nearly $5 billion. Major projects are defined as those with capital cost of at least $15 million ($20 million in the Lower Mainland). Despite the increase, the overall value of proposed projects remained virtually unchanged as a number of power and communications projects were put on hold, offsetting gains in proposed mixed-use/residential buildings, and industrial, commercial and institutional building projects. Major projects proposed in the second quarter included the Burrard Development, a mixed-use commercial and residential plan spanning eight acres in Vancouver on the Squamish lands near the Burrard Street Bridge, and a methanol plant in Chetwynd, in northeast BC. Capital costs for each project are estimated at $1 billion. A $500 million open-pit copper mine near Kamloops was also proposed during the quarter. The previously proposed NaiKun Wind Power Project in the Massett region and Klinaklini Hydro Electric Project near Campbell River, with combined estimated capital costs of $5.4 billion, were considered to be on hold. As the latter suggests, not all proposed projects end up proceeding as scheduled, and it can take years for projects to advance from the proposal to construction stage. Estimated combined capital costs of major projects under construction rose to $62.8 billion in the second quarter, up three percent from the previous quarter. Gains were primarily attributed to an increase in the number in commercial and institutional buildings and heavy engineering structures underway. While this was the second quarterly increase in a row, overall construction activity has remained flat since early 2008. Major projects that started construction during the second quarter included the RCMP headquarters relocation project in Surrey and the Mt. Milligan Copper/Gold Mine in the Mackenzie region. Estimated capital costs for each project exceed $900 million. ■
MENZIES DRAIN & ROOFING SOLUTIONS The PAVE-EL Pedestal System: • Transforms flat roofs into attractive, maintenance-free, landscaped paver stone terraces. • Elevates paver stones for perfect drainage. • Levels paver stones and ensures their uniform spacing for an ideal roof terrace surface. Visit our website at www.EnvirospecInc.com or contact our B.C. representative Len Shanse (604)942-6262 ENVIROSPEC INCORPORATED E-mail: lgs@shaw.ca
5 SKIN ROOF PIPE FLASHING
5-IN-1 PLUMBING PIPE FLASHING Fits 1 =” plastic or 1 J” copper Fits 1 J” plastic or 2” copper Fits 2” plastic Fits 3” plastic Fits 4” plastic
• For Flat Roof • Fits plumbing pipe: 1 =”, 1 J”, 2”, 3” & 4” • Reduces estimation time • Simple and fast to install • 8” water height
Meets CSA B272-93 Meets UPC PS64-98
• For Pitched Roof • One size does it all • Flashing has 4” base flange for extra protection
Menzies Metal Products innovative answers - since 1978
Phone us Toll Free: 1-800-665-8840 Surrey Head Office Ph: 604-530-0712 Fax: 604-530-8482
Victoria BC Ph: 250-381-1020 Fax: 250-381-1188
Summerland BC Ph: 250-494-9797 Fax: 250-494-9737
Visit us online: www.menzies-metal.com or email: info@menzies-metal.com ROOFING BC
FALL 2010
15
Flashing techniques: standing seam metal roofs Controlling leaks at joints, curbs and penetrations By John A. D’Annunzio
As is the case with other roof systems, flashings and penetrations are the most common points of moisture intrusion on standing seam metal roof systems. The elimination of moisture entry can be achieved through the proper application of flashings at all vertical transitions and penetrations. This article addresses application requirements at the most common flashing points and provides suggested techniques. Flashing application should be in compliance with the metal system manufacturer’s latest printed specifications.
The most critical component of a standing seam metal roof system — other than metal panel seams — is at vertical transitions and penetrations. Industry analysis has indicated that leaks in metal roof systems predominantly occur at metal panel joints and terminations.
Exterior gutters The most important design and application issue at exterior gutters is the deflection of water backing up under the panels. This can occur from clogged gutters or — more commonly — from the application of undersized gutters. Gutter width should be determined by a calculation that considers the average rainfall rate in the geographic area and the size and slope of the roof area. Larger gutter widths will accommodate more flow and are less likely to back up during heavy precipitation events. The application of heated gutter strips and snow guards can eliminate ice buildup in colder climates. The application of gutter guards in heavily wooded areas further reduces the threat of water backup caused by gutters becoming clogged with vegetation and debris. CONTRACTOR CONTRA CTOR SUPPLIES SUPPLIES MASONRY MASONRY INSULATION INSULATION
YOUR BUILDINGG MATERIALS MAATERIALS TERIALS EXPERTS. EXPERTS.
ENVIRONMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL
. NNanaimo anaimo . SSurrey urrey . Burnaby Burnnaby . Kamloops . Kelowna . PPrince rince GGeorge eorge
SAFETY
www.steels.com www w.steels.com 877.8 877.846.7506 846.7506 roofing@steels.com
Victoria
LOG LOG HOMES HOMES
Bilco® is a pioneer in the developmentt of a unique line of horizontal doors. Bilco® doors are gain gaining ning an undeniable reputation among architects, engineer engineers rs and trades-people for design, workmansh workmanship ip and dependability dependability.. Contact a Steels ro roofing oofing expert today and learn more about Bilc Bilco’s co’s roof access hatches, automatic fire ve vents nts and floor, floor, vault and sidewalk doors.
ROOFING ROOFING
BILCO® HATCHES AND DOORS NOW AVAILABLE
types of curbs are utilized on lighter units such as skylights and hatches. Structural units are applied to support heavier equipment such as HVAC units. In these cases a double curb is used with a structural curb secured to the panels and a second floating curb applied over the panels to accommodate movement. The flashing termination is similar in both instances. At the high side transition point of the curb, an end cap and water diverter must be applied to divert water channeled from the metal panels away from the curb.
Proper flashing details protect standing seam metal roofs. Photo: Laserline
The most common application technique at these points is the insertion of a trapezoidal closure between the gutter and the panels. This is typically fabricated from foam or plastic and should be installed in accordance with the metal system manufacturer’s latest printed specifications. The most important application element is in providing an adequate seal through adhesion. This eliminates the potential of wind blow-off or moisture infusion at non-adhered openings.
Gables, rakes, ridges The critical issue regarding the application of gable or rake trims is that they are designed to move with the free-flowing metal panels. This is typically accomplished by attaching cleats to the wall panels that allow for the trim to expand with the panel. Standing seam metal roof panels are typically through-fastened at the eave, which causes thermal movement to accumulate at the ridge. Openings that occur from this type of movement are eliminated with the application of metal ridge covers that are attached to the metal panels. The metal ridge covers are fabricated to accommodate movement and flex as the panels expand and contract. The panel
closures serve as weatherproofing protection and — when properly installed — eliminate moisture intrusion.
Penetrations The applicator should always use penetration materials provided by the metal system manufacturer and apply these materials in accordance with the manufacturer’s requirements. The most important material component is the use of proper adhesives. Asphalt-based adhesives and cutbacks are typically not compatible with metal systems and should be avoided even in emergency repair situations. Consult the manufacturer for proper application and repair materials. Most manufacturers allow the use of rubber bootjacks for all round penetrations, eliminating the application of pitch pans. It is critical that all penetration materials are applied within the flat pan area of the metal panel and are not extended on to the rib. Roof curbs There are two common types of roof curbs used with metal roof systems. The nonstructural units are designed with the same configuration as the metal panel and move with the panel. These
End wall transitions In instances where metal roof systems are installed on structures that have parapet or adjoining walls, a two-piece flashing is used for the parallel transition. In this detail the metal base flashing assembly is secured directly to the parallel metal panel and set freely up the wall. The base flashing becomes part of the metal panel and moves with the panel. A metal counterflashing is secured to the wall and covers the base flashing. The independence of the two flashing materials allows for appropriate expansion and contraction. Some manufacturers require the use of nonmetallic membranes at high-side transitions. These flexible membrane materials are applied to the top of the metal panel closure and are secured to the perpendicular wall. The flexible membranes are typically manufactured with a metallic apron flashing that provides added moisture protection and accommodates foot traffic. These types of materials are also considered to act as air seals. The proper application of materials at these vulnerable points will eliminate moisture intrusion and prevent against costly callbacks, leading to a satisfied client and a successful project. ■ John A. D’Annunzio is president of Paragon Roofing Technology Inc. in Southfield, Michigan. For more information, call 248-936-8744, e-mail john_paragon@ameritech.net, or visit www.paragonroofingtech.com.
SHEET METAL WORKERS LOCAL UNION NO. 280
Representing Roofing, Architectural Sheet Metal and Production Workers
Phone Fax Toll Free Web Email Postal
604.430.3388 604.431.1864 1.800.242.8645 www.smw280.org agents@smw280.org 6188 Kingsway Burnaby, BC V5J 1H5
nelsonroofing.com
camair.ca
Roofing Systems Installation Industrial Commercial Multi-Family Residential All Roofing Systems
Industrial Cladding Architectural Wall Panels Structural Steel Decking Commercial HVAC Systems Custom Sheet Metal
Proudly Affiliated With:
Business Manager Jim Paquette Assistant Business Manager Dan Burroughs Business Representative Greg Mooney Organizer Ken Elworthy
VANCOUVER ISLAND SHEET METAL CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION
Head Office
250.336.8088 Campbell River
Powell River
Sunshine Coast
Victoria
250.287.8784 604.485.0100 604.886.0694 250.472.1799 Vancouver Island • Sunshine Coast 16
FALL 2010
Your official magazine, reaching key roofing professionals and specifiers throughout British Columbia Book your next ad now! Call 604-507-2162 or 1-604-740-8369 ROOFING BC
YELLOWKNIFE, NWT: There is a buzz about potential giant projects in the Northwest Territories that could result in increased work for BC roofing contractors. The Northwest Territories, home to about 40,000 people, half of whom live in the capital of Yellowknife, is not only Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre for diamond mining, it also has an active oil and gas industry. The NWT is also the Mackenzie Valley area, NWT. Photo: Government of NWT potential site of the MacKenzie Valley â&#x20AC;&#x153;Up here we take a Project, a $16 billion wait-and-see attitudeâ&#x20AC;? gas line that is expected to generate 30,000 years of total employment and contribute $86 billion to Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy, when it is complete. Yet, like most developments in the north, the pipeline has been decades in talk with little action. That could change this November, when the federal government is expected to decide if the massive project will go ahead. This follows a positive recommendation from a joint panel earlier this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We believe it will get the go-ahead,â&#x20AC;? said Jim Weller of Coldwell Bankers/Northern Bestsellers in Yellowknife. The pipeline route would bypass Yellowknife by about 300 km, but the capital is expected to be the centre for the army of consultants, engineers, oil executives and federal bureaucrats the pipeline would require. Hay River is expected to be the pipelineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major staging area, which opens up the potential for large-scale industrial development. Weller notes, though, that even with the pipeline approval temptingly close, there is no land speculation going on. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Up here we take a wait-andsee attitude,â&#x20AC;? he said. If approved, the MacKenzie Valley pipeline would begin despite falling gas prices, which are down 60 percent of the peak. Insiders say this could be an advantage because there is more labour available as other gas pipelines have been shelved. The downturn in gas activity in Alberta and BC has lowered both labour and material costs, they note. â&#x2013; (IIHFWLYH WLPHO\ '(%7 &2//(&7,21
5HFRYHU WKH PRQH\ RZHG WR <28
12 &267 WR VXEPLW D &/$,0
ZZZ HOOLVODZ\HUV FRP
YOUR SOURCE FOR PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE The Institute of Roofing, Waterproofing and Building Envelope Professionals
RCIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professional members have extensive experience in the science of roofing and waterproofing.
MAKE MORE $$$$$ ON YOUR
Durable â&#x20AC;˘ Profitable One-piece Construction Three colors...
SNAP-ON, NO TOOLS!
CLASS A Fire Rating
The BEST WAY to control Gutter Clutterâ&#x201E;˘
www.gutterguardpro.com â&#x20AC;˘ 1-800-327-7077
MENZIES DRAIN & ROOFING SOLUTIONS 5 SKIN ROOF PIPE FLASHING
ELECTRICAL/GAS ROOF FLASHING
â&#x20AC;˘ Fits plumbing pipe: 1-1/4â&#x20AC;?, 1-1/2â&#x20AC;?, 2â&#x20AC;?, 3â&#x20AC;? & 4â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ Reduces estimation time â&#x20AC;˘ Simple and fast to install â&#x20AC;˘ 8â&#x20AC;? water height
â&#x20AC;˘ EASY TO INSTALL practical solution â&#x20AC;˘ Insulated to prevent condensation
Menzies Metal Products innovative answers - since 1978
Phone us Toll Free: 1-800-665-8840 Surrey Head Office Ph: 604-530-0712 Fax: 604-530-8482
rciwesterncanada.org
ROOFING BC
10 ft lengths fit 5 or 6 inch gutters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Installs with any kind of roofing material. Drip edge at front prevents â&#x20AC;&#x153;tiger stripingâ&#x20AC;? marks on gutters.
LADDER
Visit RCIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website: to find a member near you.
AND Prevent Gutter Clutterâ&#x201E;˘ with PVC Gutter Guard Proâ&#x201E;˘! Designed to prevent buildup of debris, it offers easy, labor-saving, snap on installation. NO FASTENERS!
Š2009 Plastic Components, Inc.
Pipeline buzz in the NWT
Victoria BC Ph: 250-381-1020 Fax: 250-381-1188
Summerland BC Ph: 250-494-9797 Fax: 250-494-9737
Visit us online: www.menzies-metal.com or email: info@menzies-metal.com FALL 2010
7
Across Northern BC and Alberta
Consulting
MEMBER OF
Condition Reports
Quality Control Inspections
Thermography
Dawson Creek, BC
250-782-6878
Specifications and Tendering
Grande Prairie, AB
ACCEPTED INSPECTION FIRM
780-538-4190 All-concrete modular housing exported to Africa. Photo: Royal Concrete Concepts
Email mel@topsideconsulting.ca
Concrete houses exported
Tel 250.374.0154 | Fax 250.372.3767 #1– 825 Laval Crescent, Kamloops, BC V2C 5P2
www.westernroofing.ca
ADVERTISE IN ROOFING BC! MissPaddy@telus.net
604-507-2162
WEST PALM BEACH, FLA: A Florida company has landed an agreement to export 15,000 of its energy efficient, sustainable and disaster resistant concrete modular homes to Angola. The Royal Concrete Concept homes were delivered to Sub-Saharan Africa this summer and installed by a team of Angolan and American construction workers, including the President of RCC. “We’re excited about our efforts to export products to developing nations such as Angola,” said RCC President Wally Sanger. Royal Concrete Concepts
(www.RoyalConcreteConcepts.com) finished setting a 1,000-square-foot model home in Lobito, Angola, utilizing an innovative construction process involving three sections of container-sized modules each with a roof and foundation. The sections were combined on site and installed on footers to create the high performance dwelling in an urban sales center in Lobito. Royal Concrete Concepts specializes in storm-proofed housing that’s shipped in pieces and easy to assemble within days. Everything from the walls, to the
roof, to the foundation are all made of solid concrete. Concrete modular homes are estimated to cost an average of $125,000 each, providing 48 percent less expensive housing for homeowners from a 25 to 100 year life cycle cost perspective. The RCC homes meet or exceed the International Building Code, severe weather resistance testing and sustainable building standards in the United States and abroad. The homes include factory-installed kitchens, bathrooms and wardrobes, among other amenities. ■
MENZIES DRAIN & ROOFING SOLUTIONS Blue Seal & E X T R A L O N G S c r e w d r i ve r
extra-long screwdriver bit
24”
The drain seal used by professionals Now available in 3”, 4”, 5” & 6” Pistol Grip to position 1/2 turn count for even tension on seal
Photo: 2010 International Roofing Expo
SPUN COPPER & ALUMINUM DRAINS
Roofing Expo books 87% of space
Menzies Metal Products innovative answers - since 1978
Phone us Toll Free: 1-800-665-8840 Surrey Head Office Ph: 604-530-0712 Fax: 604-530-8482
Victoria BC Ph: 250-381-1020 Fax: 250-381-1188
Summerland BC Ph: 250-494-9797 Fax: 250-494-9737
Visit us online: www.menzies-metal.com or email: info@menzies-metal.com 18
FALL 2010
DALLAS, TX: The 2011 International Roofing Expo recently concluded its annual Space Draw process, assigning 87 percent of the show floor to 263 companies in 715 booths. Taking place February 16-18, 2011, in the North Halls at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, the show will offer roofing contractors, builders, remodelers, building owners, facility managers and architects a comprehensive preview of the roofing construction and maintenance marketplace. “Exceeding our most optimistic projections, we saw a 10 percent increase in booths assigned during Space Draw,” said Donna Bellantone, Director of the Expo. “Attendees should really be energized by the impressive list of companies assigned to 71,500 net square feet of exhibits.” Companies who have reserved space are key manufacturers and distributors such as ABC Supply Co., CertainTeed, GAF, Firestone Building Products, Johns Manville Roofing Systems, OMG Roofing Products, Owens Corning, Soprema, 3M Industrial Mineral Products Division and Georgia Pacific, to name a few. ■ ROOFING BC
CONVOY SUPPLY LTD. Construction Materials 8183 - 130th Street, Surrey, BC V3W 7X4
Administration 604.591.5381 • Sales 604.591.5331 • Fax 604.572.7476 SUPPLY PARTNERS ®
Abbotsford Concrete Products Ltd.
CertainTeed
All Seasons Equipment Atlas Roofing Corporation
Columbia Concrete Products
Grease Guard Inc.
Decra Roofing Systems
Hal Industries Inc.
Louiseville Speciality Products
Permaquik
Tarco
Tech-Crete Processors Ltd.
Blue Ridge Fiberboard
The Dow Chemical Company
Hunter Panels
Johns Manville
Plasti-Fab Ltd.
Bitumar Inc.
Enviroshake
Husky Energy Inc.
Lomanco Inc.
Thaler Metal Industries Ltd.
PGI-Fabrene Inc.
Inland Coatings Corporation
Malco Products Inc.
Roofmaster Products Company
Carlisle Syntec Inc.
GAF Materials Corporation
Innovative Manufacturing
Ventilation Maximum
Roxul
Tremco Inc.
Georgia-Pacific Corporation
Insulfoam
InterWrap
Menzies Metal Products
SFS Intec Inc.
Tinman
Carlisle Coatings & Waterproofing Inc.
Pabco Roofing Products
Degussa AG (Sonneborn)
Waldun Forest Products
Soprema Canada Inc.
Westform Metals Inc.
Westman Steel Industries Inc.
www.convoy-supply.com BRITISH COLUMBIA Abbotsford Westex/Chilliwack
Surrey Head Office
Burnaby
604-591-5331 Sales 604-572-7476 Fax
604-420-9666 Sales 604-420-9664 Fax
604-852-0855 Sales 604-852-3266 Fax
604-792-7663 Sales 604-792-7443 Fax
Kamloops
Penticton
250-374-9955 Sales 250-374-9514 Fax
250-493-5660 Sales 250-493-6744 Fax
Kelowna
Terrace
Prince George
Victoria
Nanaimo
250-765-1441 Sales 250-765-2799 Fax
250-635-4611 Sales 250-635-5161 Fax
250-563-4704 Sales 250-563-3205 Fax
250-474-5733 Sales 250-474-5770 Fax
250-756-9959 Sales 250-756-9860 Fax
Calgary
ALBERTA Edmonton
Red Deer
MANITOBA Winnipeg
403-207-3400 Sales 403-207-3404 Fax
780-439-9300 Sales 780-439-9797 Fax
403-358-3411 Sales 403-358-3456 Fax
204-633-5402 Sales 204-694-8018 Fax
Rexdale
Oshawa
ONTARIO Hamilton
416-741-5402 Sales 416-741-9384 Fax
905-434-5495 Sales 905-434-5526 Fax
905-662-3306 Sales 905-662-1899 Fax
SASKATCHEWAN Saskatoon Regina 306-653-5402 Sales 306-653-5410 Fax
St. Catharines
Kitchener
905-688-5402 Sales 905-688-1355 Fax
519-742-5402 Sales 519-742-5806 Fax
306-721-5402 Sales 306-721-5405 Fax
QUEBEC Hull/Gatineau 819-595-5402 Sales 819-595-0805 Fax
SIMPLEX ASPHALT PRODUCTS Calgary AB Surrey BC Tel: 604-591-1606 Fax: 604-591-2282
Tel: 403-207-3400 Fax: 403-207-3404
London
Windsor
Ottawa
Scarborough
Barrie
Sudbury
Edmonton AB
Toronto ON
519-686-5402 Sales 519-686-5066 Fax
519-250-5402 Sales 519-250-5412 Fax
613-260-5402 Sales 613-260-1742 Fax
416-751-5402 Sales 416-751-8470 Fax
705-722-5404 Sales 705-722-7545 Fax
705-524-9777 Sales 705-524-8022 Fax
Tel: 780-436-5577 Fax: 780-439-9797
Tel: 416-741-5402 Fax: 416-741-9384
Spokane, WA
Kent, WA
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Auburn, WA
509-533-1531 Sales 509-533-1819 Fax
425-656-9749 Sales 425-656-9746 Fax
425-656-9749 Sales 425-656-9746 Fax
Lynnwood, WA
Portland, OR
425-678-4983 Sales 425-678-4994 Fax
503-416-4266 Sales 503-416-4272 Fax