WI NTER 2010 IN THIS ISSUE: FEATURES: Profile: Jack Lam.....................1, 6 RCABC’s ASM centre opens... 12 Asbestos’ deadly shadow....... 14 ASSOCIATION: President’s message .................. 3 RCABC takes safety award....... 5
THE VOICE OF PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTORS
Vol. 7, No. 4 • WINTER 2010
Profile: Jack Lam From China’s gutters to Vancouver’s roof tops By Frank O’Brien
In the early 1950s a starving young Chinese boy and his sister begged on the chaotic streets of Guangdong province and dug up wild potatoes for food in the former battlefields around their village. With China’s victorious communists holding summary executions – including a man shot dead within feet of the children – the boy’s father sold him at the age of six to a neighbouring family that was fleeing the violence. A year later, in 1956, Jack Lam arrived in Vancouver with his adoptive mother, joining his new father who was already in Canada. Lam would never see his birth mother again, though she searched for him for decades before her death. Yet Lam, now founder and president of 30-employee Lam Metal Contracting Ltd., remains thankful, not bitter, about the sacrifice his family was forced to make in those terrible times. Many other children perished from starvation in the revolution’s aftermath. “Canada is a great, great country, a country of wealth and opportunity,” he said. Lam defines that opportunity. He began working construction in the 1970s after graduating with a diploma in Building Technology from the BC Institute of Technology. Soon after he was working as a junior draftsman for Westeel Rosco, which led him into estimating for metal roof decking, metal wall cladding and metal siding.
Jack Lam at the Burnaby headquarters of Lam Metal Contracting Ltd. Photo: Richard Lam
PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40014608 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:
Roofing Contractors Association of BC 9734 201 Street Langley, BC Canada V1M 3E8
Founded own company Confident in his ability, Lam founded Lam Metal Contracting Ltd. in 1991 “at the back of my house in Burnaby.” As he modestly put it, “we gradually grew from there.” That is an understatement. Lam Metal was recently hand picked to provide the metal work on the Rise mixed-use building in Vancouver, which captured this year’s Urban Development Institute Award of Excellence for PCL Constructors. LAM continued on page 6
INDUSTRY NEWS: Steep slope roofers face more danger....................... 4 BC Place roof must leak .......... 4 PM backs solar roof innovations................................ 10 Roofing leads asphalt demand, despite prices .......... 10 Roofing Consultants elect Canadian president ................ 11 Below the roof membrane..... 16 HST could be killed...................18 CRCA issues chemical resistance bulletin .....................18 UDI picks top projects ............ 20 Housing starts to see modest rise in 2011................ 20 Vancouver green roof takes landscape award .......... 21 Metrodome roof collapses ..... 21 Auto-feed screw driving ......... 21 Towers to sprout in downtown Vancouver ............ 21 New Vancouver high-rises point to work ahead .............. 22 Pipe dreams in Major Projects inventory.................... 22 Football legend Joe Theismann keynote speaker ...................... 22 Building permits up ................ 22 COLUMN Legal Matters: Get your swagger back ......... 17
A very grand opening RCABC celebrates the launch of its Architectural Sheet Metal training centre in style. See pages 12-15
Asbestos still a clear and present danger Risky business: leave it to the pros. 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.
From the President
increased membership by inviting into our ranks new deserving member companies. Going forward we can look to the strategic planning seminar, slated for March 2011 in Phoenix, which I hope every active member will be able to attend. In the form of a brief introduction, I am the owner/manager of Eby & Sons Construction Ltd. (member company since 1983), located in the Northern Region of our province, specifically First, I’d like to thank our Northern Prince Rupert. I have a wonderful Members for allowing me to family consisting of four beautiful represent them on the Board. I am little girls aged eight months to five truly honoured to years and a very have served you supportive wife. during the last five My original years. I started this intention on journey to joining the board becoming your was quite simple: President in 2006 I wanted to (or as my wife contribute to an refers to it – three Association that daughters ago). through its What an incredible organization, journey it has education, been. In my short training, and tenure on the technical support board your is the envy of the organization has construction Tony Caputo inaugurated a new industry. I wonder Architectural Sheet if the original Metal Program and built a campus members envisioned the evolution to house it; taken the step of of the “Master Sheet Metal & improving overall safety for all our Roofing Contractors Association of members by mandating COR BC” to what it is now. I suspect that certification; given back to the it was always in their plan. members the hourly training and We move forward into the new education charge; celebrated the decade with justifiable confidence. Association’s 50th year; and There are plans for the offering of a
Looking forward to a year of change and challenges
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
building envelope guarantee, expansion of the Architectural Sheet Metal Training Centre, a plan to expand the provision to our members to receive top notch liability insurance coverage – not only at a competitive premium, but to also offer stability and assurance so that our membership is never again subject to the whims of a fickle insurance market. In addition to this, our organization, with its technical strength and organizational structure, has become a model for others to emulate and we are exploring the opportunities that this will bring to our association. As a final note, much has been made of transition, not only on the Board of Directors, as new directors replace the “experienced” stalwarts, but also at the RCABC staff level, where our EVP, Brian Hofler, and our Technical manager, Jim Watson, will be retiring. This will be a challenging time, but as always, change brings opportunity and a fresh approach.
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The Board is made up of dynamic individuals who are truly focused, not only respecting the original vision of our founders, but of mandating new and innovative policies that will assure our leadership in the roofing and building envelope sector. Although Brian and Jim will be missed, one of the main strengths of our organization is the RCABC staff, under the leadership of our new EVP Ivan van Spronsen and our new Technical Manager Rob Harris, everything is being left in good hands. I look forward to this year of change. Yes, there will be challenges. Yes, there may be some disagreements. And yes, there will be times where we will all question what we are doing. But, I just think of those few guys that got together 52 years ago, sat around a plastic table on fold out chairs, and thought “what if...” Tony Caputo President, Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia ■
Controller Johanna Kuker, CGA johanna@rcabc.org Receptionist/Administrative Assistant Adele LaRiviere roofing@rcabc.org 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 Safety & 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
BC Place roof can’t close in the rain
Steep slope roofers face more danger The workplace injury rate for roofing far exceeds the average provincial injury rate for all industries in BC, according to Diana Miles, WorkSafeBC’s vice-president of Worker and Employer Services. In 2008 (the last year full numbers are available) the overall injury rate for all industries was 2.96 per 100 person years of employment. By comparison, steep slope roofing saw an average injury rate of 11.5 for the same year and low slope roofing with an average injury rate of 8.5. In 2008, there were 280 accepted claims in steep slope roofing – costing more than $6.2 million and resulting in 18,448 lost workdays. In low slope roofing, the 243 accepted claims in 2008 resulted in a cost of more than $3.4 million and 10,337 days lost. Falls typically comprise the largest portion of the injury claims and costs to the industry. Inadequate fall protection was most often most often the cause of falls. WorkSafeBC information materials aimed at eliminating workplace accidents in roofing and construction can be found on the “construction portal’ at www.WorkSafeBC.com. ■
4
VANCOUVER – The new $458 million retractable roof for BC Place Stadium, being built by a Quebec firm, won’t be able to close when it is raining, or during high winds. Officials say the retractable roof shouldn’t be closed while it’s raining because of possible issues with water pooling. As the roof closes, the fabric creates folds that will become gathered in the centre of the stadium. Officials say the weight of water in the folds could potentially create a tear in the roof. “You can’t have those folds collect water, especially with the size of the roof,” said BC Place Stadium general manager Howard Crosley. PavCo signed a fixedpriced contract for the new retractable roof with The cable-supported near-$500 million retractable roof for BC Place Stadium – shown under construction – PCL Constructors Canada will not be able to close in wet, windy weather. Photo: Larry O’Brien Inc. A Quebec-based company, Structal-Heavy Steel Construction (Structal), then won the contract for the construction of the world’s largest cable-supported retractable roof from PCL. Crosley said BC Place doesn’t anticipate having to cancel any sporting games because of weather. He added that the decision whether the roof will be open or closed during games will be made far in advance: but this may prove tricky in Vancouver’s fickle weather. The potential of leaks does not bother managers of the BC Home & Design Show – one of Vancouver’s largest trade shows. A spokesperson said the show is scheduled to return to BC Place stadium in the fall of 2011. “We are confident that PavCo will deliver a leak-free roof,” she said. Since 1983, BC Place has averaged more than 200 event-days a year, generating $58 million annually. The government says the new retractable roof will add an additional 41 event-days per year. The roof is tentatively scheduled for completion by summer 2011, in time for the Grey Cup and for the Vancouver Whitecaps’ first season as a Major League Soccer franchise. ■
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ROOFING BC
RCABC’s incoming EVP Ivan van Spronsen receiving the Safety Innovation award from VRCA. Presenting the award is Don Schouten, Manager Industry and Labour Services – Construction for WorkSafeBC
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 Editor Frank O’Brien Consulting Editor Brian Hofler, M.Ed. E-mail: executivevp@rcabc.org Phone: 604-882-9734
Construction Workplace Health and Safety award Woodward’s project captured first Landmark award. Photos: VRCA
RCABC takes top safety award
Circulation Barbara Porth Phone: 604-882-9734 E-mail: bporth@rcabc.org
The Roofing Contractors Association of BC has been awarded the Construction Workplace Health and Safety Innovation award, sponsored by WorkSafeBC in the annual Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) Awards of Excellence. The 22nd annual VRCA awards dinner honoured the best in regional construction, and many of the winners included projects roofed by RCABC members. The association’s Gold Awards went to 10 winners for their use of special techniques and procedures, new materials and
Contributing Writers: Ruben Garcia Ian Moes Tony Caputo Mike McKenna
ROOFING BC
Production/Art Director and Advertising Associate Paddy Tennant Phone: 604-507-2162 E-mail: misspaddy@telus.net
additional artistic or innovative features on their projects. The innovative procedure implemented by the RCABC is the requirement
that all its active members be COR certified by July 1, 2011. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a prestigious Landmark Award to ITC Construction Group for the Woodward’s Redevelopment project. This is only the third time in the history of the Awards program that a Landmark Award has been presented. “The Woodward’s Redevelopment is a leading project in Vancouver and British Columbia,” said Keith Sashaw, VRCA President. Sashaw added the Woodward’s
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Redevelopment is just one of many examples of world-class projects around BC built by VRCA members. The total value of projects in this year’s competition represented over $1.8 billion of construction throughout BC – just slightly less than last year’s total. This year’s General Contractor over $40 million Award winner was also ITC Construction Group for its work on the Millennium Water project. Keith Panel Systems won Gold Awards for work on the same project. ■
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
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Jack Lam: sold at age 6 in China, he now leads a successful metal contracting firm. “Canada is a great, great country, a country of wealth and opportunity.” Photo: Richard Lam
LAM continued from page 1
For the Rise, Lam used RCABCapproved one-inch standing seam, 22-guage Cascadia Weather Zinc. “This is a curved standing seam sloping roof and also used in the horizontal wall panel application,” he explained, which gave “a very sharp and unique” look. At the Cloverdale Recreation Centre, another of Lam’s recent projects, he opted for Berridge TPanel for the curved metal roof (with the RGC Guarantee) and the wall cladding application.
Lam also landed a $5 million contract to provide Swiss Pearl cement wall panels and metal roofing for the Olympic Village project on Vancouver’s False Creek; and a $1.2 million order for cement panels and metal roofing for the Vancouver Police Department’s new building (both supplied by Muralis Architectural of North Vancouver.) At Kent Institution in the Fraser Valley, Lam supplied $620,000 worth of its unique exclusive Lam Metal’s mini-reveal with an eightinch face metal wall cladding.
The Rise, a Lam project in Vancouver, captured an award of excellence this year from the Urban Development Institute. Photo: UDI
Custom metal working From their own metal shop – part of the company’s 7,000-squarefoot headquarters on Buller Avenue in Burnaby – Lam Metal produces custom metal panels and a wide variety of standard lines. These include 7/8-inch hat bar from 24 gauge to 18 gauge; a new 1-1/2 inch x 4-1/2-inch rib centers deep round corrugated for roof and wall cladding; and a new Spectrum Linear Clad that is 1-1/2” x 2-1/2” symmetrical profile that looks like a louver. They also have a 20-foot computerized brake that has proven to be very useful. Lam Metal is primarily a metal wall and metal roof cladding contractor – the company’s flat membrane roof contracts are mostly channeled through another RCABC 6
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active member, Pacific Restorations (1994) Ltd., owned by Jack’s son Jeffery.
Membership advantages A member of RCABC for six years, Lam heaped praise on the RCABC training facilities. “The new Architectural Sheet Metal Training Centre is the only place qualified to do training for our line of work,” he said, noting that metal roofing and metal wall cladding is “the material of the future.” Membership in the RCABC has many benefits, Lam said, such as providing low-cost and specific insurance, as well as improving industry standards and “referring many customers to us over the years.” The RCABC reputation for quality will pay off in the future, he said. As
an example, he noted that the recent Supreme Court of Canada rulings on “leaky condos” means that general contractors’ insurance companies may have to pay for faulty work done by their subcontractors. “Now general contractors will be more selective of their sub-trades to avoid getting themselves in a legal situation.” Today, Jack still works 12 hour days and his idea of a holiday is swimming at the local community pool with his wife and twin pre-teen sons. He thinks back more than 50 years to when he was a boy starving and scared in the wake of a bloody revolution. “I have a passion for life,” he said, urging other Canadians to realize what they have and “be happy, smile every day.” ■ ROOFING BC
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Asbestos can be inhaled by workers and ca
By Mike M
If your workers are on the job at an older building, help make sure they’re being properly protected against the deadly mineral known as asbestos. When its invisible fibers are released into the air, asbestos can be inhaled by unsuspecting workers and cause serious health problems – or death – years after exposure. Workers, many of them in the construction industry, have died from asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis. For decades, asbestos was used everywhere in construction because of its strength, heat resistance and soundproofing properties. Asbestos was so integral to the building process that it was added to many common materials, including flooring, cement, ceilings, plaster, vermiculite, caulking, roofing felt and sheets as well as pipe and electrical insulation. Though it is no longer used in construction, asbestos continues to cast its deadly shadow well into the present. In the last decade, asbestos has killed more workers in BC than any other type of workplace injury or disease. Because asbestos attacks slowly, many who have died were older or retired workers. It’s expected that asbestos will remain a top killer for the next several years as more workers get sick and die from decadesold exposures.
Dangerous when disturbed Asbestos only becomes dangerous when disturbed, like when handled,
drilled or sanded dur Once released, asbes fibers can stay suspe hours, ready to be br unaware and unprote the fibers then lodge respiratory system, c damage to lung tissu asbestos-related dise until years later. Today’s workers a being exposed to asb demolition, salvage o projects. As part of th industry, sheet metal are at a higher risk o are more likely to com asbestos while on the
Built before 1990 Because structures are likely to contain a beforehand if the job a site survey specifica materials like asbesto the hazard assessmen qualified professiona laboratory results wil workers are at risk o If asbestos is pres properly removed be can begin. Because a complex and hazardo to the professionals w training, experience, do the job well and s Precautions Respirators and se
Full protection suits are required when removing asbestos. Photo: Borland Inc.
Spraying amended water (water mix
Above: Removing asbestos through the roof requires professionals. Photo: Sacbee Below: Chrysotile Asbestos (100x) views from a microscope. Photos: On Side Restoration
8
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ROOFING BC
ause serious health problems – even death
McKenna
ring renovations. tos’ microscopic ended in the air for reathed in by the ected. Once inhaled, themselves into the ausing irreversible ue with symptoms of eases not appearing
are still at risk of bestos during or renovation he construction and HVAC workers of exposure as they me into contact with e job.
s built before 1990 asbestos, know bsite has undergone ally for hazardous os. Make sure that nt is done by a l as only proper ll determine if of exposure. ent, it must be efore any other work sbestos removal is a ous process, leave it who have the proper and equipment to safely.
ecured work zones
are not the only elements required to do the job right. Without proper work procedures and tools like special protective garments or a decontamination room, asbestos removal could hurt more than just those doing the work. Not only can asbestos fibers move into another work area if not properly contained, but also they can be transported to other locations by attaching onto clothing. Later, the fibers detach and re-circulate in the air of the new environment – like the office or at home. Before any work starts, written confirmation should be received to show that the asbestos has been properly removed from the site and disposed of. If any asbestos is found while a job is taking place – even after the removal process, stop work immediately to avoid risking further exposure. Helping to ensure workers don’t suffer from the devastating effects of an asbestos-related occupational disease is worth the extra time required for proper assessment or asbestos removal. Unlike most on-the-job accidents, asbestos is an invisible danger with effects that don’t become apparent until much later – sometimes long after workers have retired from their careers. For more information, additional resources, or asbestos-specific requirements found in the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, visit www.WorkSafeBC.com.
ed with a surfactant), a means of controlling potential fiber release to reduce risk to workers
Mike McKenna is Executive Director of the BC Construction Safety Alliance
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 ROOFING BC
WINTER 2010
10:36 AM 9
PM backs solar roof innovations
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The federal government has been providing funding, including startup money, for solar roof panel manufacturers, particularly in Ontario and Quebec. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This program will provide startup businesses with the tools they need to attract investment capital, get new products to market and generate wealth and jobs,â&#x20AC;? Prime Minister Stephen Harper said after touring the Woodbridge, Ontario plant of SolGate Inc. The Investing in Business Innovation program is based on direct feedback from business leaders, academics and community leaders who suggested that Ottawa take action to address funding challenges for emerging businesses. It is supported through FedDev
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Prime Minister Stephen Harper tours SolGate Inc. which manufactures solar panels, with owner Vadim Lyubchenko in Woodbridge Ontario. Harper has announced the launch of a new business innovation program to back green manufacturers. Photo: PM Office
Ontarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Southern Ontario Development Program and is part of the federal stimulus program.
Roofing leads asphalt demand, despite higher prices NEW YORK, NY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Despite accelerating prices, asphalt roofing will grow faster than the paving sector over the next few years, according to a study by Freedonia, which forecasts that global asphalt demand will rise 2.1 percent annually until at least 2013. The latest spot price for asphalt in BC, in September 2010, pegged the price at $590 per tonne at the Husky plant in Vancouver, and at $610 per tonne at the Husky plant in Prince George. Most western manufacturers of asphalt have stopped offering fixed prices to BC contractors and are offered only posted spot prices. When the move was first made, asphalt prices dropped, but the outlook is for higher prices in 2001, according to Argus Media Asphalt Report. â&#x2013;
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Business Manager Jim Paquette Assistant Business Manager Dan Burroughs Business Representative Greg Mooney Organizer Ken Elworthy
ROOFING BC
RCI Inc.
Consultants elect a straighttalking WesternCanadian president
ADVERTISE IN ROOFING BC! MissPaddy@telus.net
Roofing BC magazine caught up with the first Western Canadian president of the international Roofing Consultants Institute Inc. (RCI) as he was about to board yet another jet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this one to Orlando, Florida. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I take at least six trips a year,â&#x20AC;? said Bob Elsdon, 59, as he prepared to head to the RCI annual convention. Elsdon is now nearly retired â&#x20AC;&#x201C; his Surrey-based Elsdon Consulting has been trimmed to a â&#x20AC;&#x153;one-man operationâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and this has allowed him time to focus on leading the RCI. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, RCI Inc. is an international RCI Inc. president Robert J. Elsdon association of professional Photo: Bob Elsdon consultants, architects and engineers who specialize in the The latter, he said make value Outspoken specification and design of roofing, engineering synonymous with using That is not likely, though, waterproofing and exterior wall the cheapest possible materials and because Elsdon is proving an systems. It has 2,500 members in technology to meet minimum code outspoken president. His article on all 50 U.S. States, Canada, Mexico, standards. green vegetated roofs, to be Africa, Europe, published this U.S. struggling Australia, the His frequent visits to the United â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are two types in January in the Middle East and RCIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s publication States have also opened his eyes to the building industry. the Philippines. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interfaceâ&#x20AC;?, will how fortunate the Canadian Elected this year, Those that want to build undoubtedly construction industry is. He said the Elsdon is only spark U.S. economy is worse than many it right and those who the second controversy on want to save their butt.â&#x20AC;? both sides of the think, noting that many commercial Canadian to property owners are putting off head the RCI and border. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I went even repairing roofs because they the first from Western Canada. out a limb,â&#x20AC;? he admits, but he said canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford it. This has meant less If Elsdon can do for RCI Inc. questions â&#x20AC;&#x153;have to be asked.â&#x20AC;? work and razor-thin margins for what he did for his local chapter of According to Elsdon, the higher consultants. the organization, he will do costs to install If he could wonders. Ten years ago he was the planted roofs, the provide an â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am not looking chapter founder and only member. ongoing to his RCI for a legacy. A good example Today, the Western Canadian maintenance costs members around president is someone the world, Elsdon chapter has 100 members â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one and the trouble quarter of RCIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Canadian with finding and would point to the no one notices.â&#x20AC;? membership â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and is expanding fixing roof leaks RCABC. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a into Alberta. makes green roofs terrific organization,â&#x20AC;? he said, and A member of the RCABC open to scrutiny. He also doubts the singled out the roofing industry technical committee since 1980, claims about the leafy roofs being training, such as the new Elsdon said he is trying to bring a an oxygen source. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That is only Architectural Sheet Metal Training Canadian perspective to the RCI, during the growing period,â&#x20AC;? he said, Centre, and the RCABC Guarantee which is mostly composed of U.S. adding that tree-lined streets, parks Program for special praise. members. and even golf â&#x20AC;&#x153;Members of the One of his goals as president is courses are likely RCABC know that â&#x20AC;&#x153;Members of the to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Canadianizeâ&#x20AC;? RCI manuals and more effective at every job is going RCABC know that education materials, for example boosting urban to be inspected adding metric measurements. every job is going to closely if they want oxygen levels. Elsdon has also placed a greater Elsdon also said be inspected closely the warranty,â&#x20AC;? he emphasis on training and technical that the current said. This means if they want the updates and is helping to expand litigious attitude in most RCABC warranty.â&#x20AC;? North American standards for the construction members routinely construction consultants. He said he industry has proven work to the wants to carry on the work of a benefit to consultants, but he said highest industry standards, he said. former RCI presidents, noting that this is balanced by â&#x20AC;&#x153;value The RCI also offers training â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to when a president leaves, the good engineeringâ&#x20AC;?. retain consultant certification work he started has a tendency to â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are two types in the members must continually upgrade stall. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am not looking for a building industry,â&#x20AC;? he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;those â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and, in BC most of the classes are legacyâ&#x20AC;?, he said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A good president that want to build it right and those offered at the RCABC campus in is someone no one notices.â&#x20AC;? who want to save their butt.â&#x20AC;? Langley, Elsdon said. â&#x2013; ROOFING BC
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Grand opening celebrates “an industry first” Architectural Sheet Metal training campus wows visitors The Roofing Contractors Association of BC’s new $12 million Architectural Sheet Metal Training campus – two years in the planning and months in construction – officially opened October 28 to wow visitors from across the industry and political spectrum. “This is fabulous, an industry first,” said BC Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Rich Coleman as he toured the Langley facility. The campus, Coleman said, provides “practical, hands-on apprenticeship training” that is widely needed in the construction industry. In a room packed with advanced equipment, including $100,000 Schroder bending and cutting machines, Coleman echoed the comments made by Langley Township mayor Rick Green in praising the hard work and commitment that created the campus. The ASM Training Centre is Canada’s only advanced training centre for architectural sheet metal, which is quickly becoming the material of choice on large private and public sector construction projects. And, though the campus officially opened in October, students have been rotating through the centre for nearly a year, explained RCABC out-going president Rod Parker. And more will certainly follow, he said. “I have 150 workers who want this trade ticket,” Parker said. While RCABC Executive Vice President Brian Hofler was quick to credit the RCABC membership for making the training facility possible, incoming EVP Ivan van Spronsen said he knew who led the charge. “This,” van Spronsen said as he toured the high-tech training centre, “this is Brian’s baby. ■ RCABC’s jubilant staff gather outside the Architectural Sheet Metal Training Centre. Over 100 people attended the grand opening on October 28.
CRCA Executive Director John Hill (back to camera) shares a laugh with Paula Webber (CRCA Director – Nova Scotia) and RCABC Guarantee Corp. Technical Manager Jim Watson
Ivan van Spronsen Incoming RCABC EVP Connor Hofler ASM Instructor, RCABC
John Scott Instructor, RCABC
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Monty Klein WellsKlein Consulting Group
Ray Dennis Roy Dennis Roofing
Mike Stewart Roofmart Pacific WINTER 2010
Ross Laing Laing Roofing
Dave Godmaire Convoy Supply ROOFING BC
Rich Coleman, Rod Parker and Rick Green conduct the official ribbon cutting ceremony.
Rod Parker outgoing President of the RCABC
Brian Hofler Executive Vice President of the RCABC
Barbara Porth, Executive Assistant and EVP Brian Hofler
Rich Coleman Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General
Don Utsunomiya Convoy Supply ROOFING BC
Rick Green Mayor of the Township of Langley
Mike Tolhurst IKO Industries
Adrian Krabbendam Homan Roofing Ltd.
Dave Coleman Director of Operations, Construction Industry Training Organization (CITO)
Blair Bennett Soprema WINTER 2010
Dagmar Steetz Steetz Copper Craft
Peter Steetz Steetz Copper Craft
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Enercorp’s Len Coughlin and (now late) Doug Kilpatrick of Convoy Supply check out the newly-printed Fall issue of Roofing BC.
Editor Frank O’Brien and Publisher Michael Siddall of Roofing BC Magazine discussing the next issue
Pat and Barry Ennis of Langley Roofing
RCABC Vice President Laurence Matzek, CRCA Executive Director John Hill and Darren McCallum (Wheat City Roofing, Brandon Manitoba; 1st Vice President, CRCA, enjoying the speakers’ comments
Connor Hofler demonstrates the use of a WUKO Clipper 1020 attached to a 12 volt DeWalt cordless drill
Adele LaRiviere Administrative Assistant, RCABC
Wendy Bancroft It’s About Us Productions
Brian Hulme CJP Architects
Harry Elphick Soprema Canada
Shirley Caldwell, Education & Training Manager, RCABC
Ernesto Sandoval Olympic Roofing Ltd.
ROOFING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
14
WINTER 2010
ROOFING BC
RCABC ASM facility has trusted ally Canadian company sources European hand tools and machinery by Paddy Tennant
The grand opening of RCABC’s Architectural Sheet Metal Training Centre was a memorable event – complete with a catered lunch, photographers, speeches by local VIPs; and attended by the who’swho of Canada’s roofing industry. But, as with most such occasions, there were important people behind the scenes who didn’t “make the headlines.” ASM instructor Connor Hofler, who developed the RCABC version of the program, did not get up to the podium. Instead he spoke privately but enthusiastically about the people who supplied the topquality shop equipment. Conner related his experience: “When doing research for the tools that the new ASM program requires, it became apparent that many of them would have to be imported from European sources. In particular, the WUKO bending tools, which are manufactured in Austria, were at the top of the list of tools to acquire; however, there were few distributers in North America that these tools could be purchased
A variety of tools from two main manufacturers: Stubai and Picard. Both companies are German.
through, and only one name appeared as an authorized retailer in Canada – Steetz Copper Craft Ltd. After looking through the immense selection of tools and machinery that this company could provide, from Stubai hand tools to Schroder brakes, it was clear that Steetz would be essential in acquiring all of the equipment necessary to make this training facility one of the best in North America.” RCABC EVP Brian Hofler contacted Peter and Dagmar Steetz, the owners of Steetz Copper Craft, who were enthusiastic to help in any way they could and eager to meet the people who spoke of a “new” Architectural Sheet Metal program that would train apprentices in modern technologies, while honouring traditional techniques. Peter Steetz arranged to visit the
RCABC Training Facility, driving with his family from Alberta on his own accord, and demonstrated tools and seaming techniques for the ASM Level 2 apprentices. Steetz “captured their attention with his skill and charisma”, says Connor, and after a meeting with Brian it was agreed that Steetz Copper Craft would act as RCABC’s broker in all of its tool and machinery transactions. The Steetz’s normally offer a discount for schools, but they even surpassed Connor’s expectations. Working diligently and explaining RCABC’s cause to various companies across Europe, Peter and Dagmar managed to get educational discounts on all of the tools and equipment RCABC purchased through them – a testament to their good nature and work ethic. Furthermore, says Connor, “the Steetz’s even came out and helped
RCABC safety and risk management supervisor Roger Sové with new Schroder segment hand brakes
set up all of the machinery they helped RCABC acquire without being asked to.” Their willingness to go that extra mile has forged a solid relationship between Steetz Copper Craft and the RCABC. Today, the fully-equipped ASM shop boasts a range of hand tools and machinery that Connor says “most journeypersons in the ASM trade have never seen, let alone used for their intended purposes.” These include several SchroderFasti machines, each with different uses; two hand operated folding machines (model 102), commonly called ‘slip-joint rollers’, which are used for making curved or cylindrical objects; and four boxand-pan brakes, also referred to as ‘finger brakes’. These have removable fingers which allow for small, detailed folds to be made, Connor explains.
“There are also two rotary machines for flanging and swaging. These make small creases and folds for joints and seams. “We also have one 3-metre brake, used for general forming operations; and one 3-metre shear for cutting sheets of material lengthwise.” he says. The new ASM facility will provide invaluable training for BC’s ASM apprentices, and raise the bar for ASM standards in Canada. Connor is grateful for the Steetz’s involvement. “It has been a pleasure getting to know Peter and Dagmar”, he says. “They are dedicated, honest, and more than helpful. Hopefully this relationship will continue well into the future and, if we are lucky, Peter will be able to come and teach traditional copper working techniques to the ASM apprentices in the future.” ■
Master craftsman blends innovation with tradition Peter Steetz was raised in Bavaria, South Germany. He started his apprenticeship as a Architectural Sheet Metal worker in 1986 and became a journeyman in 1989. South Germany is considered the world’s center for the most highly skilled copper craftsmen, who have maintained centuries-old techniques with the industry’s highest standards. These craftsmen have succeeded in producing the most challenging copper roofing projects in the world. Peter feels fortunate to have studied this traditional craft in his homeland, and to bring these skills to Canada. After completing his apprenticeship, Peter worked for a wide variety of companies, gaining invaluable experience and a unique combination of special techniques that allowed him to further refine his skills. From this background, steeped in traditional training and diverse experiences, Peter created Steetz Copper Craft Ltd. Peter and his family chose Canada as their new home after careful consideration of its social, political and economic stability and opportunities, and moved here in January 2004. Peter also recognized that his chosen style of copper craft fit beautifully with architectural trends in Canadian housing. He sees an opportunity to create a renaissance of traditional copper craftsmanship within this contemporary market. Peter’s personal and business goals are reflected in the high quality and unique creations Steetz Copper Craft Ltd. produces. He is determined to keep the rich art, tradition and innovation of Architectural Sheet Metal work alive through his generation and those that follow. ■ ROOFING BC
WINTER 2010
15
Below the membrane Insulation and cover boards impact roof performance By Ruben Garcia
A building’s roofing system is its first line of defense against harsh weather conditions. All components from the roof deck and upwards must work together to deliver a quality, dependable system. While the membrane is the most visible aspect of the roofing system, products installed below affect its strength and endurance. Insulation and cover boards contribute to the overall roof performance and offer individual benefits as well.
Cover boards protect the insulation during the initial application and throughout the life of the roofing system. Photo: Firestone
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Insulation A key component of any roofing system, insulation delivers energy efficiency and savings through its R-value, helping reduce heating and cooling costs. Measured through industry tests, R-value per inch indicates the thermal resistance to heat flow – essentially the product’s insulating effectiveness. High R-values can translate into both short and long-term savings for building owners. A roofing design professional is faced with numerous insulation options, depending on the roofing membrane and the roofing system requirements. Insulation options The various types of rigid board insulation products available for use with a roofing system can be segmented into two categories based on high and low thermal value. The high thermal value product types include expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS) and polyisocyanurate (polyiso) foam insulation. The lower thermal insulation products are mineral fiber, wood fiber and fiberglass. The four most commonly used insulation products for roofing systems are polyiso, perlite, EPS and wood fiber. Originally introduced 30 years ago, rigid polyiso insulation is used today in more than 65 percent of all new commercial roofing applications, according to the National Roofing Contractors Association. Cover boards Cover boards protect the insulation during the initial application and throughout the life of the roofing system. Cover board usage in commercial roofing systems is increasing due to its benefits. During the roofing system application, cover boards guard the insulation from construction traffic. Cover boards throughout a roof’s life span can: • Increase hail and puncture protection. Large hailstones cause significant property damage each year. In hail prone regions, some owners mandate cover boards as added protection for their commercial roofing systems. • Supplement compressive strength. A rigid cover board can prevent damage to the insulation by dispersing the effects of excessive loads, such as heavy snow during winter months. • Enhance code approvals. Combined with quality insulation, cover boards can improve wind uplift performance and help roofing systems achieve better fire resistance. • Maintain the R-value. Roofing systems can lose heat through insulation joints and metal fasteners. As a barrier between the insulation joints and the membrane, cover boards minimize heat loss at these points. • Protect the insulation. During its lifespan on the roof, the roofing system’s exposure to surface temperatures exceeding 180 degrees Fahrenheit is possible. A cover board can be used in conjunction with ballast or light-colored membranes to minimize the heat load on the system. Cover boards are also recommended with polyiso insulation in low-slope roofing systems for added strength and protection. Cover board options Cover boards options include high-density polyiso, glass-mat faced gypsum or mineral fiber boards and are available in thicknesses ranging from 0.25 to 0.75 inches. High-density polyiso cover boards provide excellent moisture resistance and are compatible with a variety of roofing systems. Glass-mat gypsum cover boards feature a treated, high-density gypsum core with fiberglass facer embedded on both sides. The inorganic facer does not support mold growth but can cause skin irritation for roofing professionals installing the cover board. In addition, glass-mat faced gypsum cover boards can be difficult to cut and challenging to install due to their heavy weight. Mineral fiber cover boards are manufactured from a variety of raw materials, including mineral wool, perlite and fiberglass. Wood fiber insulation boards are also commonly used as cover boards in many applications from fully adhered single ply systems to hot applied asphalt products. In choosing the right combination of roofing materials, remember that individual roofing materials must work well together to ensure the integrity of the entire roofing system and maximize the roof’s life cycle. Thinking beyond the roofing membrane and considering the attributes and benefits of insulation and cover board options will contribute to the overall quality and long-term integrity of your next roofing application. ■
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Ruben Garcia is the asphalt and insulation product manager for Firestone Building Products Company, LLC. He has 30 years experience in the roofing industry and holds bachelor and master’s degrees in chemical engineering from New Mexico State University and an MBA from the University of Denver. Garcia can be contacted at 800-428-4442.
WINTER 2010
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LEGAL AFFAIRS
Subcontractor insurance Benchmark ruling forces coverage of negligent subtrades By Ian Moes
The Supreme Court of Canada recently delivered a huge win for general contractors. In a much-anticipated decision, the Supreme Court of Canada held that an insurer did in fact owe a duty to defend a general contractor for claims made as a result of negligent subtrades. After years of being denied coverage for these claims, this decision will surely help general contractors get their swagger back.
The case For several years, Progressive Homes purchased typical commercial general liability (CGL) and umbrella insurance policies from a large insurance company. Through these insurance policies Progressive thought it was protected from lawsuits for damage caused by negligent subtrades. During the 1990’s Progressive was hired to build several residential projects and, as usual, used subcontractors for most of the work. Some of the projects were alleged to be “leaky condos” and the owners sued Progressive. Progressive reported the claim to their insurance company and the insurance company initially defended Progressive. Later, the insurance company deserted Progressive saying the insurance policies did not cover the damage claimed. This was a common “leaky condo” strategy by the insurance company and other insurers at the time due to a lower court decision in the Swagger case which
Ian Moes
found that similar damage was not covered by a similar insurance policy. Progressive sued the insurance company to try and force the insurance company to defend Progressive under its insurance policy.
The issue Are general contractors insured for lawsuits brought against them to recover the costs to repair damage caused to one part of a building by the negligent workmanship of their subcontractors on another part of the project? Generally speaking, contractors cannot insure themselves for their own poor workmanship as insurance policies are not intended to indemnify them for their own poor work. This makes sense. However,
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contactors can generally insure themselves for damage to persons or property that may arise as a result of poor workmanship by a subtrade. For example, if a window installer does a faulty job installing a window and it falls out and harms the building owner or his car, the contractor would usually be covered by insurance if sued for damages (medical costs or car repairs). Similarly, if the same negligent window installation results in water damage to the drywall or the electrical system, it was thought that the contractor would be covered if sued by the owner for damages to fix the drywall/electrical system. For several years, however, this was not the case as a result of the Swagger decision. The reason for this is that CGL insurance policies typically consist of several sections, which specify (a) what types of coverage are provided, (b) specific exclusions to the coverage, and (c) exceptions to the exclusions. In the Progressive case, two key factors in determining whether the general contractor had coverage were: 1. Whether the “property damage” coverage was limited to damage to third-party property (i.e. the window falling out and injuring a person or property), and; 2. Whether the “work performed” exclusions precluded coverage for damage to the insured’s “own work” once it was completed. In Progressive, the insurance company argued that Progressive was being sued for delivering a wholly defective building, not simply for isolated rot and deterioration to parts of the building. They were successful at both the BC Supreme Court and the BC Court of appeal. However, the Supreme Court of Canada rejected these arguments. The court found that on the plain meaning of the words in the insurance policy “property damage” was not
limited to third-party property and the exclusions did not exclude coverage for damage caused by subcontractors or damage to subcontractors’ work. As such, the insurance company’s duty to defend Progressive was triggered. It is important to note, however, that while representing a huge win for general contractors, this decision was the result of the particular wording in Progressive’s insurance policies. While other policies may be different and so generate a different result, the general principles set out in this case set a good framework for insisting on coverage.
Lessons learned What this decision means for general contractors is that with an appropriate insurance policy, they will have coverage if sued due to a subcontractor’s negligent work that causes damage to another part of the building. In order to better ensure this, it is important that general contractors: • Understand their insurance policy. When is the last time you read your insurance policy or had it thoroughly explained to you?; • Promptly make insurance claims unless they are certain they are not covered (based on independent advice, not that of the insurance company); • Do not simply accept an insurance company denial of coverage without careful review; • Ensure that their subcontractors have and will maintain adequate insurance to cover negligently performed work as additional protection. ■ Ian Moes is a lawyer who practices construction law with the law firm of Kuhn & Company. It is only intended as a guide and it is important to get legal advice for specific situations. If you have questions or comments about this case or other construction law matters, contact him at 604-682-8868.
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VICTORIA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; BCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harmonized Sales Tax may not last long enough to survive a province-wide referendum planned for next September. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because, following the resignation of Premier Gordon Campbell, a new premier may kill the tax to win an election. The 12 percent HST is opposed by 85 percent of the provincial population, according to polls. The tax is backed, however, by major business organizations, including the Roofing Contractors Association of BC. Campbell had said he would scrap the controversial tax if that were how a majority of British Columbians vote in the referendum set for September 24, 2011. Officials said the referendum â&#x20AC;&#x201D; technically, an initiative vote Bill Vander Zalm â&#x20AC;&#x201D; could cost as much as $30 million if British Columbians are asked to cast ballots, and about $12 million if the process is conducted by mail. Among the government ministers gunning for the Premierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office are Education Minister George Abbott, Attorney General Mike de Jong, Health Minister Kevin Falcon and
Economic and Skills Development Minister Moira Stillwell. Abbott, who has announced he will run, suggested that the HST referendum could be moved forward, perhaps June of 2011. But HST critic Bill Vander Zalm said a new premier may consider nixing the tax all together. â&#x2013;
CRCA issues chemical resistance bulletin The Canadian Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) recently released a new Technical Bulletin, Volume 45A, Chemical Resistance of Roofing Asphalt. The bulletin includes 25 pages of chemical resistance tables that may be downloaded from CRCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at www.roofingcanada.com. Asphalt is now obtained as a residue of the distillation of petroleum crude oil. As such, it is the highest molecular weight fraction of petroleum. Asphalts are very complex oil mixtures that can be separated into four fractions, namely the saturates, the aromatics, the resins and the asphaltenes, each fraction being a mixture in its own. The chemical composition of asphalt and its fractions vary with the source and
the refining of the crude oil. This composition governs asphalt properties, including ease of oxidation, miscibility with polymers and durability, amongst others. Roofing asphalt is considered to have good resistance to a wide variety of chemicals and compounds. However, most of the information regarding chemical resistance has been empirically derived. It is generally accepted that: 1. Resistance to chemical attack increases with the hardness (measured by penetration) of the asphalt; and 2. Chemical resistance decreases with time, temperature and the concentration of the chemical. The tables included in this Technical Bulletin are a compilation of data from the Shell Bitumen Industrial Handbook (Shell Bitumen UK). It provides some information on the resistance of asphalt to various chemicals. Two asphalts may not have the exact same resistance to a given chemical. One would not normally encounter most of these substances in the roofing environment, particularly at the concentrations and at the temperatures listed in the tables. Notwithstanding, this bulletin provides guidelines regarding the chemical resistance of an asphalt based roof cover. Final selection of the roofing system should be based on anticipated service conditions in consultation with the manufacturer or supplier, the CRCA advises. â&#x2013;
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Artist rendering shows tower project by Reliance Holdings/Pattison Group as seen by 2013 from Burrard Bridge. Photo: Reliance Holdings
For the first time this decade, plans are in the works for at least three large new office towers in downtown Vancouver, with the opportunity for contracts for RCABC members over the next three to four years. With Vancouver’s Class AAA-level office space at a vacancy rate of 4.4 percent – among the lowest in Canada – developers apparently feel that there is a window of opportunity. It takes from two to three years to finish a new tower. The downtown market could probably absorb something in the neighbourhood of two, possibly three office towers in the 700,000 to a 1 million square feet range because they won’t all be done at the same time, CB Richard Ellis executive vice-president Jim Szabo told a November meeting of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties. The City of Vancouver is now checking over or anticipating proposals for six tower sites around the downtown core, including: • 520 West Georgia Street (500,000 square feet) by Westbank Projects Corp.; • 745 Thurlow Street (380,000 square feet) by Bentall Capital; • 800 Griffiths Way (240,000 square feet) by Aquilini Investment Group; • 400-block West Georgia Street (480,000 square feet) by Austeville Properties Ltd.; • 1000-block West Hastings (260,000 square feet) by Oxford Properties Group; • 1200-block Burrard Street (190,000 square feet) by Reliance Holdings and the Pattison Group. The office construction is centered downtown, because major Metro suburbs have higher vacancy rates, some in the 12 percent range, according to NAOIP. ■
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View from the top: The Erickson tower by Concord Pacific Developments
The Rise, roofed in metal and green vegetation by Lam Metal Contracting Ltd. was named Best Mixed Use project. Photos: UDI
Green-roofed projects share awards When the Urban Development Institute, Pacific Region handed out the 2010 Awards of Excellence on November 24, green-roofed commercial and residential projects shared the winners’ circle. These include the Alto residential project by Anthem Property (sporting a vegetated roof on its downtown project), which took the award for Best Urban Infill (Property Re-use) project. The Erickson tower by Concord Pacific Developments captured the award for Best High-Rise Residential (11 storeys or more having a single main entrance). The Vancouver “twisted” tower sports a series of green roofs and roof planters. The Rise, which was roofed – including a green roof – by RCABC member Lam Metal Contracting Ltd., for Grosvenor America took the award for Best Mixed Use project. Other winners include: • Best Industrial: Brewers Distribution facility by the Beedie Group; • Best Commercial/Office: Discovery Green, Burnaby, by Morguard Investments; • Best Recreation: Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa, by Ocean Place Holdings; • Best of the Okanagan: Mode project by Mission Group Properties. ■
Looking up: The ‘twisted” Erickson tower in Vancouver by Concord Pacific includes a series of green roofs.
Alto by Anthem Properties, Vancouver, features a vegetated roof.
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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
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Housing starts to see modest rise in 2011 VANCOUVER – Housing starts in British Columbia will remain constant then gradually rise in 2011 according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). “Builders are expected to begin construction on more new homes next year in response to steady housing demand,” said Carol Frketich, CMHC’s BC regional economist. CMHC is forecasting fewer than 26,000 total starts for 2011, slightly below the 10-year average. “Favourable mortgage interest rates, job growth and strong migration flows will support housing demand into the new year.” Most of the housing starts are expected to be multiple-family projects. ■ WINTER 2010
ROOFING BC
Green roof takes landscape award Para Scape Landscaping Inc. took an Award of Excellence from the BC Landscape and Nursery Association for its maintenance work on a Yaletown condo tower. The project includes a complicated series of upper rooftop decks at various elevations which require sophisticated use of multiple extension ladders for access and fall protection to ensure safe work practice. Aerial view of the collapsed Metrodome roof. Photo: Carlos Gonzalez, Minneapolis Star Tribune
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Interior view of the Metrodome roof that ripped and deflated after a snow storm. Photo: Pioneer Press: John Doman
A major winter storm dumped nearly two feet of snow on Minneapolis on December 11. The snow accumulated on the 9.5-acre Metrodome roof, which then tore in three places early the next morning. Dean Johnson, a member of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents, speaking of the Dome’s roof, said “Anything that is 28 years old begins to have some maintenance issues.” The workers who attempted to remove snow from the Metrodome roof early Sunday morning before several panels collapsed are paid 21/2 times their regular hourly wage when they’re on the roof. “I used to think when I started that maybe that was too much,” said Bill Lester, who manages the Dome. “Then once I went up there myself, there’s no question that it’s not too much.” ■
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RCABC’s first ASM graduating class The RCABC’s first graduating class of Architectural Sheet Metal sat for their government exam on Friday December 10. Much to the satisfaction (and credit) of instructor Connor Hofler (far left), all the students passed. ROOFING BC
WINTER 2010
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New Vancouver towers planned
Pipe dreams in Major Football legend Joe Projects inventory Theismann to be keynote speaker
$500 million, three-tower project planned for downtown Vancouver by Jim Pattison Developments and Reliance Properties. Photo: Jim Pattison Development
VICTORIA – While the inventory of major projects from the provincial government shows record-breaking numbers, there are some planned projects that likely will not proceed or have DALLAS, TX – Legendary Super Bowl champion quarterback already been nixed. Joe Theismann will present the keynote address, “Game Plan These include the $815 million Prosperity gold and copper for Success,” during the 2011 International Roofing Expo, mine near Williams Lake, which failed to achieve federal February 16-18, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las environmental approval this year. The $450 million Jumbo Vegas, Nevada USA. Glacier Resort is also questionable, as are a $1 billion golf The keynote address will take place on Wednesday resort at Fairmont Hot Springs, a new $250 million morning, February 16, immediately prior to the opening ski village near Invermere and a multi-million of the show. The keynote is sponsored by exhibitor dollar ski hill at Smithers. Dow Building Solutions. The latest Major Projects Inventory shows a In addition to Theismann, the Expo will feature record 931 major construction projects are the full gamut of industry product categories, planned (nearly half of which are in the including gutters, insulation, ladders, coatings & planning process) across the province – triple the adhesives, fasteners, machinery equipment/tools, number in 2001. The estimated value of these metal roofing, modified bitumen, roof/decking projects is $198.3 billion – the highest amount materials, roof pavers, solar, green/eco-friendly, ever recorded. walkways/ballast, shingles, skylights, slate, spray Of the 931 projects in the inventory, however, polyurethane foam, tile, vapour retarders, only 28 have actually started construction, with a ventilation, waterproofing, and more. total value of $3.1 billion. The capital The educational conference will cost of all major projects under feature 43 sessions addressing a construction in BC is estimated at myriad of up-to-date industry $62.8 billion. issues and trends with tracks Since June 2006, all regions designed especially for have experienced increases in roofing contractors, total project numbers, with estimators and consultants. increases of 114 percent in The keynote address is Nechako, 95 percent in the included free of charge in all Cariboo and 80 percent in the registration packages. Northeast. Registration is required and The June edition of the can be made at Major Projects Inventory is www.TheRoofingExpo.com/ available online at attendee. For more www.gov.bc.ca/sted under information call 972-536“Reports and Publications” 6415 or 1-800-684-5761. ■ Joe Theismann on the left-side navigation bar. ■
VANCOUVER – At least four new commercial and residential high-rise towers, worth a total of $1 billion, are planned for Vancouver’s downtown – and work could start as early as next year. Jim Pattison Developments Ltd. and Reliance Properties Ltd. said they have submitted a rezoning application to the City of Vancouver for a proposed $500 million mixed use development. The Burrard Gateway will cover 23 city lots in three towers on Burrard Street and include the highest condo building in the city. As currently proposed, the development consists of three towers of 13, 36 and 48 storeys and a seven-storey podium with a total space of more than 750,000 square feet. The rezoning process will involve public open house meetings, a public hearing at Vancouver City Council and review by the City’s tall building design panel. Meanwhile, Telus Corp. has announced plans to build a 22storey headquarters on West Georgia Street, and a 43-storey residential tower on the same large downtown block. Total value is estimated at $500 million. ■
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VANCOUVER – Total building permit values in the Lower MainlandSouthwest region rose in September from August 2010 while October employment numbers came in slightly below expectations, according to the Vancouver Regional Construction Association. Total building permit values in the Lower Mainland-Southwest region jumped 28 percent in September compared to August, to $775.6 million. Residential permit values rose to $603.5 million, up 30 percent for the month, while the value of non-residential permits climbed 19 percent to $172.1 million. Within the non-residential category, commercial permits saw a 189 percent gain to $139.7 million. “Building permits in September hit their highest monthly level this year and the highest since May 2008,” said Keith Sashaw, president of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association. “September’s hefty 28 percent gain came mainly from the residential sector assisted by substantial gains in private sector activity.” Total building permit values (seasonally adjusted) in the Lower Mainland-Southwest region were up 60 percent to $4.69 billion in the first nine months of 2010 compared to $2.92 billion in the same period last year. The increase is led by a 97 percent gain in residential permits year-todate. Non-residential permits are up nine percent to $1.32 billion. The outlook for 2011 is generally positive, but mixed with the looming decline in public construction, says VRCA. Commercial and industrial construction should post some gains while the residential leads the way. Credit conditions for private non-residential investment spending should also improve in 2011 along with commercial market conditions leading to more private sector investment. ■
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