Roofing BC, Winter 2013 by RCABC

WI NTER 2012-13 IN THIS ISSUE: FEATURES: Quintet: wet and waterproof ....1 Profile: Pacific Waterproofing.. 8 Roofing and the new BC Building Code ..................... 11 Architectural metal “bulb seam” roofing .................12 HST switching back to PST .....17

THE VOICE OF PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTORS

Vol. 9, No. 4 • WINTER 2012-13

ASSOCIATION: President’s message .................. 3 RCABC AGM report ................... 5 Prompt payment lobby............. 7 Training programs require changes........................ 10 INDUSTRY NEWS: Safety blitz may repeat............. 5 Waterproofing: more than the membrane ............................ 6 Underlayment UV warranty doubles ....................... 9 Outlook 2013 .......................... 14 VRCA Awards of Excellence ....15 Vancouver’s green plan .......... 16 BC’s Energy Efficiency Building Strategy.......................16 Green roof demand on rise.....16 Roof moved in one piece ........18 Building permits ramp up.......18 Construction trade shows: Expo, RCI, Buildex ................... 19 Tower design wins award ...... 20 Roofing nailers recalled ......... 20 Copper price rise forecast...... 20 Shop yards worth money........21 NRCA repair manual out ...... 21 CRCA releases spec manual .. 21 COLUMN Legal Affairs: Computers at work – and privacy ................. 22

Artist rendering from W.T. Leung Architects shows the fifth-floor plaza at Quintet in Richmond. The waterproofed plaza features ponds, waterfalls and plantings on top of a rubberized asphalt waterproofing membrane. Photo: W.T. Leung Architects Inc.

Wet and waterproof Quintet complex in Richmond stretches waterproofing challenge By Frank O’Brien

The giant $165 million Quintet project in Richmond, by Canada Sunrise Corporation and being built under the direction of Ledcor Construction, has proved a

challenge for roofing contractor Pacific Waterproofing Ltd. of Burnaby. Quintet will be comprised of five towers and townhomes in downtown Richmond on the Skytrain line. It will also be the future home of Trinity Western University (a private university) and a new 30,000 square foot City of

Richmond Community Centre. The primarily residential development has proved a huge hit with buyers. The first phase, with 295 units and to be completed in 2013, sold out in just two weeks. Some people camped out for two days as they waited to purchase what some see as Richmond’s premier residential development.

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40014608 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:

Roofing Contractors Association of BC 9734 201 Street Langley, BC Canada V1M 3E8

ASM ‘bulb seam’ roofing Gaining popularity in Canada See page 12 Construction of the first phase, which represents two of the projected five 14-16 storey towers, began in April 2011. The second phase of three additional buildings is planned for completion in 2015. The total square footage of the entire complex is 762,000 square feet. QUINTET continued page 4

Trade shows on horizon February and March offer up three events. See page 19

From the President

The evolution of roofing While waiting for a client on the roof of a high rise office tower in downtown Vancouver, I had a few moments to take in the surrounding view of our changing skyline. With the rare sunshine on a winter day, I took the opportunity to reflect on how the roofing industry has changed since some 25 years ago when I was working on the roofs in the summers while attending university. The simple built up roofs of old have transformed into architecturally stunning and intricate roofing systems. As I looked I noticed an abundance of amazing replaced by light colour energy roof top gardens, beautifully saving cool roofs. Organic landscaped roof patios full of teak and stone. Roof decks incorporating membranes have given way to longer lasting inorganic elaborate ponds, pools roofing systems that and terrace decks now ease the stress on our brought purpose to a landfills. Roof gardens once forgotten prime use water collection piece of real estate. It systems to put to use was clear that roofs, the abundant rainwater once a minor item in that previously went the overall architectural straight to the roof design of a building, drains. have now become an As a roofing intricate part of the contractor I was overall design process. Bruce Taylor pleased by what I saw. The vanishing dark asphalt BUR roofs of old have made It made me realize how far the roofing industry has evolved during way to ‘eco-friendly’ systems that this time period. Twenty-five years consider their overall effect on our ago, as a student working on these planet. Dark colour roofs have been

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: Michael@RoofingBC.ca Editor Frank O’Brien E-mail: Frank@RoofingBC.ca Production/Art Director and Advertising Associate Paddy Tennant Phone: 604-507-2162 E-mail: Paddy@RoofingBC.ca Contributing Writers Bruce Taylor Paddy Tennant Circulation Barbara Porth Phone: 604-882-9734 E-mail: bporth@rcabc.org

roofs, it was hard to distinguish one roof from another. Now as I viewed the skyline, every roof was unique in its own way. Like every building, each roof gave its own contribution to the bird’s eye view of the city. The RCABC must be recognized for its part in this progress. Our association has been forefront, providing leadership, education, testing and warranty programs to the roofing sector. Our education facilities are world class, offering training in all aspects of the roofing industry. Our rebranded RoofStar 5 and 10 year warranties provide building owners an unsurpassed protection plan for their investment. The services the RCABC provides its active and associate members are

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unrivaled by other associations. As a member of the RCABC, I am proud of how far our association has come. As a director it is my hope that all of the directors, active and associate members, and the RCABC staff continue to guide the advancement of this truly unique organization as it moves toward the future. In closing I wish to express my gratitude in having the opportunity to serve on the board of directors of this exceptional association. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish all of you a happy and prosperous 2013. Bruce Taylor, President, Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia ■

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.

Executive Vice President Ivan van Spronsen, TQ ivan@rcabc.org Administrative Services Manager Barbara Porth, CAE bporth@rcabc.org Technical Manager Rob Harris, RRO rharris@rcabc.org Safety & Risk Management Supervisor Roger Sové, I.P., PID, Ad.Ed. roger@rcabc.org

Aerial shot shows Phase One of the Quintet project, a phased development that will cover 762,000 square feet when complete. Photos: Levelton Consultants Ltd.

QUINTET cont’d from page 1

The complex anchors around a large green-roofed, water-featured fifth-floor plaza, designed by Vancouver architect W.T. Leung Architects Inc. Ironically, despite the extensive pools and waterfalls and landscaping by Durante Kruek Ltd., this area is considered the waterproofing feature of the Quintet’s roofs. The entire plaza, which includes walking trails, is above the parking garage and placed on a Carlisle CCW-500 hot rubberized asphalt waterproofing membrane that was laid right over the concrete in sequential segments. Richmond is subject to tidal flooding of up to three feet, said Justin Ross, principal of Pacific Waterproofing, who explains that this called for regular pumping during belowgrade construction and “waterproofing the entire structure from below grade to the top of roofs.” A welded system was used below

grade with the tower foundations placed on top. Welding while winter tides were coming in and out “presented quite a challenging situation,” Ross said. Yet, he added, “this is a very well run project with a great team and we have been able to keep ahead of the Ledcor schedule.” The remainder of roofs on Quintet is Soprema two-ply SBS roofing torched onto the decks, according to Ross, who is confident the first phase of construction will complete in the spring of 2013. As of press time, preloading had been finished for the second phase of Quintet with construction to start early next year. The hot rubberized asphalt (56 squares) over the living areas of the project will be covered by a five year RCABC RoofStar waterproofing guarantee. The SBS main roof areas (345 squares) will also carry a five year RoofStar guarantee. ■

Project: Quintet, Richmond Developer: Canada Sunrise Corporation General Contractor: Ledcor Group Roofing Contractor: Pacific Waterproofing Ltd. Consultant: Levelton Consultants Ltd. Architect: W.T. Leung Architects Inc. Landscape Architect: Durante Kruek Ltd Budget: $165 million Total space: 762,000 square feet Completion: First phase, 2013; Second phase, 2015

A waterproof membrane was laid below the feature plaza at the centre of the $165 million Quintet project in Richmond.

Two-ply SBS was used for the main roof portion of the Quintet mixed-used project.

WINTER 2012-13

ROOFING BC

SAFE ROOFING PRACTICES

Roofing safety blitz may repeat in 2013 RCABC EVP Ivan van Spronsen presents Eldon Donald with the Kenneth J. Grant Award

RCABC AGM report RICHMOND – Bruce Taylor of Alpha-Duron Roofing Ltd. (Burnaby) has been elected President of the Roofing Contractors Association of BC for 2013. Taylor replaces outgoing President Laurence Matzek of Bollman Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. (Surrey). Colin Rasmussen of Western Roofing [Master Roofers] Ltd. (Kamloops) was named Vice President; and Alex Goldie of Admiral Roofing Ltd. (Prince George) was elected Secretary-Treasurer. New Directors who were elected at the AGM include Jim Nicholson (Metro Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd., Langley); Neil Rook (Raven Roofing Bruce Taylor Ltd., Surrey); Tom Greenough (Tomtar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd., Kelowna); Enzo Saponaro (Firestone Building Products, Langley); and Michael Stewart (Roofmart Pacific Ltd., Surrey). Retiring Directors include Ray Dennis (Roy Dennis Roofing [2005] Ltd., Richmond); Eldon Donald (Coast Hudson Ltd., Richmond); Ross Laing (Laing Roofing Ltd., Kelowna); Leonard Coughlin (Carlisle SynTech Canada, Surrey) and Ali Nanji, formerly of Convoy Supply, Surrey. The AGM was held at the River Rock Casino Resort on December 8th, where there were also award presentations, including two plaques for Colin Rasmussen 50 years of RCABC membership, going to Western Roofing (Master Roofers) Ltd., Kamloops and Bollman Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. of Surrey. Additional awards were presented to Javen Simon of Javen Simon Roofing of Port Alberni who was named the 2012 Top Roofing Apprentice, while Kevin Witschel of Parker Johnston Industries Ltd., Victoria, was named the 2012 Top ASM (Architectural Sheet Metal) Apprentice in BC. RCABC Executive Vice-President Ivan van Spronsen presented Eldon Donald of Coast Hudson Ltd., Richmond, with the Kenneth J. Alex Goldie Grant Award for ‘outstanding contributions by an RCABC member to further roofing professionalism’. Dan Gregorowich (not pictured) of Surrey-based Transwest Roofing Ltd. was also honoured for ‘outstanding support of education and training in the roofing industry’. ■

VICTORIA – WorkSafeBC is considering a repeat of its Stay On Top roofing inspection blitz after inspectors wrote up more than 500 infractions in a five-month campaign that ended November 3. The Stay on Top campaign sent inspectors out to check single-family wood-frame houses under construction. “We leveraged the idea of the police CounterAttack campaigns,” said Gary McComb, WorkSafeBC Photo: WorkSafeBC regional prevention manager for residential construction. “We went to sitting in the truck. By the end of the first week, we’d have roofers where the problem was, warned yelling as we drove by, ‘Look, I’m people we were coming, and gave them the opportunity to do the right tied off.’” There was no shortage of thing.” The Stay On Top campaign began infractions. By September 10, safety officers had written 503 orders, June 25 and was driven by some most for failure to use fall disturbing statistics. Between 2008 protection, and 2010, almost “We don’t mind seeing inadequate 2,000 BC non-compliant supervision and construction companies being made training and workers fell from accountable. It helps improper heights, many level the playing field.” planning. ending with serious Some companies welcomed the injuries. These claims led to an campaign right from the start. average of 166 days of lost work RCABC member Parker Johnston time and cost an average of Industries Ltd. of Victoria is among $44,518 per claim, according to those that have worked hard to WorkSafeBC. meet health and safety regulations. During the blitz, occupational “As far as Parker Johnston is safety officers checked for proper fall prevention measures and secure concerned, we don’t mind seeing non-compliant companies being walkways and ladders, as well as made accountable. It helps level the proper planning and supervision. playing field,” said company When they found infractions they stopped the work, wrote orders and occupational safety manager Jay Beddows. RCABC EVP Ivan van imposed fines. Conceding that inspectors initially Spronsen adds that all RCABC faced hostile or indifferent attitudes, members are required to have COR McComb said he noticed acceptance certification, which indicates a as the blitz rolled on, “When we first concerted and effective OHS program is in place. started we found lots of infractions: Don Schouten, Construction shoddy access to sites, no fall Manager at WorkSafeBC in protection systems in place, or if Richmond, said it was framers who there were, the gear would be

are more often in violation because they haven’t had the education roofers have. He was surprised at the prevalence of nail gun injuries. “This was a real eye opener for me,” Schouten said. “These workers get a nail through the hand and don’t report it. They bandage it up and carry on, even though they need to be reporting it right away.” During the Stay On Top campaign, safety officers did more than write orders when infractions were found. Often, everyone would be pulled down from the roof so gear could be checked and questions asked. “This gets information directly to the workers on the front lines, those most at risk of falling,” explained Victoria-based WorkSafeBC senior regional officer Ron Judd. If a company did not have a safety plan in place, WorkSafeBC would help create one. WorkSafeBC is considering repeating the Stay On Top campaign in 2013. Depending on the findings from the first blitz, the new campaign might be a little different, McComb said. But, he added, the end is the same: to make sure BC construction workers go home safely at the end of the day. ■

Your official magazine, reaching key roofing professionals and specifiers throughout British Columbia

Javen Simon of Javen Simon Roofing receives the award for Top Roofing Apprentice from Shirley Caldwell, Education & Training Manager, RCABC Educational Foundation ROOFING BC

Kevin Witschel of Parker Johnston Industries is presented with the 2012 award for Top Architectural Sheet Metal Apprentice by Shirley Caldwell

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Waterproofing: more than the membrane

ADCO Roofing Products’ Millennium Lockin’ Pocket inter-locking flashing system can be used to seal protrusions. Photo: ADCO Roofing Products

The fall and – so far – this winter in BC has been one of the wettest on record, highlighting the importance of waterproofing of roofs. And, while most commercial waterproofing is assured through the use of waterproof membranes, like 2 ply SBS modified bitumen, or EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) for single-ply applications, attention must also be paid to sealing penetrations and, increasingly, sealing of vegetated (green) roofs. There is also the challenge of waterproofing in cold weather, where some sealants do not perform well. In answer to this Henry Company, a 25-year Associate Member of the RCABC, has developed its Blueskin Roof Low Temp Roofing Underlayment, which the company claims can ensure watertight installations in cold weather. “Henry knows how to build products for the cold weather,” said Chris Brink, senior vicepresident of product management and marketing. “This product allows our customers to continue to finish jobs even when the temperature falls below recommended installation temperatures for other roofing underlayments, ensuring that a successful, water tight installation occurs every time.” Blueskin Roof Low Temp Roofing Underlayment is designed to be applied at temperatures above 14°F (-10°C), whereas most competitive products recommend the ambient temperature be above 40°F (5°C) for proper application. With traditional roof underlayments, poor adhesion in cold temperatures can lead to incomplete installation of the membrane, and increase the

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chance that a watertight seal is not achieved across the roofing surface, Brink explained. There are a huge variety of building and roofing sealants available. Each one is designed for a specific application and should be used accordingly. For a roofing sealant to fulfill its purpose, it is important it bonds adequately with the substrate. The correct sealant must be used to ensure full adhesion. For instance, some sealants are not compatible and will not bond to bitumen products. The most commonly used silicone for roofing situations is room temperature vulcanizing silicone. This type of sealant reacts with the moisture in the air to cure. On vegetated green roofs, it is the underlying membrane that makes all the difference, especially when there are plenty of plants that require watering. In many cases, a hot rubberized asphalt membrane is used, along with sealants and custom flashing. Sometimes it is not sealants but hardware that makes a difference in waterproofing. An example is a new product from ADCO Roofing Products, the Millennium Lockin’ Pocket inter-locking flashing system. The system can make roof penetrations watertight in less than an hour, the company claims. The system which comes in a variety of formations including the professional-level ‘Hurricane Force’ universal sealer, uses inter-locking pockets and two cartridges of Millennium LPS Sealant are used to seal around penetrations and to bond the pocket to the surface of the membrane. It is to be used when conventional flashing around protrusions is not possible or economical. ■

ROOFING BC

RCABC joins push for prompt payment law A broad front of BC trade contractor associations, including the Roofing Contractors Association of BC (RCABC) are working to lobby the BC government for prompt-payment legislation, joining contractor groups in Ontario and Alberta that are pushing for parallel regulations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are really waiting for the Ontario legislation,â&#x20AC;? said Bill McEwen, executive director of the Canadian Masonry Contractors Association, following a meeting January 17 at the office of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA). Ivan van Spronsen, executive vicepresident of the RCABC, and representatives of other contractor groups attended the meeting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a fairness issue,â&#x20AC;? van Spronsen commented, noting that BC roofing contractors are often obligated to pay their suppliers quickly and the workers â&#x20AC;&#x153;immediatelyâ&#x20AC;? but then find themselves waiting â&#x20AC;&#x153;45, 60, even 120 daysâ&#x20AC;? for payment. Ontario trades, through the Council of Ontario Construction Associations (COCA) and the National Trade Contractors Coalition of Canada (NTCCC) are spearheading the Ontario lobby. Because the construction industry does not operate with well defined guidelines of timelines for payment for services rendered, many contractors are resigned to â&#x20AC;&#x153;financingâ&#x20AC;? their projects until they are paid, or in a worst case scenario are left without payment altogether, says van Spronsen. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The message the construction industry is sending with this initiative is that the long-accepted practice of late payment for work completed will no longer be tolerated. Many jurisdictions have already adopted prompt payment protocols as the terms and conditions for doing business, including the UK, EU and many American statesâ&#x20AC;?, according to COCA. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is not primarily a problem associated with general contractors not being paid by owners, but general contractors not paying subcontractors for services delivered, â&#x20AC;&#x153; the NTCCC explained in a release. McEwen said a particular flashpoint is new wording â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;paid when paid, pay if paidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that is cropping up in contracts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In many cases the contractor doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know if the general contractor has been paid or if there is an issue with the project,â&#x20AC;? van Spronsen said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a good way to do business.â&#x20AC;? It is hoped that Ontario legislation, once passed, could be used as a template in BC, van Spronsen said. The next meeting on the prompt-payment legislation lobby will be held February 7 at the VRCA offices, 3636 East 4th Avenue, Vancouver. â&#x2013;

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Profile

Albert and the U.S. The U.S. experience included facing a “horrible” downturn since 2008, Ross said, but it has also taught the company how to survive tough times. “The strong survive,” said the 44year old company president. “You ride it out and have your resources ready at the right time.” Diversification is also important, he said, seen in the wide range of businesses that now anchor Pacific Waterproofing. The company distributes sealants and other waterproofing materials and has a subsidiary hardwood company that specializes in sustainable and reclaimed hardwoods. “I could get you the floor from Frank Sinatra’s house,” Ross said, “or wood from the Kentucky Derby”. Pacific Waterproofing’s roofing division is skewed towards multifamily residential projects, dating partly from early business success with the Bosa Group, which went on to become one of BC’s largest home builders. Pacific Waterproofing, in fact, is now roofing Bosa projects in both Seattle and San Francisco. The company also works with prolific Vancouver developer Concord Pacific. Ross has a simple formula for his company’s success. “You stand behind what you put down,” he said. A member of the RCABC for four years, Ross said Pacific Waterproofing joined the a waterproofing company into a Association because he wanted to corporate contender. expand the company’s work with Then, in 1968, the family moved other roofing systems, such as to British Columbia where Justin’s architectural sheet metal, and be father soon established able to bid on projects “The strong Pacific Waterproofing survive. You ride it slated for a RoofStar as a leading roofing Guarantee. “We have out and have your and waterproofing done a number of resources ready at company. Joining the metal projects and the right time.” company while still a were able to show the teenager, Justin has since quality of workmanship we can do.” diversified into other fields, Ross said he has few problems expanded the firm’s roofing finding qualified workers for his expertise and opened offices in unionized company. “Good people Calgary, Washington State and seem to find us,” he said. California. What Ross does have problems Today the local work of Pacific with is the fly-by-night contractors Waterproofing is seen atop such who underbid on waterproofing landmark projects as the Shangri La jobs and then cannot deliver. Hotel in downtown Vancouver – the Meanwhile, he noted, credible tallest building in the province; the contractors who know how to do Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel; the the work properly are being lowShaw Tower, numerous bid out of contracts. “We get called condominium towers; most of the in a lot to fix jobs,” he said. Concord Pacific sites at False Creek; While Pacific Waterproofing and both the giant Quintet provides its own warranty on residential complex and River sealants, Ross praised the RCABC’s Green communities in Richmond. RoofStar guarantee for separating Pacific Waterproofing has about the top companies, RCABC 75 workers in the field in members, from the rest of the Vancouver and other staff in the competition.

Pacific Waterproofing The Fairmont Pacific Rim and the Shaw Tower in downtown Vancouver are among the landmark roofing and waterproofing contracts entrusted to Pacific Waterproofing Ltd. of Burnaby By Frank O’Brien

It is not often that a contractor member of the Roofing Contractors Association of BC can trace its heritage to pre-war Italy or across three continents, but such is the case with Pacific Waterproofing Ltd. of Burnaby, according to company president Justin Ross. The company’s roots extend to the small Italian town of Sacile where, like nearby Venice, canals lap against building foundations. The founders of what would later morph into Pacific Waterproofing were experts at waterproofing ancient buildings. After World War II, the Ross family immigrated to Australia where Justin’s father built

Justin Ross, president of Pacific Waterproofing Ltd.

Looking to the future of roofing, Ross sees a migration towards natural, more environmentally friendly materials. “The roofing industry turning to more high-tech is pretty exciting,” Ross said, “and it is important to keep in touch and stay ahead of the game.” He also sees new, installerfriendly polyurethane sealants coming into the market and has spotted a trend towards solar reflective products for roofing materials. “Green roofs are also becoming

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more important,” he said, but added that building owners would be smart to have the green roof contractor also handle all the plantings, instead of relying on a separate landscaper contractor. Ross is “cautiously optimistic” about the future of the roofing industry in both BC and the U.S. Yet, after three generations, and surviving war and recessions, it is likely that Pacific Waterproofing will continue to thrive, despite what economic storms may be on the horizon. ■

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Underlayment UV warranty doubles TITANIUM® PSU-30 Peel & Stick underlayment warranted for up to six months UV exposure InterWrap has announced that as of January 1, 2013 its Titanium PSU30 Premium ice damming and leak protection roofing underlayment will be warranted for up to six months ultraviolet exposure. InterWrap’s R&D department has confirmed completion of extended exposure testing and approval for increasing the UV exposure warranty period from three months to six months. Extended exposure offers roofing contractors more flexibility in project planning, according to the company. PSU-30 gives roofers the ability to dry-in construction projects or tear off re-roof projects and cover the roof deck with PSU30 as a temporary waterproof barrier until the primary roofing can be installed, a spokesman explains. This enables roofers to effectively manage multiple projects without tarps or rushing the project to avoid bad weather. PSU-30’s superior tear strength, unique lap seal system and high strength durable adhesive

offers roofing contractors the assurance that their projects will remain covered and dry. PSU-30 is an advanced, slip resistant synthetic polymer surfaced self-adhered roofing underlayment. According to the company, PSU-30 is the only modified rubberized asphalt peel & stick with a tough, rugged surface and a self sealing lap system. It is designed for 2:12 or greater sloped roof applications subject to the effects of ice damming and wind driven rain. InterWrap claims its Titanium PSU-30 rubberized asphalt delivers a unique combination of both high temperature (240˚F / 115˚C) flow resistance, and low temperature (40˚F /5˚C) deck adhesion ‘All Temp’ performance. InterWrap Titanium has also been listed as an ‘Accepted Material’ when used as an underlayment in RoofStar Guarantee roof systems. InterWrap is a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of extrusion coated woven solutions and diverse multi-layer laminated reinforced plastic substrates. Its facilities are located in North America, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific. ■

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training to the level required to take advantage of the economic opportunities before us.”

“By establishing an additional step in their process to attain employment insurance supports while in school, some seats in apprenticeship training classes are going empty.”

RCABC instructor David Rice oversees a young ACE-IT student

BC training programs require changes VICTORIA – There are 2,503,400 people in BC’s labour force and 2,328,300 were working as of the end of November – a 6.8 percent unemployment rate ranked fourth best among all provinces. BC has generated nearly 30,000 new jobs in the past year, a pace of 80 fulltime positions every day, according to BC Stats. But more could be done to get apprentices into training and on the job, according to the leader of the RCABC training program. Last September the BC government launched a $75 million

skills training program in a bid to link graduates to jobs within the $80 billion in major projects underway across the province. There is a sense of urgency: projects ranging from shipbuilding to natural gas, mining to manufacturing and transportation to commercial/residential development all need workers right now. Since 2006, employment in the mining, oil and gas extraction has surged 24.7 percent and shows no sign of slowing: $48 billion will be invested in liquefied natural gas (LNG) alone between the years

2013 and 2022. The estimated investment for all major projects currently under construction has increased nearly seven fold since 2011 – and skills training is vital to keep these projects on track, said Kevan Evans, CEO of BC’s Industry Training Authority (ITA). “It is really the first time in British Columbia’s history that our economic growth could be stifled by not a shortage of financial capital, but a shortage of human capital,” Evans said, adding the skills training program “takes BC industry

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Improvements urged Yet, according to RCABC Education and Training Manager Shirley Caldwell, the provincial training should and could be made more accessible. “When the BC government launched their skills training program they set up Employment Service Centres across the province to assist unemployed workers to find employment. Although this may work well for unemployed people, it has had a detrimental effect on apprentices attending their technical training. By establishing an additional step in their process to attain employment insurance supports while in school, some seats in apprenticeship training classes are going empty,” Caldwell said. As institutions are only paid for full seats, they may decide to reduce the number of classes they offer in an attempt to ensure full classes. This in turn will impact availability of training classes for apprentices, she explained. Apprentices only attend school

Welder Cathy Minty is among students who have landed good jobs after skills training. Photo: ITA

for a matter of weeks and by extending the time to receive their supports many apprentices cannot afford to attend school and only receive these benefits after they have returned to work, according to Caldwell. “Under the new rules, if an apprentice is between employers when his/her class date arrives they must make an appointment with a case manager at the Employment Service Centre and be approved to attend school. Often it takes too much time to get an appointment and get the approval so it’s too late to attend their training.” Caldwell said the RCABC has brought this matter to the attention of the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training. ■

ROOFING BC

Roofing and the 2012 BC Building Code Changes to earthquake protection will require extra bracing on houses The province of BC’s new Building lateral bracing of small wood frame Code came into effect December 20, buildings in areas of the province but the roofing contractors will see considered most vulnerable to only modest earthquakes, “All roofs in high seismic which includes changes in a Code that puts an Vancouver Island regions must use roof emphasis on sheathing or continuous, and much of the energy saving and southwest diagonal lumber to earthquake mainland. support the roofing.” protection for According to a houses and small buildings (Part 9). guide released by the Homeowner For those contractors going for Protection Office (www.hpo.ca) the building permits, all complete simple way to improve seismic permit applications received by response of a house to an December 19, 2012 are being earthquake is to have adequate full reviewed under the 2006 Code, and height walls sheathed or finished permits applied for on or after with panel walls fastened to the December 20 will be reviewed frame. under the new Code. Permit “Several of these braced wall applications must have been panels installed at key locations complete and submitted before from the foundation to the roof December 20 to qualify under the structure, and located on all exterior 2006 Code. walls of the house, result in a very The new BC Building Code strong structure,” the guide explains. introduces over 800 changes to For houses roofed with concrete building permit and plumbing tile roofs, extra braced wall panels permit requirements. The new Code are required. includes changes that encourage As well, under 9.23.16.1 (1) and energy efficiency and sustainable, 9.23.16.5 (2) of the Code, all green, healthy buildings. It also housing roofs in high seismic includes more stringent seismic regions must use roof sheathing or design requirements for houses, and continuous, diagonal lumber to new requirements for assisted living support the roofing. care housing. Murray Frank of Constructive The seismic changes require Home Solutions says the new Code

For houses roofed with concrete tile roofs, extra braced wall panels are required, according to the 2012 BC Building Code. Photo: Rausa Building Corp.

will introduce much more stringent insulation and air tightness requirements. All new homes will be subject to a door fan test for air tightness. The new Code may also require rainscreen wall construction throughout the province. The 2012 Code is just one step in

the government’s goal to require new homes to consume no more energy than they can produce by 2020 (“net-zero energy” homes). The next two Codes, in 2015 and 2020, are expected to contain significantly more aggressive energy management provisions than we

have seen to date, according to Murray. For specific details about the changes to the BC Building Code, visit the Province of BC at: http://www.bccodes.ca/default.aspx? vid=QPLEGALEZE:bccodes_2012_ view. ■

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Architectural metal “bulb seam” roofing

Low-slope aluminum standing seam with integrate panels and skylights. Metal liner panels and decks provided with the liner profile matching the clip sp of the roof panel, thus saving on installation tim

With 1 billion square feet installed globally this system is gaining ground in Canada By Stephen Teal

While Canadian roofing contractors are well aware of various aspects of architectural metal roofing, few may know much about “bulb seam” roofing. These systems have been used in Europe for over 40 years and are starting to gain ground in Canada and somewhat in the US. While they may be new to most readers, the primary manufacturer of this type of system has over one billion square feet

installed throughout the world. Bulb seam systems are like most products in that success is dependent upon detailing and workmanship, and inasmuch as the roof should be installed by factory-trained and certified technicians. The systems are seeing great success with numerous high-profile projects around the world, including Heathrow Airport, Dubai Airport, the Dubai Mall, and at the 2012 London Olympics, to name a few. When installed by a certified installer according to the manufacturer’s details, a system warranty of up to 40 years is available. Some of these systems have undergone extensive testing, including

The roof sheets can be site-curved to facilitate both convex and concave roof profiles. Panels can be roll-form tapered, elliptical, wave-formed, or “S”-curved; even tapered curved sheets are common. Shown is a curved and tapered complex standing seam project in Melbourne, Australia. Photos: RCI Inc.

available and commonly used, in a ASTM, FM Global, hail testing, low-slope environment, the acoustic performance, and low Uprepainted finish will not usually last value assembly testing. the 40-plus-year life expectancy of the When polyamide halter clips are roof. Hence, there is a trend in the used, additional benefits are realized. industry towards anodized finishes. There is virtually zero thermal bridging, increased ability to Site rolled, even zipped accommodate thermal movement, a Aluminum, like copper and zinc, lower coefficient of friction, and has a long history of durability; improved acoustic performance of the aluminum sheet was used to cover the roof. Halter clips are available in roof on the San Gioacchino Church in various heights in increments of 0.2 Rome in 1887 and is still in excellent inch (5mm) to a maximum of 9-5/8 condition. Aluminum is also very inches (246mm) overall height. The environmentally friendly, being the polyamide clips most abundant will greatly assist “The preference is to site-roll metallic element in with the trend these sheets, allowing for the earth’s crust towards increased and easily recycled virtually unlimited sheet R-values in the with no loss in length. Roof sheets up to newer building physical approximately 650 feet codes. (200 meters) long have being properties. At least Pans are one system can be successfully installed.” available in unzipped and the various widths, from 12 to 20 inches roof panels reinstalled on another (300 to 500mm) and usually two project, should the need arise. seam heights — 2 and 2.5 inches The preference is to site-roll these (50mm and 65mm), allowing for up sheets, allowing for virtually unlimited to 8 inches (200mm) of mineral fiber sheet length. Roof sheets up to insulation without the use of any Z approximately 650 feet (200 meters) bars. Thicker insulation can be used long have being successfully installed. by installing a hat section under the The elimination of end laps by using clips or a layer of high-density continuous sheets avoids the cause of isocyanurate as a base layer. U values many leaks on low-slope metal roofs. as low as 0.9 W/m/K can be achieved Where end laps are unavoidable, such with this insulation combination. as when transitioning from curved Most manufacturers of this type of sheets to straight sheets, the lap system provide copper, aluminum, should be full-welded, creating a zinc, and stainless steel sheet monolithic sheet. Details such as material. Galvanized steel is generally miters should be fully welded, and not used due to potential corrosion roof curbs should also be welded into issues. Approximately 95 percent of the roof sheets. When roof curbs are the roofs installed are in aluminum, installed, if they are not located at or usually mill-finish, embossed material. near the fixed point, a double curb is While prepainted aluminum is readily commonly used. The inner curb WINTER 2012-13

supports the unit, the outer curb flashing waterproofs and moves with the roof panels, and low-density insulation is placed in the cavity between the curbs. A correctly installed roof of this type should have zero fasteners through the pan and no caulking required at any location, including in the seams. If this approach goes against the normal thought process, one manufacturer even has vegetated roof assemblies that can be installed directly over the metal roof. It is doubtful that many manufacturers or contractors would be comfortable installing growing medium and plants on traditional low-slope metal roofs. These roof systems can also accommodate many types of PV panels, walkways, snow guards, etc. without penetrating the roof sheets. Some manufacturers also provide integrated skylight systems. Metal liner panels and decks can be provided with the liner profile matching the clip spacing of the roof panel, thus saving on installation time.

Low cost life cycle While the initial cost of this type of roof assembly may be slightly higher than some other options, including membranes, these systems can be considerably less expensive when life cycle cost is considered. The majority of the installations of these products are low-slope, as low as 2 percent. Several major chains in the U.K. specify these systems for their big-box, low-slope roofs, including Asda, the British arm of Wal-Mart. Bulb seam panels are not limited to low-slope roof applications. ROOFING BC

d solar can be pacing me.

Tapered aluminum standing seam with welded curb details.

Numerous jobs have incorporated the roof sheets transitioning into the wall or curved down to grade. We have seen several applications where these products have been used as both horizontal and vertical wall systems. Curved roof profiles can be achieved by machine curving or letting the aluminum sheets follow a curve naturally. The radius that can naturally bend depends upon the profile, the gauge of the aluminum, and whether it is concave or convex, but typically in the vicinity of 150 feet.

Complex curves The roof sheets can be sitecurved to facilitate both convex and concave roof profiles, down to a radius of 5 feet; or convex-curved by crimping to a minimum radius of 2 foot panels which can be roll-form tapered, elliptical, wave-formed, or “S”-curved; even tapered curved sheets are common. This type of roof sheet can also act as a waterproof substrate to facilitate the installation of exotic materials such as a rain screen over the roof panels without any penetration of the roofing assembly. The rain screen materials may be almost any type of panel, including solar panels, stone slabs, or composite aluminum panels. Installation The vast majority of these roof types are manufactured from aluminum. One of the primary design concerns is making adequate allowance for thermal movement — typically around 1 percent, or double that of a steel sheet. The ROOFING BC

location of the fixed point and the respective stresses on the fixedpoint fasteners should be given careful consideration. The positioning of the fixed point will determine the location and the amount of movement to be taken up in the eave and ridge details. Some attachment clips have limited travel allowance, and care should be taken to ensure that the amount of movement does not exceed the clip design when this type of clip is used. Two-piece clips should also be installed with the sliding portion in the correct position, depending upon installation ambient temperature. Clip alignment is also critical, as clips that are out of design tolerance can create unintended fixed points. One of the major factors in clip alignment issues is the structure being out of specification, creating humps and valleys in the roof. A less common but significant concern is when auxiliary items such as PV panels or snow stops are mounted to the roof using seam clamps. It is imperative that seam clamps not be located near clip locations when one-piece clips are used so that the panels’ thermal movement is not inhibited. Flashing detailing must be reviewed to ensure the flashings are not fixed to the roof sheets except at fixed-point locations. Foot traffic in the pans during construction should be avoided; installers should walk on the ribs. In areas of high traffic, a permanent or temporary grip-strut type walkway might be beneficial. These

aforementioned items and conditions must be assessed by a competent consultant early in the design process and should be reviewed by the system manufacturer.

Low-slope roofing transitioning into wall showing welded detail at transition.

Summary These systems have a long track record of successful installations, some of which are very complex in design, while some are just basic boxes, and some have vegetated cover. The roof profile and building shape are limited only by the imagination of the designer. Solar, vegetated, low-slope or steep-slope — the choice is yours. By utilizing aluminum as the standard material, the life expectancy of the roof is greatly enhanced, resulting in a low life-cycle cost. ■ Stephen Teal, a 30-year roofing and building envelope industry professional, is a technical and green roof specialist with Flynn Canada, Calgary, AB. He is a past president and director of the Alberta Roofing Contractors Association and the Canadian Roofing Contractors Association and is a member of RCI, the Canadian Design Build Institute, Construction Specifications Canada, and the Alberta Building Envelope Council, as well as a past member of Professional Quantity Surveyors. He sits on the Accreditation and Exam Committees for Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and has been accredited as a Green Roof Professional and assisted with development of several green roof courses for GRFC. This article reprinted with permission from RCI, Inc: rci-online.org. WINTER 2012-13

Credit Suisse AG and Swiss RealGroup Canada’s planned 400,000-square-foot tower on West Pender Street: work won’t start for at least a year. Photo: RealGroup Canada

OUTLOOK 2013 British Columbia construction market slow but steady By Dermot Mack

As the BC commercial and residential construction market moves, so does the roofing industry – and the outlook for the next year is for a fairly flat market right across the province. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) and the U.S.-based Urban Land Institute has ranked Vancouver fourth in Canada among the top markets for commercial real estate in 2013, down from second place a year ago. Meanwhile, BC-wide housing starts are expected to see only a modest increase over the next 12 months, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The PWC annual report rates three western cities among the four top-performers for 2013. Here is the report’s rationale: 14

Calgary (1) Survey results show Toronto Growth characterizes Calgary’s taking steps back in all three future; it displaces Toronto as the categories this year. top ranked city for 2013. Investment prospect values fell “Absorption of prime properties has and the city’s rank went from City MultipleChange reached record levels, and rents are first to third among nine family starts from 2012 being pushed due to limited supply,” Canadian markets. Kamloops 250 11% the survey found. This trend will Vancouver (4) Nanaimo 450 0.0% continue in 2013, especially in office Vancouver’s economy has and industrial employment space. sharpened up and will look to Prince George 30 100% Construction will increase in the continue that trend into 2013, Abbotsford 425 30.8% housing and non-residential arenas, but the Emerging Trends Kelowna 450 89% but nowhere near pre-crisis levels. survey shows expected Vancouver 15,200 3.4% Edmonton (2) declines in all three key Victoria 1,150 0.0% Real estate investors predict a commercial categories. good 2013 for Edmonton The investment prospect Source: CMHC 2013 Housing Outlook investment prospects. Edmonton is value for Vancouver declined an example of a secondary market 0.47 points, and the rank proposals for up to 20 new office in search of highdropped from second buildings in Vancouver but, quality real estate to fourth. An “Overbuilt according to industry experts, most investments in strong interviewee notes, Vancouver is flat. economic locations. “Overbuilt Vancouver is of the work will not start until Lots of supply.” 2014. Among the largest is Credit With Edmonton’s flat. Lots of supply.” Suisse AG and Swiss RealGroup growth comes more Development Canada’s planned 400,000-squaredevelopment and non-residential prospects showed similar foot tower on West Pender Street construction dominates the picture. movement-down in value and rank, that is expected to complete in Participants also rank Edmonton as falling from first last year to fifth in 2017. the number one home building area. 2013. Homebuilding prospects also do Toronto (3) Vancouver’s government red tape not look as strong year-over-year, The number one market to watch continues to make it more difficult down from first to sixth in Canadian in 2012, Toronto delivered mixed to develop real estate every year, rankings, according to PWC. results and responses for 2013. the survey heard. There are

Multi-family housing starts in BC, 2013

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Home construction Housing starts in Vancouver’s census metropolitan area (CMA) are forecast to flatten in 2013 after a projected increase in 2012, according to a recent Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) report. “Home builders are expected to maintain a steady level of residential construction, particularly multiple-family projects, in response to stable economic conditions and favourable construction costs,” said Robyn Adamache, CMHC’s senior market analyst. The CMHC Fall 2012 Housing Market Outlook Vancouver/Abbotsford report forecasts 19,000 home starts in the Vancouver CMA for 2012 and 19,100 homes in 2013. The overall province, however, is expected to see a slightly firmer market, with total starts reaching 30,100 units in 2013, up from 26,800 in 2012. At least 19,200 starts in 2013 will be multi-family units, most likely condominiums, CMHC says. ■ ROOFING BC

Capilano Cliff Hanger took the manufacturer and supplier award for Solid Rock Steel Fabricating Co. Ltd. in the annual VRCA awards. Photo: Vancouver Regional Construction Association

Above: The new Surrey City Centre Library earned an award for general contractor Stuart Olson Dominion Construction Ltd. Photo: Vancouver Regional Construction Association

Innovative projects, people capture VRCA awards VANCOUVER – British Columbia’s top construction contractors were honoured at the Vancouver Regional Construction Association’s 24th annual Awards of Excellence gala in October. The association’s Gold Awards went to 13 winners for their use of special techniques and procedures, new materials and additional artistic or innovative features on their projects. “The Gold Award winners are truly leaders in the industry and great examples of world class projects around the province built by VRCA members,” says Keith Sashaw, Vancouver Regional Construction Association President. The total number of entrants and projects considered in this year’s competition was up over last year, rising from 218 entrants and 43 projects in 2011 to 267 entrants and 67 projects in 2012. Over the 24 years the competition has been in place, the value of the projects has grown ROOFING BC

tremendously. The total value of projects considered in this year’s competition represented $2 billion of construction, up 60 percent from last year’s, showing that the 2009 economic downturn could be over with many top quality projects in contention. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Grant McMillan, president of the Council of Construction Associations (COCA), an organization that represents the interests of 16 construction associations in BC with respect to all WorkSafeBC issues. This year’s ‘General Contractor Over $40 Million Award’ winner was Graham Design Builders for its work on the Kelowna and Vernon Hospitals P3 Project. The VanDusen Botanical Garden Visitor Centre project took home two awards – the ‘Chairman’s Trade Award’ to Keith Panel Systems Co. Ltd. and the new ‘Sustainable Construction

Award’ to Ledcor Construction Limited. Among the more innovative award winners was the Capilano Cliffwalk, which earned a manufacturer and supplier award for Solid Rock Steel Fabricating Co. Ltd.; and the Surrey City Centre Library, which earned an award for ‘General Contractor $15 million to $30 million’ for Stuart Olson Dominion Construction Ltd. In addition to the Gold Awards for project specific excellence, awards were also presented to members and individuals for outstanding accomplishments and to recognize innovation and commitment to safety. ‘Member of the Year Award’ went to Scott Construction Group; the ‘Outstanding Woman in Construction Award’ went to Jackie Trach of PCL; and the ‘Construction Workplace Health and Safety Award’ was taken by Pacific Blasting & Demolition. ■ WINTER 2012-13

Vancouver’s new green plan City building bylaw will come in effect this spring or summer By John Scott

The City of Vancouver is finalizing its 2012 Vancouver Building Bylaw, with a launch by late spring or summer, 2013. What’s up for developers and contractors in the year ahead in the City? With an overall mandate to become the greenest city in North America, with all new buildings reaching effective carbon neutrality by 2020, Vancouver is attacking the challenge with a graduated

approach to tougher building regulations, utilizing both their own Building Bylaw (VBBL) and an expanded Green Rezoning Policy that already seeks LEED Gold certification for all major (Part 3) buildings requiring rezoning. The 2012 VBBL itself will unfold higher mandatory standards for 1 and 2 dwelling buildings in terms of higher building and window insulation, higher space and water heating efficiencies, electric car outlets, and improved fireplace combustion rates for wood burning fireplaces. For larger Part 3 buildings, energy efficiency

compliance will be enforced at an even higher level, per ASHRAE 90.1 - 2010 standards, which can be loosely interpreted as a 15 percent increase in efficiency from the previously applied 2007 standard. Through proposed changes to the section of the Building Bylaw that deals with existing buildings, building upgrade permit applications may trigger the application of a modest prescriptive menu of mandatory energy-related improvements as well. Perhaps the most interesting development of all so far is the City’s evolving Green Rezoning Policy, which could ultimately result in another VBBL Edition by 2015 – approximately halfway to its 2020 Carbon Neutral target. For immediate implementation, the

Policy will offer a new option for large projects to adopt a ‘High Performance Building’ standard, measured in terms of its Energy Utilization Index, or EUI. A typical high rise residential building with an EUI of approximately 180± (or 180 KWHrs/m2/year) under the ASHRAE 90.1 - 2010 standard, may have to reduce its index to 162168, for example. As the City pushes toward 2020 though, we may see interim EUI targets by 2015 of perhaps 115 for residential, and 120 for commercial buildings. By 2020, expect targets

to fall below 100 with carbon loads as low as 5 Kg/m2/year, compared to current loads in the order of 20 Kg/m2/year. Gathering current and recent operating data to generate targets is, and will continue to be, a priority for the City. To date, much of the EUI data has been drawn from the United States, where the Energy Star program has compiled operating data for over 2000 buildings. ■ John Scott is a Senior Partner at CEI Architecture. These comments are published through NAIOP Vancouver, where Scott is a Board member.

BC rolls out Energy Efficiency Strategy Key target is for LEED Gold for all new government buildings Courtesy: Andrew Pape-Salmon, Director - Energy Efficiency Branch at BC Ministry of Energy

British Columbia’s Energy Efficient Buildings Strategy (EEBS) has established targets for significant energy and emission reductions in new and existing buildings by the year 2020. It promoted systemic market transformation through the introduction, adoption and eventual regulation of new energy efficient building designs, products and technologies, and ensures that demand-side management programs and government leadership, incentives and regulations lead to permanent changes in the market. A quantitative analysis on current and planned energy efficiency measures indicated that the targeted 20 percent reduction in energy use per household can be met and that the 9 percent reduction in commercial and institutional energy use can be exceeded.

Commercial buildings EEBS aims to increase energy efficiency for buildings through

government leadership for new construction and the existing public sector building stock of approximately 6,500 buildings, enabling utilities to undertake extensive energy saving programs, support for building labeling and certification programs and market mechanisms such as conservation rate structures and smart meters. Specific examples of voluntary measures include: • Requiring all new government buildings and facilities to meet the standard of LEED® Gold, or equivalent certification, including use of BC wood products; • Supporting industry associations such as the Canada Green Building Council and the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) BC to introduce energy evaluation, labeling and certification programs; • Investing in training programs for energy managers and building systems operators to achieve energy savings through management, controls and occupant engagement – delivered by BOMA and Douglas College; • Legislating carbon neutrality (net zero emissions) for operations of core government, Crown

Corporations, health and public education organizations by the end of 2010 (and the majority of local governments by 2012) by tracking and reducing emissions and purchasing greenhouse gas offsets through the Pacific Carbon Trust; and • Implementing the Public Sector Energy Conservation Agreement with an electricity reduction target of 20 percent by 2020 and employing approximately 30 energy managers across the public sector organizations. ■

Green roof demand could grow 70 percent BOSTON, MA – Lux Research, a Boston-based research company has projected that green roofs will balloon into an amazing $7.7 billion market by 2017 globally – a 70 percent increase from 2010 – with green walls also growing somewhere around the $680 million dollar range within that same year. ■

Your official magazine, reaching key roofing professionals and specifiers throughout British Columbia Book your next ad now! 604-507-2162 Paddy@RoofingBC.ca 16

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Facing the music on de-harmonization The HST ends April 1. What then? By Terry Barnett

By voting “yes” to “reinstate” the PST in the 2011 HST referendum, many BC voters assumed that the old PST would return as it was immediately before the implementation of HST on July 1, 2010. In fact the new Provincial Sales Tax Act, which re-imposes PST effective April 1, 2013, will be substantially different from its predecessor, the Social Service Tax Act. Certainly, the changeover in tax systems has provided an opportunity to improve on the old tax. After the initial release of the new law in May 2012 the Ministry of Finance website stated that the “new PST Act implements a tax that is substantially the same as the old PST, and provides all the same permanent exemptions – but in a new, modern, clear, comprehensive Act.” Many of the changes are therefore intended to fill in gaps in the application and administration of the old tax. But some expansion of the tax is clear from the latest version of the Provincial Sales Tax Act released January 9, 2013. The old PST, for example, did not apply to digital downloads. The new PST taxes purchases from iTunes,

Netflix and similar digital content providers under the guise of the old tax on telecommunication services. The new definition of that term encompasses not only traditional communication services (e.g. telephone services) but the accessing, downloading or viewing of “audio books, audio programs, music, ring tones, a television program, motion picture or other videos.” Other changes are more subtle but nonetheless expand the tax base. The old PST applied to taxable services which meant services “to install, assemble, dismantle, repair, adjust, restore, recondition, refinish or maintain tangible personal property (i.e. physical goods of any kind). The new law contains a tax on related services, which means “any service provided to tangible personal property”. Arguably a service “provided to” a good means an action that changes its properties with the result that the new definition simply reduces the number of verbs in the old taxable service definition. But there are two problems with the new definition. First, it is not clear that a service provided to a good is one that necessarily changes its physical properties. If you pay a mover to move furniture,

you have relocated the good. Is that a service provided to a good? If so, then potentially related services encompass a whole range of services that were not taxed previously: furniture moving, transporting, storing, warehousing and appraising, to name a few.

The revised Provincial Sales Tax Act imposes new PST on all building materials used in construction on or after April 1, 2013 regardless of when the items have been purchased or paid for.

Taxable services Second, the old definition of taxable service was interpreted as entailing a limited change to the properties of the good. Substantial transformations were considered to be manufacturing services that were outside the tax base. The Ministry of Finance therefore ruled that hardening steel, drying lumber, log banding, custom cutting, engraving, firing ceramics, sign painting and even bronzing baby shoes were not taxable services under the old PST. But the distinction between limited changes and substantial transformations is now gone based on the broad definition of related service in the new PST. Any business providing a service involving goods must be concerned with the expansive definition. These changes are provided for in the publicly released Provincial Sale Tax Act. But major areas of the

tax are to be covered by regulations which have not been released. For example, the exemptions for equipment used in manufacturing, mining and the oil and gas industries will be contained in the regulations that are yet to be released. As a result, with less than three months remaining before the implementation of the new PST, BC’s manufacturers and their suppliers do not know whether the exemption will be reinstated as it read before HST, or whether it will be narrowed to resolve the outstanding issues still being litigated under the old PST. At the same time some aspects of the tax that merit improvement remain unchanged. A governing principle of the PST has always been to ensure that BC residents do not avoid the tax by procuring good and services outside the province. Self assessment rules have always been applied to ensure that imports to BC were subject to the tax. A curious aspect of the old law was that in the case of legal services, the only professional service subject to PST, the tax policy appears reversed. The law created an incentive for businesses to retain lawyers outside the province. Surely the tax on legal services was due for improvement. Instead the old tax on legal services has simply been reproduced in the new PST.

Construction As April 1, 2013 approaches many questions remain. In particular, businesses want to know

whether to purchase, or at least prepay for goods and services now and pay the HST. The 7% provincial portion of the HST can be recovered by most businesses as an input tax credit under the HST system whereas the 7% PST will be a fixed cost. For the construction industry the answer seems to be a clear “no”. The revised Provincial Sales Tax Act imposes new PST on all building materials used in construction on or after April 1, 2013 regardless of when the items have been purchased or paid for. For all other goods and services that will be taxed under the new PST the transitional rules suggest that PST can be avoided by prepaying for goods and services before April 1, 2013. But nothing is certain in the absence of final legislation, including regulations. Presumably the final legislative package will be released by the time the BC legislature begins its next sitting in February, less than two months before de-Harmonization. ■ Vancouver-based Terry Barnett is the partner in charge of GST/HST and Commodity Taxes at Thorsteinssons LLP, Canada’s largest law firm specializing in Taxation. Recognized in the 2013 “Lexpert American Lawyer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada”, Terry writes extensively on GST/HST and PST tax matters.

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Roof moved in one piece VICTORIA – The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority has moved the roof of the 30-year-old Victoria passenger railway station in a single piece and placed it in storage for future use. The steep-sloped roof was removed during demolishing of the old VIA train station. “We thought it was a very iconic structure and we wanted to see it saved in Victoria,” said harbour authority CEO Curtis Grad. “We’re very pleased to be selected by the City of Victoria to take care of this city asset.” Grad submitted the winning plan in response to a City of Victoria call to remove the rail ticket office near the east entrance to the Johnson Street Bridge. The historic-looking station was actually built in the 1980s but hadn’t been in use for a year. The rail bridge that spanned the harbour was removed earlier this year. A crane removed the roof, which was trucked to Ogden Point overnight to avoid traffic. BC Hydro helped out by lifting some power lines along the route. The roof will be stored at Ogden Point likely until next year, when the harbour authority expects to use it for a new building. ■

Steep-slope roof was moved in one piece for the Victoria Harbour Authority. Photo: Victoria Harbour Authority.

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Commercial construction permits were up 36 per cent through the first 11 months of 2012 compared to a year earlier. Photo: Sippican Partners

Building permits ramp up VANCOUVER – Total building permit values in the Lower Mainland-Southwest region rose 14 per cent in November 2012 from October 2012, with a seven per cent rise in total non-residential permits and an 18 per cent rise in residential permits, according to the Vancouver Regional Construction Association. Total permit values in November 2012 rose to $572.2 million compared to $501.6 million in October 2012. Non-residential permits were up to $191.4 million in November from $179.6 million in October, and residential permit values rose to $380.8 million from $322 million during the same period. Total building permit values were up 22 per cent to $7.069 billion in the first eleven months of 2012 from $5.799 billion in 2011. Total non-residential permits were up 36 per cent compared to the first eleven months of 2011, to $2.467 billion from $1.820 billion. Residential permits were 16 per cent higher at $4.601 billion compared to $3.979 billion during the same period in 2011. The VRCA’s outlook for 2013 is positive, but not without some risks from external sources. The outlook for commercial and industrial investment is optimistic with further improvement in market conditions likely since the regional economy and population base will continue to grow. ■ 18

WINTER 2012-13

ROOFING BC

Hot time in Texas at Expo SAN ANTONIO, TX – BC roofing professionals seeking a wealth of resources to stimulate thinking and add knowledge, should attend the 2013 International Roofing Expo [IRE], February 5-7, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas USA. Taking place Tuesday through Thursday, 44 sessions will cover topics designed especially for contractors, owners, general managers, building owners, facility managers, foremen, superintendents, architects, engineers, consultants, estimators, salesmen, manufacturers and suppliers. “Through the exceptional educational program, attendees can choose from 44 knowledge-building sessions,” said Lindsay Roberts, Director of the IRE. “With eight tracks, attendees will learn the best practices and the latest technologies designed to improve their skills and grow their business.” With 42 new topics, sessions will cover rooftop solar, technology tools, sustainability requirements and ratings, social media, green codes and standards, building-integrated photovoltaics, as well the Contractor’s Sales Boot Camp, High Level Business Operations Forum, and Asphalt Fumes Health Issues Update seminars. Sessions are 90 minutes in length, allowing attendees to schedule time on the show floor to find new products, services, technologies and innovations. Sessions cover eight educational tracks addressing key roofing segments including technical, safety, leadership/management, green building, legal/HR, money matters, sales/service and general business. All sessions have been submitted for approval by the RCI, Inc. [RCI] continuing education hours and other associatons. For information about the Roofing Expo, visit TheRoofingExpo.com/ attendee or call 972-536-6415 or 800-684-5761. ■

Live demonstrations of roofing techniques and technologies highlight the annual Roofing Expo. Photo: International Roofing Expo 2012

RCI announces convention & trade show RALEIGH, NC – The 28th RCI International Convention & Trade Show will be held March 14-19 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida. The annual event will feature over 25 hours of educational seminars, live product demonstrations, and a two-day trade show with over 130 exhibitors. Programs are approved to yield continuing education credits for members of RCI and the American Institute of Architects. “It’s a great opportunity to earn a full year’s worth of continuing education credit at one event,” said William Myers, RCI’s marketing director. Some of the educational programs of interest to the roofing community will include: • Wind uplift resistance evaluation of commercial roofs with and without add-ons; • Test method changes impact on roofing solar reflectance and thermal emittance; • Using a vapor retarder in a roof system; • How to survey a slate roof; • Measuring the energy and environmental benefits of roofing systems; • Reducing the risk of moisture problems from concrete roof decks; • Roof ventilation for cathedrals; and • Condensation risk of white roofs in cold-climate zones. RCI is an international association of building envelope consultants whose members specialize in design, investigation, repair, and management of roofing, exterior wall, and waterproofing systems. For more information about RCI and its programs, visit www.rcionline.org or call 800-828-1902. ■

BUILDEX expects to attract thousands to view 500 exhibits and attend 50 seminars. Photos: BUILDEX

Buildex expects 13,000 visitors VANCOUVER – BUILDEX Vancouver, the pre-eminent forum and tradeshow for professionals in the construction and real estate industries, will convene February 13-14 at the Vancouver Convention Centre West. The largest trade show held at the venue, BUILDEX will welcome more than 13,000 industry professionals over two days to explore new products and learn from construction experts. The show offers more than 500 exhibits and 50 educational seminars. “The caliber of speakers and panelists at this year’s show confirm BUILDEX as the place where the ROOFING BC

Across Northern BC and Alberta

industry’s brightest minds connect, exchange ideas and gather the information they need to be leaders in their professions,” says show manager Paul Maryschak. Speakers will cover everything from the future of architecture to management skills and industry outlooks. Highlight presenters include Leonard Firkus, a partner at Bellrock Benchmarking. Firkus will be giving a talk on “Understanding Financial Systems” for contractors. He is an expert in helping small and

mid-size contracting companies understand how to show the same degree of rigor in interpreting their balance sheet as they do in bidding for business. Firkus notes that this is often an issue for contractors, particularly fast-growing contractors who may have tremendous technical expertise but lack the financial background to support them as they take their companies to the next level. For more information, visit www.buildexvancouver.com. ■ WINTER 2012-13

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Architect sketches 40-storey wooden tower

VANCOUVER – A Vancouver architect’s concept for a future 40-storey office tower constructed from wood has taken an international award. The U.S.-based NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, has recognized CEI Architecture in its inaugural ‘Office Building of the Future’ Design Competition. The NAIOP competition invited its 15,000 member

architectural firms to share a vision for office building design and operations in the year 2020, utilization trends, sustainability and new building technologies and including conceptual site plans and sketches, cost estimates and other broad design generalities. The competition jury considered such things as architectural philosophy, solving of design challenges and ability to “sell” the vision. The CEI concept,

submitted in partnership with Read Jones Christoffersen Consulting Engineers, Rocky Point Engineering, 2020 Engineering and SSA Quantity Surveyors Ltd., received a Honourable Mention, the only Canadian firm to be so recognized. It explored the idea of the high-rise wooden tower, including sustainability strategies to limit greenhouse gas emissions. ■

Ridgid coil roofing nailers recalled ANDERSON, SC – Ridgid coil roofing nailers and Ridgid clipped head framing nailers have been recalled due to a trigger assembly that can malfunction. The nailers are made by De Poan Pneumatic Corp. of Taiwan and imported by One World Technologies Inc. of South Carolina USA. They are sold at Home Depot stores in Canada and the U.S. The pneumatic nailers are used to secure fasteners into roofs and woodwork. The orange and gray hand-held drill-shaped tools have the name RIDGID on the side of the nailers in white type on a black panel. The model and serial numbers are located on the side of the nail tray/magazine where the fasteners are loaded. No incidents have been reported on the trigger malfunction. About 8,400 of the coil roofing nailers and 4,400 clipped head framing nailers have been sold. For more information on the recall, see www.ridgid.com ■

WINTER 2012-13

Ridgid coil roofing nailers: about 8,400 being recalled.

Copper price spike forecast LONDON, U.K. – Copper supply shortages will extend into the first half of this year as an accelerating Chinese economy more than doubles the pace of growth in global consumption even as mines extract a record amount of metal. Demand will outpace supply by 316,000 metric tons in the first six months, before a surplus emerges in the second half, Barclays PLC estimates. Production has lagged behind consumption since 2010, according to the International Copper Study Group. The metal may average US$8,300 a ton in the second quarter, 5.1 percent more than now and the most in a year, according to the median of 21 analyst and trader estimates compiled by Bloomberg. China, which uses 41 percent of the world’s copper, is rebounding from seven quarters of slowing growth after the government approved a $161 billion subways-toroads construction plan in September. It’s being joined by central banks from the U.S. to Europe to Japan, who also pledged more stimulus. Housing starts in the U.S., the second-largest consumer, reached a four-year high recently and business confidence unexpectedly strengthened in Germany, Europe’s biggest economy. ROOFING BC

Your shop yard is worth big bucks VANCOUVER â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Any Metro Vancouver roofing contractor with a large yard for trucks and equipment will find it is worth a lot of money because of a severe shortage of industrial land right across the region. The shortage has driven industrial land prices north of $1 million per acre, in some areas even higher, according to CBRE Ltd., which recently raised the issue with the Vancouver chapter of the

NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association. According to CBRE there are only about 4,200 acres of land that could be readied for industrial use in the mid-term, not enough to meet projected demand, which calls for at least 3,000 more acres by 2021. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is great to hear politicians speak of creating jobs, but if you have no land to develop this makes it a very difficult proposition.

Low slope roof repair manual available WASHINGTON, DC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NRCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Repair Manual for Low-slope Membrane Roof Systems will help roofers identify problems and permanently repair lowslope roof membranes. Learn the most reliable long-term repair procedures for built-up, polymer-modified bitumen, thermoplastic and thermoset roof systems. With instructions for more than 150 repairs, the manual is designed to be used on job sites. The NRCA member price for the manual is $115, and the retail price is $230. To purchase visit http://goo.gl/f8RTm â&#x2013;

CRCA releases new spec manual

Without a solution we will continue to lose potential employers as well as current companies to other provinces. It is not enough to continue to take high-level looks at this problem, and throw out ideas like land freezes and densification and hope the issue goes away,â&#x20AC;? said CBRE vice-president Chris MacCauley. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What we need to do first is understand what we have, 3 what the market is demanding, and then look at our options.â&#x20AC;? â&#x2013;

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LEGAL AFFAIRS

another student, and copied them onto his laptop’s hard drive. A school technician later searched the laptop, found the explicit images, and advised the school’s principal. The school then required Cole to turn over the laptop, copied the objectionable content onto a disc, and analyzed his online searching history. The laptop When and how can an and discs were handed over employer restrict to police. personal use on a Reviewing this scenario, company computer? the Ontario Court of Appeal by Robert Smithson found that the “conventions and customary use by Many employers provide their staff with electronic devices with which to teachers” of the school computers were consistent perform duties. From cellular with the existence of a telephones to laptop computers, reasonable expectation of these are now tools of the trade for privacy. Although it was a work many occupations. computer owned by the school It is becoming commonplace that board and issued for employment devices provided to employees are used for a mix of work and personal purposes, the school gave the teachers purposes. Employees make “A reasonable expectation possession of the laptops, explicit personal calls, of privacy applies to send personal personal information on permission to use them for personal emails, download a workplace computer.” use and to take internet content, them home, and allowed them to and save personal files on those use password protection. devices. Critically, there was no clear and Numerous sticky questions arise unambiguous policy from this mixed use. giving the employer One is the degree to the right to monitor, which the employee search, or police the has a reasonable teachers’ use of the expectation of privacy computers. The over his or her Court found that the personal content. teachers’ right to An Ontario court privacy was ruled last year that modified, but not employees do have a displaced, by the right to privacy in fact that a relation to their technician could and personal content Robert Smithson would access the stored on an teachers’ laptops as part of his employer-provided device. role in maintaining the school’s Cole was an Ontario high school network. teacher who was charged criminally Cole’s case recently made its way with possession of child to the Supreme Court of Canada, pornography and unauthorized use which weighed in on the question of of a computer. He had been provided with a laptop by his school the extent to which employees have an expectation of privacy over for his use in teaching personal data stored on workplace communication technology and in computers. supervising a laptop program for In introductory comments, the students. Court stated, “Computers that are He accessed a student’s email account, found nude photographs of reasonably used for personal

Computers at work – and privacy

purposes — whether found in the workplace or the home — contain information that is meaningful, intimate, and touching on the user’s biographical core. Vis-à-vis the state, everyone in Canada is constitutionally entitled to expect privacy in personal information of this kind. While workplace policies and practices may diminish an individual’s expectation of privacy in a work computer, these sorts of

operational realities do not in themselves remove the expectation entirely.” In its detailed analysis of the situation, the Court stated, “The context in which personal information is placed on an employer-owned computer is nonetheless significant. The policies, practices, and customs of the workplace are relevant to the extent that they concern the use of computers by employees.”

“These ‘operational realities’ may diminish the expectation of privacy that reasonable employees might otherwise have in their personal information. Even as modified by practice, however, written policies are not determinative of a person’s reasonable expectation of privacy.” According to the Court, “Whatever the [employer’s] policies state, one must consider the totality of the circumstances in order to determine whether privacy is a reasonable expectation in the particular situation.” In effect, what the Court was saying was that a reasonable expectation of privacy applies to personal information on a workplace computer but that this expectation can be reduced (though perhaps not eliminated) by contrary workplace policies and practices. Although Cole’s case was decided in the criminal law context, the comments by the Court of Appeal will surely resonate in civil cases involving the workplace relationship. Several lessons can be derived from the Cole decision. First, if employers provide their staff with computers in part for personal usage, they should expect that content of a personal nature will find its way onto those devices. Second, if the employer wishes to restrict personal usage, it had better have a clear policy to that effect and it must take steps to enforce compliance with that policy. Third, in order to enforce compliance the employer should be periodically searching those computers to ensure personal content has not made its way on board. Whether most employers are prepared to take these steps remains to be seen. In all likelihood, many will simply accept the fact that personal content on workplace devices is a sign of the times in which we live and work. ■ Robert Smithson is a labour and employment lawyer, and operates Smithson Employment Law in Kelowna. For more information about his practice, visit www.smithsonlaw.ca. This subject matter is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice.

FALL 2011

IN THIS I SSUE:

FEATURES:

THE VOICE OF PROFESS

IONAL ROOFING CONTRAC

TORS

Member profile: Olymp ic Roofing Ltd.

Former Olympic wrestler Dean DeHamel is turning his young company into an industry contender By Frank O’Brien

Port Coquitlam roofer Dean DeHamel came within a match of representing Canada at the Beijing Olympics in 2010, and the nationally ranked wrestler young now has a solid grip on the local roofing industry.

As founder and president of aptly named Olympic Roofing Ltd., and one of the latest members of the Roofing Contractors of BC, DeHamel believesAssociation he knows what it takes to build a winning company: hard work, talented crews and the experience to take on any contract. and guts

DeHamel, 34, started Roofing in 2001, shortly Olympic completing his RCABC after apprenticeship training with

Western Roofing Ltd. of Kamloops. “It all started as a summer job,” he recalls, with his first roofing job the expansion of Thompson River University, where he worked on both flat roofs and metal sheets. Recalls DeHamel: “I remember walking to school one morning in Kamloops with my nice clean clothes and I saw Western working on a warehouse Roofing with the tar kettle smoking and the workers on the roof with dust all over them.

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40014608 RETURN UNDELIVERABL E CANADIAN ADDRESSES

Vol. 8, No. 3 • FALL

Dean DeHamel of Olympic

2011

Member profile: Olympic Roofing ..........................1 LEED the new normal ............... 8 Nelson Roofing wins ASM awards ........................... ....12 Fall protection hierarchies....... 16 ASSOCIATION: President’s message .................. 3 Steep roofing partnership between RCABC, CITO............... Admiral saves boathouse....... 6 20 INDUSTRY NEWS: New roof walkway system....... 6 Roofing Expo booking .............. 6 BC’s Commercial outlook brightens.................................... .. Largest solar roof complete....109 Hurricane-proof nail................ 11 Steep slope better in high winds................ ..................11 New wood building guide.......11 BC Building Code delayed.......11 Firestone’s SA TPO and weatherproof vapour barrier membrane....... ..............14 Metro building permits up......15 WorkSafeBC gets creative ...... 18 Roofing BC coming online .....18 BC Housing aids building science programs ......................19 China’s Ghost Cities empty .... 21 RCI waterproofing seminar ... 21 CSC presents free fair ............. 21 COLUMN Legal Affairs: Postemployment restrictions ....... 22

Roofing

Award-winning ASM

I thought to myself, ‘man I would never want to do that job – it’s hot and dusty, glad I’m going today’, but only a couple to school later that’s right where of years I ended up, now I look back and just laugh. DeHamel started Olympic ” with an old Ford pickup and Skidoo trailer he borrowed from his dad. His first contract was installing shingles for Sears residential and he then moved onto commercial OLYMPIC continued

on page 4

Nelson Roofing takes ASM work to new heights. See page 12

Fall protection 101

First in a series. See

page 16

TO:

Roofing Contractor s Association of BC 9734 201 Street Langley, BC Canada V1M 3E8

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