Florida
October 2020
ROOFING A Publication of FRSA – Florida’s Association of Roofing Professionals
FRSA’s New Home Bold Claims: The New IBHS FORTIFIED Roof Program High Performance Water-Based Finishes Making the Leap from Residential to Commercial Rfg
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Contents 6 | Legal Issues with IBHS’ FORTIFIED Program 14 | FRSA’s New Home 22 | High Performance Water-Based Finishes 28 | Making the Leap from Residential to Commercial Roofing
18 | Bold Claims: IBHS’ New FORTIFIED Roof Program
32 | Rethinking Workplace Wellness FRSA-Florida Roofing Magazine Contacts For advertising inquiries, contact: Kelsey O’Hearne at: kelsey@floridaroof.com (800) 767-3772 ext. 127
Florida
For all feedback including Letters to the Editor and reprint permission requests (please include your full name, city and state) contact: Lisa Pate, Editor, at: lisapate@floridaroof.com (800) 767-3772 ext. 157 Florida Roofing Magazine, PO Box 4850 Winter Park, FL 32793-4850
ROOFING Available Online at www.floridaroof.com/florida-roofing-magazine/
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Any material submitted for publication in Florida Roofing becomes the property of the publication. Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the author(s) alone and do not imply an opinion or endorsement on the part of the officers or the membership of FRSA. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without permission from the publisher. Florida Roofing (VOL. 5, NO. 10), October 2020, (ISSN 0191-4618) is published monthly by FRSA, 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trl., Orlando, FL 32817. Periodicals Postage paid at Orlando, FL. POSTMASTER: Please send address corrections (form 3579) to Florida Roofing, PO Box 4850, Winter Park, FL 32793-4850.
www.floridaroof.com | FLORIDA ROOFING
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FRSA LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL Chris Dawson
Upset Alert! Incumbent Losses During the 2020 Primary Election Anticipation for election surprises has grown over the last few months (years?) as we inch closer to the general election in November. Certainly, there will be twists and turns up and down the ballot this fall, but the action got off to an early start in Florida’s August primary election. With the highest voter turnout in a primary in two decades, Floridians flocked to the polls on August 18 resulting in several rare upsets of incumbent lawmakers. Let’s explore these upsets and what they may signal for the November general election.
Republican Upset
Florida House District 1 (Escambia County): Mike Hill* v. Michelle Salzman Florida’s HD-1 is a “dark red” Republican stronghold and the winner of the primary election is almost assured a general election win and a seat in the Florida Legislature. This year, political newcomer and businesswoman Michelle Salzman defeated incumbent and conservative firebrand Rep. Mike Hill (R – Pensacola) by a margin of 1,049 votes. Salzman rode a compelling personal story as a single mother and combat veteran to victory, promising to bring a results-oriented and collaborative approach to the job.
Democrat Upsets
Florida House District 14 (Duval County): Kimberly Daniels* v. Angie Nixon and Florida House District 88 (Palm Beach County): Omari Hardy v. Al Jacquet* A pair of incumbent losses shook the Democratic caucus of the Florida House of Representatives this year. In both, outside influences on the left sought to oust sitting legislators due to a perceived lack of commitment to progressive values centering around abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protections. In Duval County’s HD-14, Rep. Kim Daniels (D – Jacksonville) succumbed to a challenge from community organizer Angie Nixon who garnered nearly 60 percent of the primary vote and is expected to sail to victory in the general election for this solid “D” seat. Similarly, Palm Beach County saw a major upset in the very crowded primary for HD-88. Though technically a five-way race for the Democrats, the race came down to incumbent Rep. Al Jacquet (D – Mangonia Park) and Lake Worth Beach City Commissioner Omari Hardy. Hardy secured 43.22 percent of the vote, doubling Jacquet’s 26.08 percent and propelling him to the November general election where he is heavily favored to win this safe blue seat in the Florida House.
Congressional Upset U.S. House of Representatives District 15 (Hillsborough, Lake and Polk Counties): Scott Franklin v. Ross Spano*
Perhaps the only thing rarer than a primary upset of a state legislator is that of a Congressional incumbent. But, in typical Florida election fashion, nothing is off the table. Lakeland City Commissioner Scott Franklin bested incumbent Congressman Ross Spano (R – Lakeland) by a margin of 2.45 percent. The surprise abruptly ends Spano’s short-lived federal career (he served in the State House prior to his election to Congress) that was marred by alleged ethics and campaign finance violations during his 2018 race. Franklin, who supported Spano in 2018, cited the allegations as a motivating factor to run for the seat in 2020. He now will face Democrat Alan Cohn in what many consider to be a competitive general election. Florida elections are known for their competitive nature and political intrigue and the August primary yielded some remarkable results with the upsets described above. Looking ahead to the November 3, 2020 general election, two things are clear: (1) voter turnout is likely to be very high, and (2) we will be talking about further upsets and surprises on Wednesday, November 4.
FRM
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www.floridaroof.com | FLORIDA ROOFING
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FRSA LEGAL COUNSEL Cotney Construction Law
Legal Issues with IBHS’ New FORTIFIED Program Trent Cotney, Cotney Construction Law As some may be aware, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has recently unveiled a new certification available to roofers under the moniker “FORTIFIED” (see www.fortifiedhome.org). FORTIFIED is described as a “nationally recognized building method that goes beyond building codes to strengthen residential and commercial buildings against specific hazards such as high winds and hurricanes.” While this new certification may sound desirable, roofers in the State of Florida are no strangers to licensing and additional certifications. Indeed, as readers are aware, Florida roofing contractors are required to be licensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). There are also nationwide certifications available to roofing contractors, such as the National Roofing Contractor’s Association’s (NRCA) ProCertification, which offers certifications for foremen and for specific roofing systems. ProCertification encompasses a wide variety of roofing systems, including TPO, EPDM and asphalt shingle roof systems. In addition to the NRCA’s certification programs, there are also a variety of certified applicator programs provided by manufacturers. Manufacturer certifications train and certify roofers on high quality installation methods utilizing the latest technologies available. Routinely, roofing companies seeking manufacturer certification must show proof of state licensure, insurance and must also establish their reputation by showing good standing with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau. Companies who achieve the manufacturer certification gain not only the prestige and reputation associated with obtaining such a certification, but also the ability to offer their customers enhanced warranties which are backed by the manufacturer. In light of the above licensing and certifications, either required or available to a roofing contractor, the question becomes whether or not a FORTIFIED certification is needed and, further, from a legal perspective, whether or not obtaining such a certification could result in unnecessary liability for a contractor. It should be noted that there are two available FORTIFIED courses based upon a roofing contractor’s geographic location. For those that are working in inland communities, currently the FORTIFIED Wise Roofing Contractor – High Wind and Hail course is being offered. For those in coastal communities prone 6
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
to hurricanes, there is the FORTIFIED Wise Roofing Contractor – Hurricane course. The course involves virtual instruction followed by a 40 question 1-hour multiple choice exam. Upon passing the exam, a contractor will become a FORTIFIED Roofing Contractor and will be provided the option to be listed in the IBHS FORTIFIED directory. The scope of instruction involves various roofing techniques designed to mitigate potential damage caused by inherent threats in coastal (hurricane) or inland (high wind and hail) areas. These techniques focus on 1. improved roof sheathing; 2. enhanced edge details; 3. sealed roof decks; 4. wind-rated roof cover; and 5. water-resistant attic vents (both ridge and off-ridge). While the Florida Building Code and HVHZ regulations address a majority (if not all) of these requirements, a roofing contractor should be concerned about the potential liability in the event that there is an issue with a roof constructed under these standards. In particular, if a FORTIFIED roof system fails, there is concern that a roofer could be held to a heightened standard of care as a FORTIFIED Roof Certified Roofer. Rather than being held liable under the standard of care of your typical roofer, there is a legal argument that the roofer can be held liable for failing to meet the standard of care expected of a FORTIFIED Roofer. It should be noted that this issue has not been explicitly recognized in a court of law, but there is the potential that in the event of litigation, the party claiming damages may attempt to hold a roofing contractor to this heightened standard of care. A secondary concern surrounding the certification is that, in the event that such a roof system were
IN MEMORIAM
Mike Fulton 1955–2020
In honor and memory of Mike Fulton, National Manager of Technical Training and Compliance for O’Hagin, who was a treasured friend and strong advocate for the roofing industry.
You will be sadly missed and always remembered. Your friends at Eagle Roofing Products.
to fail, the roofer may face liability for negligent or fraudulent misrepresentation based upon the representations regarding the stringent requirement for the certification program and the roofing systems that are intended to result from the FORTIFIED certification. If the roof were to fail, a customer could potentially argue that they were convinced to enter into a contract based upon the representation that a FORTIFIED roof can withstand certain conditions and seek damages as a result. Lastly, in order to participate in the IBHS program, the roofer in question must provide a variety of disclosures and information to the certification program including information related to the construction of FORTIFIED roof systems. In the event that a roof system was to fail and litigation were to ensue, this information would be discoverable and a roofer could be negatively impacted by the disclosures. Even further, given that insurance is advocating for this change, the questions arise as to whether IBHS will share the disclosed information with carriers that could be used by insurers against their roofing insureds. High wind-resistant construction is important in Florida; a prudent contractor would be wise to consider the potential legal implications of obtaining the FORTIFIED certification weighed against the potential appeal to customers. The foregoing concerns are merely factors to consider when making this determination.
What’s Wrong with These Pictures?
FRM
See page 18 for IBHS FORTIFIED article from a technical perspective. Authors Note: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. Trent Cotney, CEO of Cotney Construction Law is an advocate for the roofing industry, Board Certified in Construction Law in Florida and General Counsel of FRSA. For more information, contact the author at 866-303-5868 or go to www.cotneycl.com.
The FRSA Association and Credit Union have moved into a new building. Here are the addresses for all FRSA Entities:
The Self Insurers Fund is still at the same location.
FRSA Association
4099 Metric Drive, Winter Park, FL 32792 Phone: 800-767-3772, ext. 200 Email: cert@frsasif.com or alexis@frsasif.com For any questions or correspondence for the FRSA-SIF Claims Department please contact:
PO Box 4850, Winter Park, FL 32793 (mailing) and 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817 Phone: 800-767-3772 ext. 100
FRSA Credit Union
PO Box 5799, Winter Park, FL 32793 (mailing) and 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Ste 2, Orlando, FL 32817, Phone: 407-657-7212
FRSA-SIF
FRSA-SIF Claims Department PO Box 4910, Winter Park, FL 32793 Phone: 844-677-3772, ext. 200 Email: mail@frsasif.com
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Industry Updates Sherwin Williams Announces Joe Sorrentino roll packaging options that include shrink bag, boxing and wrapping. Operating under tight quality control Florida Regional Account Manager The Sherwin Williams Company, Roofing Solutions Group, a manufacturer of sealants, caulks and roof coatings, has announced the addition of Joe Sorrentino, RRO, as Regional Account Manager for the state of Florida. With decades of experience in the state as well as nationally, his role is to support the GEOCEL and KOOL SEAL brands through an independent distribution network, roofing contractors, architects, engineering and construction firms and building owner and manager stakeholders throughout the state. A graduate of Florida Southern College, Lakeland, Fla., he began his career with Owens Corning/Fiberglas in Tampa in 1977. Joe has over 42 years of experience in the low-slope commercial roofing industry. In 1985, he expanded his experience into the field of sustainable roofing and industrial coating systems. During his years in the commercial roofing industry, he has held positions of Regional and National Technical Manager for Single Ply and Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems, Regional Sales Manager for a leading protective and maintenance coatings products manufacturer, and Business Development Manager for a national engineering and roof consulting firm. Joe has been a member of FRSA since 1993 where he served on the Convention Committee. He is looking forward to supporting FRSA Affiliate chapters around the state. You can contact Joe at 813-244-6213 or joe.o.sorrentino@sherwin.com.
Tarco to Enhance Manufacturing Capability with a New Product Line
Tarco announced plans to establish a new bituminous roofing membrane manufacturing line in Belton, Tx. The new high-speed, highly automated Euroline sri manufacturing equipment will greatly increase current production capabilities. Designed with the latest technological advances in bituminous modified membrane manufacturing, the new line augments the existing plant capacity in Belton. The fully automated line is electronically controlled and equipped with multi-functional features, such as an intelligent auto-correction system, thickness measurement system, inline printing and various 10
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
protocols from raw materials to finished products, the entire production process is intelligently operated to ensure the manufacture of superior quality at efficient production rates. “The advanced technology from Euroline will dramatically enable Tarco to create a new generation of roofing and waterproofing products. The high-level of automation of the new line will improve membrane quality, reduce scrap and enhance safety. In addition, Tarco will acquire the capability to make non-carrier membranes that are used in steep-slope roofing as well as below grade waterproofing applications. Euroline has a two-decade history in the roofing business and a global reputation for quality. It is the right technical partner to help take Tarco’s productivity and quality to the next level,” said Steve Ratcliff, President and CEO of Tarco.
Patrick Hanley Hired as OMG Solar Sales Manager
OMG Roofing Products has hired Patrick Hanley as Solar Sales Manager, reporting to Kevin Kervick, Solar Business Manager. In his new role, Patrick is responsible for managing product sales of OMG’s line of PowerGrip solar roof mounts and related PipeGuard pipe support and fastening products on a global basis. This includes customer outreach, support and gathering customer feedback, developing monthly sales plans and reports as well as cultivating new growth opportunities and relationships on a global basis. Patrick joined OMG from the Beaux-Arts Group, a commercial furniture dealer in Florida, where he was an account executive. Earlier he had been Vice President for Hanley Group, Inc., a commercial flooring company in Orlando, Fla. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma Baptist University.
Roper Whitney Announces New Partnership with EvoBend Roper Whitney, a Tennsmith company, is proud to announce a new partnership with EvoBend GmbH to bring the next generation of sheet metal folding
equipment to the metal fabrication marketplace in North America. Roper Whitney provides exclusive sales, distribution and service for EvoBend up/down folder (models D300, D600, D800) in the North American market. The product line features patented technology for the folding system as well as patented features for operator safety, making EvoBend a one-of-a-kind folding machine. Additionally, EvoBend will offer 300-degree bending capabilities, dramatically less energy consumption, increased operator safety and easier and less-frequent maintenance. “EvoBend has reimagined traditional sheet metal fabrication technology and delivered a truly cutting-edge product line. We are excited to be part of this effort to bring EvoBend to the US and excited to see how our businesses can grow together,” remarks Mike Smith, one of Roper Whitney’s owners.
The RICOWI Foundation, Inc. Officially Recognized as a 501 (c)(3) Nonprofit
RICOWI – the Roofing Industry Committee on Weather Issues – has formed a nonprofit Foundation. The Foundation’s work on industry research is important to the future growth and direction of the building community which includes academia, industry, contractors, code officials, specifiers, insurers and general consumers. The Foundation is one of a very few organizations that provide such informative studies. The mission of the RICOWI Foundation, Inc. is to enhance and promote research related to the performance of roofing products and systems. The Foundation was developed to help support the activities of the RICOWI Inc. organization and other industry research requests as a funding mechanism through which grants, special research projects and natural disaster event investigations can continue. The Foundation’s Executive Director, Joan Cook noted that the organization is excited to begin working with new industry partners and supporting existing partner’s research. The roofing industry acknowledges there is no greater “think tank” of expertise in the country to tackle the issues of roof performance during extreme weather events. The RICOWI, Inc. website can provide greater insight into the types of programs and avenues of research information that are envisioned and will be a model of the expected extent of the research. While the Wind and Hail investigation programs are well recognized, the work in codes, best practices and overall roof system performance are equally important to the building industry. Visit www.ricowi.com for more information. The Foundation is actively seeking donations to fund the initial establishment of the Foundation. Additionally, calls for new research projects will be made as the funding is established. Contact Joan
Cook at foundation@ricowi.com or by phone at 330-671-4569 for more information or to make a tax-deductible donation.
Florida Rep Group Industry Update Statewide Independent Sales for GEOCEL/ KoolSeal Brands in Florida
Florida Rep Group has added sales professionals and service territory for The Sherwin Williams Company, Roofing Solutions Group, GEOCEL and Kool Seal Brands. Effective October 1, 2020, the team of Justin Sock, Jim McManus, Candace Harris, John Ingoldsby and Bo Bryan will be supporting roofing distributors and contractors throughout the state of Florida. A member of FRSA since 2015, Florida Rep Group provides sales and technical support for the GEOCEL Sealant and Caulk Brand, as well as the Kool Seal Silicone and Water Based Acrylic Roof Coating Products and Systems. Justin Sock, Managing Partner, is pleased to announce the addition of two seasoned professionals to assist in the sales and technical service support of northern Florida and the Panhandle. “We are strategically positioned to provide the quality of service that our customers have become accustomed to. The addition of John Ingoldsby and Bo Bryan allows us to support and grow the GEOCEL and Kool Seal Brands throughout the entire state,” stated Sock. For more information, please visit www.floridareps.com.
www.floridaroof.com | FLORIDA ROOFING
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The Roofing Alliance Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship Program Accepting Applications
The Roofing Alliance, the foundation of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), announced the opening of the Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship Program for the 2021-22 academic year. The Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship Program began in 1986 to fund education for employees, their spouses and their dependent children of NRCA contractor and supplier members who plan to pursue careers in the roofing or construction industries. The program is named for Melvin Kruger, a former NRCA President, a former Roofing Alliance President and CEO of L.E. Schwartz & Son Inc., Macon, Ga., who is recognized not only as a great industry leader, but also as a person who has devoted much of his life to the cause of education. A maximum of 11 recipients will each receive a $5,000 award that is renewable for up to three years of undergraduate study if they meet eligibility requirements. Scholarship recipients are selected based on academic record, potential to succeed, leadership and participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience, a statement of career goals and aspirations and an outside appraisal. The named $5,000 scholarships awarded through the Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship Program include Beacon Roofing Supply Inc., Dan Cohen; Firestone Building Products (two scholarships); Fred Good and William A. Good; Jim and Suzanne MacKimm, Melvin Kruger and OMG Roofing Products Inc. (two scholarships). In its second year, the Accredited Career Technical Education Scholarship is also available to help fund students pursuing an education at a vocational or technical trade school. It is designed to help those who are seeking a professional career inside the roofing industry, including but not limited to, roof system and sheet metal installers/fabricators, crane and equipment operators, foremen and superintendents, warehouse and inventory specialists and other roofing trade specialties. There will be a maximum of five recipients who will be eligible to receive a $1,000 award that is not renewable, but winners are eligible to apply again the following year. “Since the program began, a total of 131 students have received $890,000 in scholarship awards,” said Kyle Thomas, owner of Thomas Roofing and current President of the Roofing Alliance. “Supporting students who are interested in careers in the roofing industry ensures that the future of the industry remains strong. Contributions to the program are always encouraged.” To learn more about the Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship Program or to download the application, please visit www.roofingalliance.net or contact 12
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
Bennett Judson at bjudson@roofingalliance.net. Applications must be postmarked no later than January 28, 2021.
A.C.T. Metal Deck Supply Celebrates 50 Years
Nick A. Polizzi, working out of his basement as a metal deck broker, originally founded Area Construction Trades (A.C.T.) Inc. in 1970. Nick is still involved as an advisor for the company. A.C.T. Inc. worked for the next 35 years as a metal deck subcontractor, furnishing and installing metal deck packages, including drawings and all coordination along with seven field crews. A.C.T. no longer works as a subcontractor, phasing out erection services in October 2007. A.C.T. Metal Deck Supply began out of a direct need in the marketplace for a metal deck stocking dealer. One truckload of B22 Prime Painted Roof Deck was brought into a warehouse in Schaumburg, IL. Today its network has grown to 15 locations around the country, which gives A.C.T. Metal Deck Supply national/international exposure. The family-owned and operated company prides itself on fulfilling the metal deck needs of the building community.
Debbie McDaniel Retiring from SPEC Building Materials After 38 Years in the Industry SPEC Building Materials congratulates Debbie McDaniel on her retirement after 10 years working for the roofing materials distributor. Debbie started her adventure in the roofing industry at HomeCrafters before moving to Flintkote/ Genstar. In her twenties, she took positions at Southeastern Metals where she worked for 16 years before moving to Sunniland Corp. and then to SPEC. Congratulations, Debbie!
FRM
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FRSA’s New Home Lisa Pate, FRSA Executive Director
FRSA’s new building is finished and we moved in at the end of July. We received our certificate of occupancy the day before our scheduled move, adding to the stress. In addition to packing and moving 98 years worth of “stuff” from our old location into the new building, we were also dealing with last minute changes that meant many of the building trades were
16
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
still onsite the day of our move, finalizing installation of security, cameras, phones and computers. The challenge was to keep everyone in the 8,000-square-foot building social distancing and practicing other safety measures. A crew of 12 movers and two semi-trucks relocated us from the old building to the new in a matter of
seven hours, in four loads with three rain showers. Computers and other sensitive or expensive items were transported in staff vehicles and unloaded ahead of the first truck. The moving company, who we had worked with during our last move, offered unique packing options. We utilized 320 packing bins (see the picture on previous page) and 25-4’x3’ packing crates. We’ve been in the building for two months now and are finally settled in. We’ve held limited meetings in our conference room and vendors in our Training Center, adhering to strict social distancing guidelines. Bricks are still available for the walkways into the training center and Credit Union. We’ll be placing an order soon, so if you’re interested in purchasing a brick, please contact
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Mike Reed at 800-767-3772 ext. 167 or by email at reed@floridaroof.com. Due to the generosity of manufacturer and supplier members, we were able to pay for the building in cash and below budget. Many thanks again to the following vendors for making this dream a reality – PAC-CLAD, Architectural Sheet Metal Inc., Eagle Roofing Products, Bostik, APOC, Arkema, Sherwin Williams, AMSI Supply and Triangle Fasteners. We’re happy to be home!
FRM
See the bottom of page 8 for the mailing and physical addresses and phone numbers for all FRSA entities. 18
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
QUALITY AND AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE FOR THE ROOFING INDUSTRY! Introducing the NRCA Health Care Program—an affordable, flexible program available to all NRCA members. Find out how you can:
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• Take advantage of dozens of options that fit all budgets and company sizes. • Offer voluntary benefits such as dental, vision, life, disability and accident insurance. • Work with your current broker or use an NRCA Health Care Program broker. • Save a lot of money!
Visit nrcahealth.com or call NRCA Program Partner Vault Strategies at (866) 431-8721.
“Durable Roofs That Can Withstand the Worst of Mother Nature”— A Bold Statement Indeed! Mike Silvers, CPRC, Owner, Silvers Systems, Inc. and FRSA Director of Technical Services
Most conscientious roofing contractors would never try to sell a roof using that kind of hyperbole. We know that these kinds of statements cause misconceptions and represent clearly unobtainable objectives. Roof systems are designed to meet specific requirements within defined design parameters. Anyone who has observed the damage from a Category 5 hurricane firsthand or the devastation left by an EF-5 tornado knows just how bold this statement is. These are some of the most severe weather events we have experienced, but we have no idea how much worse they could be in the future. Yet a new program brought to us by an insurance industry safety group was introduced using that specific language. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), an organization funded by major insurance interest, is currently promoting a new FORTIFIED Roof (FR) program as part of their FORTIFIED Home designation. It calls for a FORTIFIED Wise Roofing Contractor to pass a certification test at the end of limited online training from the FORTIFIED University. They would then be the only contractors whose roofs can be certified as FORTIFIED Roofs. The program is voluntary and is significantly less stringent than the requirements to become a Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Certified Roofing Contractor. As planned, consumers, builders and developers can request a FORTIFIED 20
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
Roof installed by a FORTIFIED Wise Roofing Contractor. There is a special FORTIFIED logo to use in advertising. This will certainly appeal to many consumers but it may be misleading in practice. Let’s review some of the ways this could happen. How different are the FR requirements than the requirements of the Non-High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) sections of the Florida Building Code (FBC)? One would think that they must be substantial to be FORTIFIED. Not so much, let’s review and compare. In the FORTIFIED Home program (not FORTIFIED Roof), an existing roof covering’s condition must be evaluated. If the roof covering is determined to have more than five years of usable life remaining, reroofing is not required. If the roof covering has five years or less of remaining useful life, then the roof cover must be replaced (per FORTIFIED Roof). The FBC understandably and thankfully does not have any language like this. Here and elsewhere (as noted with an asterisk (*), the FORTIFIED Roof program requires photo documentation. In the FORTIFIED Roof program, all existing roof materials must be removed unless a particular urethane foam adhesive is applied to both sides of each roof framing member at the deck from within the attic. In the FBC, recovering is allowed for no more than two roof coverings in certain situations including meeting the current roof covering uplift resistance
requirements when doing so. Roof sheathing in both the FBC (during replacement) and FR program needs to be re-nailed if the original attachment is not sufficient. Both require 8d ring shank nails 6” o.c. The FR program additionally requires that a 4 ft. wide area at gable ends and hip corners be re-nailed at 4” o.c. Note: We are concerned about splitting the 2x when older lumber is nailed this close.* In the FR program, if the roof sheathing is less than 7/16”, the sheathing must be replaced or recovered with a minimum 7/16” sheathing. The FBC requires compliance with product approval or prescriptive requirements. Underlayment (or secondary water barriers) requirements are nearly identical in both the FBC and the FR program. This is due to the adoption of the “sealed deck” requirements in the 2020 FBC. The FR program information is contradictory on the use of synthetic underlayment.* How close is the project to saltwater? The FBC leaves it mainly up to the manufacturer’s approved installation instructions and product approvals to deal with corrosion resistance beyond the methods specifically called out in the code. In the FR program, there are four different distances to consider: structures within 300 ft. of saltwater; structures more than 300 ft. but less than 1,000 ft. from saltwater; structures
more than 1,000 ft. but less than 3,000 ft. from saltwater and structures more than 3,000 ft. from saltwater. Then you refer to a table to see what level of corrosion resistance is required. Confused yet? Note: The method to evaluate what constitutes “saltwater” is unclear. Where coastal rivers converge with bays, oceans or gulfs, the salinity of the water changes dramatically with the tides and rainfall amounts. So, at what bodies and where exactly is the line we measure from. Does brackish count? Where do we have to use stainless steel fasteners? This leaves room for misinterpretation and confusion. Flashing requirements in the FBC are numerous, from a minimum thickness for metal flashing to prescriptive and descriptive methods for different types of roof coverings. Again, the FBC depends on specific requirements, manufacturer’s approved installation instructions and product approval. The FR program has General Flashing Guidelines for Steep-Sloped Roofs that primarily covers shingle roof coverings. There is very little on other roof types. The details shown are very narrow in scope and dictate every dimension and shape to be used rather than using performance requirements. This approach does not allow changing the design components for job conditions. Many proven profiles that roofing contractors have successfully used for decades would not comply. Many of these details do not follow accepted roofing practice.
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scope of work.* For asphalt shingles, the FR program requires that shingles must be high-wind rated and installed with six nails per the high-wind installation instructions. The FBC requires shingles to meet the wind rating for the wind speeds where the structure is located, and the manufacturer’s approved installation instructions, as well as its product approval. All other roof coverings (metal, tile, low-sloped roofs, wood shakes/shingles) must be rated and installed for the site-specific wind speed design pressures in the FR program. The FBC also requires all roof coverings to meet the same design pressures, but again refers to the manufacturer’s installation instructions and product approvals. The FBC also specifically refers to the Cedar Shake An example is not setting surface mounted counter and Shingle Bureau New Roof Construction Manual flashing in sealant. FR detail calls for only caulking and the FRSA-TRI Florida High Wind Concrete and the Philadelphia kick at the top. This detail will lead Clay Tile Installation Manual for those roof coverings. to water intrusion shortly after its installation with no When one compares the two approaches to roof secondary seal. system requirements, the substantive differences are The FR program requires that drip edge be installed not great. This is not that surprising considering an over the underlayment at rakes and eaves. The FBC IBHS representative stated in a recent FBC meeting has allowed it to be installed over or under the underthat “the roofing sections of the FBC are the most layment at the eaves and rakes (gables). But if installed robust in the country.” So why does Florida need the over the underlayment, then a 4” width of plastic ceFR program? It has already been implemented in ment must be installed over the flange. It also requires several states that have very weak building codes and compliance with manufacturer’s installation instruclicensing requirements. In those states it may make tions. With the 2020 FBC, it must be installed over the sense, but what about Florida? There is little dispute underlayment at the rakes.* about how extensive the FBC requirements are. They The FBC has descriptive requirements and also are supported by a product approval system that uses manufacturer’s approved installation instrucrequires testing. The FBC requirements have proven tions, as well as product approval to address rakes themselves in recent severe wind events. From our (gables). The FR program has two options for rakes. post storm observations, roof coverings installed in One has a typical eave starter ran vertically up the rake compliance with the current FBC requirements have and either a self-adhering starter or one set in roof performed very well overall. The recent adoption of cement. The starter option calls for setting the field ASCE 7-16 increased wind resistance requirements shingle in roof cement along the rake and between makes them even stronger. They also, unfortunately, courses at the rake. The starter option does nothing make them substantially more complex. FBC changes to address cement between the courses, even though and additions are subject to an intense peer review both options would depend on the same horizontal process before they can be adopted. This process sealant strip to adhere the courses. If cement wasn’t serves the citizens of Florida very well. required on the starter option, then why require it FRSA has been a major proponent of making here? In other words, if the horizontal sealant strip is improvements in the roofing codes. We are always acceptable between the courses for one option, why looking for efficient ways to enhance the performance not for the other?* of roof systems. We are considering several changes The FBC requires product approval (testing) for all to the FBC, many of these are similar to items included attic vents. The FR program calls for testing in acin the FR program. These and others may be submitcordance with Miami/Dade RAS 100 (A). This is the ted during the next FBC triennial cycle. This process same test that many manufacturers use for product improves the performance of all roof systems in approval.* Florida, not just a chosen few. For gable end vents, the FR program calls for Florida also has the most stringent construction temporary vent protection that must be available in licensing laws in the country. You must have a Certified the event of a storm. This is not required in the roofing or Registered Roofing Contractor qualify a roofing sections of the FBC and is not typically in the roofing company to contract roofing work in the State of 22
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
Florida. An applicant for certification must document and demonstrate their trade experience, technical understanding, business acumen, any criminal history and their financial stability in addition to passing a comprehensive exam. Roofing specific continuing education is also required to maintain the license. In contrast, the FR program uses a few hours of online seminars from the FORTIFIED Wise “University,” teaching a narrow ability to pass an exam on the specific FR program provisions. IBHS clearly states in their instruction that they assume the trainee has a level of technical roofing skills not covered in the instruction. According to the IBHS, the FR program isn’t meant to replace Florida’s licensing requirements. But the FR program will almost certainly cause confusion as to who is best qualified to install wind-resistant roof systems. How this program will be used in the future is very hard to say. Can it be adopted by a municipality for all roofing projects? This would create confusion about what the code requires in any jurisdiction. These types of problems were a major part of what the FBC was created to address. Will it be accepted as a substitute for state licensure during an emergency order after a hurricane or possibly even without one? As stated earlier, the certification requirements are very different. For contractors, the reporting requirements of the FR program are quite burdensome. They include
many lengthy and complex forms, multiple pictures (as noted with asterisks (*) in this article) and other reporting. It isn’t clear how much of this will be reviewed before acceptance. As I understand, it will also require additional inspection coordination or, possibly, the contractor self-inspecting. Will IBHS share in the liability once the work is accepted or will this documentation only be reviewed if there is a problem? These are all reasonable concerns. The IBHS FORTIFIED Roof program does indeed make some very bold statements and sets some very high expectations, but are they actually achievable? In my opinion, they are redundant for Florida, confusing and mostly unneeded. To paraphrase a prominent contractor: I guess we can just get rid of product approvals, manufacturer’s installation instructions and maybe our licenses and just tell homeowners and building contractors to call their local insurance agent for instructions on how to install their roofs.
FRM
See page 6 for IBHS FORTIFIED article from a legal perspective. Mike Silvers, CPRC is owner of Silver Systems, Inc. and is consulting with FRSA as Director of Technical Services. Mike is an FRSA Past President, Life Member, and Campanella Award recipient and brings over 40 years of industry knowledge and experience to FRSA’s team.
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High Performance Water-Based Field-Applied Organic Finishes for Architectural Restoration Ron Partridge, Sr. Account Manager Fluoropolymer Coatings NA, Arkema Inc. and Erin Neff, Director of Marketing and Business Development, APV Engineered Coatings Inc.
Introduction
In 1965, Kynar 500 based architectural finishes were first introduced to the market and over the next 30 years became the architectural coating of choice for major architectural firms worldwide. When the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), now FGIA (Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance), publication 2605 was adopted in 1998, it created the highest standard available for organic coatings on architectural metals. Kynar 500 liquid-based finishes are only applied in a factory to metal (coil and extrusion) substrates because the coating technology must be baked at over 375°F. Although baking does improve the coating performance, it also limits the possibility to specify a high-performance organic coating for other original equipment manufacturer (OEM) building products like wood, vinyl and fiberglass. In addition, specifiers and architects could not select a truly high-performance Kynar polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) coating system for air-dry field-applied restoration projects.
Kynar Aquatec – The Next Generation of PVDF Coatings
In 2001, Arkema began to develop a novel emulsion coatings technology that was later named Kynar Aquatec. The original goals of the program were to develop an air-dry coating resin that would have similar long-term performance to a Kynar 500 finish system but was water based, required no baking and would film-form at ambient temperatures. In addition, it was necessary to develop the field performance history with this new technology in order to demonstrate that the weathering performance could be similar to what
Overview of the KYNAR Aquatec Product Line Product Description PVDF: Acrylic weight ratio Functional group level MFFT, approx.
Target applications
Years of Florida exposure
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FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
Kynar Aquatec ARC
Kynar Aquatec FMA-12
Kynar Aquatec CRX
Highest PVDF level, thermoplastic
High PVDF level, thermoplastic
Highest PVDF level, Two component crosslinkable
70:30
50:50
70:30
Thermoplastic
Thermoplastic
%OH = 0.53 (OH# = 18 or OH eq wt 3178) on total solids
26-28 °C
12-14 °C
15 °C
Highest weatherability, low bake, OEM applications.
High weatherability, low bake, OEM & field applications. (e.g., reflective roof coatings)
Highest weatherability, low bake, OEM & field applications, with enhanced hardness, solvent and abrasion resistance.
>19
>13
>9
the architectural community had come to expect from a Kynar 500 finish system. These objectives and ensuing technical work led to the commercialization of the first Kynar Aquatec grade, Kynar Aquatec ARC, in 2005. This coating resin found its earliest uses in metal restoration projects and protecting OEM building products. In 2009, Arkema launched its next grade, Kynar Aquatec FMA-12, for cementitious and other substrates where breathability or greater elastic properties were needed. Arkema’s most recent offering in the Kynar Aquatec line is Kynar Aquatec CRX. This resin was developed for applications requiring greater hardness, abrasion and chemical resistance, since it can be cross-linked with a second component, typically an isocyanate. Kynar Aquatec is an innovative platform of resins used by coating formulators to make premium, weather-resistant and water-based coatings. Coatings formulated with these emulsions can provide the durability and performance of traditional factory applied Kynar 500 based coatings. With a variety of resin grades, these coatings can easily be applied to a variety of substrates, including metals, plastics, wood, concrete, stucco, extorior insulation and finish systems and previously painted surfaces. Now, the extreme performance of a Kynar 500 based coating is available in a low volatile organic compound (VOC), SCAQMD Rule 1113-compliant, airdry system: either field-applied or factory-applied. Nineteen years ago, a side-by-side comparison of Kynar Aquatec to Kynar 500 finishes was started using the same inorganic pigments, with the only difference being the resin binder used. As shown in figure 1, there is almost no difference in color or chalking for both resin systems. This demonstrates that Kynar Aquatec based coatings can perform similarly to
a Kynar 500-based finish.
Highly Resistant to Film Erosion
Figure 2 demonstrates a Kynar Aquatec based coating’s ability to resist film erosion after outdoor exposure. Both formulations shown utilize cobalt blue pigment, which is not affected by ultraviolet light and does not block UV from penetrating the coating surface. Therefore, any degradation of the coating from weathering is related to the resin binder system only. After seven years of South Florida 45-degree south exposure, the metal substrate is completely showing through the 100 percent premium acrylic-based coating, while the Kynar Aquatec based coating is still intact with minimal color fade and no film erosion. Protecting the substrate from weathering is one of the primary purposes of a coating. Since Figure 2: Seven-Year South Florida PVDF coatings Film Thickness Comparison maintain its original film thickness, the substrate is being protected for the long-haul against the elements.
Quality Control Through Licensing
Similar to the Kynar 500 license program that was started in 1965, Arkema has adopted a license program for its Kynar Aquatec family of water-based PVDF resins. The license program ensures that the performance of the final coatings meets Arkema’s requirements to be considered and promoted as a Kynar Aquatec based finish. Since CSI Division 09 96 00 (high performance coatings) contains many different paint chemistries, from acrylic to polyurethane to epoxy to silicone, how do you know what you are getting in terms of long-term performance? The answer is Kynar PVDF resin-based finishes from a licensed Figure 1: Nineteen-Year Side-by-Side Comparison www.floridaroof.com | FLORIDA ROOFING
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FRSA’s New Building Protected by Kynar Resin-Based Coatings
coating-manufacturer have been tested and proven against “high performance” coatings in the category and have raised the bar for performance.
FRSA’s New Building Protected by Kynar Resin-Based Coatings
For the new FRSA building completed in July 2020, nearly the entire envelope is completely protected by Kynar PVDF based coatings. PAC-CLAD donated the roof, gutters and downspouts, which are all protected by a Kynar 500 finish system in a Copper Penny color. In addition, the stucco façade is completely protected by NeverFade Façade Restoration Coatings with Kynar Aquatec, manufactured by APV Engineered Coatings. Since 2009, APV has been a licensee of Arkema’s Kynar Aquatec resin. The company began formulating and field-testing PVDF-based coatings in 2005.
Kynar Aquatec-Based NeverFade Coatings – Proven Technology You Can Count On
NeverFade Façade Restoration Coatings from APV Engineered Coatings are water-based, low VOC façade restoration systems that provide the durability of a factory finish in a field-applied product. The topcoats are uniquely formulated with Kynar Aquatec PVDF resin, complex inorganic pigments and high-performance UV-blocking additives for long lasting durability and color retention. Because of the chemistry, NeverFade does not fade or breakdown under UV; it also maintains a hydrophobic surface that innately resists mold, mildew and dirt pick up. The NeverFade Façade Restoration Coating System includes both topcoats and compatible primers (see figure 3). NeverFade Original Topcoat is ideal for concrete, EIFS, stucco, masonry, fiber cement, composite materials and vinyl building exteriors. NeverFade Metal Restoration Topcoat is formulated for use on ferrous and non-ferrous metal surfaces. NeverFade 2K Performance Topcoat is used in more demanding applications that require greater chemical resistance, hardness and abrasion performance. NeverFade coatings have been benchmarked 26
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
Figure 3: NEVERFADE Product Line Overview
against other high-performance coatings such as 100 percent acrylics, urethanes and FEVE-based coatings. After fifteen years of research and development, APV established the ultimate coating system that dramatically extends the lifecycle of buildings compared to other coating systems. Sold in Florida through master distributor, Lazer Manufacturing, APV offers NeverFade with a 15-year product-and-labor guarantee. If the coating fades by a ΔE of five or higher, the company will replace the product and cover the labor cost of re-coating. This warranty is unique to the architectural coatings industry.
multiple substrates.
of color and gloss. The home was last inspected in 2019 and figure 4 shows a photo of APV gathering color and gloss data between the wood sample and the weathered façade. After ten years, there was no visual difference in color or residual chalking on the surface. The façade also had no dirt pickup or mold growth. Due to the performance of the coating system, the property owners have significantly reduced their maintenance upkeep on the home’s exterior. The following project photos demonstrate the versatility of NeverFade coatings to protect
Other NeverFade Projects Examples
Bostik, Inc., and Lazer Manufacturing have been proud partners of the FRSA and its members for over 30 years and thankful to be a part of their “Family Tradition.” We were thrilled when asked to participate in the construction of its new facility. Bostik is the 130-year-old sealant and adhesive division of Arkema. Bostik takes pride in offering innovative solutions and high-performance products to the professional contractor. Bostik is the only recommended supplier of sealants and adhesives for Kynar PVDF resin-based protected surfaces. Standing the Test of Time in the Using Bostik High Performance advanced 915 Gulf of Mexico chemistry, Bostik has been able to assist quality metal APV’s oldest project on the coast of Sanibel Island, Fla. roof panel manufacturers and fabricators in meeting in the Gulf of Mexico is a conventional stucco exterior and exceeding Florida Building Code (FBC), as well as that required constant maintenance by the homeownthe nation’s most rigorous Miami-Dade County uplift er due to dirt pick-up and mold growth. In July 2009, performance requirements for metal roofing. In addithe stucco was power washed to remove contamtion, due to the unique chemistry and strong adhesion inants, then primed with APV’s W-1500 universal to Kynar PVDF coated surfaces and the Miami-Dade primer, and top coated with NeverFade Original formulation. When the house was painted, the contractor and FBC approvals, Bostik 915 was chosen for the new FRSA building. Bostik 915 is paintable, no primers are coated a small wood sample to be kept in the garage, necessary, has quick cure time, as well as great joint away from the elements and used for later evaluation
Figure 4: Sanibel Island House Original and Ten Years Later
Another Sanibel Island project. Products used on concrete: W-1500 Universal Primer and a custom NeverFade Original Topcoat. Credit: APV Engineered Coatings www.floridaroof.com | FLORIDA ROOFING
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2020 Metal Architecture Design Renovations and Retrofit Winner. 610 Newport Beach. Products used on metal surface: W-1650 Bonding Primer and a custom metallic NeverFade Metal Topcoat. Credit: APV Engineered Coatings
movement and exceptional elongation. Bostik 915 is available in a variety of colors and on the new FRSA building, Bostik provided a crossover color request for Copper Penny. Whatever the application, roofing, windows, doors, whatever the substrate, wood, concrete, metal, Bostik has been the high performance tested and trusted choice of quality industry professional manufacturers, contractors and applicators. We are also proud to provide Bostik’s PRO-MS 50 product, which is an industry leading, high performance, hybrid sealant demonstrating properties such as color stability and long-lasting elastomeric qualities
Project: Jewish Adoption and Family Care Options (JAFCO) Sunrise, FL. Products used on concrete: W-1500 Universal Primer and an orange custom color of NeverFade Original Topcoat. Credit: APV Engineered Coatings
for building envelop architectural grade applications. Pro-MS 50 is asphalt compatible, non-yellowing and provides tenacious bonding to difficult substrates. Primary applications include all types of roofing, window and door perimeter sealing, siding and trim, flexible flashing materials, metals and much more. In addition to the high performance 915 and Pro-MS products, Bostik offers a complete line of professional adhesive and sealant products to meet specific project substrates and necessary performance requirements that you can find on their website, www.bostik.com.
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FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
Sustainability Never Ron Partridge is a Sr. Account Manager in the Technical Polymers Business unit at Arkema. Ron is responsiLooked So Good
ble for the sales of Kynar PVDF polymer into the NA coatings market. He has over 30 years of experience in the polymer industry in sales, business development, technical service and R&D. Ron has worked for Arkema for the last 17 years. He received his BS degree in Chemistry and Materials Science from The State University of New York at Stony Brook in 1984. Erin Neff is Director of Marketing and Business Development for APV Engineered Coatings. She is responsible for generating new business accounts and managing key product development projects in strategic markets, including flexible films and textiles, architecture and building products. Erin also oversees external communications, public relations, advertising, as well as website and digital marketing efforts. She has been with the company since 2008. Erin has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Marketing Management from the University of Akron. She is a NACE-Certified Coating Inspector and is certified in sales and negotiations in professional selling via Sandler Training. Kynar, Kynar Aquatec, Kynar 500, FSF and Bostik FRM are registered trademarks of Arkema Inc. NeverFade is a registered trademark owned by APV Engineered Coatings.
As you may have heard in the news, evidence has accumulated that PFAS Surfactants, a family of manufactured chemicals not otherwise found in nature, might be persistent in the bloodstreams of animals. In fact, the United States EPA and many states are looking at this matter closely. It is important to note that Arkema’s Kynar Aquatec and Kynar 500 FSF resins are manufactured through an innovative and patented process that uses no PFAS Surfactants or any other fluorosurfactants whatsoever.
3498_SS_FRSA-Half-Page-Ad-June-2020_FA_OL.indd 1
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Making the Leap from Residential to Commercial Roofing: Not-So-Obvious Things You Need to Know Carol J. Alexander As a business owner, you dream of growing your life’s work from a fledgling solopreneurship to a mid-size business and beyond. Whether increasing production, launching new products or services, expanding your territory or taking the leap from residential to commercial clients, growth is a natural progression. All of these milestones take planning, pivoting and purposeful consideration to make them happen, particularly taking the leap from residential to commercial. If you think you’re ready to take that step, you first need to understand the differences between the two arenas. To state the obvious, residential construction includes building homes and commercial construction includes building commercial properties such as shopping centers, office buildings or schools. The not-so-obvious differences are the complexity of contracts and the bidding process, the different materials and tools necessary for working with those materials, the training required to work with the materials, and the added financial and legal obligations.
The Paperwork Trail: Where a Commercial Job Begins Specs and Submittals Commercial projects frequently begin with a property owner contacting an architect to help design a facility. The architect creates the contract documents. This package includes the specifications and drawings.
Mike Vazquez, Regional Commercial Sales Manager for Gulf Coast Supply, simplifies this complex topic this way: “Roofing specifications define the level of quality the roofer will use in constructing the building by laying out what products to use and how to use them. The drawings (blueprints) tell the roofer where the products go.” Roofing contractors use these specs and drawings to prepare bids for the job. If they are awarded the bid, they enter the submittal phase of the paperwork journey. The submittal package is provided to the general contractor proposing the products to be used on the job as outlined in the specs. The general contractor then sends the submittal to the architect for approval. When the architect approves the submittal, the roofing contractor may begin the project. After the roofing is complete, the roofer may complete the process to obtain any warranty specified.
Types of Warranties and How They’re Secured According to Vazquez, two types of warranties apply to metal roofing—the material warranty and the labor and material warranty. Roof Loans Made Easy | Call for Details The material warranty is the guarantee from the manufacturer that its product will perform as defined in the warranty by protecting the owner from defects in the material. It covers only the material. The labor and material warranty guarantees that the product will perform as intended in the manner in which it was installed. One portion of the warranty covers only the materials, as previously described. Another portion of the warranty covers the workmanship. Therefore, to secure a labor and material warranty from the manufacturer, roofing contractors must be trained and authorized by the company to install the product according to the manufacFRSA Credit Union | 407-657-7212 turer’s specifications.
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FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
Continued on page 34
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Making the Leap, continued from page 32
Roofers authorized to install the product proposed for the project need to secure the labor and material warranty. To do so, they submit the specs and all accompanying paperwork for the job to the manufacturer for review. The manufacturing company then decides if it will award the desired warranty. If the warranty application is accepted, the manufacturer and roofing contractor set up a series of job-site meetings to make sure the installation is completed properly. The first meeting takes place before any work is done to verify that what was submitted is actually possible and to solve any problems the contractor may encounter before they ever happen. The second meeting is held mid-term. At this time, the manufacturer’s technician checks to see that the job is going as scheduled and according to specifications. This meeting can also be used to discuss any job conditions that may have changed since the pre-construction meeting. Finally, there is an inspection to approve the work. “When the job is complete and the product paid for,” says Vazquez, “then the manufacturer issues the desired warranty.”
The Toolbox: Design Differences Call for Different Tools and Skills
The Pocketbook: Particular Financial Obligations and Liabilities of Commercial Roofing The Difference Between Insurance and Bonding Because commercial roofing jobs are bigger and more costly than residential, you may need to upgrade your liability insurance and to secure bonding. Technically a form of insurance, bonds differ from insurance policies in a few ways. Bonds involve three parties—the contractor, the customer and the bonding agency. To bid on a commercial job, contractors secure a bond that guarantees their bid. Securing a bond requires the contractor to pay a premium and provide collateral. In essence, that requirement makes bonding similar to financing. If a loss is incurred, the bonding agency covers the loss, but contractors must reimburse the agency for all funds paid on their behalf. The enormity of a commercial roofing job dictates that commercial clients adhere to a different pay schedule than residential clients. The cash flow will be different. You, as the contractor, will need more capital to start a commercial job. While a residential roof may be installed in one or two days, a commercial roofing job can take months. To get it done faster, meet deadline and keep your general contractor happy, you’ll want to hire more crew members. According to Vazquez, the average commercial roofing crew has approximately eight team members. Larger projects require larger crews. Supporting the added team members is an additional financial obligation you wouldn’t have without taking the leap from residential to commercial roofing.
Commercial Roofs are Designed Differently Most residential roofs are pitched. Commercial roofs come in all shapes and sizes depending on the size of the building and what the owner wants the building to look like. These design differences command different types of materials, sometimes on the same building. The frequency and manner of maintenance and required installation skills differ as well. Commercial roofers must install around roof stacks, Other Things to Consider air ventilation systems or other external piping. This The broad range of products used in commercial extra detailing requires greater investment of time and roofing will require you to work with more vendors labor, which adds to the cost of the project. or material providers. Upgrading your records management system will help you keep track of all their Different Roofing Materials and Their information. Required Tools In addition to growing product knowledge, you’ll Most home builders apply asphalt shingle, tile or metal need to learn new zoning laws and building codes roofs. Commercial buildings, however, are topped with specific to commercial construction. Check with your a variety of materials including sprayed polyurethane local building inspector to see if you need to take any foam, BUR (built-up roofing), EPDM (ethylene propylcourses or upgrade your license for your area. ene diene monomer), TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), Roofers tend to choose a path for a reason—either PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or metal. Shingles, tile and residential or commercial—and stay in it. But if you’re metal are also used on commercial buildings, but still dreaming the dream, by all means, start jumping switching from residential to commercial may require through some of these hoops and move your roofing expertise with other products. business into the fast lane. “While a small minority of roofers specialize in one FRM type of material, such as metal,” says Vazquez, “most Carol J. Alexander writes website copy, blog posts and offer different options to stay competitive in the feature articles on home remodeling and construcmarketplace.” Developing a broad knowledge base is tion topics from her home in the Shenandoah Valley essential for recommending and installing different of Virginia. In addition to Florida Roofing magazine, kinds of materials. notable clients include Shed Builder, This Old House and Family Handyman. 34
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
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Rethinking Workplace Wellness Jared Mongold, Employee Benefits Specialist, Insurance Office of America The year 2020 will likely be remembered as a wellness crisis. Over the past six months, the COVID-19 public health crisis has evolved into an economic and mental health crisis. There are two recent survey findings from June that drive this point home. The CDC assessed mental health, substance use and suicidal ideation during the pandemic (CDC Survey) where about 41 percent of respondents reported one or more adverse mental or behavioral health condition. Broken down further:
important piece of the puzzle, sadly, most employees see their EAP at Open Enrollment but don’t remember to access it when it’s needed most. Ultimately, most current workplace wellness programs are tools and tactics sold as a strategy by carriers and outside ■ 31% reported symptoms of anxiety disorder or vendors. depressive disorder, At Insurance Office of ■ 13% started or increased substance use to cope America (IOA), we focus with stress or emotions, and on a true Population ■ 11% reported having seriously considered suicide Health Management in the prior 30 days. Some of the highest-risk strategy. “Population health” is “the health outcomes groups for suicidal ideation were 18–24 year olds of a group of individuals, including the distribution of (26%), unpaid caregivers for adults (31%), and such outcomes within the group.” First, determine essential workers (22%). what is affecting your group. There are various medAdditionally, The Charles Schwab Financial Literacy ical, physical, mental, emotional and environmental factors that are proven to intensify comorbidities, Survey (Schwab Survey) revealed widespread financial vulnerability, showing 50 percent of all Americans other chronic conditions that prevent recovery and would experience financial hardship if they had to cov- prolong disease. Once your factors have been idener an emergency expense of $1,000 or less in the next tified, we match those factors to proven tools and 30 days. While American workers have been financial- tactics that effectively and respectfully encourage behavioral changes that mitigate or reverse those ly vulnerable for a number of years and mental health conditions. By focusing on targeted and proven and substance abuse have been on the rise over the solutions, you can empower employees to pursue a past decade, the pandemic accelerated the trend. healthier and more fulfilling life. What does this information mean to you and your In order to implement a Population Health employees? How do we use this information to imManagement program, first identify a factor that is prove workplace wellness in an “essential” industry both a cost-driver to your health plan or workers’ during the present crisis? We’ll start by defining comp claim history AND fits into company culture. “wellness.” Common environmental factors are financial and famMost employers would define wellness as “workily stressors, such as childcare and elder care, diet and place wellness,” which is “any workplace health sedentary lifestyle, difficult commutes and a hostile promotion activity or organizational policy designed work environment. Common medical factors are diato support healthy behavior in the workplace and to betes, cardiovascular disease and substance abuse. improve health outcomes.” Workplace wellness often Next, see what tactics are already available to comprises activities such as health education, medical you, such as health insurance carrier wellness funds screenings, weight management programs and on-site or their discounted turnkey vendors, but only implefitness programs or facilities. ment a solution that’s relevant to your target factor. Unfortunately, the track record of broad strokes If your free options don’t apply, ask your benefits workplace wellness programs is quite poor. While consultant to evaluate your options for outside vengroup health outcomes remain the same, Sherri the dors. Remember, when all you have is a hammer, ultra-marathoner wins the Apple watch prize for the everything starts looking like a nail. A vendor that company step challenge and Jim is pumping just as promotes fitness tracking and weight loss contests much iron as before at your shiny, new onsite gym – may try to convince you that’s the best solution for not a great return on investment (ROI). Concerning diabetes management, but specialized medical case mental health, we hear employers proudly exclaim, management to promote treatment adherence is “We offer an EAP (Employee Assistance Program)!” likely to be more effective. Like most other purchases, and then crickets (silence). While EAPs are an avoid flashy sales pitches and be skeptical of wellness 36
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
vendors that promise quick-fixes and high first-year ROI. Most effective population health initiatives take time and must be targeted to a specific clinical outcome to generate a positive ROI. Fortunately, many effective vendors include performance guarantees to help you take the leap, but make sure the vendor’s performance targets and measurement align with your desired goals for population health improvement. Generally speaking, roofing is one of the few industries where an employer’s workers’ compensation costs often outpace health plan costs. For this reason, it makes sense to leverage population health strategies toward employees’ comorbidities to reduce or prevent workers’ compensation claims. The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) has provided data that shows claims with a comorbidity diagnosis have about twice the medical costs of otherwise comparable claims and the most common comorbidities were hypertension, drug abuse, diabetes and chronic pulmonary diseases. When drug abuse was identified as a comorbidity, 73 percent of claimants were male. Roofing specifically and construction generally, are predominantly male industries and the addiction and substance abuse crisis within the crisis may be creating a tinderbox of more severe workers’ compensation claims that could ignite at any time. From the CDC survey, 13 percent of the population has reported increased substance abuse and 22 percent of essential workers have reported suicidal ideation, which means the pandemic and “mitigation” measures have potentially created significant stressors within the households of many of your employees (AKA comorbidities). Dr. Lantie Jorandby, a board-certified psychiatrist with a specialty certification in Addiction, summed it up in Psychology Today, “[The COVID-19 pandemic] has created new challenges for millions of people living with addictions or substance use disorders, revealing potential triggers at every turn.” Additionally, job losses may lead to a larger uninsured population (health insurance), so claim frequency may also increase due to a surge in “Monday morning syndrome” (fraudulent workers’ compensation claims from over the weekend presented as fresh, on-the-job injuries on Monday mornings). FREQUENCY + SEVERITY = HIGHER PREMIUMS. While the landscape appears bleak, now may be the perfect time to focus on mental health, addiction and financial literacy, as you have a captive audience. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many employees to confront their need to manage their finances differently in the future to be less vulnerable and 89 percent of Schwab Survey
respondents believe a lack of financial literacy contributes to larger social issues, such as poverty, fewer job opportunities and addiction. It is time for employers to offer relevant education and tools to help employees better manage their financial and mental health going forward. This is a preventive measure that can boost your population’s overall well-being and increase workplace productivity. Several companies, such as Prudential, have developed turnkey, no-cost financial wellness education packages for companies to introduce to their employees; or, ask your 401(k) provider if they have available resources. Now is also the time to dust off that EAP. Some dental and life insurance carriers are currently offering their Basic EAP at no charge, due to the pandemic. Don’t wait, reach out to your broker-consultant or carrier today to identify the available resources that fit your organization.
FRM
Jared Mongold is an Employee Benefits Specialist at Insurance Office of America (IOA). Jared is licensed in life, health and property and casualty insurance. Contact Jared about your insurance needs by phone at 727-565-7073 or by email at jared.mongold@ioausa.com.
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Pay the IRS What’s Due Lee Rust, Owner, Florida Corporate Finance Don’t steal from yourself. That sounds silly, but it’s what I call hiding personal and business income. When selling companies for my clients, I’m always concerned when I hear that the actual profits are higher than those reported to the IRS. First, a tax audit will usually uncover such hidden income and result in penalties and interest far in excess of the earlier benefits you thought you enjoyed. Second, no corporate nor most individual buyers for a company will include all of such hidden income in their calculation of an appropriate purchase price. Because most of it is excluded, the purchase price is lower, usually much lower, than what you would otherwise have received. And third, knowingly reporting inaccurate income is a felony for which people can and do go to jail. Not a good idea. Paying the IRS is a high-class problem. It means you’re operating a profitable enterprise on which profit taxes are due. When not paying the IRS what is due, you’re either operating a losing business or you’re cheating in ways you shouldn’t. If losses are the reason for the lack of tax obligations, you need to correct the profit problems fast. If cheating is the reason for the lack of tax obligations, or just taxes lower than you
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FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
should pay, you’re operating a criminal enterprise. Sounds ominous, but it’s factual. Those warnings relate to taxes on income. Accurately calculating and paying those taxes is extremely important. Paying taxes on payroll, however, and paying those taxes on a timely basis, is not just important, it’s imperative. To the Internal Revenue Service, payroll taxes are in a unique category. Withholding, Social Security and Medicare taxes are monies that do not, and have never, belonged to the company or person making the payments. Those funds are, and from their inception always were the property of the Federal Government. Not paying those payroll taxes can result in Draconian actions on the part of the IRS and those actions can be taken immediately. In addition to holding all company directors, any officers with signature power over a bank account and the accounting managers personally responsible for any and all unpaid payroll taxes, the IRS can also take advantage of that responsibility by seizing both corporate and personal bank accounts. In regard to other company assets, an IRS lien for unpaid payroll
taxes is superior to any other loans, including secured bank loans. Your friendly tax collector can padlock the door to your facility and claim the assets. I’ve seen it happen. Several years ago, when I was just starting a turnaround effort for a chronically unprofitable company, the owner called one morning to tell me that the IRS had shut the plant. The IRS agent actually put a new hasp and lock on the front door with no prior notice. That was the first I learned of the unpaid payroll taxes. We were able to negotiate with the IRS agent and reopen, but it took several days as well as a significant payment against the past due taxes, interest and penalties that was particularly difficult to make. The problem for companies with insufficient working capital is the ease with which the IRS can become a source of borrowed funds. No need to fill out loan applications; a history of continuing losses is not a problem; just don’t pay the payroll taxes and use those funds to support the business. When that starts, it’s always a short-term loan. Too often, it then becomes a long-term loan. At that point, the unpaid FICA and other payroll taxes become more of a threat to your business than any other factor. Borrowing the payroll taxes is the worst source of funds for any company. If such borrowings are ever necessary, the company has problems that should have been solved earlier and in another fashion. The rules are easy to follow: For all payroll taxes, pay the IRS first, no exceptions. For all income related taxes, calculate the income accurately and pay the taxes when due. My own business is a sole proprietorship operated from a home office, but I keep financial records as if it were a much larger corporation. That is particularly true for all of those items subject to fudging. For example, every time I visit a client, I record my mileage and apply the standard IRS allowed mileage charge for that year. My wife keeps a separate bank account for Florida Corporate Finance and never mingles either income or expenses with our house accounts. At the end of each month, she reimburses the house accounts for the mileage charges during that month. Any business owner or executive should keep similar records of all business-related expenses paid by their company which could be personal. Any personal expenses should be paid by the individual and not by the company. If any such expenses are paid by the company, the owner or executive should write a check to reimburse the company. Doing otherwise is playing Russian roulette with the IRS, and in that game, the IRS always wins. When developing Strategic Plans for my client companies, I always advise them to keep all of their options open. Among those are a possible sale or other form of corporate relationship for their company. Although a sale of the company may be out in some
indefinite future, you never know. An attractive buyer might surface, or the owner’s heirs may be the sellers long before he or she planned. In any case, the value of the company will usually be based principally on its history of earnings. If those earnings are artificially low due to tax games, the price will also be low. I’ll say it one more time, “Pay the IRS first.” You’ll never regret following that simple policy.
FRM
Lee Rust, owner of Florida Corporate Finance, specializes in Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate Sales, Strategic Planning, Financing and Operations Audits. He can be reached by phone at 407-841-5676 or by email at hleerust@att.net.
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COTNEY CONSULTING GROUP John Kenney
Empower Your Field Leaders Roofing companies vary in size, as do the size and complexity of their projects. These projects may be under one hundred thousand dollars or multi-million dollars in size. In these various projects, the question is, “Who is the frontline supervisor?” Some organizations are structured to empower the project superintendent as the decision making person in the field. In this article, we are going to focus on the empowerment of the foreman and how their role impacts performance, crew management, work execution and generating your organization’s revenue and profit. The foreman manages the crew and it is at the crew level where the rubber meets the road; profits are made or lost. In leading your field teams, he dictates the way your work is put in place, affecting the outcomes of safety, quality, production and project obligations. The foreman is such a key player in the degree of success of the project; we need to teach them the skills to be fully empowered and successful. In most companies, the foreman’s role is to oversee a limited number of direct reports (the crew). Many times the foreman is required to do production work as a working foreman and may be expected to manage a large workforce, which may affect the capacity of the foreman’s management capabilities. We also expect them to get the crew to meet the production goals for that day and ensure that company policies and procedures are followed. They may only have limited authority or leeway to deviate from planned goals and objectives. These limiting factors placed on our foremen are an outcome of the organization’s structure and culture on how the foreman is chosen and trained. They are often selected from among the crews and are promoted to foreman positions solely based on their effectiveness and productivity of work. Most organizations, unfortunately, do not have a formal system or process for preparing people for the role of foreman. You have picked these craftspersons based on their technical skills. Still, for them to succeed, they need people skills, administrative skills, organizational, planning and communication skills as well as problem-solving skills and the ability to deal with conflicts. Most will struggle if they are not provided education and training in these areas. If your foreman struggles, they are going to impact the crew’s productivity adversely and, ultimately, the organization’s profitability. Every organization must create standard operating procedures (SOP), including capabilities for each position along with the chain of command. Once you have identified your people with the potential for the 40
FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
promotion, you need to analyze and identify their strengths and weaknesses. The next step is to assign them tasks that will provide them exposure to these areas and formulate an educational plan that will build up and strengthen their weak areas. This process not only benefits the individuals to ensure their success but, more importantly, it will improve productivity, efficiency, morale and the bottom line of your organization. Studies show there are hundreds of organizations in various construction industries that have not worked any additional hours but through efficiency increased the hours of productivity versus the total hours worked in daily shift. Typical results are a 10to-20 percent increase in productive output that was accomplished through frontline supervisory level training. The first step is selecting the right person for the supervisory role. To achieve this, your organization must set down the selection criteria for their supervisors going forward. Next, you must assess the strengths and weaknesses of your selected candidate and design a process where they receive the necessary education and training as well as coaching, counseling or mentoring as applicable. Additional organizational support will be required to ensure success with the empowerment process.
Conclusion
The money is made at the crew level and the foreman plays a crucial role in getting the most out of your crew’s performance. Field leaders manage hundreds of thousands of your company’s dollars, which can make or break a construction firm. For this reason, you should pay greater attention to who is promoted to the foreman level to ensure that they are the very best candidates under consideration. Roofing contractors that want to survive and thrive in the future have no choice but to invest heavily in their field leaders today. Training and development should not ever be about checking a box. It should be about actually doing, measuring and improving the knowledge and leadership skills required for the position. Do not look at frontline field leader development as a must-do task, but as a continuous journey of success.
FRM
Giving Back
FRSA Members Giving Back to the Community
The Polk County Roofing Contractors Association (PCRCA), an FRSA Affiliate, had not met as a group since February 2020 but, like most of us, were “itching” for something to do. The association had been wanting for some time to complete a charity roof in its area but had not found a recipient. In May, a friend of one of its members informed the association that he had a family member in need. Michelle is an older woman on disability and her insurance company told her they were not going to renew her homeowner’s policy unless she had a new roof installed. Michelle had moved in with her aging mother a few years earlier and cared for her until she passed. The house they were living in was left to Michelle but was in much need of repair. A year later, Michelle lost her 24-year-old son and soon after suffered a heart attack. Not long after that she had to have hip
3 min video
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FLORIDA ROOFING | October 2020
replacement surgery. Michelle was a hairdresser and tried to work part time as much as her disability would allow, but that came to a screeching halt when the pandemic hit. Michelle needed help. The PCRCA sprang into action. The house had an old three-tab shingle roof and there was a lot of deteriorated decking, rafter tails and fascia. The PCRCA decided because the roof pitch was not high enough for a dimensional shingle warranty, that it was better to install a metal roof. A crew from McEnany Roofing’s Lake Alfred branch tore off the existing roof, replaced the damaged wood and dried the roof in with Polyglass Polystick MTS Plus donated from the Lakeland branches of ABC Supply and Suncoast Roofers Supply. Gulf Coast Supply and Manufacturing in Sebring donated GULFRIB metal panels and all the trim for the roof. Crews from
Imperial Roofing of Polk County installed the metal roof system. Because so much wood had to be replaced, a group of volunteers from Triangle Fastener, Springer-Peterson Roofing and Imperial Roofing of Polk County gave up a Saturday morning and painted the soffit and fascia. The result is a beautiful new roof for a deserving woman who is beyond grateful. This was PCRCA’s first charity roof for an individual but, because of the heartwarming experience for all involved, you can bet it will not be its last.
ABC Supply Celebrates Homes For Our Troops’ 300th Home
Earlier this year, ABC Supply announced its multimillion-dollar commitment to Homes For Our Troops
(HFOT). HFOT is a nonprofit that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 Veterans to enable them to rebuild their lives. Through its support of HFOT, ABC Supply was honored to donate materials and help the organization celebrate a big milestone: the delivery of its 300th specially adapted custom home. The nonprofit organization donated its 300th home to US Army Sergeant Nathan Shumaker in Hillsboro, Mo. SGT Shumaker, a Purple Heart recipient, was severely injured while serving in Afghanistan. The delivery of the home was marked with two events: Volunteer Day on Friday, September 11 – The community helped with the landscaping plan for this home by planting flowers and laying sod. This special event coincided with September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, a day where Americans volunteer in their local communities in tribute to the individuals who were lost or injured during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, first responders and the many who have risen in service to defend freedom. Key Ceremony on Saturday, September 12 – ABC Supply escorted SGT Shumaker to his home and HFOT presented him and his family with the keys. The event included a speech, ribbon-cutting ceremony and flag raising with an ABC Supply truck. “ABC Supply is proud to support the work Homes For Our Troops does to make a difference in the lives of veterans who have given so much for our country,” said Mike Jost, Chief Operating Officer. “It’s even more special that we were able to escort SGT Shumaker to his home for the key ceremony and personally thank him for his service.”
FRM
U.S. POSTAL SERVICE STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, AND CIRCULATION (Required by USC 3685) 1. Publication title: Florida Roofing Magazine; 2. Publication No. 0191-4615; 3. Filling Date 10/1/2020; 4. Issue Frequency: monthly; 5. Number of Issues: 12; 6. Annual Subscription Price: $24; 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817; 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817; 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Address of Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor: Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association Inc., 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817; Publisher: Lisa Pate, Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association Inc., 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817; Editor: Lisa Pate, 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817; Managing Editor: Lisa Pate, 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817; 10. Owner: Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association Inc, 3855 N. Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32817; 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders: None; 12. Tax Status-The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months; 13. Publication Title: Florida Roofing Magazine; 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September 30, 2020; 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: 15a. Total Numbers of Copies: Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months: 4,600; 15a. Number of copies of Single Issue Published Nearest Filing Date: 4,600; 15b. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution: b.1. Outside-County Paid/ Requested Mail Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541: 4,175/4,175; b.2. In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscription Stated on PS Form 3541:225/225; b.3. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS: None; b.4. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS: None; c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 4,400; 15d. Nonrequested Distribution; d.1. Outside-County Nonrequested Copies included on PS Form 3541: None; d.2. In-County Nonrequested Copies Included on PS Form 3541: None; d.3. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail: None; d.4. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail: None; e. Total Nonrequested Distribution: None; f. Total Distribution: 4,400; g. Copies Not Distributed: 200; h. Total: 4,600; i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 100%; 16. Electronic Copy Circulation; a. Requested and Paid Electronic Copies: None; b. Total Requested and Paid Print Copies + Requested/ Paid Electronic Copies: None; c. Total Requested Copy Distribution + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies: None; d. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: None; 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requestor Publication is required and will be printed in the October 2020 issue of this publication. www.floridaroof.com | FLORIDA ROOFING
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