The official magazine of the North Carolina Home Builders Association
Vol. 39, No. 6, July 2009
Going “extreme” for a good cause
Shoot for the STARS BUILD-PAC wins during May contest
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Features
V ol . 39, N o . 6, J uly 2009
10
The official magazine of the North Carolina Home Builders Association
2005 Communicator Award Winner
Dedicated to the advancement of the home building industry, North Carolina Builder (ISSN 1552-8685) is published monthly for the members of the North Carolina Home Builders Association, P.O. Box 99090, Raleigh, N.C. 27624-9090. (800) 662-7129 • http://www.nchba.com
8
Mike Carpenter Executive Vice President and General Counsel Lisa Martin Director of Government Affairs
mcarpenter@nchba.org
lmartin@nchba.org
To be named Director of Regulatory Affairs Robert Privott Director of Codes and Construction rprivott@nchba.org Jessica Hayes Director of Political Affairs
15
Shine brightly at the annual STARS Awards Gala
8
Do you have a special project that deserves recognition? Do you need a creative way to market your product? If so, enter the STARS Awards and join colleagues from across the Southeast at the gala awards banquet Sept. 16 during the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference.
Building in the extreme
10
People drove from far and wide to lend a hand in the construction of a new home near Edenton for a military veteran, which was filmed for an episode of ABC-TV’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”
Getting rid of what bugs you
15
This issue’s product roundup takes a look at what’s on the market today to prevent building damage from moisture and pests.
Celebrating a silver anniversary Builders Mutual Insurance Co. turns 25 this year and it’s introducing a special program for builders in celebration.
Deborah Alford Director of Exhibitions and Education
2. President’s Message 4. Code Corner 12. Build-Pac Contributors 16. Knowledge Builder 18. Spike Member Update 20. NCHBA News
On the cover: In just five days, Edenton Builders, with the help of thousands of volunteers, constructed a home for a disabled Gulf War veteran and his family. The effort was part of ABC-TV’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” (Photo by Ed Perkins and Jerrard Cole.)
July 2009
dalford@nchba.org
Tracie Garrett Director of Exhibitor Services
tgarrett@nchba.org
Kep Paylor Vocational Education
kpaylor@nchba.org
Linda Hall Controller
lhall@nchba.org
Erin Jones Manager of Political Operations
ejones@nchba.org
Heather Crews Director of Communications and Managing Editor
hcrews@nchba.org
Wendy Spaziani Assistant Education Coordinator wspaziani@nchba.org
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Beth Gray Receptionist
bgray@nchba.org
Advertising Sales Executive Sharon Freeman (888) 364-5271 freemanfour4@cox.net Graphic Designer
Contents
jhayes@nchba.org
Kathryn Atkinson Director of Membership Services katkinson@nchba.org
Paige Takach
Publisher
Association Publishing Inc. www.associationpublishinginc.com Sandra Amidon and Joyce Hearn, APR (757) 420-2434
Acceptance of advertising in North Carolina Builder does not imply endorsement of the product or service by NCHBA. Opinions expressed in articles are those of the authors and people quoted and not necessarily those of NCHBA, nor does mention of specific products in editorial content imply endorsement by NCHBA. No material may be reproduced for further publication without the express permission of the association. North Carolina Builder is published for the principals and employees of all member firms of the North Carolina Home Builders Association Affiliated with the Association and its receipt is included in the membership fee. National of Home Builders. North Carolina Builder is published monthly except for January. Since the mailing list used by North Carolina Builder is compiled according to membership records, address corrections should be directed to your local association. Nonmember subscriptions are available from the publisher for $30 a year. Dues paid to NCHBA are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes. However, they may be deductible as ordinary and necessary business expenses subject to restrictions imposed as a result of association lobbying activities. NCHBA estimates that the nondeductible portion of your 2009 dues — the portion that is allocable to lobbying — is 28 percent.
North Carolina Builder 1
President’s Message
2009 NCHBA Leadership President Frank Wiesner President-Elect Lyle Gardner First Vice President Bill Daleure Secretary/Treasurer Rick Shields Executive Vice President Mike Carpenter Immediate Past President & NAHB Executive Committee State Representative Ray Rhodes NAHB Executive Committee Rick Judson Vice President, Region I Patrick Mann Vice President, Region II Glenn Morrison Vice President, Region III Barry Tutor Vice President, Region IV Ralph Doggett Vice President, Region V Jackie Trinchitella Vice President, Region VI Brian Robinett Vice President, Region VII Erik Anderson Vice President, Region VIII Darrel Hamilton Vice President, Region IX Kevin Annas Vice President, Region X Zac Koenig Presidential Appointee Elizabeth Cubler Presidential Appointee Larry Howard Presidential Appointee Mike Gerber Chair, Associate Members Committee Tammie Smoot President, EO/ES Council Caroline Sutton President, Professional Women in Building Tammie Smoot
2 North Carolina Builder
by Frank Wiesner, 2009 NCHBA President
Unleash the power of ONE
S
ince the last time I sat before my computer to write my monthly message, I have enjoyed the great fortune of celebrating a birthday. I appreciate the many NCHBA “Facebookers” who extended birthday wishes to me, and I enjoyed the variety of ways in which folks conveyed their acknowledgement of my “big” day. Since I am now in my late ’40s and walking up the path to the ’50s door, it is very appropriate for me to use this forum to express my fascination with numbers, and more specifically, the number ONE. When I was young, the band Three Dog Night famously proclaimed in song “One Is The Loneliest Number.” I can buy the basic premise of that song title since many of us in our industry have felt alone as we have worked so hard to survive this economic crisis that has gripped every business sector, but has been particularly hard on housing. However, when I think of ONE, I find myself in awe at the power of ONE, which is a force to be reckoned with as opposed to Wiesner being lonely and powerless. Think about it: elections can be won or lost by the decisions Once again the power of individuals. In fact, do you think there are individuals in Florida who thought, “My vote doesn’t matter,” in the 2000 election and of ONE is a force that who now wish they had voted? Single votes in certain districts can do incredible things could very well have put Al Gore in the White House instead of even in years that are George Bush. In that and many other instances, history is forever changed by something less than the power of ONE. A mighty oak tree is birthed from the seed prosperous times for of ONE acorn and becomes a majestic symbol of strength that our industry and most of causes people, and sometimes even communities, to fight over the preservation of its very existence. Ask a developer if that’s true! our membership. Think about the many individual seeds that, when planted, grow into individual stalks of wheat that make up the acres of wheat fields that feed the nations. Think of the power of a single soldier who, combined in a platoon with others, forms the awesome firepower that preserves and protects the very freedom that allows me to write this letter to you. These are incredible examples of the power of ONE multiplied. Another example of the power of ONE that is encouraging and inspiring to us is in our Moore County HBA. The ONE responsible is Danny Adams, a former NCHBA President and current MCHBA BUILD-PAC Chairman. He was so inspired and challenged at the NCHBA First Quarter BUILD-PAC Trustees meeting, that he unleashed the power of ONE in himself and set a goal for the Moore County HBA to raise more than $10,000 for BUILD-PAC this year — even though it had never raised more than $6,000 in any other given year. I am incredibly pleased to report that because the power of ONE was engaged and a plan was put together, Danny was able to multiply the power of ONE, and by the end of May the MCHBA had contributed more than $10,400 in BUILD-PAC contributions and the year is not even half over. Even more powerful is that we now have 34 individual contributors in Moore County who have never invested in BUILD-PAC before. Once again the power of ONE is a force that can do incredible things even in years that are something less than prosperous times for our industry and most of our membership. I encourage each of you to seize the moment and purpose in your hearts to unleash the awesome power of ONE that exists in each of us. You can make a positive impact and be an influence to those close to you and your families, your businesses and your local home builders associations all across North Carolina. You will be amazed at the miraculous things that the power of ONE can begin and in fact accomplish in all facets of your life. Be the ONE who makes that difference today.
Frank
July 2009
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North Carolina Builder 3
Code Corner by Robert Privott, NCHBA Director of Codes and Construction Privott
North Carolina Building Code Council update CHAPTER 8 – ROOFCEILING CONSTRUCTION
Highlights of 2009 residential code changes Code changes to the 2009 North Carolina Residential Code continue to be the focus for this issue of Code Corner.
T
he North Carolina Building Code Council will meet Sept. 14-15, 2009, at a meeting location to be determined. The council will hold a work session at 10 a.m., Monday, Sept. 14, followed by a public hearing at 1 p.m. The council meeting will be at 9 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 15. The agenda for the council meeting can be found at http://www.ncdoi.com/OSFM/ Engineering/BCC/engineering_bcc_agenda. asp. about two weeks prior to the meeting.
R802.1.5 Structural log members. Stress grading of structural log members of nonrectangular shape, as typically used in log buildings, shall be in accordance with ASTM D 3957. Such structural log members shall be identified by the grade mark of an approved lumber grading or inspection agency. In lieu of a grade mark on the material, a certificate of inspection as to species and grade issued by a lumber-grading or inspection agency meeting the requirements of this section shall be permitted to be accepted. IRC change – Section has been added to address a standard for log homes and requirement for grade marks on materials. R802.2 Design and construction. The framing details required in Section R802 apply to roofs having a minimum slope of three units
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vertical in 12 units horizontal (25 percent slope) or greater. Roof-ceilings shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and Figures R606.11(1), R606.11(2) and R606.11(3) or in accordance with AFPA/ NDS. Components of roof-ceilings shall be fastened in accordance with Table R602.3(1). IRC change – States that section R802 (entire section) only applies to roofs with a 3/12 pitch or greater. R802.3.1 Ceiling joist and rafter connections. 1) Where ceiling joists are not connected to the rafters at the top wall plate, joists connected higher in the attic shall be installed as rafter ties, or rafter ties shall be installed to provide a continuous tie. Where ceiling joists are not parallel to rafters, rafter ties shall be installed. Rafter ties shall be a minimum of 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) (nominal), installed in accordance with the connection requirements in Table R802.5.1(9), or connections of equivalent capacities shall be provided. 2) Where ceiling joists or rafter ties are not provided, the ridge formed by these rafters shall be supported by a wall or girder designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice. 3) Collar ties or ridge straps to resist wind uplift shall be connected in the upper third of the attic space in accordance with Table R602.3(1). Ceiling joists shall be continuous or securely joined in accordance with Table R802.5.1(9) where they meet over interior partitions and are nailed to adjacent rafters to provide a continuous tie across the building when such joists are parallel to… IRC change - 1) Changed language to better describe a rafter tie and when one is needed; 2) also states where ceiling joists or rafter ties are not provided the ridge shall be supported by a wall or girder; and 3) Collar ties and rafter ties are two separate requirements under the code. R802.10.2.1 Applicability limits. The provisions of this section shall control the design of truss roof framing when snow controls for buildings not greater than 60 feet (18,288 mm) in length perpendicular to the joist, rafter or truss span, not greater than 36 feet (10,973 mm) in width parallel to the joist span or truss, not greater than two stories in height with each story not (See CODE CORNER on page 7) July 2009
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July 2009
North Carolina Builder 5
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6 North Carolina Builder
July 2009
Code Corner (continued from page 4) greater than 10 feet (3,048 mm) high, and roof slopes not smaller than 3:12 (25 percent slope) or greater than 12:12 (100 percent slope). . . IRC change - This is a new section that adds limits on the use of roof trusses when using prescriptive requirements in R802.10. R807.1 Attic access. An attic access opening to attic areas that exceed 100 square feet (9.29 m2) and have a vertical height of 60 inches (1,524 mm) or more. The rough net clear opening shall not be less than 20 inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm) and shall be located in a hallway or other readily accessible location. A 30-inch (762 mm) minimum unobstructed headroom in the attic space shall be provided at some point above the access opening. See Sec tion M1305.1.3 for access requirements where mechanical equipment is located in attics. Exception: Concealed areas not located over the main structure including porches, areas behind knee walls, dormers, bay windows, etc. are not required to have access. North Carolina change – Changed the code language to give a clear attic access net opening of 20 feet by 30 feet instead of a rough opening size. The exception was added in 2006.
Look for a photo review of NCHBA’s annual Legislative Conference in the August Capitol Insider.
The North Carolina Home Builders Association
2009 Sponsor Club Members Diamond
Bronze
Duke Energy ElectriCities of NC Lowe’s PSNC Energy •
Patron
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency Progress Energy Stuart Law Firm, PLLC •
Platinum
GOLD
Contributor
BuildLinks Inc. Cranfill, Sumner & Hartzog, LLP Heritage Propane HomeTeam Pest Defense Lewis & Roberts, PLLC The North Carolina Home Builders Association would like to recognize these companies for their generous support in 2009.
Thank you! July 2009
North Carolina Builder 7
Entry deadline is July 31
Reach for the STARS and gain the recognition you deserve Do you have a special project that deserves recognition? Do you need a creative way to market your product? If so, enter the STARS Awards! To be eligible for consideration in the 2009 awards program, you must be a member of the National Association of Home Builders. Projects must have been completed between Jan. 1, 2008, and July 31, 2009, and all entries are due to the NCHBA office by July 31. The official Call for Entries can be accessed at www.21buildingexpo.com or by contacting Kathryn Atkinson at (919) 676-9090 or katkinson@nchba.org.
C
ome shine, shimmer and sparkle during “A Night Among the Stars” on Wednesday, Sept. 16, at the Hilton Charlotte Center City Hotel in Charlotte. Join your colleagues and fellow HBA members to honor the achievements of the industry’s best from North Carolina and surrounding states. The 21st Century Building Expo & Conference and the North Carolina Home Builders Association are proud to salute the outstanding professional performance of HBA members throughout the Southeast with the presentation of the prestigious STARS Awards.
Shine Brightly at the 2009 STARS Awards Gala during the 21st Century Building Expo & Conference Wednesday, September 16, 2009
For more information, contact Kathryn Atkinson at (800) 662-7129 or katkinson@nchba.org www.21buildingexpo.com 8 North Carolina Builder
Mark your calendar now for a celebration that will showcase the work of winners in an impressive multimedia display and surely prove to be a memorable evening filled with fun and suspense. All during the evening, enjoy the soulful vocals and fantastic keyboard skills of North Carolina’s own Ulysses Long. The STARS Awards program honors the achievements of builders, associates, real estate professionals, media and advertising professionals, and many others who make major contributions to the residential home building industry. Local home builders associations are also honored for their outstanding achievements. With 47 categories to choose from, there is something for everyone. In fact, category 17, Best Internet Marketing/Advertising Project for a builder, community (or masterplanned community), developer, associate or realty company, is brand new in 2009! Entries may include e-blasts, banners, Web videos, etc.
The marketing benefit of reaching for the STARS Ever wonder why your company should enter the STARS Awards? Are you curious as to what companies do with their STARS Awards? The answer goes beyond the nice trophy and recognition at the STARS Awards Gala and includes the role that STARS Awards can play in a company’s overall marketing and sales strategy. Marketing programs, though widely varied, are all aimed at convincing people to try out or to keep using particular products or services. Professional recognition such as the STARS Awards can be a great addition to your company’s marketing program.
What can advertising your STARS Award(s) do for your business? • Highlight the quality and benefits of your product or service to current and potential customers. • Establish and maintain your distinct identity as a company and professional. • Enhance your professional reputation. • Give you an edge over the competition. • Encourage existing customers to buy more of what you sell. • Promote your business.
Don’t be left out of this exciting event – enter today! July 2009
“ D o n’t watch it ha p p m ak e it happ e n .”e n –
An organization’s ability to learn, and translate that learning into action rapidly, is the ultimate competitive advantage. Jack Welch (business leader and author)
21st Century Building Expo & Conference Meet Current Challenges with a New Appr ach Exhibits: September 17-18, 2009 Conference: September 16-18, 2009 Charlotte Convention Center • Charlotte, NC • New concepts and solutions • Innovative products and trends Information and Registration: www.21BuildingExpo.com 1.800.662.7129
• Networking with industry professionals Presented by the North Carolina Home Builders Association
July 2009
$10,000 Grand Prize
Golf Tournament
STARS Awards Gala North Carolina Builder 9
Extreme Makeover: North Carolina-style
Edenton builder and thousands of volunteers take on the challenge By Valerie Myers
J
ohn Norris of Edenton Builders is still not exactly sure how his company was chosen to build a home for television’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” but he is certainly glad about it.This year, the theme of the show is “Heroes Helping Heroes,” and this past spring Edenton Builders was given the opportunity of a lifetime to construct a home for a true hero — a decorated veteran of the Gulf War — and his family. After he agreed to participate, Norris was told that the producers had narrowed the recipient to five possible families and he was given the house plans and lot information. “Once I signed on, I found out later that the show had checked out my company pretty thoroughly and had spoken to several people at the local municipalities about me,” said Norris, who is a member of the Northeastern North Carolina Home Builders Association. On Friday, March 6, the“Extreme Makeover” TV personalities knocked on the door at the home of Jeff and Clara Cooper with the good news that they would be given a brand-new home. Jeff Cooper was a combat medic with the U.S. Army during the Gulf War and has faced some tough challenges since returning home. Due to multiple sclerosis, Cooper is now confined to a wheelchair. He also suffers from Gulf War Syndrome. The Coopers had been living in a weathered double-wide trailer along with their daughter,Windy, their son, Aaron, and the family dog, Gabby.Tragically, Aaron was severely injured two years ago when he was hit by a garbage truck, costing him most of his right arm. With a leaking roof, bad wiring and a crumbling wheelchair ramp, the trailer that the Coopers called home was uncomfortable and certainly not properly equipped for the disabled. In April of last year, Jeff Cooper was contacted by a local television station informing him that his family had been submitted for consideration by the Wounded Warrior and the Disabled American Veterans organizations to receive a house from “Extreme Makeover.” “Honestly, at first, I thought it was a prank,” admitted Cooper. “Then I got a call from the DAV assuring me that it wasn’t. Then the show 10 North Carolina Builder
John Norris of Edenton Builders gives one of many media interviews during construction of the Coopers’ home.
called and here we are today.” The entire family was whisked away for a vacation in Washington, D.C., while Edenton Builders and a host of volunteers moved in to start construction on the three-bedroom, two-bathroom, 2,500-square-foot wheelchairaccessible home. At the time that Norris was contacted about building the home, Edenton Builders was already working on the construction of several other custom homes. Because he was required to be on site at the Extreme Makeover home throughout the entire process, Norris put his project manager in charge of the other homes and got down to business. Edenton Builders is a small, high-end custom home building firm that typically builds eight to 10 houses a year. For the Coopers’ home, Norris relied heavily on the help of thousands of volunteers to complete the Extreme Makeover project. “I had a team of people helping me to secure volunteers,” said Norris. “We made phone call after phone call until we were able to secure whatever help we needed for the job.” And he also had help with getting the word out. Norris estimates that during the build, close to 5,000 volunteers showed up to help out in any way they could, and for that, he is extremely grateful.
“The media played a huge part with letting people know what we needed, when we needed it,” said Norris. “Volunteers from all over the state and beyond provided everything from labor and food to tents and RVs.” “I met people from as far away as Kansas and Florida,” added Norris. “It was amazing to see that so many people wanted to be a part of this chance to help out a truly deserving family.” In five days, the Coopers’ old trailer was demolished and a brand-new home was constructed in its place, giving the family the room and accessibility that they needed. On Friday, March 13, the family was welcomed back to their new home by a throng of volunteers and well-wishers. Since moving into the home, the Coopers have been busy doing interviews and fielding inquiries about the home. “Because the house has such a unique design, everyone is just fascinated by it,” said Cooper. “I’ve heard some pretty interesting nicknames for it, like the ski lodge or the chapel, but everyone agrees that it’s a beautiful home.” The home features a stunning prow front design that is the result of a collaboration between architect Jonathan White of Beacon Architecture & Design in Kitty Hawk and the Extreme Makeover design team. (See EXTREME MAKEOVER on page 14) July 2009
July 2009
North Carolina Builder 11
Members throw support behind BUILD-PAC Month contest
T
he “May is BUILD-PAC Month” contest was a huge success this year, raising more than $35,000 for the NCHBA political action committee. Thirty-one associations participated in the contest this year, with a total of 347 people contributing. Of that number, 136 were new contributors! Member participation was at an all-time high, and NCHBA is one step closer to reaching its annual goal. Congratulations to all of the local associations for your hard work! The following associations led their groups in the three categories:
Group One ($0-$800 Goal/> 80 Members)
Highest Percentage of Goal Scotland County HBA (333% of goal) Prize: $100
Highest Percentage of Participation Cleveland County HBA (20% of members) Prize: $100
Highest Percentage of New Contributors Cleveland County HBA (4% new members) Prize: $100
Group Two ($801 - $2,000 Goal/81-200 Members)
Highest Percentage of Participation Franklin County HBA (15% of members) Prize: $200
Highest Percentage of Goal Wilkes County HBA (518% of goal) Prize: $200
Highest Percentage of New Contributors Franklin County HBA (8% new members) Prize: $200
Group Three ($2,001 - $4,999 Goal/201-499 Members)
Highest Percentage of Goal Moore County HBA (320% of goal) Prize: $300
Highest Percentage of Participation Northeastern HBA (13.79% of members) Prize: $300
Highest Percentage of New Contributors Moore County HBA (10% new members) Prize: $300
Highest Percentage of Participation Fayetteville HBA (6% of members) Prize: $400
Highest Percentage of New Contributors Fayetteville HBA (3% new members) Prize: $400
Group Four ($5,000 + Goal/500+ Members)
Highest Percentage of Goal Fayetteville HBA (60% of goal) Prize: $400
A big thank you! Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s contest and supported NCHBA BUILD-PAC. Congratulations to all of the winners. Please continue to make BUILDPAC a priority in 2009! Not only did the winners excel in this contest, but these associations have met or exceeded their 2009 annual BUILD-PAC goal as of the end of May: Wilkes County HBA McDowell County HBA Scotland County HBA Moore County HBA Cleveland County HBA Craven-Pamlico Cos. HBA
518% 448% 333% 322% 177% 138%
If you would like to receive a full list of your local association’s contributors or need more information about contributing to BUILD-PAC, please contact Erin Jones at NCHBA at (919) 676-9090 or by e-mail at ejones@nchba.org.
12 North Carolina Builder
s Scott Hartmann from Parks Building Supply announces the winners of the Build-PAC reverse raffle during the Moore County HBA June membership meeting.
s Moore County HBA Build-PAC Chairman Danny Adams (left) congratulates Jon Potter of Masters Properties Inc. as the winner of the Build-PAC fundraiser reverse raffle grand prize, a brand new 52-inch television.
July 2009
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1 STORY SLAB
2 STORY
North Carolina Builder 13
Extreme Makeover (continued from page 10) Spotlighted against the night sky, the Cooper home near Edenton features a distinctive exterior design created by Kitty Hawk architectural firm Beacon Architecture & Design and the Extreme Makeover design team.
“I was told that the family wanted a log cabin,” said White, whose company is a member of the Outer Banks Home Builders Association. “That in itself is a far cry from the primarily coastal homes that our firm is used to creating. So we knew from the start that this would be something different.” The design team also wanted to keep the size of the home at a manageable amount of square feet for the family and they wanted to ensure that the costs to maintain the home over time were mitigated. “It was kind of emotional seeing it all come together,” said White. “I had never designed anything like it before and knowing this was all for a good cause just made it that much more special.” “We’ve already gotten a few calls from people interested in having the design re-created,” said White. The home was built on a slab foundation, eliminating the need for a wheelchair ramp, and it features an open floor plan with wider doorways throughout, enabling Cooper to move freely from room to room – something he wasn’t able to do in the trailer. In the kitchen, there are no upper cabinets out of reach and the clearance beneath the lower cabinets allows plenty of room to maneuver a
wheelchair. The master bathroom has a roll-in shower and is equipped with a sling situated above the whirlpool tub allowing a greater sense of self-sufficiency for Jeff Cooper. “My family just loves the house,” said Cooper. “My son literally lives in his room now that he has everything he could ever want in there. My daughter wants to bring every one of her friends home from school to show off her new room.” In addition to being an accessible home, many energy-efficient features have been incorporated into the design. Some of these features include a geothermal HVAC system, a tankless hot water heater, spray polyurethane foam insulation, a conditioned attic space and an e-log siding exterior. On Sunday, May 3, the Coopers’ new home made its television debut on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” And to satisfy everyone else’s curiosity, the family hosted an open house for several hours each night May 4-8. “We are just so grateful for all that we’ve been given during this entire process,” said Cooper. “And we just wanted to share our blessing with our neighbors and so many others who helped make it all possible.” (Valerie Myers is a staff writer with Association Publishing Inc. in Chesapeake,Va. Photos are by Ed Perkins and Jerrard Cole.)
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Termite Pretreats · Liquid soil pretreats · Borate wood pretreats · Sentricon termite bait stations · $1,000,000 termite damage and repair warranty
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Contact Steve Beam Charlotte 704-509-9525 Greensboro 336-299-0676 Winston-Salem 336-722-1193
14 North Carolina Builder
Denise Manke Raleigh-Durham 919-303-0513 Fayetteville 910-354-1346
Suzanne Staton Greenville, SC 864-987-9771 Columbia, SC 864-987-9771
July 2009
Product Roundup:
Preventing pesky pests Enjoy outdoors indoors Screening a porch is a literal snap with SCREENEZE, a patented fixed-screen system from Home Improvement Systems Inc. that will keep the bugs at bay for years to come. No need for staples, splines or even posts with this durable system that features an aluminum base and a vinyl cap which are snapped together and attached to a new or existing wood or vinyl-wrapped wood porch. It can be installed on the inside, outside or center of the porch post and rail design. SCREENEZE — which is available in white, sand and bronze with color-coordinated screws — is made in 8- and 12-foot lengths and can be used with a variety of screen fabrics.The system comes with a 10-year limited warranty. For more information, call (800) 884-6697 or visit www.screeneze.com.
Protection from the inside out HomeTeam Pest Defense, the nation’s largest pest control company working with home builders, offers pest control and termite treatment services through traditional methods and advanced products, such as its innovative Taexx built-in pest control system. With this system, HomeTeam installs a network of small distribution lines in designated walls while the home is under construction, working with builders to meet their particular needs based on exterior finishes, foundation design and insulation type. Distribution lines are linked to locked and patented service ports on the home’s exterior, so HomeTeam’s trained service technicians can routinely distribute pest control materials inside the walls from outside t The Taexx system is installed inside the walls meaning less exposure of pest control materials to family, pets and living areas. After the initial treatment, homeowners don’t have to be home to receive service.
bats like to hide or sleep. Experts from the Bat Conservation Organization recommend hanging the house at least 15 feet from the ground on a tall pole, rather than a tree. It should be positioned where it will get at least six hours of sunlight because bats like to sleep in a warm house.They also recommend painting the house black since the dark color retains heat generated throughout the day. For more information, call (800) 423-2766 or visit vixenhill.com.
s The only things peskier than bugs are callbacks and SCREENEZE eliminates both.
of the home. HomeTeam has 50 branch locations mostly in the Southern portion of the country including Greensboro, Charlotte, Raleigh-Durham and Winston-Salem. For more information about Taexx, call (877) 574-7500 or visit www.pestdefense.com..
Forget the bat light; hang a box Here’s an unusual way for you to stand out in the green crowd. Hang a bat box, like one made by Vixen Hill from scraps of western cedar and scrap copper. Bats are known to eat their weight in insects, particularly mosquitoes, and will do wonders on cutting down the insect population in the vicinity of where they live. Equipped with highly sensitive radar, these nocturnal mammals come out at night to feed and avoid coming near people. Bat houses are typically about 18 inches long with a slanted roof and two narrow slats at the bottom where the bats enter and exit. Strongly resembling a thin mailbox, the house is intended to replicate bark that pulls away from a tree, a place where some s Hang a bat house and homeowners should notice a decrease in mosquitoes if they are fortunate enough to attract the nocturnal mammals.
July 2009
s Wasps always seem to show up when food is around, making pesticides an unlikely candidate to tackle the problem. Hanging an Original Waspinator will deter the pests from visiting.
A scarecrow for wasps As studies increasingly link exposure to pesticides with a number of serious health issues, more people are seeking environmentally sensitive solutions to solve their wasp problems. One product, the Original Waspinator, works by mimicking the look of a wasp nest. Invented by sistersVikki Olson and Kim Cassar Torreggiani, the Original Waspinator uses the wasps’ own instincts and behaviors against them. Wasps are territorial and will avoid areas that already have nests. Made of durable, weather-resistant fabric, the portable nest can be used at home or taken along to picnics, barbeques or anywhere else wasps are found. For more information, call (800) 767-8658 or visit www.contechinc.com. North Carolina Builder 15
Knowledge Builder Tips from your industry experts at Builders Mutual
I
Keeping mold under control
f you ever field phone calls from homeowners who say they suspect mold in their homes, you have no choice but to confirm their suspicions. Sight unseen, undoubtedly, their homes have mold. Before panic sets in, realize that every house has mold. Not every house, however, has a mold
problem. Mold exists everywhere around us -- both indoors and outdoors. It’s unavoidable. HVAC units, pets and pocketbooks, to name a few, all collect and carry mold spores. With the right combination of environmental conditions, like humidity, warmth and a food source, however,
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At Norandex we cater to builders. Our menu includes an extensive line of top-quality exterior building products, including: Siding, Windows, Doors, Soffit, Storm Products, Gutters & Downspouts, Manufactured Stone, Skylights, Vinyl Fence, Deck & Rail, Shutters, Accent Products, and more.
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Our experienced professionals at your local branch make sure your order is precisely processed, and is delivered where and when you want it.
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For quality products and dependable service, call us. We’ll cater to your needs.
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16 North Carolina Builder
Common culprits Just as mold can be found both inside and outside, mold problems can be traced back, in some cases, to preventable quality-control issues with contractors working both inside and outside of the home. Within the home, mold issues in kitchens and bathrooms can lead to finger pointing over improperly grouted tile, poor sealants or inadequately installed backerboard, to name a few. Outside the home, windows, flashing, siding, home wrap and weep holes are some of the prime candidates for causing future mold growth, if quality control fell short. Furthermore, homeowners’ habits may be to blame.
Preventative measures
eLizabeth citY, nc 27909 (252)338-2737 (800)841-0408 Fax(252)338-3123
Greensboro, nc 27406 (336)273-8681 (800)722-2200 Fax(336)273-0521
mold spores can become a rampant mold problem. Before you begin construction on a home, you have a host of risk management tools at your fingertips to aid homeowners in keeping mold from becoming a mold problem.
www.norandex.com
A solidly built home, crafted by contractors who build their businesses on strong riskmanagement foundations and maintained by an educated homeowner, stands a great chance never to encounter ever-present mold spores escalating into a mold problem. Material selection. Minimize the opportunity for mold growth by selecting products that decrease the chance of water intrusion.As examples, choose a fiberglass shower unit instead of tile in your entry-level homes, or use new spray foam insulation technology that resists mold and moisture. Risk-transfer techniques. Contact your insurance agent to help you understand your insurance coverages, and take advantage of all the resources provided to you by your insurance company. Begin with a consultation with your Builders Mutual risk manager to help your business adopt preventative risk management solutions. You will review quality-control strategies such as subcontractor agreements that put quality-control standards in writing. Homeowner education. Build reference books for your customers.Longtime homeowners and first-time buyers, alike, need a wealth of (See MOLD on page 18) July 2009
The essential tool for every homebuilder.
Natural Gas. More and more new homebuyers are demanding it. Building homes that offer the comfort and energy efficiency of natural gas heat, water heat and fireplaces can give you a real competitive advantage. Let PSNC Energy show you how to make natural gas work for your business. Call 1-866-750-1880 or visit psncenergy.com/builder
July 2009
North Carolina Builder   17
Builders Mutual Insurance Co. turns 25
Company celebrates with new training program
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uilders Mutual Insurance Co. celebrated its silver anniversary in May by launching a new training program for builders that will help them survive and thrive in today’s economy. The course, called “Building for the Future,” will help builders gain insights into overcoming the current economic crisis. Participants will learn survival skills from builders who’ve been successful in the present downturn. They’ll also learn to become more adept at finding new opportunities in a changing market, including ways to market their business to current customers and future lenders. “Builders Mutual has been a leader in offering safety training and continuing education for builders for 25 years,” said Mike Gerber, chief marketing officer for Builders Mutual. “There’s no better way for us to commemorate our 25th anniversary than to offer builders the opportunity to learn from each other how to adapt to the changing market.” The company also announced donations of $25,000 worth of smoke alarms and construction
site safety equipment. The smoke alarms will be distributed by the North Carolina Department of Insurance to areas of the state in greatest need. The construction safety equipment will be used by the North Carolina Department of Labor during training and safety demonstrations held across the state. “I’m impressed with Builders Mutual’s track record of working to prevent losses from occurring through various safety training initiatives,” said North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin, who spoke at the anniversary event, along with state Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry. “And I’m pleased to join Commissioner Berry in accepting Builders Mutual’s generous donation of $25,000 to go toward smoke alarms and other safety equipment.” “We’re so grateful to Builders Mutual for the equipment they’re donating to the Department of Labor,” said Commissioner Berry. “It will be used in training that we do at construction sites and events throughout North Carolina to ensure that construction workers are safe on the job.” The company is currently developing the
Spike Member Update
SPIKE credits as of April 2009
Highest year-to-date current credits Spike Name Alma Jacobs Tasha Soto Jerry Cowan Warren Smith Van Vreeland Kenny Murphy Ernest Crews Robert Rouse Frank Ramirez Jay Harwood
Credits 84.00 81.00 66.50 44.75 38.00 37.25 33.00 28.50 27.00 26.00
Cumulative Credits 984.50 345.00 766.00 403.75 1,046.25 155.50 189.00 72.00 27.00 1,188.00
HBA Charlotte Raleigh-Wake County Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Brunswick County Gaston County Raleigh-Wake County Albemarle & Stanly County
Highest year-to-date total new credits Spike Name Tasha Soto Alma Jacobs Frank Ramirez Carlton Dial Mary Keane Angelione Soto-Auila Jimmy Barnette Jerry Cowan Patricia Griffith Grady Thomas
Credits 71.00 50.00 27.00 20.00 17.00 16.00 13.00 12.50 11.00 10.50
Cumulative Credits HBA 345.00 Raleigh-Wake County 984.50 Charlotte 27.00 Raleigh-Wake County 184.50 Robeson County 166.00 Franklin County 38.50 Raleigh-Wake County 75.00 Hendersonville 766.00 Greensboro 159.50 Wilmington-Cape Fear 48.50 Charlotte
course content for “Building for the Future” and the class will be available starting this summer. Class sessions will be posted on Builders Mutual’s Web site, www.buildersmutual.com. Sessions will be offered throughout the Southeast and will be open to all builders. Builders can sign up for the course by e-mailing buildersuniversity@ bmico.com. (Headquartered in Raleigh, Builders Mutual is one of the Southeast’s leading writers of commercial insurance for the residential and commercial construction industries. Since its inception, Builders Mutual has broadened its territory beyond North Carolina to include South Carolina,Tennessee and Virginia. The company provides coverage to more than 14,000 policyholders through more than 4,000 sales agents and employs more than 160 staff at its Raleigh headquarters.)
Mold (continued from page 16) information at their fingertips that you can easily provide for them. Your homeowner manual should package together everything from the homeowner warranty, manufacturers’ warranties and owners’ manuals, details of paint colors and finishes, and even home maintenance tips (such as inhibiting mold growth). Perhaps most important, provide your phone number. You always want the homeowner to first notify you of any issues that arise so you have control over the solution, whether you correct the problem directly or you manage a subcontractor’s return visit. The best outcome for both you and the homeowner is to manage the risk of mold and prevent any problematic mold growth from the start. Perhaps Benjamin Franklin came up one item short when describing life’s certainties, death and taxes. Mold inevitably exists around us. With the right combination of preventative measures, however, you can help homeowners keep mold from becoming a mold problem.
Highest year-to-date retention credits Spike Name Jerry Cowan Warren Smith Kenny Murphy Alma Jacobs Van Vreeland Ernest Crews Thomas Anhut Robert Rouse William Reaves Jay Harwood
Credits 54.00 37.25 36.25 34.00 30.00 27.00 23.50 22.50 21.50 21.00
18 North Carolina Builder
Cumulative Credits 766.00 403.75 155.50 984.50 1,046.25 189.00 88.75 72.00 2,221.00 1,188.00
HBA Greensboro Raleigh-Wake County Raleigh-Wake County Charlotte Raleigh-Wake County Brunswick County Raleigh-Wake County Gaston County Moore County Albemarle & Stanly County
Look for “Knowledge Builder,” compliments of Builders Mutual Insurance Co., in each issue of North Carolina Builder. More risk management resources are available at www. buildersmutual.com. July 2009
Engineered for superior strength and stiffness. We’ve created an incredible link between strong floors and peace of mind, and it all starts with AdvanTech® flooring. Made with advanced resin technology, AdvanTech flooring offers outstanding strength and stiffness to minimize issues with bounce and squeaks for a quiet, stiff floor. And it’s backed by a transferable 50-year limited warranty* , ensuring every new homeowner can enjoy a high-quality floor. For more information on the FLAT OUT BEST ™ flooring, visit advantechperforms.com/ncb or call 1.800.933.9220.
Visit huberwood.com for product application and other important information. *Limitations and restrictions apply – visit advantechperforms.com for details. © 2009 Huber Engineered Woods LLC. AdvanTech is a registered trademark and FLAT OUT BEST is a trademark of Huber Engineered Woods LLC. Huber is a registered trademark of J.M. Huber Corporation. HUB404-01/09
July 2009
North Carolina Builder 19
NCHBA News Crosland VP wins award
J
im Anderson, Crosland LLC’s vice president of land development and director of Raleigh operations, has been named a 2009 recipient of the Triangle Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Leadership Award. Anderson is President-Elect of the Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties HBA.
HBAs join forces to help community
T
For hot water we can all feel good about, install a tankless water heater.
he Hendersonville, Transylvania and Asheville home builders associations from Region X joined forces for a good cause during the annual Community TEAM Day last month. TEAM Day, a volunteer project started by the Hendersonville HBA, encourages members to volunteer for one day to make much-needed repairs to the homes of community residents who cannot afford to have the work done. This year, the three HBAs partnered with Housing Assistance Corp. to screen the residents and gather information for a materials and donations list. Some of the repairs included fixing slanted flooring, building new decks/ ramps, replacing roofs and replacing walls due to termite infestation. This collaboration between the HBAs and community nonprofit groups will benefit the residents of Western North Carolina for years to come. This year six homes received help through the program.
Enter to win!
H
This should warm you up right away: While delivering endless hot water, a propane tankless water heater can lower water heating bills up to 60 percent compared to an electric water heater. In fact, an Energy Star–rated propane tankless water heater is so efficient, it can save 10 to 20 percent in daily water use. Plus, it’s easier on the environment, with half the carbon emmissions. You may also qualify for tax incentives. Start feeling warmer today. Learn more at usepropane.com.
North Carolina Propane Association 5109 Hollyridge Drive, Raleigh, NC 27612 919-787-8485
20 North Carolina Builder
uber Engineered Woods L.L.C., a manufacturer of innovative building solutions headquartered in Charlotte, has launched an online sweepstakes at AdvanTechperforms.com, where contestants can register to win up to $5,000 through July 31, 2009. One grand prize of $5,000 will be awarded, and five runners-up each will receive $1,000. Winners will be notified Aug. 30. (Contestants are limited to one entry per person during the promotion period.) AdvanTechperforms.com is a newly launched Web site designed to help builders, retailers, architects and homeowners distinguish the superior benefits and performance of Huber Engineered Woods’ AdvanTech flooring, sheathing and rim board from competing products. The Web site demonstrates the strength, moisture resistance and quality that make AdvanTech an unmatched building resource. July 2009
NCH192 MnStrBuildersAd
6/10/09
5:28 PM
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Our Mainstreet Collection has everybody excited Builders are excited about Mainstreet, because it’s a complete line of appraisal-friendly homes that can be built profitably anywhere from the coast to the mountains. Mainstreet is designed as a marketing and sales system that shortens sales and build cycles to fit buyer trends in downsizing to high-quality, energy-efficient homes. This is another way we bring Custom Made Easy to you. And, for builders wanting to profit from Green home building, our “Green Made Easy” is included as standard in every home. There has never been a collection of homes in the last 50 years that has had such an impact in such a short time as our Mainstreet Collection. Call 1.800.216.7001 to learn about the many benefits of building with Nationwide. Visit www.nationwide-homes.com to see all the exciting Mainstreet elevations.
July 2009
North Carolina Builder 21
5580 Centerview Drive Raleigh, NC 27606
Route to: l President l Purchasing l Sales/Mktg. l Superintendent
,
don, t thank us,
As you receive your dividend check, don’t forget to give yourself credit. You’re the one who made this year’s $3 million dividend possible. Because safety is one of your top priorities, it’s reflected in our bottom line. At Builders Mutual, we don’t just ask you to work safely—we give you the tools to make it happen. We hear our safety programs have set new industry standards: Fall Protection Certification, Builders University, our Risk Management CD—even on-site risk management consulting. But a safety program is only as good as those who participate in it. Since you’ve shared the responsibility, you share the reward—over $44 million to date. At a moment like this, aren’t you glad 22 North Carolina Builder you have Builders Mutual?
P.O. Box 150005 Raleigh, NC 27624-0005 (800) 809-4859 | www.buildersmutual.com
0192-0109-03
you ve earned it.
July 2009