December 2015

When a culture of safety is established at a company, employee satisfaction, quality of work and professionalism all can improve. RSS Roofing Services & Solutions, St. Louis, successfully created a culture of safety by distributing responsibility among its employees and leaders. Those in leadership positions must demonstrate commitment to safety and properly train employees to ensure everyone can fulfill safety expectations. Employees must adhere to safety policies and communicate openly about any potential hazards.

Many building owners choose to restore an aging roof system rather than replace it. High-solids 100 percent silicone roof coatings are gaining popularity as an advantageous alternative to traditional water- and solvent-based roof coatings. Silicone roof coatings provide energy-efficient, low-maintenance, watertight performance while alleviating several drawbacks commonly associated with water- and solvent-based roof coatings.

Constructed in 1905, the limestone-clad Birch Bayh Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Indianapolis is an impressive structure that exemplifies Beaux Arts architecture. In 2012, Blackmore & Buckner Roofing, a Tecta America company, Indianapolis, was tasked with restoring five roof systems on the courthouse while preserving its unique historic features.

Nearly 20 years after its inception in 1996, The Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress continues to unite roofing industry leaders to pursue initiatives that will positively impact the industry. The 145 Alliance members work together to fund research, advance education, honor industry workers and provide forward-thinking responses to major economic and technological issues.

Reroofing becomes a building owner's best option when a roof system has exhausted its serviceable life. However, before reroofing work is undertaken, it is important for roof system designers to determine a roof structure's ability to support extra weight, especially in locations with cold climates. Additional insulation could cause increased snow loads on a roof system. If designers do not take this into consideration, a roof collapse could occur.