October 2016

The outcome of the 2016 elections in November and the policies implemented by the next president and Congress likely will substantially affect how roofing contractors operate their businesses for many years. NRCA encourages roofing professionals to be engaged in the political process and understand how the campaign promises of Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton and congressional candidates may affect the roofing industry.

NRCA has published The NRCA Roofing Manual: Metal Panel and SPF Roof Systems—2016 to provide roofing professionals with up-to-date best practice guidelines applicable to the design and installation of metal panel and spray polyurethane foam roof systems. NRCA's Manual Update Committee revised and expanded upon the metal panel roof systems content found in The NRCA Roofing Manual: Metal Panel and SPF Roof Systems—2012.

When TruCraft Roofing LLC, Milford, Ohio, was selected to install a roof system on a full-size replica of Noah's Ark, it knew the challenge would be to merge the vision for the ark with present-day codes and standards. Working closely with the project's architect and designers, TruCraft Roofing employees successfully installed a TPO membrane roof system on top of the world's largest timber-frame wooden structure.

As cyberattacks against companies around the world become the norm, it increasingly is important for small businesses to ensure their cybersecurity. Small businesses make attractive targets to malicious hackers who attempt to gain unauthorized access by exploiting deficiencies in network implementations, locating vulnerabilities in website applications or compromising sensitive data through social engineering.

NRCA has updated its EnergyWise Roof Calculator Online to include information from the most recent versions of the International Code Council's International Energy Conservation Code; the International Green Construction Code; and an ASHRAE energy standard. In addition, the web-based application now includes NRCA's revised minimum long-term thermal resistance values and latest minimum R-value recommendations for polyisocyanurate insulation.

Many roofing professionals are turning to technology to help make their businesses more efficient. Ranging from an app that simplifies the roof estimation process to customer relationship management software, the options can be overwhelming. To sort through some of the technology available in the industry, IKO North America, Brampton, Ontario, interviewed roofing contractors to identify tools that make their jobs and businesses more productive.