Prioritizing Inclusion 

A diverse workforce conveys that an organization recognizes and values differences amongst groups. Diversity can relate to age, race, gender, faith, disability, and orientation as well as skill, personality, education, and experience. The prioritization of continuous diversity & inclusion efforts is essential to the long-term sustainability of any workforce, and the construction industry is no exception.

Currently, a majority of the construction industry’s workforce is still behind in its diversity efforts, with 88.6% of workers identifying as white, and over 90% as male. (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)  While this may have played little effect in years past, it has critically impacted today’s crisis-level labor shortage.

Leading by Example through Women

Diversity and inclusion initiatives can only begin to take shape through forward-thinking leadership teams’ visions, trickling down to influence their teams. The ability to include underrepresented groups offers fresh outlooks, innovation, and growth. Overcoming long-standing societal perceptions of bias is vital in creating a genuinely inclusive future.

Forming a diverse team will make employees appreciative and feel truly accepted, increasing engagement and performance. A recent article in the Washington Post, pointed out that the 14% of construction workers that are women is at an all time high. The surge began in 2016, as recruiters and labor unions worked to remove barriers to get women hired and keep them retained in the industry. Experts advise that employers should continue to support this trend through focusing on inclusion and safety. Women may not know that a career in construction is an option for them, so inclusive language on job postings and recruiting materials is critical.

With half of its executive leadership team comprising of women, PB Roofing emphasizes the need of a diverse team through its organizational structure. These women are part of peer support groups such as National Women in Roofing (NWiR) and Professional Women in Construction (PWC) that provide a community of support, mentorship, and vast networking opportunities.  

Taking Aim with Veterans

Another important and underrepresented group is the military veteran community. Although there are currently more than 500,000 veterans employed in the construction industry, this number represents only 5.9% of the industry in its entirety. (Construction Employers Association)

Veterans bring their previously developed leadership, management, and technical skills with them into their civilian life, and regardless of their rank, they inspire confidence and solidarity within their peer groups. Their military experience has empowered them to become true experts in adaptability. Each veteran is conditioned and comfortable with the need to think outside the box, as they were often forced to utilize their complex problem-solving skills in a pressured environment.

“To retain military talent, companies should provide career progression training throughout a veteran’s employment, and particularly, at milestones, like new-hire training and annual performance reviews.” (Construction Dive)

PB Roofing values its employees by prioritizing safety, education, and career development. Our training includes industry standards and protocols, safety guidelines, leadership development, and more. Our online learning platform, PB University provides professional development and personal growth as we strive to lead the next generation of roofers and entrepreneurs.

Reaping the Rewards

A positive culture is supported through celebrating diversity. The industry must embrace these gifts and immediately implement processes to support them.

Our roofing technicians often need to make quick decisions and construct creative solutions. Utilizing a diverse group of individuals such as women, veterans, and minorities produces unique viewpoints that often lead to quicker resolutions. “Research demonstrates that firms with more diverse talent benefit from greater innovation, better problem-solving and stronger creativity and insight than homogenous crews. The answer to a host of challenges our industry faces lie in developing the cultural literacy to successfully recruit, train and retain non-traditional workers.” (Amy James Neel quoted within National Association of Home Builders)

Fighting Labor Shortage

When an organization actively demonstrates they are hiring underrepresented groups, it establishes a modern, optimistic view of the company with potential candidates. The boost in reputation appeals to new talent comprised of like-minded individuals who also seek to end the prevalence of traditional stereotypes.

Supporting underrepresented parties may just give companies a competitive edge they need to grow effectively. “If you just expand your horizons and make yourself more appealing to under-represented groups you have a whole new demographic to appeal to.” (Roofing & Exteriors).  

Recruitment & Retention

Openness in underrepresented groups allows PB Roofing to find the right talent, regardless of any prejudice. Whether we build our team with 2^nd or 3^rd generation roofers or those new to the industry, we widen our possible candidates by completely removing bias.

We believe it’s critical to facilitate an inclusive workplace, where our people are empowered to use their voices to help influence change. Through our four core values: resourcefulness, coachability, growth-mindedness, and compassion, PB Roofing’s goal is to set a new standard for thought leaders in the industry and welcome an ever-evolving workplace.

PB Roofing has an awareness of the next generation workforce’s needs by supporting flexibility and honesty. Visit our careers page if you have what it takes to challenge yourself and be part of our growing team! We also offer a Partner Contractor Program, presenting small businesses the opportunity and support of an industry leader. Together, we share our collective knowledge and experience on top-tier projects to get the job done right.

Resources & Organizations 

• National Women in Roofing (NWiR)
• Women in Apprenticeship & Nontraditional Occupations Act
• Veterans Build America
• Helmets to Hardhats
• National Association of Minority Contractors
• National Association of Black Women in Construction

A commercial roof endures constant exposure to the elements. Due to its sensitive nature as a building component, your roof requires periodic inspection and maintenance. PB Roofing’s technicians are experienced in identifying and fixing each season’s unique threats. There are a few common hazards that can occur on a flat roof, that if not properly addressed, can develop into a serious and expensive concern.  

Roof Mounted Utilities 

The commercial roof is a vital component of a building’s working utility system. Installations such as: HVAC units, skylights, solar panels, electrical wiring, and communication systems each require their own installation, replacement, and maintenance.  

Every time someone sets foot on a commercial roof, inevitable damage occurs. Tools and machinery can be dropped, potentially puncturing the roof membrane. Nails, screws, and other hardware are often left behind during an installation or maintenance project. These build up over time and spread across the roof’s surface, each acting as a potential puncture hazard waiting to happen. Our expert roofing technicians visually and painstakingly survey each roof and remove anything that does not belong.  

Natural Debris and Drainage  

Because of their low-slope, flat roofs sometimes do not offer the appropriate drainage for rainfall run-off. Most flat roofs are built with a minor slope to allow for drainage, but the lack of a significant natural slope can produce challenges. 

Leaves, branches, and other debris carried by the wind and blown about the roof surface, easily clogging the drainage systems. This creates areas of standing water, where weight can suddenly weaken the roof’s surface. A common hazard such as this is also easily preventable with regular roof drainage inspections and maintenance, if necessary.   

Standing Water, Soft Spots, and Leaks 

Standing, or ponding water, collects in low sections of the flat roof’s surface. Dirt, debris, and other matter quickly settle within these puddles and over time and eat away at the roofing membrane. As time passes, standing water can cause more severe damage. Two common types of damage caused by standing water are soft spots and leaking.  

Rainfall collects in standing ponds on the roof. The weight of this water will eventually cause the roof to sag. Soft spots occur when the roofing structure below the surface becomes compromised by water and weakens.  

Leaks are what occur to the interior of a building when the roof is in a state of disrepair. Leaks cause damage to your property investment and equipment. It is recommended that professionals are immediately contacted to safely assess the severity of damage.  

Exposure to the Elements 

Exposure is arguably the basis of all flat roof problems. Since a building’s roof is constantly exposed to the sun and other elements, damage is unavoidable. No roof, regardless of durability, is built to last forever.  

Other than over-exposure to the sun, other common weather events are lightning strikes, freezing temperatures, hail, and wind damage. There are even lesser-known exposure issues such as oil damage and exposure from outside contaminants and chemicals. 

Thermal Shock: Expansion & Contraction  

Expansion and contraction of roofing materials defines the phenomena known as Thermal Shock. It occurs when temperatures quickly fluctuate and stress the roof system’s material components, damaging older materials with a reduced elasticity. Various sections of the roofing system expand and contract differently, pushing and pulling against each other. Horizontal-to-vertical transition areas such as: curb flashings, parapet walls, exhaust systems, pitch pans, and pipe entrances are most susceptible to Thermal Shock. Areas that require sealants and drainage components should be monitored closely as well as transition areas.  

Preparing for Winter 

Take a few minutes to read our September Blog: “Think it’s too early to worry about snow? Think Again” to learn more about preventative steps in preparing a commercial roof for snowfall and snow removal. Contact us today and schedule a THREATCheck assessment. After we’ve confirmed your roof is ready to withstand a harsh winter, we can respond to winter storms as they occur with our skilled snow removal crews and protect the value of your roofing investment for years to come. 

PB Roofing’s THREATCheck 

Now that you understand the many potential hazards to a commercial roof, you can be ensured that protecting your structure is worth the investment. Our THREATCheck is for new customers: one enhanced visual inspection to identify deficiencies and provide recommendations for repairs or replacement. Our Plus Package features the same with a bi-annual inspection plan. Photo report included. 

As the Northeast enters the fall season, there is no better time than now to begin planning for the extreme winter weather in the months ahead. According to the The Farmer’s Almanac, the Northeast is due for “above-average” snowfall this winter season.

You’ll need to be sure that your roof is ready to handle these conditions. That means, your gutters and roof drains should be clear, and the rooftop is clear of all debris. Heavy snowfall and freeze-thaw cycles can quickly create dangerous conditions for your commercial roof. A potential roof collapse can result in hazardous damage to your building and those inside.

Hazardous Conditions, Seasoned Pros

A flat roof can potentially collect several feet of snow throughout the winter months. Snow can cause damage to the internal structure and cause safety risks at ground level, which is the liability of the property owner. Consequently, roof snow should always be removed. However, it should be done strategically, and not haphazardly. Damage can easily occur to the roofing membrane and roof-mounted utilities if the project is not completed by a professional. Experienced commercial roofers like PB Roofing have the tools and the know-how to get the job done safely, with precision and without disrupting your daily operations.

There are many negative effects of unmanaged snow on your commercial roof, but you can avoid them if you act now:

Preventative Rooftop Maintenance

Our expert technicians will survey your roof for potential deficiencies that can worsen during the winter months and recommend solutions. NRCA recommends making sure the roof is properly insulated and attics are properly vented. Insufficient insulation and venting can contribute to the melting of snow closest to the roof surface and can cause an ice dam, or an accumulation of frozen water at the edge of the roof that prevents water from running off.

Added Weight

One cubic foot of snow may weigh from seven pounds to 30 pounds. This is not considering that if it subsequently rains or sleets on a snowy roof, the weight will significantly increase. Due to these weight variations, it is vital that your roof be monitored by our professionals during and after winter storms. Windy conditions can result in added snow and cause it to unevenly disperse from one flat roof plane to another.

Internal Building Strain

FEMA provides a list of signs that indicate a building may be too stressed by the snow load.

• Ceiling problems: A ceiling that appears to sag, or sprinkler lines and sprinkler heads that look lower than normal.
• Unusual noises: Creaking, popping, and cracking can be a sign of a stressed roof.
• Door and window problems: If a door or window can no longer be opened or closed it may be a sign the roof or walls have shifted under the weight of snow.
• Wall problems: Drywall, masonry and other wall materials may crack under pressure from an overloaded roof.
• Restricted Access Points: Excessive snow accumulation can block access to the roof hatch, this may require our PB Team find another method of reaching a roof to remove the snow itself. Reliance on secondary access points such as ladder usage in adverse weather conditions is not recommended and reduces the safety of the overall project.

Frozen & Clogged Roof Drainage

Unremoved snow ultimately melts and moves into the roof drainage system. External drainage systems cannot retain enough heat in the winter to prevent water re-freezing inside. The expansion of this ice within the pipes severely damages the drainage system. Gutters become congested with snow and ice, exceeding their maximum weight capacity, causing them to bend or dislodge. This allows melted snow to flow directly down the sides of the external structure, leading to possible concerns with the masonry, siding, and/or the foundation.

Roofing Membrane Damage

The freeze and thaw cycle can deteriorate the quality of roof membranes. As thermal expansion occurs, drastic shifts in temperature from day to night affect the exposed roof. When the roof absorbs heat from the sun, the materials can expand, pushing against its own seams, causing gaps. This process then reverses during lower night temperatures. Water is then free to work its way into minor crevices and weaknesses in the roof membrane, worsening the condition as it re-freezes and expands. As this cycle occurs daily, the damage can become serious.

Roof Utilities & Accessories (HVAC, Gas Lines, Skylights, Vents, Flashing & Electrical Conduits)

A building’s HVAC system may fail to operate if it becomes covered in ice and snow, which can pile up on the aluminum fan and bend the blades. If this occurs, the HVAC unit might produce strange noises while operating, and the fan blades can potentially shatter.

Water can puddle around external equipment such as skylights, vents, and flashing whose caulking or insulations are susceptible to the same type of freeze / re-freeze damage as the roofing membrane. Gas lines and electrical conduits can also become brittle in extremely low temperatures, leading to damage or improper functionality. Frozen pipes result in obstructions, which will gradually back up in the direction of the source.

Icicle Formations

While ice falling long distances can be fatal, ice doesn’t have to fall from tall structures to cause damage. Icicles detaching from buildings can often be enough to cause lacerations, head injuries, broken bones, and even death in rare cases. In addition, dripping water from melting icicles may pool on the ground below and refreeze, creating a serious slip-and-fall hazard.

Stay a Step Ahead with PB Roofing

Now that you understand the many potential hazards of snowfall, you can be proactive about protecting your structure and safeguarding its integrity. Contact us today and schedule a THREATCheck assessment. After we’ve confirmed your roof is ready to withstand a harsh winter, we can then respond to winter storms as they occur with our skilled snow removal crews and protect the value of your roofing investment for years to come.

Resources:

NRCA Snow Remediation in Roofing

FEMA Snow Load Safety Guide

Roofing Contractor Magazine: Harsh Winters & Severe Weather Events

PB Purpose, Our Social Responsibility

Through continued acts of kindness, PB Roofing has strived to align our values with social and environmental awareness. PB Purpose was created as the embodiment of this giving spirit. Helping wonderful organizations, sponsorships and charities truly make a difference in our communities is our great reward. PB Roofing was also publicly recognized by the city of Elmwood Park, our hometown, for our community service contribution. View YouTube Video

Our focus is on driving initiatives that use the scale of our network, our products, our financial resources, and the collective expertise and commitment of our employees, to reach those traditionally underserved, providing them with access to resources that can help improve their livelihoods, businesses, and communities.

Addressing Key Issues

PB Roofing dedicates itself to being an ethical and positive force in our society. The projects we adopt help raise awareness, spread kindness, and solidify the unification of our own team’s relationships. In this world, there will always be room for improvement: environmental management, eco-efficiency, responsible sourcing, labor standards and working conditions, etc. While it is impossible for one company to amend these issues, it is entirely possible that when we each share this weight, creating positivity in our own way, that empowering change can be actualized.

VFW Post 493 in Nutley, NJ

We are committed to strengthening the communities in which we live and work by using our resources, network, and the talent of our team to make a positive social impact where it is most needed. PB Roofing partnered with GAF, North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, to provide a new roof for the VFW in Nutley, NJ. This collaboration is part of GAF’s social impact initiative, GAF Community Matters, and PB Purpose, PB Roofing’s community outreach program.

Annually, VFW and Auxiliary members donate nearly nine million hours to community service projects, relief efforts, and local VA facilities. We are honored to help improve one of their many Northern NJ headquarters. View YouTube Video

Elmwood Park, NJ Blood Drive

During the COVID Pandemic, many people and companies took different approaches towards prioritizing health and rapid-response donations. As the nation faces a critical blood shortage, PB Roofing partnered with the American Red Cross and the Borough of Elmwood Park on Saturday June 19th to host its first annual blood drive. Through the generosity of Bergen County residents, the blood drive surpassed its goal to collect enough donations to potentially save 90 lives. View YouTube Video

Elmwood Park, NJ Police Department Training Facility

Members of law enforcement agencies make many sacrifices to protect civil society, and they deserve to be recognized for their hard work. In conjunction with our local department, PB Purpose found a unique way to thank them, while assisting in their continued safety by volunteering to renovate their outdoor training facility. It was truly an honor for us to help! View YouTube Video

Learning about Ourselves

Our own business practices have also been improved through PB Purpose. The PB Roofing team operates effectively through mutual respect, accountability, and cooperative engagement in finding and implementing solutions. The continued strengthening of our relationships pushes each of us toward the full embodiment of our Core Values: Coachable, Growth Mindset, Resourceful, and Compassionate.

Acting upon and illustrating our corporate convictions helps retain attract employees that share our passion and values. “The next generation of employees is seeking out employers that are focused on the triple bottom line: people, planet and revenue.” Business News Daily

“Finally, corporate social responsibility initiatives, by their nature, force business leaders to examine practices related to how they hire and manage employees, source products or components, and deliver value to customers.” Harvard Business School Online

Defining our businesses’ success goes beyond the standard measures of profitability, growth, and branding. It is truly defined by the continued positive impact we can have on the lives of those we touch.

Do you Share our Values? Join the PB Roofing Team

We believe diverse thinking and an inclusive work environment encourages human ingenuity and creative problem-solving

PB Roofing is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we are dedicated to fostering a culture of intentional Inclusion and Diversity (I&D), as well as focusing on fairness in recruitment, selection and decision making. We offer a competitive salary, training through our PB University platform, and a generous benefits package.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming part of a company that is rapidly becoming the standard of excellence by other firms in the construction field, apply today!

Commercial roofs endure constant exposure to the elements. Changing, and sometimes extreme weather scenarios can cause a variety of considerable damage to the roofing components. As the season of summer rainstorms has finally arrived, PB Roofing is here to ensure your roof can withstand the impending threats with confidence.

The summer season brings unique challenges to the continued maintenance of your commercial roof. Persistent sun exposure in hot weather can damage the roof sealant. The continued exposure, mixed with high humidity can cause your roof to significantly weaken.

Also, HVAC and solar roof unit installation or maintenance can cause punctures to the roof if not conducted properly. It is imperative that the roof is inspected, and any resulting damage repaired immediately.

The optimum commercial roof should be as waterproof as possible. The greatest factor in this protection is the sealant. If seals are incorrectly connected, gaps can form on the roof membrane allowing water to accumulate underneath.

Our THREATCheck Assessment and PB Response team can help you with both preventative and reactive emergency measures. But before we explore your solutions, let’s discuss some of the common effects of rain and wind on your commercial roof.

Roof Age

Commercial roofing systems (even with regular maintenance) have a maximum reliable life of approximately 25 years. If your roof is approaching the end of its functional lifespan, it will be compromised by the accumulated damage endured throughout the seasons of its life. Due to this fact, the chances of a roof leak become more and more inevitable over time.

Clogged Gutters

Wind and rain can blow an excess of harmful materials into the gutter system. Leaves, branches, and debris can easily clog gutters if they are not regularly and properly maintained. The resulting damage comes from water that cannot drain through the gutters, causing a backup that harms the roof siding, and in more extreme cases, the foundation of the building itself.

Standing Water

Another common result of clogged gutters is the pooling of standing water in the roof. When the drainage system is blocked, or not operating at maximum efficiency, water will begin to move towards any uneven areas of the roof plane as puddling. The longer this water collects and remains on the roof, it will penetrate the membrane and quickly wear the roofing materials down and eventually leaks will result from this damage.

Mold

Mold growth is a result of moisture that has penetrated the roofing system. Mold is an extremely hazardous occurrence and constitutes an emergency response before it causes those working within the building medical harm.

Deck & Flashing Damage

A flashing, or metal that is fabricated to fit in corners or around objects on the roof (chimneys and skylights) aids in making these areas more watertight. During summer storms, rain can fall quickly and violently with instant accumulation. The velocity of the rainfall can provide enough force to damage the roof deck and compromise metal flashings. Flashings offer protective features but are often thin. Stress applied to the flashings can result in their bending or denting.

THREATCheck Assessment

“Preventative roof maintenance is all about being proactive and addressing minor issues before they become major problems. With a professional roof report in hand, property managers can start building a short term and long-term roof maintenance plan. Short term maintenance can include minor repairs of cracks and blisters in the roofing membrane or replacing loose shingles. Long term maintenance items can include budgeting for a commercial roof coating or replacing all the flashing around rooftop mechanical equipment.” Property Manager Insider

Partner with PB Roofing and experience the collective expertise of our teams with our introductory assessment program. We will detect damages and provide recommended solutions based on your immediate and long-term roofing needs.

Our THREATCheck is for new customers: one enhanced visual inspection to identify deficiencies and provide recommendations for repairs or replacement. Our Plus Package features the same with a bi-annual inspection plan. Photo report included.

Emergency & Disaster Response

A natural disaster such as a hurricane, high winds, or fire can easily cause significant damage to your roof. Roof leaks happen, causing damage to valuable property and inhibiting safe conditions in your building. Without a properly functioning roof, all parts of your building are at risk for failure. The longer it takes for a response team to arrive, the longer your facility will lose time, profits, and be at risk for liabilities.

Finding a reliable roofing contractor last minute can be a challenge. Instead, ensure you have a plan in place to increase your preparedness when an emergency occurs. We provide dedicated response crews who are programmed and able to respond to a crisis within 4 hours. You can operate your facility with peace of mind knowing that your business is in the trusted hands of a professional.

Leak Repair Response

Safety must be the priority if a roof leak is uncovered. Our steadfast crew of professionals is ready to be dispatched to your property 24 / 7 to quickly mend and restore the functionality of your roof.

Our Concierge Service Promise

Our services come with on-time delivery, honesty, and forward-thinking. We’re offering more than traditional roof installation and repairs, as we strive to be there for our clients—always. From our Emergency Response crew to our Pro-Service team, PB Roofing is there for you, your business, and your building.

We have been proudly serving the northeast region—from Maine, down to Virginia, and everywhere in between. For over a decade, we have been expanding our reach on the east coast to offer our leading roofing services.

A Commercial Roof Warranty is a legally bound association with three different groups that are involved in the roofing process. These groups are the commercial roofing contractor, the property owner, as well as the roofing materials manufacturers. The warranties cover the completed roof installation and the materials used.

Knowing How to use Your Commercial Roof Warranty

A building’s roof is one of its most important structural components. The roof is an investment that protects everything and everyone within. To further care for that investment, many property owners choose to purchase a roof warranty. Any roof issue, such as standing water, is a potential threat for damaging your investment and risking personal safety. It is crucial to the longevity of your roofing system that you understand the details of your warranty prior to needing it for repair.

What’s Covered

In most cases, the power of the warranty depends on two factors. The first is the scope of work completed and the second regards the roofing material manufacturer’s applicable warranties. As the installation contractor, PB Roofing provides two years of coverage over issues resulting from any possible flaws stemming from our team’s work (workmanship guarantee).

What’s not Covered

Now that you know what is covered, there are a few things that do not fall under warranty coverage. Disrepair caused by neglect (you need to perform an annual inspection of your commercial roof to keep your warranties effective), failure to perform regular maintenance, common leaks or repairs, and any unauthorized modifications or upgrades are typically not contained within the conditions of the warranty.

Also, failure to address damage caused by severe or rare weather conditions, such as hurricanes, hailstorms, and nor’easters, are not commonly covered. It’s imperative to talk to PB Roofing representatives and understand what will be covered and what will not; that way, you know you’ve made a sound investment in your roof.

What to Look for in a Warranty

When selecting a commercial roof warranty, look closely at the length, what’s covered, and any limitations on the dollar amount of the coverage. Annual or periodic maintenance by your commercial contractor (PB Roofing) is required by most manufacturers to maintain the roof warranty. A 20-year manufacturer No Dollar Limit (NDL) warranty covering both materials and labor is the most common warranty.

Why it’s Important

Most building owners tend to opt-in to a roofing warranty for peace of mind, knowing that their asset is protected and covered. Especially on the east coast, many building owners will choose to use weather-resistant materials. While a warranty won’t cover weather-caused damage, it may cover the replacement or repair of a material that had claimed to be weather resistant. Warranties can also help save money down the line if, years later, a material-related repair or replacement needs to be performed.

Pricing

While some roofing companies tack on warranty as an additional cost at the end of the sale, our PB Roofing Estimation Team includes the warranty price in our budget proposal. The pricing of the warranty is dependent on the scope of the work being completed. As a full-service commercial roofing company, we help our clients navigate our manufacturer’s warranties and provide honest guidance on their building’s best option.

To learn if your roofing project qualifies for a warranty, contact PB Roofing today.

Reinforcing our Supply Chain with Innovation

The global supply chain is a complex and codependent network that has caused ripple effects throughout the course of the last two years. Back in February, we reported 2022 commercial construction trends and the shortages and inflated prices of basic materials that have disrupted the industry.

The harsh reality of global uncertainty places immense pressure on companies to meet their customers’ demands with unique, alternative solutions. Without quick-thinking and flexibility, customer demand for goods and services will simply decline alongside their expectations and perceptions of certain companies.

“We used to occasionally have black swan events,” says Richard Wilding, professor of supply chain strategy at Cranfield University in the UK, referring to rare and hard-to-predict occurrences that have major impacts. ​“The problem at the moment is we have a whole flock of black swans coming at us.” Wired

We provided some updates from around the world below that are contributing to the supply chain crisis, and how PB Roofing is adjusting its sails to continuously create a positive customer experience.

China is Back on Lockdown

Current quarantine restrictions in China are at their worst point since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.  Lockdowns at some factories and major port cities such as Shenzhen, Tianjin and Ningbo have disrupted the flows of goods from China to the U.S. CNBC “Twenty-five million people in Shanghai have been sequestered for 18 days. Chinese authorities this week slightly eased the restrictions, dividing the city into three categories based on previous screenings and risk levels.” American Shipper Experts believe that China will continue with its Zero COVID lockdowns into the summer. The effect is an astounding stagnation of processing that has created a global backlog of accumulated cargo shipments that cannot reach their destination.

Russian Sanctions

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has resulted in a wide array of sanctions that have compounded with China’s pandemic policy to cause major logistical disruptions throughout the world. “All ocean freights were suspended in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea, and most air freight was suspended when dozens of countries closed their airspace to Russian aircraft.” Newsweek

According to Forbes, Russia and Ukraine produce a significant amount of aluminum, steel, and platinum, so with this new and ongoing global conflict, we can expect to experience another delay in the supply chain with these commodities.

PB Roofing: Meeting Demands with Flexible Solutions

In response to the continued supply chain crisis, PB Roofing has invested in expanding our team, bringing greater unity and clarity in developing strategies against these persistent difficulties. One such strategy is the introduction of our exclusive THREATCheck Assessment Program. Our expert field team performs an extensive visual inspection of the property, providing our customers with issue, severity, and service options. The goal of THREATCheck is to identify and mend critical roof deficiencies while key materials for larger-scale projects become more readily available. Despite the challenges of material sourcing, 2022 promises to offer more opportunities for growth if we continue to evolve and adapt to the changing supply chain.

Working with Our Distribution Partners

Many manufacturers were hoping supply chain disruptions would start winding down by now, but we are facing sourcing issues well into this year, and when things will get back to normal is really a guessing game at this point. The logistical backlog can be relatively healthy in many cases. But we do realize that we have a long-term problem. Here at PB Roofing, we work closely with our suppliers and organizations to strategically source critical materials in a timely and cost-effective manner. It is the strength of these partnerships, as well as the diligent work by our team that allows us to continue to provide concierge-level commercial roofing services. We have been able to nimbly identify and acquire exact-specification substitutes from various manufacturers to ensure our work maintains the same quality our customers are accustomed to.

Healing the US Supply Chain

Given China’s current reduced exporting power, as well as its immobile logistical network due to COVID restrictions, US ports can use this time to de-congest and move shipments towards their intended destination. “Logistics experts say the breather is likely to be followed by a tsunami of deferred cargo once lockdowns are lifted.” American Shipper

Delta Air Lines President, Glen Hausenstein stated that “once the Shanghai restrictions are lifted, the airlines expect a boom in cargo bookings that more than offsets the current export lag.” American Shipper

China will undoubtedly continue to play an important role in those global supply chains. For regional supply chains, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement provides a platform for American businesses to develop more regionalized supply chains. Mexico has low-cost labor and a strong industrial base, whereas Canada has a highly skilled workforce and an abundance of energy resources. Furthermore, Latin America offers room for future supply chain expansion. Newsweek

Looking Ahead

Our customers can rest assured that PB Roofing is utilizing the most innovative technology in growing our strategic partnerships to expand our team and strengthen our service. We believe in an ever-evolving organization, and eagerly embrace new solutions and processes. We’re committed to creating raving fans, one roof at a time.

Breaking Barriers

In a once completely male-dominated trade, women workers have developed a more diverse and inclusive view of the construction industry. According to GoConstruct.org, women make up around 14% of construction industry professionals and this number can only be set to rise with more and more women choosing construction jobs.” The current lack of obtainable workers in the construction, and more specifically the commercial roofing industry, has given women a greater opportunity to become a vital part of a presently struggling workforce. Thriving March awareness campaigns such as Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day showcase the unmatched qualities and contributions of women across the globe. These initiatives have helped educate and generate a change in perception amongst those trapped within old schools of thought.

Inspiring Lasting Change

The fight for change is a long and difficult journey. Many brave and trailblazing women have shaped American history and culture, and women in roofing are no different. These women have founded peer support groups such as National Women in Roofing (NWiR) and The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) that provide the support of a community and mentorship throughout the industry. They provide networking opportunities, education, and comradery for all women in the trade, along with allyship from their male counterparts.

Challenge Accepted

There are several established obstacles that require an immediate need for greater awareness and open discussion within the industry as a whole:

• Pay Gap: Statistics reveal that 43% of organizations do not actively monitor gender pay gaps
• Gender Bias: Women are the victim of 60% of gender discrimination cases at the workplace
• Exclusion: 8 out of 10 women feel left out at company social events and gatherings
• Lack of Advancement: Over 70% of female construction workers feel passed over for roles because of their gender
• Shortage of Role Models: More than 45% of women in construction have never worked with female construction managers (New England Institute of Technology)

Given these challenges, women have made great leaps to become leaders of their organizations. PB Roofing is one of those organizations. With half of its executive leadership team comprising of women, PB Roofing emphasizes the need of a diverse team through its organizational structure. To learn more about the women of PB Roofing, visit our social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter) for our National Women’s History Month Spotlights. As a company that was founded on the ideal of disrupting the establishment, PB Roofing builds its team by an individual’s merit, ability, and values.

Forging the Path Ahead

In a 2020 report, McKinsey & Company found that just under 87% of women working in construction hold office positions, and only about 2.5% of tradespeople are women. Women also only make up about 14% of staff executive and 7% of line executive positions. These statistics may seem shocking, but, in the end, they represent the overdue opportunity for growth and equality. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the construction industry will add about 400,000 new jobs through 2030. These jobs need to be filled with the right people, regardless of biases about their gender.

Managing Misconceptions

Whether it be a roofing technician, field supervisor, or part of a business leadership team, the need for motivated individuals that want to evolve their skills is at an all-time high. Success is developed from the ability to grow personally and professionally in a role. According to a National Bureau of Economic Research report, women are more likely to work together than men. This is significant, as commercial roofing projects require high levels of teamwork across various departments.

Taking the First Steps

There are many different career paths in the roofing industry. You can work for a contractor, manufacturer, distributor, union, national association, engineering/architectural firm, and more in roles relating to project management, sales, finance, marketing, estimation, scientific research, IT and other fields.

For careers as a roofing technician, it is recommended that you first have a high-school diploma or GED certificate. If you are interested in pursuing higher-education to make yourself more valuable as a prospect, there are institutions that offer associate and bachelor’s degrees in construction-related fields of study. Once you are educationally prepared, you can enroll as a commercial roofing apprentice for on-site, practical training and experience that clears the path to become a full-time roofing technician. Along with the first-hand knowledge you’ve acquired, you will need to apply for industry certifications. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) certification can provide you with the safety knowledge needed for new jobs.

Recruitment

Gender-diverse companies are 25 percent more likely to achieve above-average profitability than companies with less diversity. At PB Roofing, we believe that a vital component of growing our business is identifying and engaging with exceptional employment candidates, regardless of gender.

PB Roofing has an awareness of the next generation workforce’s needs by supporting flexibility and openness. Visit our careers page if you have what it takes to challenge yourself and be part of our growing team!

Organizations & Learning Resources

• National Women in Roofing (NWiR)
• The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)
• Women Construction Owners & Executives (WCOE)
• Female Firsts in Construction
• Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters
• Women in Construction
• Women in Construction: The State of the Industry in 2022

2022 Commercial Roofing Trends & Solutions

The long-term effects of the pandemic continue to influence volatile material pricing and sparce availability, project delays, and logistics. A lot of these external factors are uncontrollable variables, but at PB Roofing, we have identified the areas that we can control and maximized our efforts to offset these challenges. We view adversity as opportunity, and we’ve seized these opportunities by implementing positive processes throughout our organization.

Looking at the Bright Side

Even with external detractors, there are significant positives side-effects developing that will shape the industry for years to come. Roofing Contractor Magazine has collected data showing continued positive trends with increased demand for commercial projects. About 85% of surveyed roofers said they expect increases in total sales volume over the next three years, the data showed.

THREATCheck Roof Assessment Programs

Our THREATCheck and THREATCheck+ assessment programs provide property owners with assurance that their immediate roofing needs will be met and monitored while supplies become available for more extensive projects.

Each visit includes a standard visual roof system Inspection which requires our professional roofing technician to assess and document the condition of your roof and its components.

Emerging Technology

The utilization of innovative technology is imperative to the future of the roofing industry. At PB Roofing, we believe in an ever-evolving organization, and welcome new solutions with open arms. Embracing new ideas grants us the opportunity to disrupt the traditional thought paradigm of what doing business means, to ourselves and our customers.

According to Roofing Contractor Magazine, estimating software and enterprise or accounting software were the most used tech products, at 64% and 50%, respectively. A further 41% of roofing contractors utilize CRM software for project management and communications.

PB Roofing’s tech stack delivers data and analytics that ensure each service creates raving fans.

Drone Integration

As part of our mission to incorporate the most effective technological developments into our process improvement, we have begun drone flights that will expand throughout the year into a fully-fledged service option for safety and inspection purposes.

Drone use is also expected to increase, as 31% said they planned to add the service in 2022, and another 30% indicated they were on a two-year plan. Roofing Contractor Magazine.

Sustainability

At PB Roofing, we offer the in-demand sustainable solutions that help bring balance to the continual advancement and urbanization of America. These are cool roof coatings, green roofs or vegetative installations and solar harvesting.

A cool roof is designed to reflect more sunlight than a conventional roof, absorbing less solar energy. This can save energy and money by reducing heat flow from the roof into the occupied space. The outlook for the future appears good for contractors using coatings. About 56% said sales would increase this year, and another 50% said they expect spray foam sales to increase, too. Roofing Contractor Magazine.

Green roof installation is also continuing to find support throughout metropolitan areas, with many cities requiring new commercial structures to feature this sustainable solution. A green roof increases your roof’s life by protecting it with natural storm water runoff and reduced surface temperatures. Urban development has resulted in less green space and more impervious surfaces.

Finally, our expert team provides solar panel preparation for installation on commercial roofs. Most solar panels are designed to operate for 20 to 25 years. Our experienced team can help accomplish full solar installation readiness, maximizing a roof’s lifetime and a property owner’s solar investment.

The information contained within this article comes from: Clear Seas Research. 2022 Roofing Contractor State of the Industry Report. Nov. 2021.

Finders Keepers. How to Recruit & Retain Talent During a Labor Shortage

As inflation continues to rise and the pandemic persists for a third year, it’s no surprise that a record number of Americans are quitting their jobs. Labeled as “The Great Resignation,” most people are in search of better wages, benefits, and working conditions while others are retiring ahead of schedule. According to the National Center for Construction Education & Research, approximately 41 percent of the current construction workforce (including many people in management roles) will retire by the year 2031. This creates widespread opportunities for future generations but generating awareness has been a struggle for most in the industry.

At PB Roofing, we understand that Millennial and Generation Z jobseekers often perceive working in a trade is characterized by income instability. These misconceptions often begin at the high school level, where school districts are ranked by college enrollment. In addition to this, parents have always played a role in the additional pressure for students to apply to a 4-year higher education track, despite their strengths or skillsets. It’s our goal at PB Roofing to break the stereotype and shed the spotlight on career success in both labor and corporate trade positions.

When we were founded in 2007, founders John Peck and Bryan Peck made it a priority to develop and maintain a long-term plan that kept employee optimism and motivation on the rise, including a commitment to continuously invest in employee education, premium benefits, new technology, and the customer experience. We want our recruits asking themselves and their families “why wouldn’t I work here?”

We’ve broken down some of our ongoing efforts below that had led us to success with recruiting and retaining a great workforce:

Marketing Strategy

The key to the future of our labor workforce is connecting with young prospects and educating them on the benefits of a growing career in the essential industry of commercial roofing.

To increase visibility against competing industries, we invest time and money to stay ahead of cutting-edge technology. Given the current limitations on in-person events, it is more important than ever to appreciate and utilize all media channels. PB Roofing executes this through our dynamic social media and website content focusing on videos that highlight the employee and customer experience. This content helps increase our visibility among job seekers.

We also invest money in the onboarding experience. We want our employees’ first impression to validate that they’ve made the right choice, and to turn them into raving fans of our brand.

Technology

A recent survey conducted by Dell Technologies revealed that 91% of Generation Z survey participants said the technology offered by an employer would influence their job choice if faced with similar employment offers.  In addition, the “gig economy” is on an upward trend, as Generations Y and Z look to find unique situations that meet their financial and time expectations.

PB Roofing invests a great deal into innovation. We use premium Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools, along with other tech stack software systems for finance, project management, and field operations. Our leadership team is part of industry thinktanks and peer groups where executives cross-share the latest tools that not only increase productivity but introduce new ways of enhancing performance.

Continuous Education

Education has always been on the forefront of our unique values at PB Roofing. To support this, we utilize PB University, our customized online learning platform. PB University provides professional development and personal growth as we strive to lead the next generation of commercial roofers.

With engaging, friendly-competitive features like an extensive rewards program and course completion gamification, it provides our team a fun way to push each other in reaching for greater levels of success. Completion of the curriculum offers team member incentives such as career advancement paths.

The best employees are those looking to progress in their career. They require room for growth within an organization. Offering company support through career discussions, mentoring and training milestones builds loyalty amongst the ranks. We provide all the necessary tools for employees to excel in their current role and progress into a higher position.

PB Purpose & Team Bonding Events

One of the most discussed subjects during recruiting interviews is our company’s involvement in the local community. PB Purpose, our community outreach initiative, was created to make a positive impact while getting the whole company involved. Through acts of service, donations, and volunteering, we can help wonderful organizations and make a difference. As a member of these organizations, we host frequent, fun team events on their behalf throughout the year to take a breath, celebrate our victories and re-charge together.

Compensation & Benefits

Along with education and advancement, it is also PB Roofing’s integrity to provide every employee generous compensation and a safe environment that makes us a standout leader in our industry.

Safety is a key component of the roofing industry. We integrate safety into our culture and support it with extensive training and education. We are focused on our employees’ health and well-being.

PB Roofing also provides multiple bilingual advisors to help employees have equal access to all the benefits we offer. Enhancing communication and crushing language barriers is essential for employee confidence, trust, and retention.

In Conclusion

Our purpose is to create raving fans, both within and outside of our organization. Through these initiatives, we exponentially increase our chances of acquiring and keeping employees. We have also invested in a new Chief Human Resources Officer who will keep us at the forefront of various changing health and employment policies, as well as employee mental wellness.

Our open streams of communication with employees at all levels within the company ensures that we’re doing everything we can to make our team feel connected and appreciated at work. The PB Roofing team is our most valuable tool in recruitment and retention, working together and strengthening each link of the chain along the way.