Knowing When Silicone Roof Coatings Are Right for Your Commercial Building

A roof coating can help prevent damage and leaks while protecting and prolonging the longevity of a roofing system. It may be a better option for your roof than a complete replacement or an intensive repair. First, an evaluation will need to be performed to determine if a silicone roof coating is the best option for your roof.

What Are Silicone Roof Coatings?

Silicone itself is a high-performing polymer that is commonly used for roof coatings. These silicone coatings are excellent for providing UV, water, and weathering protection. They are typically the best solution for low-slope or flat roofs.

The Benefits of Silicone Roof Coatings

Many commercial buildings have low-slope or flat roofing systems, meaning their needs are different than a residential home. Silicone coatings are more ideal for commercial buildings because they:

• Hold up against high and low temperatures
• Help prevent roof leaks and ponding
• Provide resistance to unwanted growths like algae and mold
• Slow down the accumulation of dirt and debris
• Adhere well to different commercial roof substrate
• Come in a variety of finishes and colors, such as reflective and white

Types of Silicone Roof Coatings and When to Use Each

High Solids Coatings

High solids coatings have fewer solvents in their formulation, are typically more expensive, and use less product to achieve the desired coating thickness. These coatings are a better choice for low-slope roofs in high-moisture areas or for roofing systems that are subject to ponding water. High solids coatings can be applied to metal, structural concrete, single-ply membranes, and asphalt roofing systems. They can also be applied over polyurethane foam on new or existing roofs.

Solvent-Based Coatings

The solvents used in this coating formulation can result in faster drying times than water-based coatings and can withstand low temperatures without the risk of freezing. Additionally, these coatings can be applied in extreme heat as well. Solvent coatings are best for roofing systems that experience high moisture and humidity.

Professional Roof Coatings Near You

Are you ready to learn more or inquire about silicone roof coatings? Get in touch with PB Roofing. We are experienced in providing solutions for commercial buildings across the east coast. Our PB Projects team will inspect, evaluate, and suggest the right roof coating for your current roofing system.

Keep in mind, your roof will still collect dirt and debris over time. It will be vital to have an annual maintenance program in place to maintain the coating’s integrity! Contact our team to learn more.

How PB University Creates Long-Term Construction Careers

The construction industry is often misrepresented as having temporary, unfulfilling, or unsatisfactory jobs. PB Roofing is here to set the record straight about working in construction. There are available field and office positions with competitive compensation, generous benefits, and job security. There will always be a need for roofs, therefore there will always be a need for learning the trade and growing in the industry.

To help our employees learn safety, trade development, and overall associate growth, we created PB University.

What is PB University?

PB University creates long-term construction careers that go beyond the business of roofing. We believe in preparing knowledgeable, responsive team members who are committed to delivering an excellent customer experience in a diverse and ever-evolving industry. We are dedicated to providing a construction career path to our employees through education, training, professional development, and personal growth. PB University allows us to lead the next generation of roofers and entrepreneurs.

How Does PB University Education and Training Work?

PB University devotes itself to further define PB Roofing’s forward-thinking culture, where everyone we come to know and work with is valued and given opportunity. At each level in the curriculum there are requirements and expectations that strongly benefit each field associate, their team, and the organization.

From start to finish, PB University is expected to take an associate 5 years to complete our detailed online courses through our online Learning Management System and hands-on opportunities. We welcome associates at all levels- from no experience to years of experience.

Types of Construction Jobs

Trade workers are always in high demand. However, we look for administrative and leadership candidates as well. Here is a breakdown of some of the jobs available in each of these three categories:

• Trade: helper, apprentice, entry-level laborers, technicians, lead technicians, foremen, and master foremen
• Administrative: construction managers, project managers, safety professionals, consultants, design professionals, estimators, sales professionals, office administration, business development managers, and warehouse and maintenance personnel
• Leadership: superintendents, field leadership, senior positions, directors, and other managers

Do I Need More Than a High School Diploma?

Most trade positions require at least a high school diploma. More required training, experience, education, and certifications will increase with the position’s seniority level. For administrative and leadership positions, some higher education is more commonly required, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

Construction Careers and Employment Opportunities at PB Roofing

PB Roofing is always looking for new members for our growing company. We invest in our employees by providing education, generous compensation, a safe environment, and room for growth. To learn more about our available construction careers and employment opportunities, visit our careers page online.

5 Roofing Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Commercial Building Thriving

Without proper maintenance, serious damage can occur to a roofing system and necessitate repairs. A building owner or property manager needs to handle problems as they occur and take necessary preventative measures. By following these roofing maintenance tips, you can increase the longevity of your commercial building’s roof.

1. Repair Leaks Immediately

While a small leak may only seem like an inconvenience, it can become a big problem. Small leaks often turn into larger ones, leading to an increasingly expensive repair. A leak left unattended can then ruin the flooring, ceiling, and equipment or property inside the room. Don’t leave a bucket under the leak and call it a day—get in touch with your roofing contractor to assess and fix the problem.

2. Have Bi-Annual Roof Inspections

Commercial roofs should be inspected by a professional twice a year. A trained eye can identify any problems or potential future problems, including leaks, cracks, and weak spots. These inspections are recommended in the spring and fall, before and after the winter season.

3. Conduct Self-Checks After Bad Weather

No matter where you live, bad weather happens. Especially after a storm or high wind, conduct a self-check of your roofing system. Look for any obvious signs of damage or debris buildup. If it’s as simple as removing some leaves and small branches off of the roof, you can most likely do this yourself. However, for more extensive jobs, call in a professional.

4. Regularly Clean Your Roof

Even under normal weather conditions, debris can build up over time. This can lead to clogs, algae, or mold, shortening a roof’s lifespan. Not only should the surface be cleaned, but all gutters and drains should be too. Whether you make it a priority to do this yourself or hire a professional, keeping your roof clean is investing in your building’s future.

5. Clear Off Snow in the Winter

When it snows, parking lots, sidewalks, and entryways are always first thought of while the roof remains forgotten! However, this is an essential service. Immediate roof snow removal will prevent leaks, ice dams, and ice cycles that cause severe problems. This job is best handled by a professional who has the proper equipment.

Commercial Roof Services Near You

These tips on roof care may seem intense, but a professional roofer can make it easy! At PB Roofing, we work with our clients to create regular maintenance routines, including inspections and cleanings. Our extensive services are available along the east coast, all year long. Contact us online to request more information.

A Year Since Covid-19 Began: The New Roofing Industry Standards and Practices

It has been a year since the Covid-19 pandemic began in the U.S., and now experts can truly analyze the impact it has had on the roofing industry. As a leading commercial roofing company on the east coast, here are the changes and trends we have seen this last year.

Becoming an Essential Service

During initial state lockdowns, essential services were deemed satisfactory to continue operations. Roofing, of course, was among those industries. This meant ongoing and new projects could continue. More importantly, emergency repairs for other essential services could be made, including hospitals, schools, testing facilities.

Virtual Communication

Nearly every industry has seen a sudden shift to virtual communication because of the pandemic. We’ve certainly seen an increase in phone calls, emails, and, of course, Zoom calls. All project requests and updates are being conducted through these virtual methods. For any on-site interactions, wearing masks and social distancing remain the best practices.

Adjusting Services to Meet Client Needs

Across the board, roofing services haven’t changed. However, which services our clients need the most have. For example, maintenance and inspections are highly requested. Long-term protection, such as coatings, have also been in demand. Of course, planned and unplanned repairs are always needed.

The commercial buildings and facilities we service have faced operation challenges during the pandemic. As a leading roofing provider, we have remained available for our clients whether they are occupying their space or not.

Giving Back to Communities

The pandemic has undoubtedly revealed the importance of community. Many companies have shown support for essential workers like police officers, nurses, and doctors. For example, at PB Roofing, we revamped the Elmwood Park Police Department’s Pistol Range for our 2020 community give-back project.

Industry Leading Roofing Company

As we continue to see more roofing industry trends develop, PB Roofing stays on top of our client’s needs and provides expert services. If you need an emergency repair or service or are ready to take on a more significant project, contact us online.

Prepare Your Building and Business for the Roof Replacement Process

Often, a roof replacement is the worst-case scenario and is typically avoided if possible. However, there comes a time when every roof must be replaced for financial, safety, or efficiency reasons. Here’s how to prepare your building and business for the roof replacement process.

Step 1: Determine the Need for a Roof Replacement

In some cases, such as a weather event or natural disaster, it may be apparent a roof replacement is needed. However, there are a few things to consider when replacing a roof:

• Cost: A replacement may seem like a huge financial undertaking. However, if your roof is experiencing several repairs throughout the year, it may be more cost-efficient to install a new roofing system.
• Operations: Similar to above, constant repairs can disrupt business. Pausing operations for a one-time replacement is better than enduring reoccurring repairs.
• Safety: Some concerns, such as holes or leaks, may be an easy fix. Yet, if larger pieces are falling apart or are causing damage inside of your building, a replacement may be the best option.
• Efficiency: A roofing professional will be able to determine how well your roofing system is functioning. There are some issues that a repair cannot fix and therefore require a complete replacement.

Step 2: Contact Your Roofing Company

If you suspect a roof replacement is needed, get in touch with your roofing company as soon as possible. They will be able to conduct a complete inspection, pinpoint the areas of concern, explain the necessity of a replacement, and discuss viable options. Be sure to ask for a quote, project timelines, and business functionality during the process.

Step 3: Plan for a Roof Replacement

Before your roofing company starts tearing apart your building, there will be a planning stage to determine logistics. This includes materials, design, and blueprints for the new roofing system. This is also the optimal time to prepare your business to become a construction zone. Allowing your employees to work from home or in-person at a limited schedule can help keep operations running with little interruption.

Step 4: Installing the New Roofing System

The initial inspection will determine what is underneath your current roof and whether it requires a re-roof or tear-off method of replacement. At this step, there is nothing further for you to do. Simply leave the hard work to the professionals and be on call in case questions or problems arise.

Step 5: Invest in Roof Protection

Once your building’s new roofing system is installed, don’t repeat past mistakes. Be sure to schedule routine maintenance and inspections with your roofing company, and even inquire about roof coatings. It can help prevent damage and leaks while protecting and prolonging your new roofing system’s life.

Finding the Right Company for a Roof Replacement

Even if you have worked with a roofing company for previous projects, it’s best to get a second opinion (and quote) on a roof replacement. PB Roofing is experienced and trusted along the Northeast coast by dozens of commercial businesses. Our team will provide a solution that is best for your roofing system without exceeding your budget.

The Basics of a Roof Plan Drawing: Dimensions, Materials, and More

Every roofing technician should know how to read a roof plan drawing. While working on-the-job can certainly teach this, it’s never a bad idea to refresh your skills. Especially if you are new to the industry, understanding the basics of a roof plan will be essential to your roofing career.

What is a roof plan?

A scaled drawing of a roof development proposal.

What is needed before drawing a roof plan?

A survey must be completed of the existing structure, land plot, or building plans to determine the project’s scope, the materials needed, and the type of roof plan to be used (a basic roof plan or a roof plan architecture drawing).

What are the roof plan details?

Dimensions of the entire roof structure, including shape, size, design, and placement of all materials, ventilation, drainage, slopes, valleys, and more.

Who uses a roof plan?

Apprentices, lead technicians, project managers, and anybody else involved in a roofing project.

What does a roof plan look like?

A 2D drawing from a bird’s eye view. Annotations are also used to explain specific aspects, such as ridges, slopes, the roof pitch, ventilation, and access points.

When are roof plans used?

During the planning stage of a new roof installation, renovation, repair, or extension work.

How are roof plans used during a project?

For some permits and permissions, client approval, and reference for all employees. Roof plans may also change throughout the project and should be updated as needed.

Basic Roof Plan vs. Architectural Roof Plan

As mentioned above, a survey must be completed before any roof plan can be drawn. This may be an inspection of the current roofing system and building, the land plot a new facility will be built on, or the new building’s plans. The survey results will determine the scope of the project and the type of roof plan needed.

• Basic roof plan: Used for smaller projects and typically focuses on the roof shape and material placement.
• Architectural roof plan: Used for larger projects and includes more details on various aspects, such as the design and material placement.

Where Can You Learn How to Read a Roof Plan

While some roofing technicians start their careers without formal training or education, others choose to complete trade school and an apprenticeship. Many companies even let their employees rely on on-the-job experience. However, PB Roofing chooses to be an industry-leading company by offering their employees PB University.

PB University provides professional development and personal growth to create the next generation of roofers and entrepreneurs. Every employee is eligible and encouraged to enroll upon hire. With a comprehensive learning plan, employees of all ages, education backgrounds, and experience levels can jump in and complete the university program.

If you’re interested in starting a career with PB Roofing, view our open positions online.

4 Tips to Ace Your Roofing Sales Job Interview

If you’re passionate about sales, the roofing industry can hold some serious earning potential. From being a sales representative to becoming a business development manager, the harder you work, the higher your earnings could be.

To ace your roofing sales job interview and career, follow these four tips from industry experts.

Tip #1: Understand the Position

While this may seem obvious, understanding the position is essential before an interview. It also gives you an opportunity to gather any questions you may have about the role. A roofing sales representative job description generally includes generating leads through direct selling tactics and converting them into appointments for business development managers.

Tip #2: Know the Responsibilities of the Role

As a sales representative, you will be the first point of contact a potential client has with the company. This means you’ll be making prospective calls and deciding who is best worth the business manager’s time. Having a thorough understanding of the company’s products and services, industry, and client needs will be essential for the role and will demonstrate your knowledge during an interview.

Tip #3: Sharpen Your Skills

While the most notable skill in a sales representative role is communication, there are a few technical skills you can sharpen that will surely come up during an interview. Being proficient in Microsoft Office, CRM software, and a prospecting application (such as LinkedIn Sales Navigator) are standard requirements. If you’re inexperienced in one of these, or it’s been a few years since you’ve used one, take the time before your interview to practice.

Tip #4: Research the Roofing Company

One of the most common interview questions is, “Why do you want to work for our company?” Doing some research about the company, reading their website, and looking through their social media will give you a good idea about their culture and environment. It can also tell you about the benefits they offer their employees.

PB Roofing is an industry-leading company that puts employees first. Upon hire, every employee is eligible to enroll in PB University, which provides professional development and personal growth opportunities to create the next generation of roofers and entrepreneurs. Beyond competitive compensation and premium benefits, PB Roofing offers a family-culture and many opportunities to get involved within the company and give back to the community.

If you’re interested in a sales representative job at PB Roofing, visit our careers page to learn more.

3 Reasons a Living Roof is an Industry Trend Right Now

The roofing industry is seeing an incredible push to go green in 2021. Year after year, buildings are encouraged to be more environmentally friendly, especially in cities. Further, the Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way schools and offices operate, encouraging outdoor spaces that create a safe place to gather while socially distancing.

Besides being industry-leading and incredibly innovative, here are three reasons a living roof is an industry trend right now.

1. They’re an Economical Choice

Having a living roof on your commercial building can be a long-term money-saver. They can reduce heating and cooling costs, stormwater runoff, and flooding potential. Additionally, by transforming your roof into a useable space, it will increase the property’s market value. Some cities and states even offer incentives for eco-friendly building developments.

2. They May Increase the Longevity of Your Roofing System

If properly installed and taken care of, a living roof can have quite a long lifespan. It is believed that the greenery protects the roof membrane from ultraviolet sunlight and acts as a barrier to weathering. There is also a root barrier that stops plants from rooting too deeply and damaging the building’s structure, acting as an additional level of protection.

3. They Can Increase Productivity

Whether you’re looking to install a living roof on a school or office building, it’s no secret that some fresh air and greenery increases productivity and can provide a mental boost. A green rooftop is the perfect space for holding an outdoor class for a change of scenery. In an office building, employees can enjoy lunch, host a meeting, or get a much-needed break in a refreshing outdoor environment.

Installing a Living Roof

These green roof benefits are essential to discuss with your roofing company. At PB Roofing, we can answer any questions or concerns you may have. We’ll work with you to design and install a system that is best for your building and satisfies its needs. After the installation process, our team is available for any repairs and routine maintenance your roof may need. Contact us to learn more.

3 Steps to Take During an Emergency Roof Repair

A roofing system protects everything inside your building: irreplicable employees, expensive equipment, valuable product, and more. In an instant, a flash flood or snowstorm could put all of that in jeopardy. How can you protect your building from an unexpected occurrence? That’s where emergency roof repair comes in. Follow these three steps the next time your commercial building finds itself facing a roofing emergency.

Assess the Damage and Protect Your Valuables

The first step during a roofing emergency is assessing the damage. Pinpoint the location(s) of the incident, such as a leak or fallen tree branch. If a professional needs to be called in, they’ll have a good idea of where to start their inspection. Sometimes, the interior of the building may suffer when there is roof damage. If it is safe, clear the area of any valuable items, equipment, or products.

Determine the Status of the Situation

While the situation can look overwhelming, it may not qualify as a roofing emergency. In some cases, it looks worse than it is. For example, a fallen tree may have landed on your building’s roof without causing damage. However, if there is water infiltration, the roofing system is compromised and will need immediate repair. The most likely culprit is the weather: extreme winds, the weight of snow, high rains, or a fallen tree or powerline.

If you are unsure if your commercial building requires immediate care, call a roofing company. They will be able to determine how quickly the response time should be.

Call a Roofing Emergency Response Team

Many roofers offer emergency roof repair services, often with 24/7 availability. The longer it takes for a response team to arrive, the longer your building will lose time and profits and be at risk for liabilities. Without a properly functioning roof, all parts of your building are at risk for failure.

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. PB Roofing provides 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. To learn more about having the PB Emergency Response Team on-call, contact PB Roofing today.

What Makes PB Roofing One of The Best Places to Work in New Jersey?

2020 has undoubtedly been filled with challenges and obstacles to overcome, especially for essential workers. Throughout the year, PB Roofing made strides to defy industry standards and better their employees. These efforts were rewarded when PB Roofing’s own employees ranked the company among the best places to work in New Jersey.

Every year, NJBiz magazine collects anonymous feedback from employees about their job (role, environment, culture, and more). So, how did PB Roofing make the NJBiz Best Places to Work 2020 list?

Employee Development and Training

No matter the seniority level, all new hires receive training on industry standards and protocols, safety guidelines, leadership development, and more. PB Roofing has created an educational program, PB University, for employees to further succeed in a current role or advance into a higher position. Every employee is automatically enrolled and encouraged to start taking classes. As a growing organization, we strongly value the importance of being educated and properly trained in the field—making this an excellent opportunity for those looking to learn, gain experience, and excel.

Competitive Compensation

Our salaries meet or exceed the roofing industry standard. Beyond a paycheck, we set our employees up for financial success throughout all life stages and careers. Some perks include a 401k with employer match, bonuses, profit sharing, incentive, and deferred compensation plans. Through these perks, we create happy and successful employees, furthering the success of PB Roofing.

Premium Benefits

Besides competitive compensation, PB Roofing offers premium benefits to every employee. Through our comprehensive employer-supported health care plan, we can support a happy and healthy employee and their family. We believe access to high-quality, affordable health insurance is a critical foundation for our business. Knowing that their family and self are safe and protected, our employees can work harder. We also provide a standard for all employee levels, including paid time off and paid holidays.

Building a successful company means building successful employees. PB Roofing gives employees every opportunity for personal and professional growth. It’s through this forward-thinking mindset that our employees ranked us as among the best places to work in New Jersey. Learn more about our open roofing positions or contact a team member today.