4 Roofing Myths You Shouldn’t Believe About Working in the Industry

The roofing industry, like other trade careers, often fall victim to stereotyping. For some companies, these clichés may be true—not at PB Roofing. We’re committed to creating long-term careers that go beyond the business of roofing. So, forget what you think you know about working in the industry and keep reading as we disprove these four roofing myths.

1. “Roofing leads to dead-end jobs.”

Many people believe being a roofer is just a tiresome, dead-end job, not a career. Thirteen years ago, PB Roofing changed this thought. We started offering career advancement opportunities for all of our employees. When we hire, we look for a person who is coachable, has excellent attention to detail, and is resourceful. Every position we offer is an opportunity for professional and personal development.

2. “Roofers don’t need formal education or training.”

This myth holds some truth. Some entry-level roofer positions will offer on-the-job training. Although many roofers choose to complete a trade school program and apprenticeship to gain experience and skills. At PB Roofing, we now offer our employees an opportunity to continue their education and training—PB University. Our employees of any seniority can complete courses and advance their career.

3. “Roofing has minimal benefits and compensation.”

Some roofers have to rely on unions or state benefits instead of their employer. To keep PB employees happy and healthy, we offer access to high-quality, affordable health insurance, generous paid time off, and paid holidays. Our salaries meet or exceed the industry and include perks such as 401k with employer match, bonuses, profit sharing, incentive, and deferred compensation plans.

4. “Roofing companies offer an unfriendly working environment.”

Some believe construction sites and on-site locations offer unsafe conditions with little support from the roofing company. While it certainly varies from company to company, PB Roofing prides itself on having safe work environments and putting their employees’ safety first. Off-site, PB Roofing has company events, charitable efforts, and networking opportunities to create a welcoming culture. In 2020, PB Roofing was named one of the best places to work in New Jersey by NJ Biz Magazine.

Jumpstart Your Career with PB Roofing

We’ve proven PB Roofing is more than the stereotypical industry misconceptions. Are you ready to join our team? We hire roofers and technicians for our teams along the Northeastern states. To learn more about what we have to offer, visit our careers page.

Commercial Roof Installation Preparations and Requirements (You Need to Know)

Installing a commercial roof, whether from scratch or as a replacement, is an investment in your building’s longevity. An upgrade to your roofing system will protect your building against harsh weather conditions and potential leaks. With proper installation (and regular maintenance), your roofing system can survive decades.

Here’s a look at what you’ll need to know before undergoing a commercial roof installation.

1. Find the best roofing contractor for the job
2. Receive an estimate for the installation project’s cost
3. Determine which roofing system to install

Get Started with an Estimate and Proposal

The first step is connecting with a trustworthy commercial roofing company. PB Roofing will provide an on-site analysis to determine the best course of action for the project. After this, a project estimate and timeline proposal will be provided. Keep in mind timelines are subject to change based on material availability, permit acquisition, and weather conditions. During this initial consultation, possible upgrades should be discussed, such as energy-efficient equipment, storage areas for heating and cooling units, and solar panels.

Choosing the Best Type of Roof

Commercial roofs can utilize several different materials and installation methods. Choosing the best type of roof will depend on the building’s physical structure and the project budget. PB Roofing conducts an inspection to determine whether a re-roof or tear-off method of replacement is necessary. Then, we recommend a solution and roofing system that is right for your business.

These are the top five commercial roof types:

1. Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membrane
2. Metal Roofing
3. Single-Ply Membrane
4. Shingle Roofing
5. Green Roofing

Learn more about each of these types of commercial roofs here.

The Commercial Roofing Installation Process

Are you ready to start your commercial roof installation project? PB Roofing communicates with you through every step of the process. Our team is excellent at spotting a potential roadblock and taking care of it before it hinders the installation. No matter your building type—retail, warehouse, industrial, new construction, or historic and landmark properties—we’re ready to transform your building.

Contact PB Roofing today to get started.

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last: Everything You Need to Know

Metal roofs have grown in demand over the last decade to become one of the most popular roofing systems among commercial buildings. They’re durable, long-lasting, and can add a tasteful visual appeal. So, how long does a metal roof last?

On average, a metal roof will last 40-70 years. However, proper care and maintenance can lead to 100 years or more of longevity. Now, if that’s not enough to convince you to invest in a metal roofing system, here’s more!

What is a metal roof?

A metal roofing system is made up of panels or shingles fastened to a frame. Steel or aluminum are the most commonly used materials, as they will bring durability to your roofing system. Metals are incredibly beneficial if your commercial building is located in an area with frequent weather alerts. Snowstorms, hurricanes, tornados, and high winds will have trouble damaging a metal roof.

What is sheet metal fabrication?

If you’re thinking about a metal roofing system, you must consider using sheet metal. It is resilient and stable, providing you with a maintenance-free, attractive option for your building. It represents a smart, long-term choice that helps you protect your investment. The fabrication process is complex, involving shearing, stamping, crimping, cutting, and more. However, custom sheet metal fabrication offers many lasting benefits for your building.

Can you customize a metal roofing system?

There are quite a bit of style options to choose from, including ribbed and tiled. However, unless you opt for standing seam, there will be exposed fastener pieces. Beyond the architectural build, metal roofs are available in an abundance of colors. From earthy browns to warm neutral to bold hues of red and blue, you’ll be able to match your building and company’s design.

Who can use a metal roofing system?

Commercial buildings excel with a metal roofing system. Any facility from a warehouse to an office building or a manufacturing plant to an aircraft hangar can utilize metal roofing. More so, entertainment-based buildings, such as shopping centers, resorts, breweries, and casinos, can take advantage of metal’s brighter color options.

How can you install a metal roofing system for your commercial building?

Finding a trustworthy commercial roofer is the first step to achieving a durable and long-lasting metal roof. At PB Roofing, we perform in-house custom metal fabrication and installation for coping, gutters, downspouts, fascia, etc. With an expert team of sheet metal specialists, we can provide you a roofing system with a long life expectancy and a visual appeal. Contact us today to get started.

Ace Your Commercial Property Management Building’s Maintenance

Managing a commercial property can be a challenge, whether it is one building or a complex of storefronts. With so many potential problems that can go wrong, how can you possibly stay on top of it all? PB Roofing has been working on commercial properties for nearly two decades, and we’re here to provide you with 3 tips and tricks so you can master commercial property management.

1. Keep Detailed Records of Well, Everything

Chances are, you’ll encounter a ton of paperwork and emails. Staying organized will be crucial to successful property management. Set up a system where you can easily access vital documents when needed. Then, keep up with your filing. Accessible, detailed records will help you understand where things went wrong and plan for the future. For example, you’ll determine when your last roof inspection was and when it will be time for your next one.

2. Upgrade Your Property

From time to time, you’ll need to upgrade an aspect of your building, whether that be for a repair or installing new technology. While these may seem expensive, look at it as a long-term investment. Upgrades will enhance your property value and keep tenants happy. Landscaping, solar panels, and energy-efficient generators are just some of the additions you can make.

3. Set Up a Comprehensive Maintenance Plan

Maintaining your property goes hand in hand with upgrades, as it will also increase property value and keep tenants happy. While it will help keep up appearances, it’ll also boost the integrity of the building. Preventative maintenance is crucial for a building’s roofing system. Here are a few benefits to setting up a roofing maintenance routine with a professional:

• Unique inspections: Your commercial building’s roofing system is unique, and its needs will be different. By having routine check-ups, a professional can evaluate the health of your roof and identify potential problems.
• Protect against harsh weather: If you’re on the East Coast like PB Roofing is, you experience the grueling summer heat and unforgiving winter storms. A professional can spot weak points in your roofing system during a semi-annual maintenance check-up and get it protected in time for an upcoming season change.
• Save on significant repairs: If you spot a problem before it becomes, well, a bigger problem, you can save an incredible amount on repairs. Think, spend a few hundred on a minor repair now, or a few thousand on a replacement later.

What Can Your Commercial Property Expect from a Maintenance Routine Plan with PB Roofing?

PB Roofing’s Pro-Service team is experienced in working with property managers to provide the best possible solutions for your roofing system. When we inspect your roof, we’re looking for areas where water can pool, holes, cracks, missing gravel, missing materials, and exposed felt. Contact PB Roofing today to schedule your preventative roof maintenance.

Our Preventative Maintenance Routine for Commercial Property Owners

If you’re a property owner, surely you are always looking for great cost and time effective practices to follow. When it comes to your facility’s roof, there are ways to avoid expensive repairs and replacements. By employing preventative measures, you’ll be able to save a tremendous amount down the line. Regularly maintaining your commercial roof is investing in your building’s future.

Here’s our best commercial roofing preventative maintenance routine you must follow as a property owner.

Step One: Keep It Clean

High winds and harsh weather can bring unwanted debris onto your roof. Weight from leaves, snow, and other elements can create unsafe pressure on your roof system. Dirt and grime build-up can cause quicker deterioration as well. Keeping your roof clean can eliminate these problems. While you can perform this service yourself, hiring a professional may be best.

Step Two: Regular Inspections

At the minimum, inspect your commercial roof twice a year. A professional roofer should come and conduct the inspection, as they can spot problems that the untrained eye would not be able to. They will also be able to recommend solutions if any issues were present. During an inspection, a roofer looks for signs of damage, proper ventilation, any blockage in drains and downspouts, and any gaps or tears in the roofing system.

Step Three: Minor Repairs

While putting off a minor repair may seem like a money-saving idea, it can create a costly bill the longer it goes unfixed. Fixing a problem as it arises will help protect the longevity of your roofing system. Small blisters and splits on your roof can be patched up with high-quality, polymer-modified mastics. However, for anything larger or for a more serious problem, contact a professional roofer.

Step Four: Protective Coatings

Roof coatings can be extremely beneficial long-term. It will protect against UV rays and other environmental conditions. Having this barrier will be essential to protecting your commercial roof from tears, cracks, splits, and leaks. Several kinds of coatings will affect price, quality, and aesthetics. Schedule a consultation with a professional roofer to review coating options for your roofing system.

Step Five: Prepare for the Seasons

Depending on where you live, some seasons can put your roofing system at risk. Any natural disasters, such as hurricanes and tornados, or more common conditions, like rain, snow, and winds, should be on your radar as a property manager. Typically, the winter season brings the most severe damages. The weight of snow, the freeze and thaw cycles, and the formation of ice dams are immediate signs to call in a professional. If your building’s roof is experiencing any of these conditions, improper water drainage or cave-ins may occur.

Step Six: Save All Records

As property managers, building owners, and tenants can change yearly, it’s crucial to keep organized records of roofing documents. The original roof plan, warranty documentation, repair records, and equipment installation should be included. This is useful for historical purposes, but it will help plan for the future of your building’s integrity.

What to Expect from a Preventative Maintenance Check

During a commercial roofing preventative maintenance check, a roofer will look for:

• Areas where water can pool
• Debris, such as trees, dirt, and loose gravel
• Holes and cracks
• Missing gravel and other materials
• Exposed felt
• Discoloration, such as where moss or algae has grown

If a problem is identified, the roofer will suggest the best course of action to get your roof back in prime condition. To get started with preventative maintenance for your commercial roof, contact PB Roofing. We’re able to service properties along the east coast, from Maine to Virginia.

4 Things You Should Know About How to Become a Roofer

If you’re looking to enter the roofing industry, you’re probably asking yourself, “how can I get started?” You must consider your potential career path, required skills, and necessary education. Beyond landing your first roofing job, it’s crucial to consider your future. For example, are there advancement opportunities available to you? In this blog, we go through four things you should know about how to become a roofer.

1. Becoming a Roofer Takes Some Serious Skills

Although many techniques will be learned on-the-job, some skills will be needed before getting hired. For example, physical fitness, hand-eye coordination, ability to understand technical plans, and exceptional teamwork are among the necessary skills. Take a look at a roofer job listing to get a better idea of what may be asked of you.

2. Technical Training and Certifications are Required

Besides learning on-the-job, technical training and certifications will be required for an entry-level roofer position. A high school degree is an excellent place to start for education, however a trade school or an apprenticeship should be explored to achieve more of an advantage. This type of training will teach you how to use specific roofing tools and learn job site safety precautions. You’ll also be able to assist and complete real roofing jobs. Achieving a certified roofer title will help you gain a more advanced role in the industry.

3. The Roofing Industry is Rapidly Growing

While typical construction jobs may seem seasonal, the roofing industry is actually projected to grow 12 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth indicates a steady increase for openings in the roofing workforce. There will almost always be availability in the industry for new hires.

4. Being a Roofer is Not a “Dead-End” Job

A huge industry misconception is a notion that becoming a roofer is a dead-end job, meaning there is no possible career advancement. While that may be true for some companies, PB Roofing has taken strides to break this industry myth. As a leading commercial roofing company for the past 13+ years, PB has continually looked for ways to increase employment growth and, more importantly, retention. Enter PB University.

PB University is our industry-breaking program that goes above and beyond for our employees. We’re dedicated to providing professional development and personal growth as we strive to grow as a company and a family continuously. Our curriculum is centered around building a career from novice to master. The levels of PB University are:

• Helper (the first level in an associate’s career path)
• Apprentice
• Technician
• Lead Technician
• Foreman
• Master Foreman

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

PB University devotes itself to further defining PB Roofing’s forward-thinking culture, where everyone we come to know and work with is valued and given an opportunity. As a growing organization, we strongly value the importance of being educated and properly trained in the field—creating an excellent opportunity for those looking to learn, gain experience, and excel. If you’re interested in working for PB Roofing and enrolling at PB University, contact us today!

What Are Roofs Made Of? Identifying Materials and Types

Installing or replacing a roofing system in a commercial building will depend on the physical structure and project budget. However, this is a critical choice, as roofing types directly impact the building’s overall health and the longevity of the roof itself. As a building owner or facility manager, you must be asking the critical question: What are roofs made of?

Let’s take a look at what the majority of commercial buildings are using.

1. Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Membrane

Built-up roofing, a low-slope system, is made up of layered tar and gravel. This material is budget-friendly, as the number of layers can adjust pricing. The layering also allows the roof to meet durability requirements. As an industry-standard, this roofing system is cost-effective and offers incredible longevity.

2. Metal Roofing

Steel, copper, aluminum, tin, and other metals can be used for metal roofing. With any metal, however, rust may occur. Therefore, it’s crucial to add on a coating to prevent damage from sun exposure and other weather climates.

A metal roof is quite light and can be installed on top of an existing system, making it an ideal candidate for a replacement. Not only do metal roofs have a visual appeal, but they also offer significant durability and stability. Although light, metal can withstand the weight of snow and power of high winds.

3. Single-Ply Membrane

Single-ply roof systems are sheets of rubber and other synthetics that are layered for optimal protection. They can be ballasted, mechanically fastened, or chemically adhered to insulation. These roofs are quite UV resistant and, similar to metal, can be installed over an existing system.

There are two types of single-ply membranes. Thermosets are made up of rubber, whereas thermoplastics are made up of plastic-based materials. Thermoplastics are ideal for large areas to reduce the number of seams. Talk to your roofing professional to determine which type is right for your building.

4. Shingle Roofing

While shingles are more commonly seen on residential homes, they are often used for steep-slope commercial roofs. Shingles can actually be made of several different materials, such as wood, slate, metal, plastic, ceramic, and asphalt. Asphalt shingles are quite popular, but architectural shingles may be the better option for your commercial building. Architectural shingles are quite durable and weatherproof.

5. Green Roofing

Green roofing systems are growing in popularity over recent years—especially in bigger cities. These “hidden gardens” are sustainable, offer protection from the elements, manage water drainage, and improve energy efficiency. A green roof is a beautiful sight for any passerby and an even better place to recharge for employees!

The Next Steps for Your Commercial Building

Now that you’re familiar with different roofing materials and systems, it’s time for the next step. Reach out to PB Roofing to discuss the needs of your building. Are you looking for an upgrade or a complete replacement? Do you need to conduct an inspection to determine the best solution? Our team is ready and able to assist you.

NJ Construction: Get Started with Your Career in Roofing

There is no one path to start a career in roofing. For example, a recent high school graduate, a person pursuing a post-secondary degree, and a seasoned worker wanting a change can all be looking to get into roofing work. No matter where you’re coming from in life, it can be daunting to enter a new industry, especially when every state has its own rules and standards. The best way to ease concerns is to read industry articles and speak to people in the trade.

Here are our best tips on starting a roofing career in the NJ construction industry!

1. Get familiar with NJ roofing laws. Laws protecting employees vary from state to state, so it’s crucial to know your rights. There are specific laws the construction industry must abide by, especially for employees. For example, under the Construction Industry Independent Contractor Act, employers must adequately classify employees to ensure the delivery of appropriate benefits, such as social security, taxes, and wages. OSHA outlines detailed roofer protection rules under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, including decreasing the number of on-the-job falls, hazards, injuries, and more.
2. Research the companies you are interested in. There are plenty of roofing companies that will offer you a job and some benefits. However, you shouldn’t settle for the bare minimum. When searching for jobs, take a more in-depth look at what the company has to offer. Is there a welcoming culture? Is there an opportunity for advancement? Do they offer competitive salaries and benefits? Interviews are another great way to learn more about what the company does and the types of people working there. Making sure you’re a great fit will be essential to a successful roofing career.
3. Get your foot in the door. Many people believe you need to know someone to start working in roofing. While having a relative or friend in the industry can be useful, there are a few other ways to get in. Apprenticeships offer on-the-job training as well as in-class learning. Post-secondary degrees can be achieved through universities, community colleges, or technical schools. Some of these programs are roofing-specific and offer industry certifications. Another route is to jump right into the job. Many entry-level positions require little to no experience and are learned entirely on the job from assisting an experienced roofer.
4. Don’t stop learning. Once you land a job, you’ll be learning a lot more about the company and industry. However, to truly be successful, you must continue learning outside of work. Watch videos, read articles, keep up with news, and network with others in the roofing industry. What would be extremely beneficial is if your company offers advanced learning opportunities. For example, PB Roofing created PB University for its employees. It provides a unique approach for every step in your roofing career, from novice to master. Even if you’re not starting from the beginning, you can jump in at any stage.

Start Your Roofing Career with PB Roofing

At PB Roofing, we create long-term careers with our forward-thinking tools and training to support a successful life. Every employee receives an education, generous compensation, a safe environment, and room for growth. We look for passion, motivation, and attention to detail in every candidate.

Our work brings us down the east coast from Maine to Virginia and back home, headquartered in New Jersey. If you’re interested in starting a career in construction and want to learn more about working for an industry leader, contact PB Roofing today!