By now I’m hoping you’ve heard about RoofPoint, the green rating system for roofs. With its newness comes uncertainty. What is a “roof rating system” and how is it used? Specifically, how does someone — anyone — use a rating system to benefit their business? This is what contractors are asking:

How can RoofPoint help me and my business?

RoofPoint is technology neutral; any roof type can be a RoofPoint roof. RoofPoint is not prescriptive,  meaning it’s not a list of “do this, don’t do that.” RoofPoint is about the process of achieving a high- quality roof — from design to material selection to installation to maintenance. It’s likely many of you are already installing RoofPoint roofs. It’s time you get the recognition for your excellence! It’s time we promote our high-quality roof systems that are well maintained and will last a long time.

On the surface, a rating system is a scorecard. If a roof gets enough points, it qualifies to be a RoofPoint roof. And what exactly does that mean? Well, the developers of RoofPoint knew it was necessary to build a sustainability program that validates energy efficiency, longevity and durability of roof systems, which are the key characteristics for the roofing industry when it comes to “green.” It’s hard to argue the idea that the “greenest” roof is one that is well insulated and lasts the longest.

How can you use RoofPoint? How many times has your roof design been questioned? How do you defend your design? When you’re sitting in the pre-job meeting and there is discussion about cutting costs, what get’s picked on first? All too often it’s the roof. The roof gets value-engineered because it’s out of sight and out of mind. It shouldn’t be. Using RoofPoint to substantiate your high-quality roof system can counter the value engineering argument. Roofs are long-term assets; RoofPoint can help make your case.

Most roof projects don’t use an architect or consultant; as the contractor, you’re the one promoting high quality and longevity, and your reputation depends on success. If you’re trying to promote good roofing practices, RoofPoint is an authoritative source. For example, why should you install two (or more) layers of insulation? It’s more expensive, but it’s correct from a building science standpoint. What about thermal bridges? Are you installing metal screws and plates through the entire insulation layer? It’s not good practice to do so. RoofPoint helps validate the costs for doing things correctly. RoofPoint is your ally.

From a material standpoint, is recycled material being used? Is jobsite waste being recycled or properly managed? If water is an issue (for example, Maryland has a “storm water management fee” for impervious surfaces [aka, rooftops]), is water runoff being slowed or collected for re-use?

For durability, is there a cover board? They are worth the extra upfront cost. Does the roof drain properly? Manufacturers don’t warrant ponded water; installation of a tapered system is prudent for longevity and durability. Are there traffic pads, or some kind of traffic protection? Again, durability matters to long-term success.

Every roof needs to be maintained, and a service contract ensures you get to do the maintenance. It’s cheaper to do preventative maintenance than to do reactive maintenance. It also ensures you stay in contact with the owner, and shows your dedication to quality, which are excellent for driving business. Networking and continued relationships are key to successful businesses. RoofPoint includes maintenance and quality management.

RoofPoint is an award. I bet some of you have a trophy on your bedroom dresser from some tournament you won, whether a softball tournament or a spelling bee. Awards make people feel proud, and people love to show off their awards. It’s just human nature. Give a RoofPoint award; you’ll be the good guy who not only put on a fantastic roof (and made money doing so), but someone who also provided an award so the business owner can show off a bit to his or her peers.

What is critically important to know about RoofPoint is that the scorecard is made up of the most crucial aspects of roofing, put together by the roofing industry, such that a RoofPoint roof will be a top-of-the-line roof system. RoofPoint roofs are some of the best roofs installed. RoofPoint shows you’re doing the best for the owner.

RoofPoint promotes the best roofing possible. Use it to differentiate your company from your competitors. “We only install RoofPoint roofs” is like saying, “We only install the best.”

 RoofPoint is a scorecard; it is an award system; it is a design guide. If you consider each of the 23 credits for a roofing project, you’ve done your job well.