Over the years, Roofing Contractor has received reader feedback in many forms, from letters, phone calls and faxes to encounters between our editors and readers at the many trade shows, seminars and industry events we attend every year. In addition to this, we conduct surveys of readers on a variety of topics just to make sure we’re up on what’s on our readers’ minds.
The other day, I was pleased to hear from a good friend and industry veteran, Paul Graham. Paul has never been shy to let me know when I’m headed off the rails and has always balanced his very constructive criticism with kind words. Here are some comments Paul sent in related to a recent editorial piece.
Roofing Contractor, June 2015
Rick,
I liked your article concerning cleaning TPO and all white roofs. At Chem Link, we’ve touched the market with a few contractors using a water-based cleaner that would be safe for plants, workers, etc. It’s diluted depending on how dirty the roof is. So far, so good. The article made me think of the TPO repair market.
1. Most TPO is installed directly over ISO because of the price pressures. The thinner membranes have been used on large retail for years — without Securock or Dens Deck. Result: when Target, Wal-Mart, Lowes and Home Depot gets hit with hail, there’s a huge temporary repair that’s needed until the roof can be replaced.
Target and Wal-Mart repair crews have used Chem Link’s M-1. It’s also been used with scrap material to repair the skylights. These temporary repairs prevent inventory damage, and stop leaks where customers can slip and fall. M-1 works — even in wet conditions and ponding water.
2. Seams and flashings will always need repairs. EternaBond and Chem Link Repair tapes (white) work great. Punctures and other damage will also use the tapes. Clean, apply the tape like a bumper sticker, and apply pressure with a roller. Check the outside edges. The tapes can also be applied over the M-1 (hail damage) to make a long-term repair.
So, the new repair market is going to combine these into some nice work in the future. Especially when the warranty has expired. A new roof is a capital expense, whereas repairs are deductible for the owner. Some roofs will need repairs and a coating, which is another discussion.
It must be about 25-30 years since I first came into JGA to make a sales call with U.S. Intec.
Keep up the good work,
Paul Graham
www.chemlink.com
P.S. Another little note about M-1: the roof consultants use it for core cuts because they’re always running into wet insulation.No solvents, so it won’t eat into the foam.See ad in your magazine.Thanks.
