roofing bc winter 2010

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Roofing Contractors Association of BC9734 201 StreetLangley, BC Canada V1M 3E8

THE VOICE OF PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTORS Vol. 7, No. 4 • WINTER 2010

WINTER 2010I N T H I S I S S U E :

A very grand openingRCABC celebrates the launch of itsArchitectural Sheet Metal trainingcentre in style. See pages 12-15

LAM continued on page 6

FEATURES:Profile: Jack Lam.....................1, 6RCABC’s ASM centre opens... 12Asbestos’ deadly shadow....... 14

ASSOCIATION:President’s message .................. 3RCABC takes safety award....... 5

INDUSTRY NEWS:Steep slope roofers face more danger ....................... 4BC Place roof must leak .......... 4PM backs solar roof innovations................................ 10Roofing leads asphalt demand, despite prices .......... 10Roofing Consultants elect Canadian president ................ 11Below the roof membrane..... 16HST could be killed...................18 CRCA issues chemical resistance bulletin .....................18UDI picks top projects ............ 20Housing starts to see modest rise in 2011................ 20Vancouver green roof takes landscape award .......... 21Metrodome roof collapses ..... 21Auto-feed screw driving ......... 21Towers to sprout in downtown Vancouver ............ 21New Vancouver high-rises point to work ahead .............. 22Pipe dreams in Major Projects inventory .................... 22Football legend Joe Theismannkeynote speaker ...................... 22Building permits up ................ 22

COLUMNLegal Matters: Get your swagger back ......... 17

Asbestos still a clear andpresent dangerRisky business: leave it to the pros.See pages 8 and 9

Profile: Jack LamFrom China’s gutters toVancouver’s roof topsBy Frank O’Brien

In the early 1950s a starving young Chineseboy and his sister begged on the chaoticstreets of Guangdong province and dug upwild potatoes for food in the formerbattlefields around their village.

With China’s victorious communistsholding summary executions – including aman shot dead within feet of the children –the boy’s father sold him at the age of six toa neighbouring family that was fleeing theviolence.

A year later, in 1956, Jack Lam arrived inVancouver with his adoptive mother, joininghis new father who was already in Canada.Lam would never see his birth motheragain, though she searched for him fordecades before her death.

Yet Lam, now founder and president of30-employee Lam Metal Contracting Ltd.,remains thankful, not bitter, about thesacrifice his family was forced to make inthose terrible times. Many other childrenperished from starvation in the revolution’saftermath.

“Canada is a great, great country, acountry of wealth and opportunity,” he said.

Lam defines that opportunity.He began working construction in the

1970s after graduating with a diploma inBuilding Technology from the BC Institute ofTechnology. Soon after he was working as ajunior draftsman for Westeel Rosco, whichled him into estimating for metal roofdecking, metal wall cladding and metalsiding.Founded own company

Confident in his ability, Lam founded LamMetal Contracting Ltd. in 1991 “at the backof my house in Burnaby.” As he modestlyput it, “we gradually grew from there.”

That is an understatement. Lam Metalwas recently hand picked to provide themetal work on the Rise mixed-use buildingin Vancouver, which captured this year’sUrban Development Institute Award ofExcellence for PCL Constructors.

Jack Lam at the Burnaby headquarters of Lam Metal Contracting Ltd. Photo: Richard Lam

101 Industries Ltd.

Admiral Roofing Ltd.

Advanced Systems Roofing and Waterproofing Ltd.

Alpha-Duron Roofing Ltd.

Alpha Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc.

Aquaproof Membrane Services Inc.

Arbutus Roofing & Drains (2006) Ltd.

Arcona Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Arctic Roofing Ltd.

Aurora Roofing Ltd.

BF Roofing Ltd.

Bollman Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Bond-A Ply Roofing Ltd.

Broadway Roofing Co. Ltd.

Cambie Roofing Contractors Ltd.

Campbell & Grill Ltd.

Cascade Roofing & Waterproofing (2007) Inc.

Chilliwack Roofing Ltd.

Coast Hudson Ltd.

Continental Roofing

Crown Roofing & Drainage Ltd.

Design Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

D.M. Henderson Roofing Ltd.

Eby & Sons Construction Ltd.

Flynn Canada Ltd.

G & G Roofing Ltd.

GRC Columbia Roofing Inc.

Harmon Roofing Ltd.

Harvard Industries Ltd.

Heritage Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Homan Contractors Ltd.

Hunter Roofing Ltd.

Interior Roofing (2001) Ltd.

Kelowna Roofing (1984) Ltd.

Laing Roofing Ltd.

Laing Roofing (Vernon) Ltd.

Lam Metal Contracting Ltd.

Langley Roofing Co. Ltd.

Mack Kirk Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Mainline Roofing Co. Ltd.

Marine Roofing (1996) Ltd.

Metro Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Mica Holdings Ltd.

Mid-City Roofing & Sheet Metal (2008) Ltd.

Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Nielsen Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Olympic Roofing Ltd.

Pacific Restorations (1994) Ltd.

Pacific Waterproofing Ltd.

Parker Johnston Industries Ltd.

Peter Magas Roofing Ltd.

Pocklington Building Systems Ltd.

Prince Sheet Metal & Heating Ltd.

Raven Roofing Ltd.

Roy Dennis Roofing (2005) Ltd.

Standard Roofing Corporation

Tomtar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Top Line Roofing Ltd.

Totem Roofing & Insulation Ltd.

Trail Roofing Ltd.

Transwest Roofing Ltd.

Universal Sheet Metal Ltd.

Villa Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

Western Roofing (Master Roofers) Ltd.

Active MembersProfessional Roofing Contractors that support

an educated and committed workforce

Associate Memberscompanies focused on the manufacture and distribution of qualityroofing products that meet or exceed changing industry standards

A. Proctor Group Ltd.

Atlas Roofing Corporation

Blue Ridge Fiberboard, Inc.

Building Products of Canada Corp.

Canada Metal (Pacific) Limited

Carlisle SynTec Systems Canada

Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau

CertainTeed Corporation

Convoy Supply Ltd.

Dow Chemical Canada ULC

Duro-Last Roofing, Inc.

Firestone Building Products

GAF/Elk

Garland Canada Inc.

GenFlex Roofing Systems LLC

Georgia Pacific Canada

HAL Industries Inc.

Henry Company Canada

IKO Industries Ltd.

Intertek

InterWrap Inc.

Johns Manville Corporation

Louiseville Specialty Products Inc.

Makin Metals Ltd.

Malarkey Roofing Company

Mansonville Plastics (B.C.) Ltd.

Menzies Metal Products

Mercury Metals, a Div of Vicwest

Mule-Hide Products Co., Inc.

Owens Corning Canada

Pabco Roofing Products

Pacific Roof Centre

Phoenix Vinyl Sundecks Ltd.

Plasti-Fab (Div. of PFB Corp.)

Posi-Slope Western

Pro-Line Construction Materials Ltd

RMAX, Inc.

Roofmart Pacific Ltd.

Roxul, Inc.

Sika Sarnafil

Simplex Asphalt Products

Siplast

Slegg Lumber

Soprema Inc.

Steels Industrial Products Ltd.

Tech-Crete Processors Ltd.

Tremco Ltd.

Western Wood Truss Association

Westform Metals

BUILDING ON 50 YEARS OF INNOVATION9734 - 201 Street • Langley, BC V1M 3E8 • Tel 604-882-9734 • Fax: 604-882-1744 • www.rcabc.org

ROOFING BC WINTER 2010 3

From the President

Lookingforward toa year ofchange andchallenges First, I’d like to thank our NorthernMembers for allowing me torepresent them on the Board. I amtruly honoured tohave served youduring the last fiveyears. I started thisjourney tobecoming yourPresident in 2006(or as my wiferefers to it – threedaughters ago).What an incrediblejourney it hasbeen. In my shorttenure on theboard yourorganization hasinaugurated a newArchitectural SheetMetal Program and built a campusto house it; taken the step ofimproving overall safety for all ourmembers by mandating CORcertification; given back to themembers the hourly training andeducation charge; celebrated theAssociation’s 50th year; and

increased membership by invitinginto our ranks new deservingmember companies. Going forwardwe can look to the strategicplanning seminar, slated for March2011 in Phoenix, which I hopeevery active member will be able toattend.

In the form of a briefintroduction, I am theowner/manager of Eby & SonsConstruction Ltd. (member companysince 1983), located in the NorthernRegion of our province, specificallyPrince Rupert. I have a wonderfulfamily consisting of four beautifullittle girls aged eight months to five

years and a verysupportive wife.

My originalintention onjoining the boardwas quite simple:I wanted tocontribute to anAssociation thatthrough itsorganization,education,training, andtechnical supportis the envy of theconstructionindustry. I wonderif the original

members envisioned the evolutionof the “Master Sheet Metal &Roofing Contractors Association ofBC” to what it is now. I suspect thatit was always in their plan.

We move forward into the newdecade with justifiable confidence.There are plans for the offering of a

building envelope guarantee,expansion of the Architectural SheetMetal Training Centre, a plan toexpand the provision to ourmembers to receive top notchliability insurance coverage – notonly at a competitive premium, butto also offer stability and assuranceso that our membership is neveragain subject to the whims of afickle insurance market. In additionto this, our organization, with itstechnical strength andorganizational structure, hasbecome a model for others toemulate and we are exploring theopportunities that this will bring toour association.

As a final note, much has beenmade of transition, not only on theBoard of Directors, as new directorsreplace the “experienced” stalwarts,but also at the RCABC staff level,where our EVP, Brian Hofler, andour Technical manager, Jim Watson,will be retiring.

This will be a challenging time,but as always, change bringsopportunity and a fresh approach.

The Board is made up of dynamicindividuals who are truly focused,not only respecting the originalvision of our founders, but ofmandating new and innovativepolicies that will assure ourleadership in the roofing andbuilding envelope sector. AlthoughBrian and Jim will be missed, oneof the main strengths of ourorganization is the RCABC staff,under the leadership of our newEVP Ivan van Spronsen and ournew Technical Manager Rob Harris,everything is being left in goodhands.

I look forward to this year ofchange. Yes, there will bechallenges. Yes, there may be somedisagreements. And yes, there willbe times where we will all questionwhat we are doing. But, I just thinkof those few guys that got together52 years ago, sat around a plastictable on fold out chairs, andthought “what if...”

Tony CaputoPresident, Roofing ContractorsAssociation of British Columbia ■

Tel: 604-882-9734 • Fax: 604-882-1744

ADMINISTRATIONExecutive Vice PresidentBrian Hofler, [email protected]

Executive AssistantBarbara [email protected]

ControllerJohanna Kuker, CGA

[email protected]

Receptionist/Administrative AssistantAdele [email protected]

RCABC Educational FoundationEducation & Training ManagerShirley Caldwell, PID

[email protected]

RegistrarMichelle McKinnon, PID

[email protected]

Instructor / Inspection AuditorDavid Rice, I.P., PID, RRO

[email protected]

Safety & Risk ManagementRoger Sové, I.P., PID, Ad.Ed.

[email protected]

RCABC Guarantee Corp. Technical Manager

Jim Watson, PRC, [email protected]

Assistant Technical ManagerRob Harris, RRO

[email protected]

Guarantee AdministratorKaren Esbensen

[email protected]

MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of the Roofing Contractors Association ofBritish Columbia is to provide its members with the

training, support, and leadership required to enable themto offer customers the highest quality roofing practices,guarantees and business ethics in the roofing industry.

Tony Caputo

Steep slope roofers face more danger The workplace injury rate for roofing far exceeds the average provincialinjury rate for all industries in BC, according to Diana Miles, WorkSafeBC’svice-president of Worker and Employer Services.

In 2008 (the last year full numbers are available) the overall injury ratefor all industries was 2.96 per 100 person years of employment. Bycomparison, steep slope roofing saw an average injury rate of 11.5 for thesame year and low slope roofing with an average injury rate of 8.5.

In 2008, there were 280 accepted claims in steep slope roofing – costingmore than $6.2 million and resulting in 18,448 lost workdays. In low sloperoofing, the 243 accepted claims in 2008 resulted in a cost of more than$3.4 million and 10,337 days lost. Falls typically comprise the largestportion of the injury claims and costs to the industry. Inadequate fallprotection was most often most often the cause of falls.

WorkSafeBC information materials aimed at eliminating workplaceaccidents in roofing and construction can be found on the “constructionportal’ at www.WorkSafeBC.com. ■

4 WINTER 2010 ROOFING BC

BC Place roof can’t close in the rainVANCOUVER – The new $458 million retractable roof for BC Place Stadium, being built by a Quebec firm, won’t beable to close when it is raining, or during high winds.

Officials say theretractable roof shouldn’tbe closed while it’sraining because ofpossible issues withwater pooling. As theroof closes, the fabriccreates folds that willbecome gathered in thecentre of the stadium.Officials say the weightof water in the foldscould potentially create atear in the roof.

“You can’t have thosefolds collect water,especially with the sizeof the roof,” said BCPlace Stadium generalmanager HowardCrosley.

PavCo signed a fixed-priced contract for thenew retractable roof withPCL Constructors CanadaInc. A Quebec-basedcompany, Structal-Heavy Steel Construction (Structal), then won the contract for the construction of the world’slargest cable-supported retractable roof from PCL.

Crosley said BC Place doesn’t anticipate having to cancel any sporting games because of weather. He added thatthe decision whether the roof will be open or closed during games will be made far in advance: but this may provetricky in Vancouver’s fickle weather.

The potential of leaks does not bother managers of the BC Home & Design Show – one of Vancouver’s largesttrade shows. A spokesperson said the show is scheduled to return to BC Place stadium in the fall of 2011.

“We are confident that PavCo will deliver a leak-free roof,” she said.Since 1983, BC Place has averaged more than 200 event-days a year, generating $58 million annually. The

government says the new retractable roof will add an additional 41 event-days per year.The roof is tentatively scheduled for completion by summer 2011, in time for the Grey Cup and for the

Vancouver Whitecaps’ first season as a Major League Soccer franchise. ■

The cable-supported near-$500 million retractable roof for BC Place Stadium – shown under construction – will not be able to close in wet, windy weather. Photo: Larry O’Brien

Construction Workplace Health and Safety awardWoodward’s project captured first Landmarkaward. Photos: VRCA

RCABC takestop safetyawardThe Roofing Contractors Associationof BC has been awarded theConstruction WorkplaceHealth and Safety Innovationaward, sponsored byWorkSafeBC in the annualVancouver RegionalConstruction Association(VRCA) Awards of Excellence.

The 22nd annual VRCAawards dinner honoured thebest in regional construction,and many of the winnersincluded projects roofed byRCABC members.

The association’s GoldAwards went to 10 winners for theiruse of special techniques andprocedures, new materials and

additional artistic or innovativefeatures on their projects. Theinnovative procedure implementedby the RCABC is the requirement

that all its active members be CORcertified by July 1, 2011.

The highlight of the evening wasthe presentation of a prestigiousLandmark Award to ITC ConstructionGroup for the Woodward’sRedevelopment project. This is onlythe third time in the history of theAwards program that a LandmarkAward has been presented.

“The Woodward’s Redevelopmentis a leading project in Vancouverand British Columbia,” said KeithSashaw, VRCA President.

Sashaw added the Woodward’s

Redevelopment is just one of manyexamples of world-class projectsaround BC built by VRCA members.

The total value of projects in thisyear’s competition represented over$1.8 billion of constructionthroughout BC – just slightly lessthan last year’s total.

This year’s General Contractorover $40 million Award winner wasalso ITC Construction Group for itswork on the Millennium Waterproject. Keith Panel Systems wonGold Awards for work on the sameproject. ■

Roofing BC is published quarterly onbehalf of the Roofing ContractorsAssociation of BC and the professionalroofing industry by Market AssistCommunications Inc.

Roofing BC online at:www.rcabc.org

Managing Editor and PublisherJ. Michael SiddallPhone: 604-740-8369E-mail: [email protected]

EditorFrank O’Brien

Consulting EditorBrian Hofler, M.Ed.E-mail: [email protected]: 604-882-9734

CirculationBarbara PorthPhone: 604-882-9734E-mail: [email protected]

Production/Art Director and Advertising AssociatePaddy TennantPhone: 604-507-2162E-mail: [email protected]

Contributing Writers:Ruben GarciaIan MoesTony CaputoMike McKenna

While information contained in thispublication has been compiled fromsources deemed to be reliable, neitherthe publisher nor the RCABC will be heldliable for errors or omissions. The opinions expressed in the editorialand advertisements are not necessarilythose of the publisher or RCABC.


WE HAVE MOVED!The new mailing address for theRoofing BC publishing office is:

Market Assist Communications6412 Marmot RoadSechelt, BC V0N 3A4

RCABC’s incoming EVP Ivan van Spronsen receiving the Safety Innovationaward from VRCA. Presenting the award is Don Schouten, ManagerIndustry and Labour Services – Construction for WorkSafeBC


For the Rise, Lam used RCABC-approved one-inch standing seam,22-guage Cascadia Weather Zinc.“This is a curved standing seamsloping roof and also used in thehorizontal wall panel application,”he explained, which gave “a verysharp and unique” look.

At the Cloverdale RecreationCentre, another of Lam’s recentprojects, he opted for Berridge T-Panel for the curved metal roof(with the RGC Guarantee) and thewall cladding application.

Lam also landed a $5 millioncontract to provide Swiss Pearlcement wall panels and metalroofing for the Olympic Villageproject on Vancouver’s False Creek;and a $1.2 million order for cementpanels and metal roofing for theVancouver Police Department’s newbuilding (both supplied by MuralisArchitectural of North Vancouver.)

At Kent Institution in the FraserValley, Lam supplied $620,000worth of its unique exclusive LamMetal’s mini-reveal with an eight-inch face metal wall cladding.

Custom metal workingFrom their own metal shop –

part of the company’s 7,000-square-foot headquarters on Buller Avenuein Burnaby – Lam Metal producescustom metal panels and a widevariety of standard lines. Theseinclude 7/8-inch hat bar from 24gauge to 18 gauge; a new 1-1/2inch x 4-1/2-inch rib centers deepround corrugated for roof and wallcladding; and a new SpectrumLinear Clad that is 1-1/2” x 2-1/2”symmetrical profile that looks like alouver. They also have a 20-footcomputerized brake that has provento be very useful.

Lam Metal is primarily a metalwall and metal roof claddingcontractor – the company’s flatmembrane roof contracts are mostlychanneled through another RCABC

active member, Pacific Restorations(1994) Ltd., owned by Jack’s sonJeffery.Membership advantages

A member of RCABC for sixyears, Lam heaped praise on theRCABC training facilities. “The newArchitectural Sheet Metal TrainingCentre is the only place qualified todo training for our line of work,” hesaid, noting that metal roofing andmetal wall cladding is “the materialof the future.”

Membership in the RCABC hasmany benefits, Lam said, such asproviding low-cost and specificinsurance, as well as improvingindustry standards and “referringmany customers to us over theyears.”

The RCABC reputation for qualitywill pay off in the future, he said. As

an example, he noted that therecent Supreme Court of Canadarulings on “leaky condos” meansthat general contractors’ insurancecompanies may have to pay forfaulty work done by theirsubcontractors. “Now generalcontractors will be more selective oftheir sub-trades to avoid gettingthemselves in a legal situation.”

Today, Jack still works 12 hourdays and his idea of a holiday isswimming at the local communitypool with his wife and twin pre-teensons.

He thinks back more than 50years to when he was a boystarving and scared in the wake of abloody revolution. “I have a passionfor life,” he said, urging otherCanadians to realize what they haveand “be happy, smile every day.” ■

LAM continued from page 1

Jack Lam: sold at age 6 in China, he now leadsa successful metal contracting firm. “Canada is a great, great country, a country ofwealth and opportunity.” Photo: Richard Lam

The Rise, a Lam project in Vancouver, captured an award ofexcellence this year from the Urban Development Institute.Photo: UDI

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If your workers are on the job at an olderbuilding, help make sure they’re beingproperly protected against the deadlymineral known as asbestos. When itsinvisible fibers are released into the air,asbestos can be inhaled by unsuspectingworkers and cause serious healthproblems – or death – years afterexposure. Workers, many of them in theconstruction industry, have died fromasbestos-related diseases likemesothelioma and asbestosis.

For decades, asbestos was usedeverywhere in construction because of itsstrength, heat resistance andsoundproofing properties. Asbestos wasso integral to the building process that itwas added to many common materials,including flooring, cement, ceilings,plaster, vermiculite, caulking, roofing feltand sheets as well as pipe and electricalinsulation.

Though it is no longer used inconstruction, asbestos continues to castits deadly shadow well into the present.In the last decade, asbestos has killedmore workers in BC than any other typeof workplace injury or disease. Becauseasbestos attacks slowly, many who havedied were older or retired workers. It’sexpected that asbestos will remain a topkiller for the next several years as moreworkers get sick and die from decades-old exposures.Dangerous when disturbed

Asbestos only becomes dangerouswhen disturbed, like when handled,

drilled or sanded dur Once released, asbes fibers can stay suspe hours, ready to be br unaware and unprote the fibers then lodge respiratory system, c damage to lung tissu asbestos-related dise until years later.

Today’s workers a being exposed to asb demolition, salvage o projects. As part of th industry, sheet metal are at a higher risk o are more likely to com asbestos while on the Built before 1990

Because structures are likely to contain a beforehand if the job a site survey specifica materials like asbesto the hazard assessmen qualified professiona laboratory results wil workers are at risk o

If asbestos is pres properly removed be can begin. Because a complex and hazardo to the professionals w training, experience, do the job well and sPrecautions

Respirators and se

Asbestos can be inhaled by workers and ca By Mike M

Above: Removing asbestos through the roof requires professionals. Photo: Sacbee

Below: Chrysotile Asbestos (100x) views from a microscope. Photos: On Side Restoration

Spraying amended water (water mix

Full protection suits are required when removing asbestos. Photo: Borland Inc.


ring renovations. tos’ microscopic ended in the air for reathed in by the

ected. Once inhaled, themselves into the

ausing irreversible ue with symptoms of

eases not appearing

are still at risk of bestos during

or renovation he construction and HVAC workers

of exposure as they me into contact with

e job.

s built before 1990 asbestos, know

bsite has undergone ally for hazardous

os. Make sure that nt is done by a

l as only proper ll determine if

of exposure. ent, it must be

efore any other work sbestos removal is a

ous process, leave it who have the proper

and equipment to safely.

ecured work zones

are not the only elements required to dothe job right. Without proper workprocedures and tools like specialprotective garments or adecontamination room, asbestos removalcould hurt more than just those doing thework. Not only can asbestos fibers moveinto another work area if not properlycontained, but also they can betransported to other locations byattaching onto clothing. Later, the fibersdetach and re-circulate in the air of thenew environment – like the office or athome.

Before any work starts, writtenconfirmation should be received to showthat the asbestos has been properlyremoved from the site and disposed of.

If any asbestos is found while a job istaking place – even after the removalprocess, stop work immediately to avoidrisking further exposure.

Helping to ensure workers don’t sufferfrom the devastating effects of anasbestos-related occupational disease isworth the extra time required for properassessment or asbestos removal. Unlikemost on-the-job accidents, asbestos is aninvisible danger with effects that don’tbecome apparent until much later –sometimes long after workers haveretired from their careers.

For more information, additionalresources, or asbestos-specificrequirements found in the OccupationalHealth and Safety Regulation, visitwww.WorkSafeBC.com.

www.bccsa.ca

Raising awareness, reducing injuries

The BC Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA) is raising awareness andreducing injuries, working in partnership with WorkSafeBC.

The BCCSA delivers all the programs and services formerly o�ered byCSN and CSABC to the construction industry of BC.

HAVEYOUHEARD?

10:36 AM

ause serious health problems – even death McKenna

ed with a surfactant), a means of controlling potential fiber release to reduce risk to workers

Mike McKenna is Executive Directorof the BC Construction Safety Alliance


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Each Duro-Last® roofing system is precision-fabricated to perfectly fit thebuilding it’s designed for, right down to the stacks and flashings. Duro-Lastworks with you every step of the way to make sure your Duro-Last roof isdelivered to the job site on spec, with all components included, and up to85 percent of the seaming completed in our factory.

That means you can install faster with less labor, in all kinds of weather,with less chance for callbacks. Best of all, the proven performance of aDuro-Last roofing system will continue to deliver value to your customersfor years to come, with significant energy savings, little to no maintenance,and the best warranties in the business.

If you want to satisfy your customers and build your business, it’s no sweat. Install the precision-fabricated roofing system: Duro-Last.

PM backssolar roofinnovationsThe federal government has beenproviding funding, including start-up money, for solar roof panelmanufacturers, particularly inOntario and Quebec.

“This program will provide start-up businesses with the tools theyneed to attract investment capital,get new products to market andgenerate wealth and jobs,” PrimeMinister Stephen Harper said aftertouring the Woodbridge, Ontarioplant of SolGate Inc.

The Investing in BusinessInnovation program is based ondirect feedback from businessleaders, academics and communityleaders who suggested that Ottawatake action to address fundingchallenges for emerging businesses.It is supported through FedDev

Ontario’s Southern OntarioDevelopment Program and is partof the federal stimulus program.

Solar manufacturers in BC oranywhere else in Canada can alsoapply for assistance. ■

Representing Roofing,Architectural Sheet Metal and Production Workers

SHEET METAL WORKERS LOCAL UNION NO. 280

Phone 604.430.3388 Fax 604.431.1864 Toll Free 1.800.242.8645 Web www.smw280.org Email [email protected] Postal 6188 Kingsway Burnaby, BC V5J 1H5

Business Manager Jim Paquette Assistant Business Manager Dan Burroughs Business Representative Greg Mooney Organizer Ken Elworthy

Prime Minister Stephen Harper tours SolGate Inc. whichmanufactures solar panels, with owner VadimLyubchenko in Woodbridge Ontario. Harper hasannounced the launch of a new business innovationprogram to back green manufacturers. Photo: PM Office

Roofing leads asphaltdemand, despite higher pricesNEW YORK, NY – Despite accelerating prices, asphalt roofing will growfaster than the paving sector over the next few years, according to a studyby Freedonia, which forecasts that global asphalt demand will rise 2.1percent annually until at least 2013.

The latest spot price for asphalt in BC, in September 2010, pegged theprice at $590 per tonne at the Husky plant in Vancouver, and at $610 pertonne at the Husky plant in Prince George.

Most western manufacturers of asphalt have stopped offering fixedprices to BC contractors and are offered only posted spot prices. When themove was first made, asphalt prices dropped, but the outlook is for higherprices in 2001, according to Argus Media Asphalt Report. ■


ADVERTISE IN ROOFING [email protected] 604-507-2162

RCI Inc.

Consultantselect astraight-talkingWestern-CanadianpresidentRoofing BC magazine caught upwith the first Western Canadianpresident of the internationalRoofing Consultants Institute Inc.(RCI) as he was about to board yetanother jet – this one to Orlando,Florida.

“I take at least six trips a year,”said Bob Elsdon, 59, as heprepared to head to the RCI annualconvention.

Elsdon is now nearly retired –his Surrey-based Elsdon Consultinghas been trimmed to a “one-manoperation” – and this has allowedhim time to focus on leading theRCI.

Based in Raleigh, North Carolina,RCI Inc. is an internationalassociation of professionalconsultants, architects andengineers who specialize in thespecification and design of roofing,waterproofing and exterior wallsystems. It has 2,500 members inall 50 U.S. States, Canada, Mexico,Africa, Europe,Australia, theMiddle East andthe Philippines.Elected this year,Elsdon is onlythe secondCanadian tohead the RCI andthe first from Western Canada.

If Elsdon can do for RCI Inc.what he did for his local chapter ofthe organization, he will dowonders. Ten years ago he was thechapter founder and only member.Today, the Western Canadianchapter has 100 members – onequarter of RCI’s Canadianmembership – and is expandinginto Alberta.

A member of the RCABCtechnical committee since 1980,Elsdon said he is trying to bring aCanadian perspective to the RCI,which is mostly composed of U.S.members.

One of his goals as president isto “Canadianize” RCI manuals andeducation materials, for exampleadding metric measurements.Elsdon has also placed a greateremphasis on training and technicalupdates and is helping to expandNorth American standards forconstruction consultants. He said hewants to carry on the work offormer RCI presidents, noting thatwhen a president leaves, the goodwork he started has a tendency tostall. “I am not looking for alegacy”, he said, “A good presidentis someone no one notices.”

OutspokenThat is not likely, though,

because Elsdon is proving anoutspoken president. His article ongreen vegetated roofs, to be

published thisJanuary in theRCI’s publication“Interface”, willundoubtedlysparkcontroversy onboth sides of theborder. “I went

out a limb,” he admits, but he saidquestions “have to be asked.”

According to Elsdon, the highercosts to installplanted roofs, theongoingmaintenance costsand the troublewith finding andfixing roof leaksmakes green roofsopen to scrutiny. He also doubts theclaims about the leafy roofs beingan oxygen source. “That is onlyduring the growing period,” he said,adding that tree-lined streets, parksand even golfcourses are likelymore effective atboosting urbanoxygen levels.

Elsdon also saidthat the currentlitigious attitude inthe constructionindustry has provena benefit to consultants, but he saidthis is balanced by “valueengineering”.

“There are two types in thebuilding industry,” he said, “thosethat want to build it right and thosewho want to save their butt.”

The latter, he said make valueengineering synonymous with usingthe cheapest possible materials andtechnology to meet minimum codestandards.U.S. struggling

His frequent visits to the UnitedStates have also opened his eyes tohow fortunate the Canadianconstruction industry is. He said theU.S. economy is worse than manythink, noting that many commercialproperty owners are putting offeven repairing roofs because theycan’t afford it. This has meant lesswork and razor-thin margins forconsultants.

If he couldprovide anexample to his RCImembers aroundthe world, Elsdonwould point to theRCABC. “It is a

terrific organization,” he said, andsingled out the roofing industrytraining, such as the newArchitectural Sheet Metal TrainingCentre, and the RCABC GuaranteeProgram for special praise.

“Members of theRCABC know thatevery job is goingto be inspectedclosely if they wantthe warranty,” hesaid. This meansmost RCABCmembers routinelywork to the

highest industry standards, he said.The RCI also offers training – to

retain consultant certificationmembers must continually upgrade– and, in BC most of the classes areoffered at the RCABC campus inLangley, Elsdon said. ■

The Institute of Roofing,Waterproofing andBuilding EnvelopeProfessionals

RCI’s professionalmembers have extensive experience in the science of roofing andwaterproofing.

Visit RCI’s website:rciwesterncanada.orgto find a member near you.

YOUR SOURCE FORPROFESSIONAL AND

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ConditionReports

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RCI Inc. president Robert J. ElsdonPhoto: Bob Elsdon

“There are two types inthe building industry.

Those that want to buildit right and those whowant to save their butt.”

“I am not lookingfor a legacy. A goodpresident is someone

no one notices.”

“Members of theRCABC know that

every job is going tobe inspected closelyif they want the

warranty.”


Grand openingcelebrates “an industry first”Architectural Sheet Metal training campuswows visitorsThe Roofing Contractors Association of BC’s new $12 millionArchitectural Sheet Metal Training campus – two years in theplanning and months in construction – officially openedOctober 28 to wow visitors from across the industry andpolitical spectrum.

“This is fabulous, an industry first,” said BC Minister ofPublic Safety and Solicitor General Rich Coleman as he touredthe Langley facility. The campus, Coleman said, provides“practical, hands-on apprenticeship training” that is widelyneeded in the construction industry.

In a room packed with advanced equipment, including$100,000 Schroder bending and cutting machines, Colemanechoed the comments made by Langley Township mayor RickGreen in praising the hard work and commitment that createdthe campus.

The ASM Training Centre is Canada’s only advanced trainingcentre for architectural sheet metal, which is quickly becomingthe material of choice on large private and public sectorconstruction projects.

And, though the campus officially opened in October,students have been rotating through the centre for nearly ayear, explained RCABC out-going president Rod Parker. Andmore will certainly follow, he said.

“I have 150 workers who want this trade ticket,” Parker said.While RCABC Executive Vice President Brian Hofler was

quick to credit the RCABC membership for making the trainingfacility possible, incoming EVP Ivan van Spronsen said he knewwho led the charge.

“This,” van Spronsen said as he toured the high-tech trainingcentre, “this is Brian’s baby. ■

John ScottInstructor, RCABC

Monty KleinWellsKlein Consulting Group

Ray DennisRoy Dennis Roofing

Mike StewartRoofmart Pacific

Ross LaingLaing Roofing

Dave GodmaireConvoy Supply

RCABC’s jubilant staff gather outside the Architectural Sheet Metal Training Centre. Over 100 people attended the grand opening on October 28.

CRCA Executive Director John Hill (back to camera) shares alaugh with Paula Webber (CRCA Director – Nova Scotia) andRCABC Guarantee Corp. Technical Manager Jim Watson

Connor HoflerASM Instructor, RCABC

Ivan van SpronsenIncoming RCABC EVP


Don UtsunomiyaConvoy Supply

Mike TolhurstIKO Industries

Adrian KrabbendamHoman Roofing Ltd.

Blair BennettSoprema

Dagmar SteetzSteetz Copper Craft

Peter SteetzSteetz Copper Craft

Rich Coleman, Rod Parker and Rick Green conduct theofficial ribbon cutting ceremony.

Rod Parkeroutgoing President of the RCABC

Barbara Porth, Executive Assistant and EVP Brian Hofler

Brian HoflerExecutive Vice Presidentof the RCABC

Dave ColemanDirector of Operations, Construction Industry Training Organization (CITO)

Rick GreenMayor of the Township of Langley

Rich ColemanMinister of Public Safety and Solicitor General


ROOFING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Connor Hofler demonstrates the use of a WUKO Clipper1020 attached to a 12 volt DeWalt cordless drill

Adele LaRiviereAdministrative Assistant, RCABC

Wendy BancroftIt’s About Us Productions

Brian HulmeCJP Architects

Harry ElphickSoprema Canada

Shirley Caldwell, Education & Training Manager, RCABC

Ernesto SandovalOlympic Roofing Ltd.

Enercorp’s Len Coughlin and(now late) Doug Kilpatrick ofConvoy Supply check out thenewly-printed Fall issue ofRoofing BC.

Pat and Barry Ennis of Langley Roofing

Editor Frank O’Brien and Publisher Michael Siddallof Roofing BC Magazine discussing the next issue

RCABC Vice President Laurence Matzek, CRCA Executive Director John Hill andDarren McCallum (Wheat City Roofing, Brandon Manitoba; 1st Vice President,CRCA, enjoying the speakers’ comments


RCABC ASMfacility hastrusted allyCanadian companysources European handtools and machineryby Paddy Tennant

The grand opening of RCABC’sArchitectural Sheet Metal TrainingCentre was a memorable event –complete with a catered lunch,photographers, speeches by localVIPs; and attended by the who’s-who of Canada’s roofing industry.

But, as with most such occasions,there were important people behindthe scenes who didn’t “make theheadlines.” ASM instructor ConnorHofler, who developed the RCABCversion of the program, did not getup to the podium. Instead he spokeprivately but enthusiastically aboutthe people who supplied the top-quality shop equipment.

Conner related his experience:“When doing research for the toolsthat the new ASM program requires,it became apparent that many ofthem would have to be importedfrom European sources. Inparticular, the WUKO bending tools,which are manufactured in Austria,were at the top of the list of tools toacquire; however, there were fewdistributers in North America thatthese tools could be purchased

through, and only one nameappeared as an authorized retailerin Canada – Steetz Copper Craft Ltd.After looking through the immenseselection of tools and machinerythat this company could provide,from Stubai hand tools to Schroderbrakes, it was clear that Steetzwould be essential in acquiring allof the equipment necessary to makethis training facility one of the bestin North America.”

RCABC EVP Brian Hoflercontacted Peter and Dagmar Steetz,the owners of Steetz Copper Craft,who were enthusiastic to help inany way they could and eager tomeet the people who spoke of a“new” Architectural Sheet Metalprogram that would trainapprentices in modern technologies,while honouring traditionaltechniques.

Peter Steetz arranged to visit the

RCABC Training Facility, driving withhis family from Alberta on his ownaccord, and demonstrated tools andseaming techniques for the ASMLevel 2 apprentices. Steetz “capturedtheir attention with his skill andcharisma”, says Connor, and after ameeting with Brian it was agreedthat Steetz Copper Craft would actas RCABC’s broker in all of its tooland machinery transactions.

The Steetz’s normally offer adiscount for schools, but they evensurpassed Connor’s expectations.Working diligently and explainingRCABC’s cause to various companiesacross Europe, Peter and Dagmarmanaged to get educationaldiscounts on all of the tools andequipment RCABC purchasedthrough them – a testament to theirgood nature and work ethic.

Furthermore, says Connor, “theSteetz’s even came out and helped

set up all of the machinery theyhelped RCABC acquire withoutbeing asked to.” Their willingness togo that extra mile has forged a solidrelationship between Steetz CopperCraft and the RCABC.

Today, the fully-equipped ASMshop boasts a range of hand toolsand machinery that Connor says“most journeypersons in the ASMtrade have never seen, let aloneused for their intended purposes.”

These include several Schroder-Fasti machines, each with differentuses; two hand operated foldingmachines (model 102), commonlycalled ‘slip-joint rollers’, which areused for making curved orcylindrical objects; and four box-and-pan brakes, also referred to as‘finger brakes’. These haveremovable fingers which allow forsmall, detailed folds to be made,Connor explains.

“There are also two rotarymachines for flanging and swaging.These make small creases and foldsfor joints and seams.

“We also have one 3-metrebrake, used for general formingoperations; and one 3-metre shearfor cutting sheets of materiallengthwise.” he says.

The new ASM facility will provideinvaluable training for BC’s ASMapprentices, and raise the bar forASM standards in Canada.

Connor is grateful for the Steetz’sinvolvement. “It has been a pleasuregetting to know Peter and Dagmar”,he says. “They are dedicated,honest, and more than helpful.Hopefully this relationship willcontinue well into the future and, ifwe are lucky, Peter will be able tocome and teach traditional copperworking techniques to the ASMapprentices in the future.” ■

Master craftsman blendsinnovation with traditionPeter Steetz was raised inBavaria, South Germany. Hestarted his apprenticeshipas a Architectural Sheet Metal worker in 1986 andbecame a journeyman in1989. South Germany isconsidered the world’scenter for the most highlyskilled copper craftsmen,who have maintainedcenturies-old techniqueswith the industry’s higheststandards. These craftsmenhave succeeded inproducing the mostchallenging copper roofingprojects in the world. Peterfeels fortunate to havestudied this traditional craftin his homeland, and tobring these skills to Canada.

After completing his apprenticeship, Peter worked for a wide variety ofcompanies, gaining invaluable experience and a unique combination ofspecial techniques that allowed him to further refine his skills. From thisbackground, steeped in traditional training and diverse experiences, Petercreated Steetz Copper Craft Ltd.

Peter and his family chose Canada as their new home after carefulconsideration of its social, political and economic stability andopportunities, and moved here in January 2004. Peter also recognized thathis chosen style of copper craft fit beautifully with architectural trends inCanadian housing. He sees an opportunity to create a renaissance oftraditional copper craftsmanship within this contemporary market.

Peter’s personal and business goals are reflected in the high quality andunique creations Steetz Copper Craft Ltd. produces. He is determined tokeep the rich art, tradition and innovation of Architectural Sheet Metal work alive through his generation and those that follow. ■

A variety of tools from two main manufacturers: Stubai and Picard. Both companies are German. RCABC safety and risk management supervisor Roger Sové with new Schroder segment hand brakes


Below the membraneInsulation and cover boards impact roof performanceBy Ruben Garcia

A building’s roofing system is its first line of defense against harsh weatherconditions. All components from the roof deck and upwards must worktogether to deliver a quality, dependable system. While the membrane isthe most visible aspect of the roofing system, products installed belowaffect its strength and endurance. Insulation and cover boards contribute tothe overall roof performance and offer individual benefits as well.Insulation

A key component of any roofing system, insulation delivers energyefficiency and savings through its R-value, helping reduce heating andcooling costs.

Measured through industry tests, R-value per inch indicates the thermalresistance to heat flow – essentially the product’s insulating effectiveness.High R-values can translate into both short and long-term savings forbuilding owners. A roofing design professional is faced with numerousinsulation options, depending on the roofing membrane and the roofingsystem requirements.Insulation options

The various types of rigid board insulation products available for usewith a roofing system can be segmented into two categories based on highand low thermal value. The high thermal value product types includeexpanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS) andpolyisocyanurate (polyiso) foam insulation. The lower thermal insulationproducts are mineral fiber, wood fiber and fiberglass. The four mostcommonly used insulation products for roofing systems are polyiso, perlite,EPS and wood fiber.

Originally introduced 30 years ago, rigid polyiso insulation is used todayin more than 65 percent of all new commercial roofing applications,according to the National Roofing Contractors Association.Cover boards

Cover boards protect the insulation during the initial application andthroughout the life of the roofing system. Cover board usage in commercialroofing systems is increasing due to its benefits. During the roofing systemapplication, cover boards guard the insulation from construction traffic.Cover boards throughout a roof’s life span can:• Increase hail and puncture protection. Large hailstones cause significant

property damage each year. In hail prone regions, some ownersmandate cover boards as added protection for their commercial roofingsystems.

• Supplement compressive strength. A rigid cover board can preventdamage to the insulation by dispersing the effects of excessive loads,such as heavy snow during winter months.

• Enhance code approvals. Combined with quality insulation, cover boardscan improve wind uplift performance and help roofing systems achievebetter fire resistance.

• Maintain the R-value. Roofing systems can lose heat through insulationjoints and metal fasteners. As a barrier between the insulation joints andthe membrane, cover boards minimize heat loss at these points.

• Protect the insulation. During its lifespan on the roof, the roofingsystem’s exposure to surface temperatures exceeding 180 degreesFahrenheit is possible. A cover board can be used in conjunction withballast or light-colored membranes to minimize the heat load on thesystem. Cover boards are also recommended with polyiso insulation inlow-slope roofing systems for added strength and protection.

Cover board optionsCover boards options include high-density polyiso, glass-mat faced

gypsum or mineral fiber boards and are available in thicknesses rangingfrom 0.25 to 0.75 inches.

High-density polyiso cover boards provide excellent moisture resistanceand are compatible with a variety of roofing systems.

Glass-mat gypsum cover boards feature a treated, high-density gypsumcore with fiberglass facer embedded on both sides. The inorganic facer doesnot support mold growth but can cause skin irritation for roofingprofessionals installing the cover board. In addition, glass-mat facedgypsum cover boards can be difficult to cut and challenging to install due totheir heavy weight.

Mineral fiber cover boards are manufactured from a variety of rawmaterials, including mineral wool, perlite and fiberglass. Wood fiberinsulation boards are also commonly used as cover boards in manyapplications from fully adhered single ply systems to hot applied asphaltproducts.

In choosing the right combination of roofing materials, remember thatindividual roofing materials must work well together to ensure the integrityof the entire roofing system and maximize the roof’s life cycle. Thinkingbeyond the roofing membrane and considering the attributes and benefitsof insulation and cover board options will contribute to the overall qualityand long-term integrity of your next roofing application. ■

Ruben Garcia is the asphalt and insulation product manager for Firestone Building Products Company,LLC. He has 30 years experience in the roofing industry and holds bachelor and master’s degrees inchemical engineering from New Mexico State University and an MBA from the University of Denver.Garcia can be contacted at 800-428-4442.

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LEGAL AFFAIRS

SubcontractorinsuranceBenchmark ruling forcescoverage of negligent subtradesBy Ian Moes

The Supreme Court of Canada recentlydelivered a huge win for general contractors.In a much-anticipated decision, the SupremeCourt of Canada held that an insurer did infact owe a duty to defend a general contractorfor claims made as a result of negligentsubtrades. After years of being deniedcoverage for these claims, this decision willsurely help general contractors get theirswagger back.The case

For several years, Progressive Homespurchased typical commercial general liability(CGL) and umbrella insurance policies from alarge insurance company. Through theseinsurance policies Progressive thought it wasprotected from lawsuits for damage caused bynegligent subtrades.

During the 1990’s Progressive was hired tobuild several residential projects and, asusual, used subcontractors for most of thework. Some of the projects were alleged to be“leaky condos” and the owners suedProgressive.

Progressive reported the claim to theirinsurance company and the insurancecompany initially defended Progressive. Later,the insurance company deserted Progressivesaying the insurance policies did not cover thedamage claimed. This was a common “leakycondo” strategy by the insurance companyand other insurers at the time due to a lowercourt decision in the Swagger case which

found that similar damage was not covered bya similar insurance policy.

Progressive sued the insurance company totry and force the insurance company to defendProgressive under its insurance policy.The issue

Are general contractors insured for lawsuitsbrought against them to recover the costs torepair damage caused to one part of abuilding by the negligent workmanship oftheir subcontractors on another part of theproject?

Generally speaking, contractors cannotinsure themselves for their own poorworkmanship as insurance policies are notintended to indemnify them for their ownpoor work. This makes sense. However,

contactors can generally insure themselves fordamage to persons or property that may ariseas a result of poor workmanship by asubtrade. For example, if a window installerdoes a faulty job installing a window and itfalls out and harms the building owner or hiscar, the contractor would usually be coveredby insurance if sued for damages (medicalcosts or car repairs). Similarly, if the samenegligent window installation results in waterdamage to the drywall or the electricalsystem, it was thought that the contractorwould be covered if sued by the owner fordamages to fix the drywall/electrical system.For several years, however, this was not thecase as a result of the Swagger decision.

The reason for this is that CGL insurancepolicies typically consist of several sections,which specify (a) what types of coverage areprovided, (b) specific exclusions to thecoverage, and (c) exceptions to the exclusions.

In the Progressive case, two key factors indetermining whether the general contractorhad coverage were:1. Whether the “property damage” coverage

was limited to damage to third-partyproperty (i.e. the window falling out andinjuring a person or property), and;

2. Whether the “work performed” exclusionsprecluded coverage for damage to theinsured’s “own work” once it wascompleted.In Progressive, the insurance company

argued that Progressive was being sued fordelivering a wholly defective building, notsimply for isolated rot and deterioration toparts of the building. They were successful atboth the BC Supreme Court and the BC Courtof appeal.

However, the Supreme Court of Canadarejected these arguments. The court found thaton the plain meaning of the words in theinsurance policy “property damage” was not

limited to third-party property and theexclusions did not exclude coverage fordamage caused by subcontractors or damageto subcontractors’ work.

As such, the insurance company’s duty todefend Progressive was triggered. It isimportant to note, however, that whilerepresenting a huge win for generalcontractors, this decision was the result of theparticular wording in Progressive’s insurancepolicies. While other policies may be differentand so generate a different result, the generalprinciples set out in this case set a goodframework for insisting on coverage.Lessons learned

What this decision means for generalcontractors is that with an appropriateinsurance policy, they will have coverage ifsued due to a subcontractor’s negligent workthat causes damage to another part of thebuilding.

In order to better ensure this, it isimportant that general contractors:• Understand their insurance policy. When is

the last time you read your insurancepolicy or had it thoroughly explained toyou?;

• Promptly make insurance claims unlessthey are certain they are not covered(based on independent advice, not that ofthe insurance company);

• Do not simply accept an insurancecompany denial of coverage without carefulreview;

• Ensure that their subcontractors have andwill maintain adequate insurance to covernegligently performed work as additionalprotection. ■

Ian Moes is a lawyer who practices construction law with thelaw firm of Kuhn & Company. It is only intended as a guideand it is important to get legal advice for specific situations. Ifyou have questions or comments about this case or otherconstruction law matters, contact him at 604-682-8868.

Ian Moes


HST couldbe killedVICTORIA – BC’s Harmonized SalesTax may not last long enough tosurvive a province-wide referendumplanned for next September.

That’s because, following theresignation of Premier GordonCampbell, a new premier may killthe tax to win an election. The 12percent HST is opposed by 85percent of the provincialpopulation, according to polls. Thetax is backed, however, by majorbusiness organizations, includingthe Roofing Contractors Associationof BC.

Campbell had said he wouldscrap the controversial tax if thatwere how a majority of BritishColumbiansvote in thereferendum setfor September24, 2011.

Officialssaid thereferendum —technically, aninitiative vote— could costas much as $30 million if BritishColumbians are asked to castballots, and about $12 million if theprocess is conducted by mail.

Among the government ministersgunning for the Premier’s office areEducation Minister George Abbott,Attorney General Mike de Jong,Health Minister Kevin Falcon and

Economic and Skills DevelopmentMinister Moira Stillwell.

Abbott, who has announced hewill run, suggested that the HSTreferendum could be movedforward, perhaps June of 2011. ButHST critic Bill Vander Zalm said anew premier may consider nixingthe tax all together. ■

CRCA issueschemicalresistancebulletinThe Canadian Roofing ContractorsAssociation (CRCA) recently releaseda new Technical Bulletin, Volume45A, Chemical Resistance ofRoofing Asphalt.

The bulletin includes 25 pages ofchemical resistance tables that maybe downloaded from CRCA’swebsite at www.roofing-canada.com.

Asphalt is now obtained as aresidue of the distillation ofpetroleum crude oil. As such, it isthe highest molecular weightfraction of petroleum.

Asphalts are very complex oilmixtures that can be separated intofour fractions, namely the saturates,the aromatics, the resins and theasphaltenes, each fraction being amixture in its own. The chemicalcomposition of asphalt and itsfractions vary with the source and

the refining of the crude oil.This composition governs asphalt

properties, including ease ofoxidation, miscibility with polymersand durability, amongst others.

Roofing asphalt is considered tohave good resistance to a widevariety of chemicals andcompounds. However, most of theinformation regarding chemicalresistance has been empiricallyderived.

It is generally accepted that:1. Resistance to chemical attack

increases with the hardness(measured by penetration) of theasphalt; and

2. Chemical resistance decreaseswith time, temperature and theconcentration of the chemical.The tables included in this

Technical Bulletin are a compilationof data from the Shell BitumenIndustrial Handbook (Shell BitumenUK). It provides some informationon the resistance of asphalt tovarious chemicals. Two asphaltsmay not have the exact sameresistance to a given chemical.

One would not normallyencounter most of these substancesin the roofing environment,particularly at the concentrationsand at the temperatures listed inthe tables.

Notwithstanding, this bulletinprovides guidelines regarding thechemical resistance of an asphaltbased roof cover. Final selection ofthe roofing system should be basedon anticipated service conditions inconsultation with the manufactureror supplier, the CRCA advises. ■

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Artist rendering shows tower project by Reliance Holdings/Pattison Group as seen by 2013 fromBurrard Bridge. Photo: Reliance Holdings

Office towers will sproutin downtown VancouverFor the first time this decade, plans are in the works for at least three largenew office towers in downtown Vancouver, with the opportunity forcontracts for RCABC members over the next three to four years.

With Vancouver’s Class AAA-level office space at a vacancy rate of 4.4percent – among the lowest in Canada – developers apparently feel thatthere is a window of opportunity. It takes from two to three years to finisha new tower.

The downtown market could probably absorb something in theneighbourhood of two, possibly three office towers in the 700,000 to a 1million square feet range because they won’t all be done at the same time,CB Richard Ellis executive vice-president Jim Szabo told a Novembermeeting of the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties.

The City of Vancouver is now checking over or anticipating proposals forsix tower sites around the downtown core, including:• 520 West Georgia Street (500,000 square feet) by Westbank Projects

Corp.;• 745 Thurlow Street (380,000 square feet) by Bentall Capital;• 800 Griffiths Way (240,000 square feet) by Aquilini Investment Group;• 400-block West Georgia Street (480,000 square feet) by Austeville

Properties Ltd.;• 1000-block West Hastings (260,000 square feet) by Oxford Properties

Group;• 1200-block Burrard Street (190,000 square feet) by Reliance Holdings

and the Pattison Group.The office construction is centered downtown, because major Metro

suburbs have higher vacancy rates, some in the 12 percent range, accordingto NAOIP. ■

ADVERTISE IN ROOFING [email protected] 604-507-2162

Green-roofedprojectsshareawardsWhen the Urban Development Institute,Pacific Region handed out the 2010Awards of Excellence on November 24, green-roofed commercialand residential projects shared thewinners’ circle.

These include the Alto residentialproject by Anthem Property (sporting avegetated roof on its downtownproject), which took the award for BestUrban Infill (Property Re-use) project.

The Erickson tower by ConcordPacific Developments captured theaward for Best High-Rise Residential(11 storeys or more having a singlemain entrance). The Vancouver“twisted” tower sports a series of greenroofs and roof planters.

The Rise, which was roofed –including a green roof – by RCABCmember Lam Metal Contracting Ltd., forGrosvenor America took the award forBest Mixed Use project.

Other winners include:• Best Industrial: Brewers Distribution

facility by the Beedie Group;• Best Commercial/Office: Discovery

Green, Burnaby, by MorguardInvestments;

• Best Recreation: Parkside VictoriaResort & Spa, by Ocean PlaceHoldings;

• Best of the Okanagan: Mode projectby Mission Group Properties. ■

The Rise, roofed in metal and green vegetation by LamMetal Contracting Ltd. was named Best Mixed Use project.Photos: UDI

Looking up: The ‘twisted” Ericksontower in Vancouver by Concord Pacificincludes a series of green roofs.

Alto by Anthem Properties, Vancouver,features a vegetated roof.

View from the top: The Erickson tower byConcord Pacific Developments


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Turn roof tops into useable,attractive roof decks Housing starts

to see modestrise in 2011VANCOUVER – Housing starts in BritishColumbia will remain constant then graduallyrise in 2011 according to the CanadaMortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

“Builders are expected to beginconstruction on more new homes next yearin response to steady housing demand,” saidCarol Frketich, CMHC’s BC regionaleconomist. CMHC is forecasting fewer than26,000 total starts for 2011, slightly belowthe 10-year average. “Favourable mortgageinterest rates, job growth and strongmigration flows will support housingdemand into the new year.”

Most of the housing starts are expected tobe multiple-family projects. ■

Green roof takes landscape awardPara Scape Landscaping Inc. took an Award of Excellence from the BC Landscapeand Nursery Association for its maintenance work on a Yaletown condo tower. Theproject includes a complicated series of upper rooftop decks at various elevationswhich require sophisticated use of multiple extension ladders for access and fallprotection to ensure safe work practice.

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The RCABC’s first graduating class of Architectural Sheet Metal sat for their government exam on Friday December 10. Much to the satisfaction (and credit)of instructor Connor Hofler (far left), all the students passed.

New auto-feed screwdrivingsystemSimpson Strong-Tie has introduced theQuik Drive® BGP300 auto-feed screwdriving system for fastening metalroofing and siding with hex-headscrews and washers.

Designed for agricultural post-framebuildings as well as new andreplacement residential roofingprojects, the Quik Drive BGP300 is thefirst tool by Simpson Strong-Tie tofeature belt collation. ■

Quik Drive® BGP300. Photo: Simpson Strong-Tie

Minneapolis’ Metrodomeroof collapses underweight of snowA major winter storm dumped nearly two feet of snow on Minneapolison December 11. The snow accumulated on the 9.5-acre Metrodomeroof, which then tore in three places early the next morning.

Dean Johnson, a member of the University of Minnesota Board ofRegents, speaking of the Dome’s roof, said “Anything that is 28 yearsold begins to have some maintenance issues.”

The workers who attempted to remove snow from the Metrodomeroof early Sunday morning before several panels collapsed are paid 2-1/2 times their regular hourly wage when they’re on the roof.

“I used to think when I started that maybe that was too much,” saidBill Lester, who manages the Dome. “Then once I went up there myself,there’s no question that it’s not too much.” ■

RCABC’s first ASM graduating class

Aerial view of the collapsed Metrodome roof. Photo: Carlos Gonzalez, Minneapolis Star Tribune

Interior view of the Metrodome roof thatripped and deflated after a snow storm. Photo: Pioneer Press: John Doman







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Building permits upVANCOUVER – Total building permit values in the Lower Mainland-Southwest region rose in September from August 2010 while Octoberemployment numbers came in slightly below expectations, according to theVancouver Regional Construction Association.

Total building permit values in the Lower Mainland-Southwest regionjumped 28 percent in September compared to August, to $775.6 million.Residential permit values rose to $603.5 million, up 30 percent for themonth, while the value of non-residential permits climbed 19 percent to$172.1 million. Within the non-residential category, commercial permitssaw a 189 percent gain to $139.7 million.

“Building permits in September hit their highest monthly level this yearand the highest since May 2008,” said Keith Sashaw, president of theVancouver Regional Construction Association. “September’s hefty 28percent gain came mainly from the residential sector assisted by substantialgains in private sector activity.”

Total building permit values (seasonally adjusted) in the LowerMainland-Southwest region were up 60 percent to $4.69 billion in the firstnine months of 2010 compared to $2.92 billion in the same period lastyear. The increase is led by a 97 percent gain in residential permits year-to-date. Non-residential permits are up nine percent to $1.32 billion.

The outlook for 2011 is generally positive, but mixed with the loomingdecline in public construction, says VRCA. Commercial and industrialconstruction should post some gains while the residential leads the way.Credit conditions for private non-residential investment spending shouldalso improve in 2011 along with commercial market conditions leading tomore private sector investment. ■

New Vancouvertowers planned$500 million, three-tower project planned for downtown Vancouver by Jim PattisonDevelopments and Reliance Properties. Photo: Jim Pattison DevelopmentVANCOUVER – At least four new commercial and residentialhigh-rise towers, worth a total of $1 billion, are planned forVancouver’s downtown – and work could start as early asnext year.

Jim Pattison Developments Ltd. and Reliance Properties Ltd.said they have submitted a rezoning application to the City ofVancouver for a proposed $500 million mixed usedevelopment. The Burrard Gateway will cover 23 city lots inthree towers on Burrard Street and include the highest condobuilding in the city.

As currently proposed, the development consists of threetowers of 13, 36 and 48 storeys and a seven-storey podiumwith a total space of more than 750,000 square feet. Therezoning process will involve public open house meetings, apublic hearing at Vancouver City Council and review by theCity’s tall building design panel.

Meanwhile, Telus Corp. has announced plans to build a 22-storey headquarters on West Georgia Street, and a 43-storeyresidential tower on the same large downtown block. Totalvalue is estimated at $500 million. ■

Pipe dreams in MajorProjects inventoryVICTORIA – While the inventory of major projects from theprovincial government shows record-breaking numbers, thereare some planned projects that likely will not proceed or havealready been nixed.

These include the $815 million Prosperity gold and coppermine near Williams Lake, which failed to achieve federalenvironmental approval this year. The $450 million JumboGlacier Resort is also questionable, as are a $1 billion golfresort at Fairmont Hot Springs, a new $250 millionski village near Invermere and a multi-milliondollar ski hill at Smithers.

The latest Major Projects Inventory shows arecord 931 major construction projects areplanned (nearly half of which are in theplanning process) across the province – triple thenumber in 2001. The estimated value of theseprojects is $198.3 billion – the highest amountever recorded.

Of the 931 projects in the inventory, however,only 28 have actually started construction, with atotal value of $3.1 billion. The capitalcost of all major projects underconstruction in BC is estimated at$62.8 billion.

Since June 2006, all regionshave experienced increases intotal project numbers, withincreases of 114 percent inNechako, 95 percent in theCariboo and 80 percent in theNortheast.

The June edition of theMajor Projects Inventory isavailable online atwww.gov.bc.ca/sted under“Reports and Publications”on the left-side navigationbar. ■

Football legend JoeTheismann to bekeynote speakerDALLAS, TX – Legendary Super Bowl champion quarterbackJoe Theismann will present the keynote address, “Game Planfor Success,” during the 2011 International Roofing Expo,February 16-18, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in LasVegas, Nevada USA.

The keynote address will take place on Wednesdaymorning, February 16, immediately prior to the opening

of the show. The keynote is sponsored by exhibitorDow Building Solutions.

In addition to Theismann, the Expo will featurethe full gamut of industry product categories,including gutters, insulation, ladders, coatings &adhesives, fasteners, machinery equipment/tools,metal roofing, modified bitumen, roof/deckingmaterials, roof pavers, solar, green/eco-friendly,

walkways/ballast, shingles, skylights, slate, spraypolyurethane foam, tile, vapour retarders,

ventilation, waterproofing, and more.The educational conference willfeature 43 sessions addressing a

myriad of up-to-date industryissues and trends with tracksdesigned especially forroofing contractors,estimators and consultants.

The keynote address isincluded free of charge in allregistration packages.Registration is required andcan be made atwww.TheRoofingExpo.com/attendee. For moreinformation call 972-536-6415 or 1-800-684-5761. ■


Joe Theismann

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Kelowna250-765-1441 Sales 250-765-2799 Fax

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roofing bc winter 2010

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