The supply of labor in the construction and roofing repair business is not constant. It has its peaks and troughs. There were times in the past when the industry saw enough trained labor to sustain its growth. These days, however, the industry is plagued by shortage of skilled labor.

The scarcity of trained workers pushed construction costs up as wages surge but drove quality down as contractors rush from one project to another because of heated demands for construction crews.

The labor shortfall could not have come at a worse time for the booming industry. Unemployment levels are down for construction-related trades. Construction spending figures from the Census Bureau show a high demand for new construction of private non-residential projects and apartments. These projects are in danger of being delayed or put on hold because of labor shortage.

In the roofing industry, the lack of manpower poses a big problem for contractors. Roofing business is doing well, but its growth is hindered by the construction industry-wide labor shortage. The entire country could be affected by an acute labor shortage, which would result to extreme competition for experienced roofers and skyrocketing wages.

An article from Roofing Contractor lists the reasons for the labor shortfall.

Why Construction Labor Declined

Fewer Union Apprentices. Union membership reached its peak in 1979 with around 21 million members. In 1954 union membership was at an all-time high of 35 percent. Since then membership in the private sector has continually declined. Overall union membership today stands at a low 11 percent. Unions normally institute training and apprenticeship programs. With declining union membership, worker training also went down.

Workers Left During Economic Slump. Many workers left the construction industry during an economic slowdown. They either retired altogether or changed careers. New entrants to the field have been slow because young people are not eager to enter the industry. For new workers, there is a scarcity of training programs to help them integrate into their new jobs. The past recession saw a generation or more of lost trained construction workers.

Decline in Vocational and Technical Education. Technical and vocational education was a feasible option for high school students few decades ago. With recent emphasis given to college education, funding that went to technical and vocational programs in the past shifted instead to programs for college preparation.

Immigration Policy Changes. Hispanic accounts for 33 percent of roofers today, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A substantial number of these workers are immigrants. Legal immigration for people entering jobs, including roofing, which is a skilled trade, has gradually become challenging.

Mansard roof, also called French roof, is a style of Fort Lauderdale roofing characterized by four sides. Each side has two slopes—the lower slope is much steeper and almost vertical while the upper slope has a lower pitch, making it almost invisible from the ground looking up.

The roof design was popularized by French architect Francois Mansart in the early 17^th century and became extremely fashionable during the Second French Empire. While he did not create the original design, Mansart helped popularize this style, which reflects characteristics of French Renaissance architecture.

An interesting story about the Mansard roof is the use of this design to evade taxes imposed by the French government during the early years when taxes were based on the number of floors below the roof. The extra space on the roof would be exempt from taxation under the old system.

Practical Reasons for Using Mansard Roofing

1. It affords a practical approach to constraints faced by builders in certain areas. For instance, in congested areas of major cities like Fort Lauderdale and Miami, a Mansard roof allows contractors to maintain a practically-low cornice line while creating extra spaces or stories within the area covered by the wide roof design.

2. Many people prefer a Mansard roof because of its aesthetic looks. The roof design reflects classic architecture that radiates elegance and stylishness of past era. Several fast-food chains incorporate this style in the construction of their outlets, including McDonald’s. The style has simple frames and lines that exude an elegant and French-influenced appearance.

3. Perhaps the biggest benefit from incorporating a Mansard roof design is the creation of a wide attic space within the confine of the almost-vertical roof. The design presents a large space that most homeowners use as an apartment or extra room. The extra living space is automatically created on the roof without the necessity of building an additional room.

4. It provides flexibility for future additions in case homeowners decide to build another room on top of their homes. Since the sides of the Mansard roof are steeped, they act as walls for a future room in the attic. The design is suited for young couples who may later want to expand their homes by utilizing the large space in the attic once their families expand.

5. It increases the value of the house because the owner has the option to make additional living space in the attic should their needs change in the future.

The high cost of electricity pushed homeowners to devise new ways to lower their power bills. Different solutions to lower energy consumption include the installation of cool roofs (lowering the temperature of the structure and therefore requiring less energy to combat the heat) and solar panels (to collect heat from the sun, which are used as heater for devices within the house or energy to power them).

The rise in the popularity of solar power can be attributed to people’s efforts to make their houses more energy-efficient. For people living in places with plenty of sunshine throughout the year like Florida, the installation of solar panels on the Miami roofing or the ground is a wise investment.

The Sungrabber Solar Panel Kit

We take a look at one such product in the solar panel category that offers to heat up your pool using the free and clean energy from the sun. This is the Sunsolar Energy Technologies’ Roof Mountable Solar Panel Kit, simply called the Sungrabber.

The Sungrabber is a solar panel system that is attached to the roof of your house. Its primary purpose is to heat up your pool by tapping sunlight to generate heat. According to the manufacturer, the product will easily heat your pool through the free and reliable heat from the sun. A solar system of the proper size can generate all the heat to warm up your pool. The immediate benefit from using the Sungrabber is reducing the use of electricity to totally eliminate if not minimize your water-heating bill.

The panels consist of 1-1/2ʺ headers optimally designed to maximize solar efficiency and therefore present the best circulation of pool water through the solar panels. To increase the heating capacity of Sungrabber, additional panels may be added. Sungrabber circulates the water from the pool through the solar panels. The system utilizes solar energy to warm the water before it returns to the pool.

Mixed Customers’ Review

Customers’ satisfaction from the product is mixed. One buyer extols the product for heating up his spa at 100°F despite having a 60° F temperature. Others, however, complained that the solar panel package does not contain all the parts needed to install the system. You have to buy additional items from the store to use the product. Most complaints are centered on the stock hoses that connect to the panels. They apparently do not connect properly and could not withstand water pressure resulting to unwanted leaks.

Roof leaks and cracks are inevitable regardless of the material that you used on your Arizona roofing. Defects in workmanship, poor material quality and deterioration through time are common causes of leaks. Fortunately, the market is flooded with roof repair products that seal cracks and prevent leaks.

The Rust-Oleum Leak Seal Flexible Sealant

One of the best-known products out there is the Rust-Oleum Leak Seal Flexible Coating. It is a rubberized utility coating that instantly seals leaks. It is convenient to use because you do not need a brush or trowel to apply it on the roof – you only have to spray it on the affected part of the roof, and it will do its work.

How It Works

It works by filling and sealing cracks to provide a watertight seal that effectively prevents water penetration and corrosion. It maintains flexibility despite being exposed to temperature fluctuations and Ultraviolet radiation. The product can be used on practically all types of roof surfaces, including vinyl, metal, plastic, concrete and PVC.

Leak Seal may be used other than repairing roof leaks. It has been proven to be effective when used to seal leaks on sun roofs, vents, gutters, ductwork and fountain cracks. Its other uses include sealing leaks on air conditioner drip pans, downspouts, concrete foundations and pipes.

Once sprayed on the surface, Leak Seal dries to a semi-smooth firm black finish that does not drip or sag. Coating it over with latex or alkyd-based paints are allowed.

How Customers Rate It

It is not surprising that customers’ feedback on the Leak Seal is consistently favorable. Those who bought the product used it on different surfaces with the same positive result. It was sprayed on a fountain and worked perfectly – the customer did not notice any peeling or chipping. Leak Seal was also sprayed to stop leak on the toilet flooring. It produced a watertight seal.

Another customer who bought the product used it on the leaking sunroof of his van. Despite the movement and vibration of the vehicle and an onslaught of rain that fell 24 hours after Leak Seal was applied, not a single drop was noted inside the van.

The trust that people put on this product is exemplified by a customer who bought the Leak Seal as a tool to use in an emergency, or those situations when leaks could occur at the most inconvenient times.

Based on the confidence and positive reviews given by customers on the product, Leak Seal is undoubtedly a clear winner in instantly and conveniently repairing leaks.

Cracks in concrete commonly happen during construction. The causes for these cracks vary as well as the resulting cracks. They may be caused by mixing too much water or extreme heat that affects the surface of the concrete.

Several methods are available to repair cracks in concrete Miami roofing. You just have to choose the best solution for the cracks.

Evaluating the Cracks

The first step is evaluating whether the crack is active or dormant. Active cracks move and grow such as those produced from continuing foundation settlement. Dormant cracks do not grow, and future movement is not anticipated.

Generally, active cracks need flexible materials for repair and special considerations for future movements. Dormant cracks can use either flexible or rigid repair materials.

The nature of the crack must also be considered, which are typically divided into three categories: Those that require repair to restore structural integrity; those that require sealing and lastly, those that require improvement in appearance only.

Different Repair Techniques

After taking these steps, you are now ready to make actual repairs on the cracked concrete. Some of the repair methods are:

1. Stitching and Doweling. Stitching works by drilling holes on opposite sides of the crack and installing metal staples with short legs across the crack. Doweling works similarly but instead of using U-shaped metal staples, straight steel dowels are used and placed at a 45-degree angle on the length of the crack.
2. Dry Packing. This is ideal for dormant cracks as it is very economical. It consists of opening the crack to a certain depth and width of around one inch. A commercial bonding agent is poured on the expanded crack topped by low-water content cement mortar. Tamping the mortar forces it to enter the pores of the concrete for that tight and durable repair.
3. Polyurethane Injection. This repair method could be used for wet and leaking cracks. The primary purpose of this type of repair is to stop water leaks. A reactive resin is injected into the crack, which when combined with water forms an expanding gel that effectively seals the crack.
4. Epoxy Injection. It bonds cracks together and brings back concrete integrity. The method involves pressure-injecting epoxy on holes drilled on the concrete at regular intervals. The crack must be dormant and not leaking for epoxy to work properly. The presence of water reduces the effectiveness of epoxy.
5. Routing and Sealing. This repair involves enlarging the crack and filling it with sealant. It is one of the most economical ways to repair cracks, whether they are fine or large. It can seal both dormant and active cracks, depending on the sealer used and sealant reservoir.

Concrete cracks are normal occurrence but often misunderstood by homeowners. In fact, cracking is one of the most common causes of complaints in the construction industry. While most concrete cracks are not dangerous and do not pose a serious structural threat, they are, nevertheless, unsightly. In some extreme cracking cases, they negatively affect the durability and serviceability of the structure.

Recognizing and repairing concrete roof cracks is top priority, especially for people living in Atlanta, where potential damage to structures is a strong probability from earthquakes. There are different types of cracks in concrete Atlanta roofing, and each one has its own causes. Some of these are:

Crazing Cracks. These look like shattered glass or spider webs on the surface of the concrete slab. The cause of this type of crack is the rapid evaporation of water from the top of the concrete slab. While they may not look good, crazing cracks do not affect the structural integrity of the concrete roof slab. However, since the cracks are very fine, they cannot be repaired.

Expansion cracks. Concrete slab, similar to other materials, expands under hot weather. The expanding slab pushes against neighboring materials such as an adjacent slab or wall. If these materials do not give in to the pressure, the slab will crack from force.

Overloading Cracks. Putting too much weight on top of a concrete slab roof could cause cracks. While concrete is very strong and durable, it still has limits on the load it can carry. Too much load placed on top of concrete could crush it. While the weight may not be enough to pulverize the concrete, it could cause cracks to appear. The compressive strength of concrete is greater than its flexural strength, hence it bends under the weight.

Plastic Shrinkage Cracks. The most common cause of cracks is probably plastic shrinkage, which can occur a few hours after the slab is poured. This crack usually happens during hot weather. Having excess water in the mix with concrete is the cause of this crack. Water occupies space in the slab and forms part of its size. When water evaporates during curing, the slab becomes smaller. The shrinking creates stress on the concrete slab, which ultimately cracks to relieve the tension.

Vertical Cracks. These are caused by concrete settling around reinforcing bars. The cracks are caused when the concrete near the top partially sets while the rest of the concrete are still settling. Applying vibration to the concrete can prevent this crack from forming.

One of the things to consider when constructing a patio is the roof. A patio roof makes a big difference in comfort, especially during summer months. In selecting a Phoenix roofing style for your patio, choose one that complements the overall look of your house so that your patio appears like a natural extension of your house. At the same time, the roof design should provide you with maximum protection from natural elements.

There are several patio roof designs that you can choose from, the most popular these days being the dome and gable styles. Patio roofs could be constructed using various materials. Each of the different roof designs and materials provide distinct advantages.

Gable. One of the most popular choices for patio roof, gable consists of two angled roofs that meet at the apex in the middle. The pitched roof allows the rain to slide down to the gutter to prevent water pooling while affording maximum coverage from the heat and rain.

Lattice. This type of patio roof consists of lattice-like covering than is thinner and shaped simpler than those used for a pergola and forms a rectangular structure. It is perfect if your home is more contemporary in design. As in other outdoor roofs, using a durable wood that could withstand the elements is the key to long years of service. You can spice it up by adding fabric to the lattice structure, which offers more shades against the sun’s heat.

Cloth. A very practical way of dressing up your patio using inexpensive clothing materials. You only need to put up the posts, attach the fabric using wires to hold it in place, and you have a beautiful shade over your patio to keep the heat away.

Pergola. This is the more traditional type of patio roof, which consists of pergola columns, purlins and rafters. The combination of posts and crossbeams create an open roof. A metal framework acting as roof works just as well to form a more modern pergola. This type of patio can be attached to the side of the house to form a semi-covered patio. A pergola does not always require a flat roof; it only needs an open roof that allows the light in.

Dome. This Phoenix roofing design is gaining popularity among homeowners. While it has a lesser arch than a gable roof, it provides excellent protection against the rain. To make the domed roof of your patio complement the style of your house, you can adjust the height of the dome so that it blends perfectly with your house.

Acrylic is widely-used in the roofing industry today. In the 1970s, latex paint accounted for 30% to 35% of all paint sales. Today latex paint represents 80% of all coatings sold. There are concrete reasons why people prefer this type of coating to other paints. Among these are:

Desirable Qualities of Acrylic

• It is easy to apply because it flows off through the brush or roller unlike oil-based paints that are sticky.
• It emits practically no odor.
• It can also be painted over a damp surface and preferred by people living in damp places.
• Unlike oil-based paints, latex allows moisture to escape, therefore, eliminating the common problem of peeling and cracking associated with oil-based coatings when moisture escapes or attempts to escape from the surface.

Other positive qualities of acrylic coating includes:

• It is usually white in color and possesses reflective properties.
• It costs less than solvent-based paints.
• Acrylic latex paint has less tendency to fade or become yellowish compared to oil-based paint. The latter loses part of its color from chalking, which is not present with acrylic paints.
• Latex paint retains flexibility through time.
• Acrylic is preferred as coating for plaster and cement because it is not sensitive to alkali.
• Less harmful impact on the environment and is not treated as hazardous paint.
• It dries easily and has therefore reduced curing time. You can apply a second coating after only about four hours.

If you live in Atlanta, however, you have to consider other factors before using acrylic paint. Atlanta has a humid climate and abundant rainfall throughout the year. If you plan to apply acrylic paint to your Atlanta roofing, you may face minor issues with your choice of paint. Consider these:

Downsides in Using Acrylic

• The paint could run if it rains before the coating has fully dried. It cannot be applied in the rain or when precipitation is expected.
• It takes a very long time to dry under extremely high relative humidity.
• It cannot be applied in extremely cold weather because water freezes. Thus, acrylic paint cannot be used throughout the year.
• The temperature at night must be considered by the contractor and not only during the daytime. Cold temperature at night might present problems because of freezing of the coating.
• The roof temperature must also be considered and not only ambient temperature.
• It has shorter lifespan because of relatively-poorer bonding with the surface unlike oil-based paints.
• It has less resistance to abrasion.
• It requires more surface preparation and does not stick to dirty or more weathered surfaces unlike oil-based paints.

Different types of coatings are available that you can use for roof painting or restoration. Each type has its own advantages and qualities based on the type of roof that you have and its condition. When choosing a coating, select the right coating based on the roof material and conditions. Using the correct paint will extend the lifespan of your roof and provide you with long-term protection.

Conditions to Select the Right Coating

Below are some of the things that you have to consider when selecting the right type of paint or coating to apply:

• Location
• Slope
• Chemical exposure
• Roof condition
• Slope
• Ponding water
• UV exposure
• Extreme heat exposure

Acrylic Paint

One of the most common roof coatings in the market today is acrylic paint. It was first used in the 1980s over different roof materials. The coating lasts for decades, and many still exist today. Owners and managers now realize the long-term benefits of acrylic elastomeric roof coatings, which significantly prolongs the service life of the roof.

Concrete Benefits in Using Acrylic Roof Paint

These are the distinct benefits from using acrylic coatings:

• They are relatively inexpensive and generally water-based.
• Water-based acrylic paints are environmentally-friendly and easy to apply.
• They are commonly-used for cool roofs since they tend to cool down the roof because of their reflectivity or ability to reflect sunlight back instead of absorbing the heat.
• Cost-effective since they reduce energy costs because of the coating’s cooling effect.
• Prolong the lifespan of your roof because they protect it against Ultraviolet exposure.
• They have elastomeric properties and can withstand fluctuations in temperatures without the coating being negatively affected.
• The coating creates a seamless and uniform surface that retains flexibility even at abnormally low temperatures. It contracts in cold weather and expands in hot weather, thereby protecting the roof from the elements under different weather conditions.
• The adhesive elements allow the acrylic coating to adhere to the roof surface even in unusually windy and wet conditions.
• Its dirt-resistant technology ensures the coating’s preservation of energy-saving and reflective qualities and fresh, clean appearance.
• It does not result to additional weight or dead load to the roof when applied to existing structures.
• It is based on standards specified by laws that require a proper level of quality. The standards were determined based on actual performance data of acrylic roof paints gathered from several manufacturers over different types of roof materials for the past 20 years.

As with any construction work, preparation is an important step before scheduling any roof paint session. Preparation will make the job easier and safer for everyone involved.

Good Weather Condition

Weather conditions play a vital part in applying roof paint. Roof painters must not only consider the material preparation but also the time when application of coating should be made. To maximize the result of coating, weather forecasts must be fully considered.

Most paint manufacturers recommend a temperature of at least 40 degrees at the time of paint application. They also suggest that paint products be stored in a warm, dry place with room temperature prior to application.

Painting on the roof is best done during spring or fall when the weather is not too cold or very hot. Latex paint could dry quickly and result to brush marks when applied in hot weather, while painting in cold weather could result to failure of the paint to stick well to the surface.

Two-Day Clear Weather

To give the paint sufficient time to cure, a clear weather forecast or no expectation of rain within 24 to 48 hours from coating is recommended. Problems may arise if the surface temperature of the roof is greater than the ambient temperature at the time of application.

Roofers must take into consideration these factors before applying paints—curing time, water ponding and the weather during and after application. Giving the coating sufficient time to cure is important, especially for the base product that is applied on top of the primer.

People generally disregard the cold weather when applying paints. They look at the high temperature for the day but not the actual temperature at the time of application or the substrate’s temperature. They should also take into consideration the low temperature the night before the application is made, as well as the maximum temperature during the day the coating is to be applied.

Time of the Season

Aside from the immediate weather condition, the time of the season when the coating is to be applied must also be considered. This observation is important when selecting the type of coating to be applied. Water-based paints demand longer curing or drying time. During fall and winter, you have reduced time to apply water-based paints because the sun comes out later and sets earlier than at other times of the year.

As to wind factor, this is taken into consideration only during the actual application when the probability of paint particles being carried by the wind to neighboring places is higher.

While you cannot spray-paint coatings at any time of the year, the paint will generally perform well under different conditions—heat, snow, hail or rain—when it was applied properly and left to cure at the appropriate curing time.