Roofer Dies Due To Lack Of Fall Protection

This is a perfect example of why roofers should use best practices and follow all OSHA safety guidelines while on the job. It would seem so obvious that falls are the #1 cause of injury or death in the construction industry, yet many contractors ignore safety rules and regulations that can easily prevent this kind of tragedy. It’s hard to comprehend why this roofer was even willing to get up on the roof, 45 feet up in the air, without some kind of fall protection??? Here is more on the story from NRCA.net:

Roofing company owner pleads guilty to charges involving fatal fall

James J. McCullagh, owner of James J. McCullagh Roofing, Jenkintown, Pa., pleaded guilty to one count of willfully violating an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation causing death to an employee; four counts of making false statements; and one count of obstruction of justice, according to www.osha.gov.

The case stems from a 2014 incident when a worker who was not provided with fall protection fell 45 feet from a roof while performing roofing repairs on a church in Philadelphia. McCullagh’s company still faces civil penalties for willful and serious OSHA violations related to the same accident. The civil matter is pending before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. McCullagh’s company is not an NRCA member.

Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health David Michaels issued the following statement: “I would like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General for all their hard work on this case. No penalty can bring back the life of this employee, but the outcome in this case will send a clear message that when employers blatantly and willfully ignore worker safety and health responsibilities, resulting in death or serious injury to workers, or lie to or obstruct OSHA investigators, we will pursue enforcement to the fullest extent of the law, including criminal prosecution.”

McCullagh faces a maximum statutory sentence of 25 years in prison, a possible fine, supervised release and a $510 special assessment.

Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry. NRCA offers a tool that helps to educate about all aspects of fall protection in the roofing industry. To view NRCA’s fall-protection compliance program, Serving Up Safety: A Recipe for Avoiding Falls on the Job, click here.

12/16/2015

*This article was originally post on: NRCA.net

Hopefully this is a wake-up call for roofing contractors who think “it’s not going to happen to them”. This is exactly why OSHA safety guidelines exist folks…to protect you and your workers!

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How To Find A Good Roofer

How to Hire a Good Roofing Contractor?

You’re facing a roofing repair; your roof is leaking. You’re worried about the cost and about who you can find and trust to do the repair professionally and quickly. Few of us have a local roofer on our Rolodex or computer address book, and roofing jobs are seldom minor projects. However, hiring a contractor to fix your roof doesn’t have be stressful.

Where to Look for Local Roofing Contractors?

Most of us start looking for a home repair person in the yellow pages. Although not a terrible place to begin, I’d suggest going to the people you know, first. Ask you friends, neighbors, family and co-workers who own a home if they’ve worked with a good roofing contractor recently. If such inquiries don’t yield results, return to the telephone book and look for well-established roofers who are listed with the local Better Business Bureau and Yelp.

If your area has an Angie’s List or similar company where homeowners can read and post reviews about home improvement companies, make sure to consult them. Such organizations are a gold mine of unbiased information about roofing companies and other contractors. Always spend some time doing your homework before hiring a contractor. Talk to your neighbors and friends as well, as word of mouth is always the best way to go. Here’s a video from a Houston BBB rep talking about avoiding fraud:

Questions to Ask a Roofing Company

When interviewing a roof repair specialist, ask for the company’s license number and their contact information. In this age of mobile offices, the contractor may not have a brick and mortar office, but they should at least have a telephone contact that works as well as a standard listing in the yellow pages. See if they have a list of satisfied customers that you can call for a recommendation.

Don’t necessarily hire the first person who knocks on your door. Unlicensed and poorly-trained roofers often arrive in a neighborhood right after a storm, when homeowners are anxious to get their roofs repaired. Fixing your roof is generally not cheap and poses a threat of major damage to your home if such a job is not done correctly.

Working with a Recommended Roofer

It is essential that you check the roofing contractor’s insurance is active before any repair work begins. Make sure they are covered for a minimum of 2 million in liability and carries workers’ compensation. You don’t want to be stuck paying for damages caused by the contractor or if one of the roofers fall off the roof and gets injured!

If you are having a major roof repair, it’s a good idea to ask about warranties. Will the company you’re working with guarantee their work for 30 or 60 days/ a year? Lastly, ask them to give you a written quote before they begin work.

Hiring a roofing contractor doesn’t have to be difficult. Just remember to do your homework and not to rush into signing with the first company that comes to your door. Done properly, a roofing repair will last for years to come.

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Shingle

Fixing A Shingled Roof Safely

A leaking, dripping, or staining on your ceiling may be the first sign that your roof may have a problem, however roof problems can cause a significant amount of damage to your home very quickly. So, it is incredibly important that you act quickly to address the problem the right way. In the case that damage has already taken place to the materials below the shingles (underlayment or roof decking), there’s a good chance you will need to replace a larger section or roofing material in addition to rotten wood. However, if the damage is pretty minor, you may just need to worry about replacing an individual asphalt shingle.

Once you have found the area that your roof has been damaged in some way or another, you have to decide whether you want to attempt to repair the roof on your own or to hire experienced, licensed roofers to fix the the problem for you. If you’re handy, you probably think that repairing a shingle roof should be a rather easy task. However, you have to keep in mind that unlike flat roofs, you’ll be working on an area potentially very high above the ground – and one that is sloped, which can be quite dangerous. If you choose to repair the roof yourself, you should seriously consider using roof jacks, which can provide an added level of safety. These are especially important if the rise of your roof is more than 6 inches for every foot (6/12 pitch).

Other safety measures you can take are:

• Never do any roof repair when it is wet outside
• Observe where power lines and other over head obstructions or hazards are located
• Wear shoes with a thick rubber sole to prevent slipping.

Estimating & Preparation

Local roofing contractors would more likely be able to do the repair job much faster and in the safest manner since they are trained to comply with OSHA safety guidelines for the construction and roofing industry. However, if you choose to do it yourself, on your own, you want to make sure that you take all the steps needed to prepare properly.

First, you should measure the area of your roof in need of repair. Then, you should calculate how many shingles you will need to buy in order to repair the section. Shingles are sold in bundles and calculated in “squares”. 1 square = 100 x 100 square feet. 3 bundles = 1 square.

Make sure you add an additional 10% or so to the amount in case you need to cut or waste any of the shingles as well. Along with shingles, you will need to make sure you have a number of other supplies, roofing cement, galvanized hot-dipped roofing nails, and roofing felt (optional; depends on the degree of the repair and the size of the repair).

Additional Repair Tips

Remember that you need to make sure that there aren’t any gaps or cracks in the repaired area, especially if you are fixing an area where 2 different planes join (valleys), as these areas are more likely to leak. Also, keep in mind that roof valleys, require roofing materials and metal flashing underneath. More recently, it has become common practice to use ice and water shield in valleys for additional protection. This is a large roll of peel-n-stick bituminous type material usually about 24″-36″ wide. This is to make sure that there is no chance of water seeping in. You also want to always remember that you should remove and replace any damaged shingles as soon as possible so you don’t wind up with an even bigger problem to fix!

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Flat Roof Repair

Low Sloped Tar & Gravel Roofs

Built-up roofs or Tar and gravel roofs are an easy and effective way to cover and seal a flat roof. Such roofs are easy to install, relatively inexpensive and, if maintained properly, can last up to 20 years.

The Basics of Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are an attractive alternative to the traditional pitched gable roof or hip roof. They were frequently used during the 1950’s in construction of modern-looking, modular-type homes as well as in traditional homes for porches, camper roofs, commercial buildings and storefronts or other add-on rooms. However, flat roofs are not without their problems. Because they don’t have gravity’s assistance to drain water, puddles tend to form on a flat roof and can undermine the roofing seal.

A properly-installed and well-maintained built-up roof can last up to 20 years without leaking. However, such roofs are much less forgiving of roofing errors than traditional roofs. Some leaks can be stopped with a simple tar roof repair; other issues are better left to a roofing company.

Best Practices For Flat Roof Repairs

Work on your tar roof when the outside temperature is between 70 and 85 degrees (Fahrenheit.) You can apply a tar patch when the temperature is as low as 40 degrees, but it won’t seal completely until the temperature rises. Applying a tar patch when the weather is too hot can cause the tar to drip and run.

To make a tar roof repair, identify the source of your leak. This is not as easy as it sounds. Water has a tendency to travel down beam and joists and the damaged part of the roof can be feet, if not yards, away from the leak in your ceiling.

Clean the damaged area and let it dry thoroughly. Carefully cut out the part of the roof that’s compromised. Apply a layer of roofing cement and cover with a roofing patch (available at major home improvement stores). Cover the patch with a layer of roofing tar and allow to dry in the sun. Wait 24 hours and apply a second layer.

Maintaining a Flat Roof

To keep your tar & gravel roof leak-free for years to come, avoid walking on the roof unless it’s absolutely necessary. Some people try to make roof-top patios out of their flat roofs. That’s just a disaster waiting to happen. One wrong footfall can compromise the entire roofing seal…if it’s not engineered for it, don’t do it!

You should also clear the leaves and other debris from the roof at least once in the fall and once in the spring as well as drain any standing water within 48 hours. If you live in an area that gets heavy snow accumulation, you should shovel the snow off of the roof to avoid the weight damaging the roof.

When It’s Time to Call a Roofing Contractor

Not every roof repair job should be handled by a homeowner. Large patches and replacing the tar on the entire roof are best left to roofers with the right tools and safety equipment. Flat roofs can be tricky to work with and with a large job, it’s generally better to spend a little more up front and avoid problems in the months and years to come.

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Camper Roof Repair

How To Fix Roof Leaks On RV’s & Motor Homes

Camper roofs, like many flat roofs on houses, are generally made of a rubber roofing material stretched across the top of the motor home. Because you often don’t use the camper for large stretches of time, a small leak can go undetected and do a lot of damage to the inside of your RV before you realize you have a problem. An RV roof repair job can be challenging, but owners can generally fix a small hole or tear without the help of a roofing contractor.

About Camper Roofs

Most camper roofs have only the curve at the edge and therefore are apt to collect water, making them prone to leaks.Older RV’s may have solid aluminum roofs, but most modern camper roofs are made of stretched rubber roofing material over aluminum. Motor home roofs come in all shapes and sizes, and it may be best to do your homework before you begin the
project.

How to do a Camper Roof Repair

It’s a good idea to only try a camper roof repair if the hole or puncture is small. You’ll need an RV roof repair kit or a sheet of rubber roofing material and some rubber primer. Once you have located all the areas that may need to be repaired, wash the area thoroughly and allow it to dry.

The next step is to cut a square piece of rubber roofing material that is at least six inches larger than the damaged area on all sides. Slather a liberal amount of rubber primer along the edges where you’ll be placing the patch and quickly, but precisely, lower the patch in place. Apply a little more primer to seal the edges and allow the patch to dry for at least 24 hours in the sun.

Maintaining The Roof On Your Recreation Vehicle

Keeping you camper or RV roof leak-free requires regular maintenance. Most manufacturers recommend sealing your camper roof once a year. In addition, you should visually inspect the roof and clear it of access debris and leaves at least every six months. Avoid parking the vehicle under low-hanging branches as these may puncture the roof’s membrane. Do your best not to walk on your camper’s roof unless you‘re doing your bi-annual maintenance. Your steps can break the roof’s seal. Park the motor home in a garage or other well-covered facility during the snowy winter months so that the heavy snow doesn’t compromise the roof. It’s worth the money to rent a garage if you don’t have one yourself.

Do You Need a Professional Roofing Company?

Don’t be frustrated if your camper roof repair job is beyond your scope or skill level. Camper roofs can be tricky and if not properly sealed can lead to a host of inside problems, including damage to your camper’s interior. If in doubt, be smart and hire a reputable roofing company with experience working on camper roofs. By doing so you could save yourself a lot of precious time and money.

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Rubber Roofing Repairs

Fixing EPDM Roof Leaks

Rubber roofs are one of many types of covering for a flat roofing system. Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer roofs can be tricky, but small patches are generally within the realm and skill of a DIY homeowner. Rubber roofs are made by usually stretching a single-ply waterproof membrane across the flat roof in overlapping sections. This material is then secured with roofing cement and the seams can be hot or cold welded. A properly-installed, well-maintained rubber roof should last up to 10 years.

About EPDM Flat Roofs

Unlike pitched, or slanted, roofs, flat roofs tend to collect water, making them more susceptible to leaks that other types of roofs. However, flat roofs are making a comeback. You’ll see these types of roofs on modern, modular-type houses as well as atop porches or storefronts on traditional homes. Flat roofs also allow all of the inside space to be used, without the challenges of rafters and dormers. Just like with any project, be sure to spend a little time doing your homework and understanding the full details of the work load.

Only attempt to repair a rubber roof if the damaged area is small. For larger projects it is best to consult with a licensed commercial roofing contractor. To make a rubber roof repair, first locate the part of the roof that is leaking. This can take a little time as water will often travel a great deal from the source of the leak to where it is dripping inside the house. If the damaged area is large, your best bet would be to call in the help of a professional roofing company.

You‘ll need to purchase a sheet of rubber membrane and some rubber primer at a home improvement store. Clean the damaged roof area thoroughly and allow the surface to dry. Then cut a piece of rubber membrane about six inches bigger than the hole on all sides. Apply rubber primer and carefully set the membrane in place, rubbing the edges to seal. Allow it to dry in the sun.

How to Maintain Your Flat Roof

In order to keep your rubber roof from leaking in the years to come, it’s important to do regular maintenance. Make sure to remove any standing water within 48 hours, either by siphoning it off, draining it or sucking it up in a shop vacuum. You’ll also want to rid the roof of leaves and other debris at least twice a year. Generally, doing this in the spring and again in the fall is best.

Try not to walk on your roof any more than absolutely necessary. Even the lightest footfall can break the roof’s seal. If your area gets heavy, sustained snowfall, you’ll also want to remove the snow build-up so that the weight doesn’t damage the roof.

Should you call a roofing contractor?

Not every epdm roof repair should be handled by a DIY homeowner. Flat roofs can be challenging to work with. If your repair job involves making more than a small patch, you’re probably well-advised to hire a licensed roofer. Overlooking even a small step can lead to major water damage inside of your home.

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Helpful Roof Leak Repair Tips

Best Practices For Fixing A Leaking Roof

If you suspect you may have a leak in your roof, you should take action as quickly as possible. It is essential, as a leaking roof can quickly cause more unnecessary damage if you don’t take care of the problem promptly. Although this issue is a very common one, the damages that can occur due to water intrusion include damage to the ceiling, additional damage to the roof decking, damage to the structural components of the home, or mold infestation. If you decide you want to fix the roof yourself and take the chore into your own hands, you first have to find out where the water is coming into the home.

Finding The Source of The Roof Leak

First, using a pair of binoculars, take a look all around your house. When inspecting the roof, take note of every little detail. If you see any tears, cracks, or even rot, there is a good chance these are signs of where the source of the leak is located. Once you have discovered these areas, mark them by placing a heavy object over them. Then, also look for any other signs of deterioration once on the roof, making sure to be extra cautious and use flat, rubber-soled shoes for added safety. Also, make sure to check any flashings, around vents, chimneys and skylights for any cracked seals, missing caulk or gaps. When looking for roof leaks, you also want to check inside of your attic. There, you should look for any water stains. If you find any, follow the trail of the stain to find out where the leak originated. Once you found the beginning, hammer a nail upwards through the leak spot, so that you can find the same spot when back on the roof.

Roof Leak Repair Instructions

Once you have found all of the damaged spots, you can begin the roof leak repair process. First, you want to make sure that the areas you need to repair are dry. It is important that the location is dry while fixing the leak, as well as afterward. So, be sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time before doing any type of roofing. Then, you want to clean the area surrounding the leaky spot and dry the area with a towel. Next, use a flat trowel (which can be purchased from a hardware supply store or Home Depot) fill the crack or hole with plastic roofing cement completely so that it is watertight. After you have filled the hole or crack, use the flat trowel to make sure the plastic cement is flat, and while it is still wet, lay a single piece of fiberglass fabric on top of it. Then, cover that layer with an additional layer of roofing cement for added strength, and flatten that layer with the flat trowel, as well. You should then make sure this layer is even with the level of the roof. To test your roof leak repair, spray the area with a sprinkler after it has been dried. If no water seeps through the area, your repair job is complete.

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