Trends in the Roofer trade
New products
There is an increase in the types of roofing system designs available to meet the ever-changing Canadian environment. Eco-friendlier roof designs such as green roofs and reflective roof materials are more common. In addition, more environmentally friendly products are being used, such as single-ply membranes, cold-applied and mechanically fastened systems, rather than hot-applied bitumen.
Due to the environmental impacts and health risks of hot asphalt products, new innovations such as low-rise adhesives are replacing these products in many roof system designs. These adhesives may have their own risks and must be used according to manufacturers’ specifications.
On low slope roofing, chemical adhesives are reducing the need for asphalt and mechanical fasteners. In many roof applications, there are more self-adhesive materials that are used. The use of adhesives reduces thermal bridging that is inherent with mechanical fasteners.
There are new adhesives on the market that are low-volatile organic compounds (LVOC) that are replacing solvent-based adhesives which are used for the securement of roofing components. These new adhesives reduce volatile off-gassing in confined spaces.
Cold applied systems reduce the risk of fire during installation. Insurance companies and manufacturers are supporting this method as a safer way to install the roofing system.
There is an increase in synthetic underlayments on the market. These are applied under a steep slope roof and are lighter and last longer than traditional barriers.
Terminology in the industry is evolving as well. For example, the acronyms MARS, AARS and PARS are entering the roofing vocabulary. MARS stands for mechanically attached roofing system. AARS stands for adhesive adhered roofing system. PARS stands for partially adhered roofing system.
Tools and equipment
The trade has become more mechanized with many pieces of equipment such as automatic membrane installation equipment and heat induction equipment. These have increased productivity and efficiency and may reduce labour requirements. They may also help reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage. Roofers need to be trained in the proper use and maintenance of this new equipment.
Health and safety
There is more emphasis on safety training and orientation in the workplace. In some jurisdictions, it is mandatory for employees to take fall protection / working at heights, and site and task specific safety policy and procedures training.
Mobile fall protection systems are now being used to reduce risk and injury on buildings that do not have permanent anchoring systems in place.
Environmental
Recycling roofing materials and refacing are becoming more popular due to environmental concerns and LEED requirements on construction projects. These new practices may reduce disposal costs.