Metal and tile roofers are less affected by the need to speed installation, he notes. “Their craft, pricing and margins are higher and there is more pressure on doing the job correctly not quickly.”
Some builders also are looking for fire resistance, says Sue Caperton, OSB product manager at LP Building Products. “Sales of our FlameBlock product often are driven by code requirements,” she says. “But some people want it for additional peace of mind.” It’s being used in zero lot-line applications as well as in urban areas, especially with multifamily projects, such as townhomes that need separation between units. “Oftentimes, wall applications are extended up the wall and continue onto the roof. It can provide a smooth transition.”
As new product lines help fill niches, contractors and customers are evaluating options and adapting to new choices. “As we’re seeing more education about and importance placed on roofing systems, it appears that manufacturers are working hard to fill in product gaps in their lines,” says Owens Corning’s Burkett.
Adds DaVinci’s Hansen, “The market is wary of new materials, but they also see value in innovation. We need to show them evidence of durability and reliability, a track record for the company. That’s when customers trust the contractor’s opinion.”
Internet Information
To learn more about these companies’ products, visit there websites.
Companies in bold participated in this article.
Atlas Roofing: www.atlasroofing.com
Benjamin Obdyke: www.benjaminobdyke.com
Boral: www.BoralAmerica.com
Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau: www.cedarbureau.org
CertainTeed: www.certainteed.com
DaVinci Roofscapes: www.davinciroofscapes.com
Dow: www.DowPowerhouse.com
DuPont: www.dupont.com
EDCO: www.edcoproducts.com
Enviroshake: www.enviroshake.com
GAF: www.gaf.com
Georgia-Pacific: www.buildgp.com
Headwaters Roofing (Tapco Group): www.headwaters.com
IKO: www.iko.com
LP Building Products: www.lpcorp.com
Metal Sales Manufacturing Corp.: www.metalsales.us.com
MFM Building Products Corp.: www.mfmbp.com
Owens Corning: www.owenscorning.com
Ply Gem: www.plygemroofing.com
PrimeSource: www.primesourcebp.com
RoyOMartin: www.royomartin.com
TAMKO: www.tamko.com
USP Connectors: www.uspconnectors.com
Weyerhaeuser: www.weyerhaeuser.com