By cornellroofing Charity and Community Involvement • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • Products & Information • Projects 0 Comments

Finding the Positives: A Look Back at 2020

Just about anyone will tell you they are ready to be done with 2020. It was a challenging year for so many. Despite the trauma and drama of the year, there were still positives to be found. People and businesses discovered ways to be resourceful to take care of customers and each other. In the commercial roofing industry, Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is fortunate we were able to keep our crews working and building for the future. 

 

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal had wins to be celebrated in 2020. We began the year with the momentum of hitting a major milestone of 1,000 jobs completed in 2019, as well as being recognized as the third-largest roofing company and 23rd-largest woman-owned business in the Kansas City region. This year, we were also able to continue our legacy of giving back to our community with Cornell’s first $25,000 gift to the Builders’ Association Scholarship Foundation to support career development in the trades. In addition, our Owner and President, Mary McNamara was honored as a 2020 Rainmaker by Ingram’s Magazine for her leadership in Kansas City business.

 

For Cornell, our most shining moments in 2020 are the many projects our expert crews were able to work on and complete. Cornell crews were hands-on in projects that enhanced the commercial infrastructure landscape, transformed the skyline and helped support the economic development of Kansas City. We could not be more proud to play a part. Just a few of the major projects completed in 2020 and/or currently in process include:

  • Children’s Mercy Research Institute 
  • Harry S. Truman Presidential Library
  • Fort Osage School District (High School, Fire Prairie, Elm Grove)
  • Kansas City Zoo (Meerkat, Sting Ray and Elephant Exhibits)
  • Commerce Tower
  • Kansas City Missouri City Hall
  • Loews Convention Center
  • Kansas City Museum
  • McCownGordon Construction Offices (sheet metal)

 

As a company that has been in business for nearly 100 years, Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal has weathered many changes and tumultuous years. 2020 challenged us all, but also proved we can still rise to the challenge. And there are always positives, you just need to look for them. Here’s to the promise of a new year and a bright 2021 ahead!

 

To learn more about Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, click here About Us or call 816-252-8300.

By cornellroofing Charity and Community Involvement 0 Comments

Community Spotlight: Local School District Foundations

As the season of giving approaches, many include making charitable donations as part of their annual holiday tradition. If you’re planning to make a donation and would like your contribution to support local kids and families, you may want to consider donating to one of our local school district foundations. At Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, we choose to support these types of local organizations, as we have seen the positive impact they make in our community.

 

Typically school district foundations are organized as separate entities within their district with a mission of supporting students and teachers. These foundations rely on community donations and cover a lot of ground in the assistance they offer local families. From college scholarships to classroom supplies for teachers to food, clothing, utility, and housing assistance for students and families in crisis. These foundations are quietly filling a gap and are often providing life-saving support for students who have nowhere else to turn.

 

It’s no secret that this year has been difficult, and many more families may find themselves struggling to make ends meet. Donating to local organizations who can provide support directly to families in our community will be more important than ever. If you’re in a position to make a contribution, do your research to find a reputable organization that is making an impact and being a good steward of donated funds. For information about local school district foundations, visit school district websites to learn more about how they operate and allocate funds. 

 

For nearly 100 years, Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal has been serving the Kansas City area and has always maintained a strong commitment to supporting local community nonprofit organizations. To learn more about Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, visit www.CornellRoofing.com/about-us and or call 816-252-8300.

 

By cornellroofing Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City 0 Comments

Protect Your Commercial Property with Preventative Maintenance

Commercial buildings are major investments, and most building owners want to do all they can to protect their investments and minimize costs. When it comes to commercial roofing, spending a little on preventative maintenance now, can save big money in the long run.

 

No matter what commercial roofing system you have, there are steps you can take to extend the lifespan of your roof – while improving or maintaining the value of your structure and the property inside. Taking these steps can often delay or potentially eliminate the need for commercial roofing repair or an expensive commercial roof replacement.

 

  1. Inspect rooftop vents and equipment. Be certain all are properly functioning and well sealed.
  2. Examine drains and downspouts. Ensure there are no blockages that will inhibit proper drainage.
  3. Assess penetrations and flashings. Be on the lookout for any gaps or tears.
  4. Thoroughly check the roof for other potential damage or issues.

 

Cornell’s Roof Maintenance Program is offered as an important part of our comprehensive Commercial Roof Management System. Identifying potential problems early is the key to protecting your investment – and your peace of mind. 

 

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal has been building and protecting commercial roofing systems for nearly 100 years. To learn more about Cornell Roofing and our Preventative Maintenance Services, visit www.CornellRoofing.com/services/preventative-roof-maintenance and or call 816-252-8300.

 

By cornellroofing Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Commercial Roofing: What to Consider When Hiring a Company

Having been in business since 1927, Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal Company has seen competitors in the commercial roofing industry come and go through the years. Hiring the right commercial roofing contractor for your commercial building and construction project is critical. Roofing is not an area to compromise quality if you want your property to be stable, efficient, durable, properly functioning, aesthetically pleasing and to maintain optimal value for the long haul. Consider the following when hiring a commercial roofing contractor:

 

Can the crew handle the project?

It’s no overstatement to say Cornell Roofing’s professional teams can install any commercial roof, whatever the size or scale. We can make this bold statement because we actively ensure our crews receive continuing education and constant training to follow the most up-to-date best practices in the industry. Just as important, we make sure they’re equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment necessary to get the job done. From Kansas City’s urban high-rises to large-scale industrial manufacturing plants, Cornell’s professionals understand the latest roofing services, commercial roof systems, roof replacement options and commercial roof maintenance. 

 

What safety and environmental standards are in place?

When working at the heights we do every day, safety is obviously a concern. Cornell adheres to a strict safety policy to ensure our teams are properly trained per all OSHA compliance standards and industry best practices. It begins with pre-employment training and health screenings and continues with regular safety protocol training, inspections and updates.

 

At Cornell, we are also mindful of the impact commercial roofing has on our environment. There are many variables when considering commercial roofing contractors and roof systems. Through a better understanding of commercial roofing products, their life cycles and ability to be recycled, and varying energy consumption of the many different commercial roofing materials, we are able to give our customers a roof system that meets their needs while minimizing the effects on the environment.

 

What roofing systems are offered?

Cornell uses the most advanced supplies and products from the best brands in the industry, including Carlisle, Derbigum, Firestone, GAF, Johns Manville, Sarnafil, Siplast, Tamko and Tremco. An educated, experienced team plus the best brands in the business ensure a top-quality result.

 

Cornell’s commercial roofing experts have the training and experience to handle the most popular and highest quality installs including:

  • Built-up Roof Systems
  • Daylighting Systems
  • Flat Roof Systems
  • Green Roof Systems
  • Metal Roof Systems
  • Modified Bitumen Roof Systems
  • Single-ply Roof Systems, EPDM, TPO and PVC
  • Skylights
  • Vegetative PVC

 

In addition, Cornell also offers complete commercial metal roofing systems. From design, construction and installation to metal roof repair and maintenance, our full-service commercial sheet metal shop routinely produces excellent results. Our foremen, staff and field superintendents personally focus on each detail, no matter how small. You may not even notice some of these touches until after our installation team is long gone – but we believe this type of workmanship, especially when it’s a detail others might overlook, represents integrity you can count on. Every day and on every job.

 

How long have they been in business and what is their track record?

Cornell has been in this business a long time – nearly 100 years. A company does not make it this long in business without doing things right and setting the standard for success. We let that record speak for itself. When it comes to Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal’s track record, our long-standing relationships with the region’s top general commercial contractors, architecture firms and construction companies says it all. Here’s a testimonial from our friends at J.E. Dunn on a recent project:

 

 “Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal has been a collaborative, trusted partner for our project in many aspects and we sincerely appreciate the positive relationships their team has developed with ours. It has been a pleasure to work with them.”

 

When it comes time to hire a commercial roofing contractor, there are many things to consider, but asking these questions will help you determine who is the best fit for your project. To learn more about Cornell Roofing, visit www.CornellRoofing.com and follow @cornellroofingandsheetmetal on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

By cornellroofing Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • • • • • 0 Comments

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal: Taking Teamwork to New Heights

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal Co. has been a leader in Kansas City’s commercial construction industry since 1927. What’s the secret to staying in business for over 90 years? The answer lies within Cornell’s four key operating principles of integrity, dependability, quality, and responsibility. The company was founded on these values and the commitment to continually invest in innovation and equipment, and their most valuable asset – their employees. 

 

This dedication to people and creating a positive, rewarding work environment is a key factor in Cornell’s longevity and gives the company a competitive edge in the field. Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal’s leadership, professional staff, and highly skilled construction crews are experts in the commercial roofing and sheet metal trades. They have literally covered many of the most iconic and prominent commercial, healthcare, educational, government properties in the Kansas City region. Their knowledge and leadership in the industry have raised the bar for commercial roofing and sheet metal work in Kansas City.

 

“Promises made. Promises kept, since 1927,” is a phrase you hear often at Cornell. As a team, they are bonded in their commitment and collective promises to:

  • Finish what they start, on time and on budget;
  • Pay relentless attention to even the smallest detail;
  • Use the very best products;
  • Never cut one corner;
  • Be the roofing and sheet metal company customers can depend on.

 

Being in business nearly 100 years takes a lot of grit, determination, and – most importantly – a culture where your team can thrive. Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal Co. checks all those boxes. In continued efforts to recognize their talented team, Cornell will soon begin a series on social media in which a staff or crew member will be featured each month. Be sure to follow @cornellroofingandsheetmetal on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter for these spotlight stories and to see some of Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal’s featured projects in the Kansas City area.

 

By cornellroofing American Subcontractors Association • Charity and Community Involvement • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • Midwest Roofing Contractors Association • • • • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Earth Day Celebrating 50 Years Today!

Earth Day 2020 is a milestone moment and, also about the enormous challenge we face. There are incredible and vast opportunities to have an impact on our planet and on climate change. EarthDay.Org, has distinguished climate change as the most pressing topic for the 50th anniversary.
Climate change represents the biggest challenge to the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable.

Earth Day’s Beginning

The first Earth Day was a unified response to an environment in crisis — oil spills, rivers so polluted they literally caught fire, smog deforestation. On April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans, or roughly 10% of the entire U.S. population at the time, took to the streets, college campuses and hundreds of cities to protest environmental ignorance. But they wanted more, demanding a new way forward for our planet.

Social Impact Into Laws

The first Earth Day is credited with launching the modern environmental movement. Also it was the planet’s largest civic event! The first Earth Day in 1970 launched a wave of action, including the passage of landmark environmental laws in the United States. The Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species Acts were created in response to the first Earth Day in 1970, as well as the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Many countries soon adopted similar laws.

While the coronavirus may force us to keep our distance, it should not force us to keep our voices down. The only thing that will change the world is a bold and unified demand for a new way forward. While Earth Day may be going digital due to the CoronaVirus, EarthDay.Org’s goal remains the same: To mobilize the world to take the necessary actions to make a difference. We may be apart, but through the power of digital media, we’re also more connected than ever.

Learn What You Can Do

Today, go to: EarthDay.Org, where you’ll find hours of action in global digital content that drives actions big and small, gives diverse voices a platform and demands bold action for people and the planet.
From the Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal family to yours, be safe and stay healthy.

By cornellroofing American Subcontractors Association • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • Midwest Roofing Contractors Association • National Roofing Contractors Association • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Covid – 19 Update From Department of Labor

From our Friends at Law Firm Seigfreid Bingham. Thank you!

#covid-19, #coronavirus, #ConstructionKCBy John Vering & Mark Opara

On March 25, 2020 the U.S. Department of Labor published on its website a Model Poster for covered employers to post, email to their employees or put on an internal or external website to meet the posting requirements under the new Families First Coronavirus Response Act (herein Act). The DOL website has a link to Frequently asked Questions about how and where to post the Notice and other options on providing it to employees of covered employers.

In addition, DOL has published Fact sheets on Employee Paid Leave Rights under the Act and Employer Paid Leave Requirements under the Act. Further guidance is contained in three Questions and Answers documents published by DOL on the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, COVID-19 and the Fair Labor Standard Act and COVID-19 and the FMLA. These Fact Sheets and Guidance do not have the effect of regulations and leave a number of important questions unanswered as the April 1, 2020 effect of the Act rapidly approaches. We are advised that DOL does not plan enforcement actions against employers during the first 30 days the Act is in force as long as covered employers are making good faith efforts to comply with the Act.

Where else can I get more information and updated information?
We encourage you to keep updated on the latest developments and guidance being provided by DOL and other federal, state and local authorities including but not limited to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and the Kansas City Missouri Department of Health. Regularly review the websites noted above, our firm COVID-19 Resources page and cdc.gov, coronavirus.gov and the CDC’s Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers. Another valuable resource is the National Governors Association website nga.org which provides valuable resources from every state on COVID-19 and steps employers can and should take to deal with this pandemic.

This article is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Please note that the Families First Coronavirus Act presents many novel legal questions, and we encourage you to seek legal advice for the application of this and related laws to your specific situation and please note that legal requirements are changing on a daily basis. Readers with legal questions should consult the authors, ([email protected]), Mark Opara ([email protected]) or any other shareholders in Seigfreid Bingham’s Employment Law Group, including:, John Neyens, Brenda Hamilton, Shannon Johnson, or your regular contact at Seigfreid Bingham at 816-421-4460.

 

By cornellroofing American Subcontractors Association • Charity and Community Involvement • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • Midwest Roofing Contractors Association 0 Comments

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal Continues to Raise the Roof

When Mary McNamara purchased Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal in 2007, little did she know the recession of 2008 was right around the corner. However, under McNamara’s leadership, and with her small team of industry professionals all working together, Cornell weathered that storm.

Learning and Growing

The trials and obstacles they faced, not only as a small business but as a Certified WBE/DBE, meant they had more to prove than most. “When we bought Cornell, we established Four Key Principles: Integrity; Dependability; Quality; and Responsibility.” Mary added, “ These principles, along with the best commercial roofing and sheet metal team in the region, have been the bedrock of Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal’s Success.”

Major Milestones

Since purchasing Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal in 2007, Mary is proud to announce they  passed 1,000 jobs in 2019! This continual growth also led to Cornell being named the third largest roofing company in the KC Region. In addition Cornell was named the 23rd largest Woman-owned business in the region. This according to Ingram’s Magazine’s Annual Book of Lists¹.

Giving Back

Cornell has always had a tradition of giving back. Since 2007, #KCBuildersAssociation, #2019KCBuildersAssociationDinner, featuring, #CommercialRoofingCompaniesKC, #CornellRoofingandSheetMetal, as Top Sponsor, #NRCA, #NAWIC #RoofingMagazine, #SnipsMag, #Nice-KC #KCCornell has provided support for a wide range of industry and community-related events. Just recently, this support moved to a new level as Cornell made a $25,000 donation to the The Builders’ Association Scholarship Foundation. Cornell’s recipient was Ethan Wegner.

In all,there were many sponsors and many recipients. The Construction Trades understands that workers will continue to be a

key to success and growth. That’s why The Builders’ Association began the Scholarship Foundation.

The complete group of sponsors and recipients speaks volumes to the efforts being made to introduce more and more young people to what a great career path the construction trades are.

¹ www.Ingram’sMagazine.com


TwitterLinkedInShare

This entry was posted in American Subcontractors Association, Charity and Community Involvement, Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City and tagged #KCChamber, #NICE-KC, #roofingmagazine, #wbdc, #BuildersAssociationKC, NAWIC, NRCA,

By cornellroofing American Subcontractors Association • Charity and Community Involvement • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal’s First $25K Sponsorship Goes to The Builders’ Association Scholarship Foundation

At the recent 2019 Kansas City Builders’ Association Annual Dinner, Cornell’s President, Mary McNamara, continued Cornell’s tradition of community and construction #KCBuildersAssociation, #2019KCBuildersAssociationDinner, featuring, #CommercialRoofingCompaniesKC, #CornellRoofingandSheetMetal, as Top Sponsor, #NRCA, #NAWIC #RoofingMagazine, #SnipsMag, #Nice-KC #KCindustry support. “I am proud Cornell is able to give back by contributing our first ever $25,000 donation to The Builders’ Association Scholarship Foundation,”

Mary added, “Our recipient is a very deserving young man, Ethan Wegner.” Missouri Governor Mike Parson was on hand to meet and congratulate the recipients, including Ethan.

A Gold Sponsor, Cornell supports The Builders’ Association as well as many other trade and civic causes. The Builders’ Association Scholarship Foundation, established in 1994, was first discussed in 1990. The Foundation is designated by the IRS as a 501 (c)(3).

This year, there were many deserving recipients who, with their sponsors, were recognized at a special pre-dinner photo shoot.

The fund now exceeds $1,000.000 through the member’s generous donations. Mary added, “This is one of many very important construction trade efforts to introduce, inform and engage the future leaders of our industry.”

One of the biggest challenges facing many industries but especially the Construction Trades, is the lack of an available work force. The nationwide network of trade groups and organizations is doing more than ever to address this pressing issue. Many young people just don’t realize the many benefits available by joining a trade. From a good starting wage to healthcare and insurance support, today the trades look little like the days of old. OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Act was only signed into law in 1970. Since then, the impact on the safety, training and certification of workers has been critical in changing the whole complexion of the trades. For more on OSHA, go to: https://www.osha.gov/

If you would like to contribute to The Builders’ Association Scholarship Foundation, please contact Tony Drees for more information.

By cornellroofing American Subcontractors Association • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • Midwest Roofing Contractors Association • National Roofing Contractors Association • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

A Good Year for Cornell

As reported in an earlier post, 2019 was a good year. The Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal team put a heavy focus on job-site safety, which resulted in ultimate success. This was a year of one of our lowest percentages and a reduction in the rate by which companies’ premiums are based.

With the start of a new year and decade, Cornell is proud to announce ZERO incidents in 2019! President Mary McNamara commented, “Safety is more than a word at Cornell. Keeping our people safe is a mindset.” McNamara added, “ I am very proud of the continued focus on safety and the fact that we attained this great result.”a good year

With Fall Protection the #1 OSHA Standard violated, Cornell’s mantra is: “No one gets hurt today.” Mary added, “At Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, we will continue to invest in the time, training, certification support and latest safety equipment needed to help keep our people safe.”

To all the Customers, Trades and Suppliers, Cornell wishes you all a safe and prosperous 2020!