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The Job of Sheet Metal Worker

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The Job of Sheet Metal Worker

Have you considered a career as sheet metal worker? Or even what the average sheet metal worker does on the job?

Sheet metal workers have more effect on your daily life than you probably realize. The most obvious way is by keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They specialize in hearing, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, as well as architectural, industrial and service sheet metal work. Of all the sheet metal specialties, service sheet metal workers are the least construction-related and more technical.

There are also hundred of hours of safety training, including 30 hours of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA), along with continuing education hours that must be completed. Education and training is ongoing in this industry to ensure safety and that sheet metal workers are always up to date with the newest products and technology. But it doesn’t stop there. Sheet metal workers also have a strong understanding of how things work, including air ducts, siding and panels and how to install them. Successful sheet metal workers must also have solid critical –thinking skills, math skills and of course a strong work ethic.

Not only that but the industry is growing too! The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 7-percent employment growth by 2024, meaning 9,400 new jobs for sheet metal workers. And a few other quick stats: The median income for sheet metal workers is $45,750, and the unemployment rate for sheet metal workers is 7.9%

It’s a great time to be a part of our industry!

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What to Know When Hiring a Kansas City Commercial Roofing Contractor

commercial roofing contractors

What to Know When Hiring a Kansas City Commercial Roofing Contractor

Commercial business roofs act as your building’s first line of defense against hazardous weather. Your roof is constantly being exposed to the elements, causing decay and deterioration, which can weaken your roofing system over time. All of this leads to the need for periodic repairs and maintenance and eventually, replacement, so having a quality roof installation is a must and a strong investment in your building’s performance over time.

So what do you need to know when it’s time to hire a commercial roofing contractor? You might want to start by asking yourself these questions:

  1. Who do you want to work with? Is the company honest and reputable? Do they have a tradition/past work that shows good craftsmanship completed in a timely manner?
  2. What work needs to be done? Is your roof leaking? Are there clogged waterways or downspouts that are causing water to pool? Or, do you think you might need a whole new commercial roofing system?
  3. What’s your timeline? When is the best time of the year to get your roofing issues solved? Are repairs immediate, or can they wait until the weather won’t be a problem?

Although there are plenty of commercial roofing contractors around, you want to be certain you get the best quality products, services and commercial roofing system for your money. When researching a roofing contractor, do background checks on the company, make sure they use trained professionals. Read reviews and do your homework.

Other things to keep in mind when choosing a commercial roofing contractor include:

  • Certification & Warranty. Check to make sure your prospective commercial roofing contractor is a certified installer of the roofing systems they offer. A team of certified professionals will give you the peace of mind that your commercial roof system meets warranty requirements.
  • Employee Training. Even though a commercial roofing business might be registered or certified, check to see that their team is as well. Safety is important, and you want to know your roof is in good hands with roofers that are trained in proper safety procedures.
  • Insurance. Insurance protects you and commercial roofing companies, so see that your roofing contractor is insured.
  • Referral. Online reviews are very helpful, but you can also ask business associates for recommendations. You want to make sure the roofing contractor you select is reputable and known for good work.
  • Years in Business. This is part of a commercial roofing contractor’s reputation. If they’ve been in business for a long time, that’s a good sign they’re doing things right.

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal knows the importance of all these questions and concerns when searching for a commercial roofing contractor and makes sure to meet and exceed all expectations. If you’re interested in learning more about what Cornell can do for your roof, give us a call today at: 816-252-8300 or online at: www.cornellroofing.com.

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Commercial Sheet Metal: Did You Know?

sheet metal works

Commercial Sheet Metal: Did You Know?

The roofing and sheet metal industry is growing in production rate, revenue and projects. Right now it ranks as the third largest U.S. manufacturing industry when measured by employment rates too!

With things on the rise, we wanted to share a few industry-wide facts that may surprise you about the commercial sheet metal side of Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal:

  • Sheet metal fabrication boomed from the 1990s to the mid 2000s, until a down time during the recession of 2009. After bouncing back, sheet metal drove revenues over $28 billion in 2015.
  • In 2015, there were more than 58,000 locally owned and operated sheet metal fabrication companies across the US.
  • Sheet metal employment is projected to grow by 7 percent by 2024, matching the average rate for all other occupation types.
  • In 2013, California, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin produced more than half of all the output of fabricated sheet metal products in the industry.
  • Also in 2013, 47 percent of shipments were from Alabama, Indiana Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas.
  • In 2015, the highest paid 10 percent of sheet metal workers earned more than $80,000 a year.
  • The primary metals most often purchased in sheet metal are aluminum bar, tube, sheet or plate; hot or cold steel; and stainless steel.
  • The most common uses for sheet metal include:
    • Air conditioning ducts and furnace flues
    • Air cowls
    • Awnings, canopies, cornices, and soffits
    • Coal chutes
    • Culverts, flumes, and irrigation pipes
    • Electronic casings
    • Food vats and bins
    • Guardrails
    • Mailboxes
    • Roofs, roof drainage equipment, and gutters
    • Sheet metal flooring and siding
    • Ship ventilators
    • Stovepipes and hoods

With all this growth, now is a great time to be a part of the roofing and sheet metal industry! And, Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is proud to be leading the way. If you’re interested in a career in the commercial sheet metal industry, your first stop is Sheet Metal Workers’ Union No. 2:  http://www.sheetmetal2.org/

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal, celebrating our 90th Anniversary in 2017! Visit us online at: www.cornellroofing.com

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Derbigum: The Product Behind Cornell’s Largest Project

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Derbigum: The Product Behind Cornell’s Largest Project

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal has a history of working on many of the best projects in the greater Kansas City Metropolitan area. The Cornell Promise means every project is completed with Integrity, Dependability, Quality and Responsibility, Cornell’s core values. We are currently working on one of our largest projects in company history.

The project is over 2,100 squares, or 210,000 square feet. And as always, we only use the best products on the market to get the job done. The product featured on this particular project is Derbigum. Cornell is a certified Debigum installer. has a worldwide network, but its USA headquarters is right down road!

With over 40 years of success in the US and over 80 worldwide, Derbigum manufactures a number of industry-leading roofing systems including high quality Modified Bitumen roofing systems. Derbigum works to produce sustainable roofing systems that add value and provide long-term waterproof with a focus on customer satisfaction.

Derbigum’s extensive product line includes:

  • APP Modified Bitumen Membrane Cap Sheets
  • Base Sheets
  • Adhesives
  • Liquid Waterproofing
  • Insulation and Cover Boards
  • Coatings
  • Accessories and Tools
  • Sustainable Roof Add-Ons

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is proud to be a certified supplier of Derbigum products. To learn more about Derbigum, visit their website or ask one of our experienced roofers.

https://www.derbigum.com/en/about-us/history

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Roofing History and Improvements


Roofing History and Improvements

Most people don’t think about the how their roofing system came about, how it was developed and the history of the roofing industry. The roof is something you always count on but hardly think about, and it literally holds the building together!

Roofs shelter not only the building and those inside, but also protect vital interior utility systems and defines the overall aesthetic. Roofing systems, styles and materials have continued to evolve ranging in performance and physical types. Tiles of wood and slate were popular until the mid-19th century when metal became the market leader. The 20th century also saw the development of roofing materials with several advances in durability and fire resistance, as well as the introduction of roof-related components like gutters, downspouts and flashing.

The evolution of roofing has largely been driven by performance, meaning that sheet metal is at the top of the game when it comes to commercial roofing systems. Cornell is always leading the way in the roofing industry as well. All these improvements have brought the roofing industry a long way, but even the best roofs can’t hold up against everything with out a little help.

That’s where Cornell comes in with our Commercial Roof Assessment. Right now, we’re offering a FREE Commercial Roofing Assessment, up to 20,000 square feet for the FIRST 10 to reply! Roof access is required. This offer good for commercial roofs only within the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area. Sign up here!

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Cornell’s Commercial Roofing System Options

OneLight_007_160131Kansas City's One Light Tower Construction Progress

Cornell’s Commercial Roofing System Options

You know we do commercial roofing systems, but do you know all the different types of commercial roofing options out there? Our team of professionals install only the best roof systems and stay up-to-date on industry best practices. Through continuing education and training, along with the best equipment in the business, we ensure each roofing system we install meets Cornell’s high standards.

Cornell roofing and sheet metal experts handle everything from urban high-rises to large-scale industrial manufacturing plants. Our team is trained and experienced to handle tons of different commercial roofing and sheet metal systems, 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

And Cornell only works with the best brands in the industry like Carlisle, Derbigum, Firestone, GAF, Johns Manville, Sarnafil, Siplast, Tamko and Tremco. Working with the best to provide the best!

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FREE Roof Assessment for First 10 to apply! Don’t Wait for the Damage to be Done!

Clogged Drain due to Weather

FREE Roof Assessment for First 10 to apply! Don’t Wait for the Damage to be Done!

The weather is changing and that can bring plenty of problems for those not prepared. Have you thought about how you will handle your commercial roofing system maintenance this season? Don’t wait till the damage is already done. Signup today to get your free Commercial Roof Assessment from the roofing professionals at Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, up to 20,000 square feet!

Our Service and Maintenance team uses a Winter Checklist, 10 Point Assessment and a tech-based Roof Assessment tool to cover a variety of common issues that the change of seasons brings along. Our Winter Checklist includes, but is not limited to:

  • Identifying problem areas likely to leak as winter weather worsens;
  • Checking the integrity of the roof to withstand snow, ice and pooling water;
  • Identifying roof penetrations that can lead to costly repairs and damage to interior spaces;
  • Checking waterways, such as drains and gutters to ensure water to exits the roof quickly;
  • Checking tuck points.

All handled by our highly trained, professional team of experienced roofers!

The assessment creates a roadmap for you to understand steps necessary to secure your roofing system and avoid costly issues. Exclusions do apply. To complete the assessment, roof access is required! This offer is good for commercial roofs only within the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area.

If you’re looking to prepare for the cold weather and avoid spending unnecessary cash this winter, be one of the first 10 to sign up here today!

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National Institute for Construction Excellence, Kansas City

National Institute of Construction Excellence

National Institute for Construction Excellence, Kansas City

Getting kids interested in excellent career options in the construction industry? NICE!

The National Institute for Construction Excellence, or NICE, is a local 501(c)(3) not-for- profit organization, founded by members of the Kansas City design and construction industry in 1998. The organizations primary focus is to introduce young people, students, parents and educators to the various career opportunities available to them in the engineering, architecture, construction management and skilled trades industries.

And of course, Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is a proud area partner! Through support of Cornell and other partners, NICE works with local schools and teachers creating programs designed to integrate with academics life skills and exposure to the construction industry. The impact of these programs helps to introduce students to careers in an often-overlooked industry and provides a solution to the recent decline in skilled workforce.

As an area partner, Cornell Roofing helps NICE make a difference. Not only does the program establish a connection between young people and the construction industry, but it also works to welcome a new and diverse workforce. NICE has steadily worked to appeal to young women and students of varying ethnic backgrounds, encouraging the development of life skills like: accountability, effective communication, problem solving and critical thinking.

NICE programs and projects incorporate: Job Shadowing Program, Speakers’ Bureau, Crayons to CAD, Senior Days, Educators’ Day and the iBuild Showcase. Other are partners include: JE Dunn Construction, Burns & McDonnell, Greater Kansas City, Building Trades Council, Metro Area Schools, Missouri State University, Youth Build, The Builders’ Association and Kansas City Public Schools, to name a few. Learn more about NICE by visiting their website, http://nice-kc.com/.

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Commercial Roof Inspections and Preventative Maintenance

Commercial Roof Inspections and Preventative Maintenance

XII Apostles Church

Fall is here and the weather is a changing! Just like your own home, commercial roofing systems need to be inspected for upkeep and maintenance too. With colder temperatures, snow and winter on the horizon, it’s best to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature and get to checking on your commercial roofing system.

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal offers commercial roofing inspections. Our expert roofing technicians suggest a roof inspection and to check for minor repairs at least twice a year. All of our inspections include a checklist and records and photos of each inspection for the building owner to have and review. If necessary, we can also create an individual plan of action for any repairs that might need to take place.

And in the meantime between each inspection, building owners can use preventative maintenance to ward off expensive problem issues. Cornell offers a Roof Maintenance Program to help in early detection of potential problems, helping to extend the life of your commercial roofing system. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do to help you prepare!

Hear from one of our customers, Twelve Apostles Parish in Platte City, Missouri. We helped fix the leaky roof of the 3 year old parish that has had issues since day one!

“Bob, I want to thank you and Bill for digging into the roof problems at the church. I can’t begin to thank you enough. I checked the church this morning after the storm last night. Everything looked fine. I do believe that what you discovered under the ridge cap is the probable source of water getting again…Once again thank you and Cornell Roofing,” – Bob Ralston, Twelve Apostles Parish

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What it Means to be Woman-Owned

What it Means to be Woman-Owned
Certified WBE
Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is proud to be a fully WBE & DBE certified, woman-owned business. But other than saying a member of the fairer sex runs this well-oiled engine, what does that mean? According to MWBE.com, to become a certified woman-owned business, that business must show:

• All prospective members must provide evidence that at least 51% or more is a women-owned, managed and controlled
• The business must be open for at least six months.
• The owner must be a United States citizen or legal resident.

WBE stands for a Woman Business Enterprise, and DBE means a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, which is somewhat confusing. To make it clear, Cornell is at no “disadvantage”. DBE simply means a business concern where socially and economically disadvantaged individual owns at least 51% of the business. These individuals can be anyone from Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, and a multitude of others, but in Cornell’s case it means simply women.

Mary McNamara not only has to have at least 51% ownership in the company, but she also has to show a contribution of capita, direct management, policy, fiscal and operational matters, and perform without the reliance of any other firm or resource not owned by a woman (which she does quite nicely). And it’s important to the Cornell Way to continue to encourage other women to join the trade and pick up tools.