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.

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.

 

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.

Seasonal Commercial Roof Maintenance

After a pretty mild fall season, winter is here. As the weather changes so do the issues your roof must face, which means it is a good time for Commercial Roof Maintenance. Just like your own home, commercial roofing systems need to be inspected for upkeep and maintenance as well. With colder temperatures, snow and winter on the horizon, it’s best to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature and get a professional inspection on your commercial roofing system.

Annual Inspections Are Key

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal offers commercial roofing inspections. Our expert roofing technicians suggest an annual commercial roof maintenance standing water on roofing system, roofing system, roof maintenance, commercial roof maintenance inspection and a twice-annual check for minor repairs. All of our inspections include a checklist, 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.

Ponding water can be one of the most damaging commercial roof conditions. The added weight is never good and proper slope and drainage needs to be part of the solution.

rust affecting the roofing structureroofing system, roof maintenance, commercial roof maintenance Between each inspection, building owners can use preventative maintenance to ward off expensive problem areas. Cornell offers a Roof Maintenance Program to help in early detection of potential problems. This helps by extending the life of your commercial roofing system. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do to help avoid costly repairs to your commercial roof.

Hear from one of our customers, Twelve Apostles Parish in Platte, City, Missouri. We came to the rescue of their leaky roof that had been experiencing problems for some time; they came to us to aid this problem.

“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 in again…Once again thank you Cornell Roofing,” – Bob Ralston, Twelve Apostles Parish

Cornell Supports The Children’s Museum

In 1988, the Johnson County (Kan.) Commissioners formed a study and concluded there was a lack of hands-on, interactive programs for children; The solution was to create a Children’s Museum. A year after the study, Wonderscope, the Children’s Museum of Kansas City, opened and is now celebrating its 30th anniversary. Originally, Wonderscope was a traveling exhibit in the Kansas City area but in 2008, it officially merged with the Kansas Children’s Museum.

Hands-on learning starts at a young age and continues into adulthood; at Cornell, hands-on learning is vital to performance. For this, we are grateful for the Children’s Museum of Kansas City and their support for enjoyable learning. Wonderscope provides fun for children ten years of age and younger, their parents and educators. With the use of dynamic exhibits and programs through integrating the arts, sciences, and literature, they pave the way of learning for children.

The Children's Museum, the museum, children's museum, hands-on

Learn – Play – Grow

At Wonderscope, the team believes children learn best through play. Through fun, imaginative hands-on learning, children can grow to their full potential and thrive. With the involvement of family and friends, interactive learning engages children’s natural desire to learn more about the world around them.

The informal learning environment is filled with engaging play experiences that inspire growth and love for learning in young children. Of course, you don’t have to be a kid to enjoy the experience!

Cornell is proud to support a positive learning environment at the children’s museum and the encouragement of hands-on learning. After all, without hands-on interaction, no roof would be complete. Despite the growth in technology, hands-on learning is still needed in everyday life. There will always be something that technology can’t do, and that is part of what makes us human.

Don’t forget to learn, play and grow, no matter what your age is.

 

 

The MRCA, A Family Affair

Mary McNamara, Owner and President of Cornell, was recently appointed to the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association (MRCA) Board. McNamara continues a tradition of service to the roofing industry from the McNamara family at the regional and national levels.

Humble Beginnings

The MRCA  traces its beginnings to early 1950. For several years discussion of the benefits of a regional organization to represent roofing contractors had been going on. It was after a roofing clinic in Topeka, Kansas on January 12, 1950 that the organization was created.

Then Everything Changed

While conventions have always been a part of the MRCA, they began as a forum for contractors to gather and exchange ideas. In 1965, the first technical research project titled “Don’t Panic – Here’s How to Make a Roof Drain”, was published. Despite how it sounds today, it revolutionized the roofing industry. Overnight architects uniformly adopted the projects recommendations and the industry began changing.

Continuing a Tradition of Service

“ I am Honored to be appointed to the MRCA Board and look forward to collaborating with the many talented members of this

The MRCA, Organization, Midwest Roofing Contractors Association
Rob McNamara

organization,” McNamara stated. Her father, Jim McNamara was President of the Chicago Roofing Contractors Association. McNamara’s Uncle Don, served as president of the organization in 1981 and was awarded its highest honor, the James Q. McCawley Award in 1982. Don’s son Rob also served as its president. Its safe the say this has become a family affair.

MRCA Drives Positive Change

From the first industry altering publication, the MRCA Technical and Research (T&R) Committee was formed and has presented studies that have dramatically impacted the industry. As a result, the industry has seen an improvement of products and architects and specifiers have been influenced and guided to follow sound roofing practices. The MRCA has continually worked to improve the conditions for the roofing contractors and ultimately their customers. For more information visit: www.MRCA.org

Renovating the First Baptist Church

Renovate, commercial, historic, renovation, Kansas City, First Baptist ChurchLocated on West Truman Road, the First Baptist Church of Independence, which has undergone renovating, traces its roots back over 120 years to 1896. As such, the church has been a part of American history and is listed on the Historic Registry.

Queen City of the Trails

Independence Missouri was the declared the starting point for the Oregon Trail by no less than an act of Congress! The City of Independence is still considered the “Queen City of the Trails” as it was a point of departure for the California, Oregon and Santa Fe Trails.

Decades later, it was into this bustling city that The First Baptist Church of Independence was established.

The Trumans

President Harry S. Truman and his wife, First Lady Bess Truman grew up and are buried in their beloved city, Independence. Their home and The Truman Library are both popular tourist attractions.

A Rebirth

Built well after the Civil War, the church has endured over 120 years of Missouri weather.

Renovating

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal was hired for renovation of the church roofs and steeple, bringing them back into shape after many years of wear and tear.

As the images show, the finished look of the renovated roofing system and steeple give the church a fresh new look.

The attached short video shows a Cornell team member putting the finishing touches to the steeple and gives a birds-eye view of the beautiful new roofs.

The renovating of the church also includes the restoration from inside and out. These efforts culminated in the recent 1896 Building Restoration Benefit Concert to restore the worship sanctuary.

Cornell Roofing is proud to have played a part to help bring back the First Baptist Church of Independence to its original glory. For more information on the church, you can visit their site at: www.fbcindep.org

 

Safety on the Job At Cornell

 

Safety on the job site is a must when you are hundreds of feet in the air. Roofers and team members, each with his or her own job to do to, move past one another. Roofing equipment and supplies are also in the mix on the job site. Today, job site safety is a team effort and it all starts with a mindset: No one gets hurt today.

Different job sites present different challenges. At Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, safety planning is part of every job’s roofing process.  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), sets Standards, Guidelines and Regulations all employers and employees must follow to help keep their employees safe.

At Cornell, our team members and roofers take classes and maintain study habits to stay informed and up to date on their certifications. OHSA has 10 and 30-Hour Certification programs. Annually, OSHA also ranks it’s most violated OSHA Standards. Year after year, Fall Protection is the number #1 OSHA Standard cited.Roofers, roofing material, metal roof, Kansas City roofing, roofing safety, safety regulations, commercial roofing, roofing system, fabrication, Cornell safety, osha, osha roofers, roof systems

Mary McNamara, President of Cornell commented, “At Cornell we continue to invest the time, training, certification support, and equipment needed to keep our people safe.” Cornell just added the “All-In-One Rail System” from Leading Edge Safety. This job site addition adds to our employees safety on the job site.

Mary added, “We are proud of our team. Working together, we’ve had one of our safest years on record.” Some construction fencing was added to help keep debris from blowing off the roof.

For the FULL LIST of Construction Industry Regulations(Standards) visit the OSHA laws and regulations page.

 

One look through the OSHA Standard Number 1926 and you’ll see just how important and serious staying on top of the regulations are for the safety and comfort of roofers and other employees in the construction industry.

To the entire Cornell Family, other trades and suppliers, keep up the great work and stay safe on your job sites!

Cornell’s Andrew Christ Joins ASA Board on DC Fly-In

Commercial Roofing Kansas City, Commercial Sheet Metal FabricatorsCornell’s Andrew Christ, joined the rest of the American Subcontractors Association (ASA), Board as part of a “DC Fly-In” to meet with House and Senate Congressional Members. Eight upcoming legislative issues concerning America’s subcontractors are on the agenda including; Retainage, Bid Listing, and Change Orders.  According to Andrew, “During our fly- in, we met with nine Congressional Members, or their staffs, to inform them we support these issues as an organization.” Andrew added, “Members included; U.S. House Small Business Committee, three U.S. Senators, and four Members of the House of Representatives.”

Mary McNamara, Cornell President, added, “Supporting the industry has always been a part of Cornell’s Mission and Vision. We are proud of the work Andrew and the rest of the ASA Board are doing at the local and national level.” Andrew currently serves as Vice President for the ASA of Greater Kansas City.

The American Subcontractors Association (ASA) is the national trade association promoting the rights and interests of contractors and suppliers. It is dedicated to quality construction, ethical and equitable business practices, safety in the workplace, and industry best-practices. The ASA represents more 2,400 construction subcontractors who employ over 18,000 employees annually impacting buildings and communities across the nation.

For more information on the ASA National click home below:

Home

For more information on the ASA of Greater Kansas City: https://www.subcontractorskansas.com/

Builders’ Association EXPO Winner!

The 2019 KC Builders’ Association EXPO was another winner as was John Florez of Hodnett Photographers. John took home a new, 4K, 55″ Smart TV! According to John, it will be a timely addition for his home on game day, GO CHIEFS!

In addition to the opportunity to mix and mingle with other trades, suppliers and contractors, Cornell continued its long tradition of support as a Sponsor of The Builders’ Association EXPO 2019.

The Builders’ Association EXPO had some great training and continuing education opportunities as well. Cornell’s Assistant Project Manager, Victor Speers, took full advantage, attending; Construction Technology: What’s Next? Led by McCownGordon’s It Director, Justin Burns and The Softer Side of Cybersecurity, led by Robert Hunter, President of The Hunter Group.

Victor added, “The classes I took were informative, timely and dealt with real-life issues we are facing more and more everyday.”