Focus

As the roofing industry becomes more diverse, it is increasingly challenging for roofing contractors to "own" some of the work occurring on roofs. A prime example of this is the increased use of roof-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems.

More building owners are demanding energy-producing roof systems, and there may be times when the work to be done could be offered to an electrician, a roofing contractor or both.

NRCA believes the best option is to always involve a roofing contractor and, when necessary, a licensed electrician. A position paper the association issued with the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers states: "[A] roofing contractor knows how to install new roof systems properly and safely to best accommodate rooftop PV systems."

You can view the position paper at www.nrca.net/rp/about/specrpt/0210_pv.aspx.

In addition, earlier this year, NRCA released Guidelines for Roof-Mounted PV System Installations to help roofing professionals understand the complexities of such installations. And this month, NRCA is releasing Building Owners Guide to Roof-mounted Photovoltaic Systems, which will provide building owners with a better understanding of how PV systems affect roof systems and how they should be installed. More information about both publications is available at shop.nrca.net.

Later this year, NRCA will launch a certification program for PV system installers. The program will be co-developed with the Center for Environmental Innovation in Roofing. NRCA's and the center's goal is for building owners to require certified PV system installers to work on their roof systems.

All these efforts will help roofing contractors "own" the work on roofs. As more trades such as landscaping contractors and electricians begin having access to roof systems, it becomes more important for roofing contractors to make it clear to building owners that they have the roofing expertise necessary for any work taking place on roofs.

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Professional Roofing and NRCA's senior director of communications.