Roofing contractors and insurer-sponsored research group launch impact-resistant roofing educational programs
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
CONTACT:
John Schehl |
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July 2009 |
(800) 323-9545, ext. 7503 |
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jschehl@nrca.net
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Brenda O'Connor
(813) 675-1043
boconnor@ibhs.org
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ROOFING CONTRACTORS AND INSURER-SPONSORED RESEARCH GROUP LAUNCH IMPACT-RESISTANT
ROOFING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
Rosemont, Ill.—The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the
Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) today announced the launch of two online
educational programs to teach roofing contractors, consumers and other interested
parties about impact-resistant, steep-slope roof systems.
Proper selection and installation of impact-resistant roofing technology is a proven
money-saver for home and business owners during the life of a structure. According
to an IBHS insurance claims study that involved 320,000 homes in 115 ZIP codes that
suffered hail damage, homes with impact-resistant roofing materials benefitted from
a 55 percent reduction in losses when compared to homes that did not have impact-resistant
roofs. This translated to direct homeowner savings of $200 to $300. In addition,
the marginal cost increase for installation of impact-resistant materials can easily
be recovered by homeowners, as it increases the value of their homes.
"Roof damage from hail, tree limbs and other types of storm debris is a very common,
annoying and expensive problem for homeowners and insurers — year after year
after year. Fortunately, much of this type of damage can be prevented," notes IBHS
President and Chief Executive Officer Julie Rochman. "We know that homeowners want
their roofs to last and stand up to Mother Nature. That is why we are so pleased
to partner with NRCA to develop and promote educational materials to help interested
roofing professionals and consumers properly select and install impact-resistant
roofing materials."
"Ours is an industry that is affected almost daily by weather events," says William
Good, executive vice president of NRCA, "and damage from impact is right at the
top of the list. This program will help homeowners understand what steps they can
take to minimize that risk. More important, it will help roofing contractors become
more knowledgeable and share that knowledge with their customers. We are excited
to partner with IBHS in this important undertaking."
The first online educational program, "Impact-resistant Roofs: Contractor Certificate
Program," is designed to help contractors and their employees better serve customers
by building basic competencies for identifying, selecting, installing and selling
impact-resistant roofing products. Upon program completion, participants will be
able to specify appropriate impact-resistant products for a given structure; prescribe
best installation practices for impact-resistant products on residential projects;
and inform customers about many features and benefits of impact-resistant, steep-slope
roofing products for homes, apartments, businesses, etc.
"Impact-resistant Roofs: Contractor Certificate Program" consists of five self-paced
learning modules and a comprehensive final exam. Individuals who successfully complete
the program and exam will receive an NRCA University Certificate of Completion.
Certificated roofing contractors will be included in an online database that can
serve as a resource for consumers and insurance claims adjusters. The program is
$45 for NRCA members and $245 for nonmembers.
The second online educational program is titled "Impact-resistant Roofs: Smart Steps
to Reduce Hailstorm Damage." This consumer-focused program teaches benefits of installing
impact-resistant residential roofing products. Upon program completion, participants
will be able to describe various residential steep-slope roof system types; explain
roofing issues and problems associated with hail impact; participate in informed
discussions with roofing contractors regarding impact-resistant roofing products;
list the reported benefits of purchasing impact-resistant roofing products; explain
benefits of using NRCA University-certificated roofing contractors; and locate NRCA
University-certificated roofing contractors.
"Impact-resistant Roofs: Smart Steps to Reduce Hailstorm Damage" is offered free
and consists of four self-paced learning modules.
For more information or to register for either program, visit
www.nrca.net/nrcauniversity or contact NRCA's Customer Service Department
at (866) ASK-NRCA (275-6722) or info@nrca.net.
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IBHS is an independent, nonprofit, applied science and communications organization
supported by the property insurance industry. IBHS works to reduce the social and
economic effects of natural disasters and other risks to residential and commercial
property by identifying, evaluating, and advocating improved construction, maintenance
and preparation practices. For more information about IBHS, visit
www.disastersafety.org.
NRCA is one of the construction industry's most respected trade associations and
the voice and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education,
technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including
contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building
owners; and city, state and government agencies. NRCA's mission is to inform and
assist the roofing industry, act as its principal advocate and help members in serving
their customers. NRCA continually strives to enhance every aspect of the roofing
industry. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit
www.nrca.net. |