Uncategorized - Greenwood Industries, Inc.

Creating a Safer Working Environment

October 10, 2023

Ensuring the safety of your employees and vendors is a paramount concern for any business. Fortunately, innovative solutions like ErectaStep have made protecting your most valuable assets more accessible than ever. As the exclusive Northeast distributor and installer for ErectaStep, Greenwood Roofing Solutions (GRS) is your trusted partner in designing and installing a safer working environment through modular metal stairs and work platforms—whether on a roof or in the heart of a facility.

One recent success story that exemplifies the effectiveness of ErectaStep is our installation at UMASS Lowell. The challenge was accessing a rooftop in a complex area filled with numerous pipes and ducts. Traditionally, such scenarios would require costly engineering and customization. However, ErectaStep changed the game entirely. Our experienced team managed the entire process, from design to removing the old, hazardous ship’s ladder and installing the new, secure staircase.

ErectaStep’s capabilities extend beyond rooftop installations alone; it is an all-encompassing safety solution for your entire commercial property. Consider our installation at a facility in East Providence, RI, where we provided easy and secure access to tanks, ultimately ensuring the safety of workers. Similar solutions can be seamlessly integrated into production floors or other areas requiring a safety overhaul.

One of the key advantages of ErectaStep is its modular nature, which transforms the design process into a versatile and efficient one. Using their design software, our team can effortlessly assemble stairs, safety rails, crossovers, and ladders tailored to fit any space. In a recent installation, we combined a staircase with a small platform at the top and a safety rail to cover a gap in the railing. This transformation turned a treacherous ship’s ladder into a protected, secure staircase. In this installation video, you can witness the entire process in action, where the substantial upgrade from the old ladder to the new, safe staircase is evident.

If your commercial property needs a safety overhaul, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a demonstration or assessment. Greenwood Roofing Solutions is committed to enhancing your business’s safety and peace of mind.

Navigating Fit-Out Work: Safeguarding Roof Warranties and Building Safety

August 10, 2023

Fit-out work cannot simply be applied to any roof, by any roofing firm. Before conducting any solar, green, HVAC, ventilation, signage, or other fit-out work over an existing roof system, building owners must consider many factors not just to properly install a functioning system, but avoid voiding their roof’s warranty or endangering workers.

The key to solving these problems is to team with an experienced commercial roofer who understands the ins and outs of every roof system and ALL fit-out work. Roof device manufacturers recommend that a roof substrate evaluation be performed before any fit-out work is performed. During this evaluation, your roofing contractor should be making core cuts into the membrane of your existing roof system to be sure it can support whatever work is necessary for your building envelope. You should also keep in mind that fit-out work often means additional roof system penetrations, increased rooftop traffic, and increased surface temperatures.

After an evaluation, it is critical that building owners work with that certified commercial roofer to prepare a plan of action. This creates professional contact between the manufacturer and building owner and eliminates any risk of violating regulations or voiding an existing roof warranty. Moreover, a certified roofer understands that any new anchor points need to be specified and approved by the manufacturer before being cut into the membrane. The contractor is also able to address the necessary repairs required before the fit-out work can begin.

Finally, after all fit-out work has been completed, a new safety audit is required. Any new construction on and around your roof system often means that access points, walk paths and exit hatches on the existing roof system may be relocated. To comply with OSHA regulations and safety standards, walkways on top of the roof system and safety rails surrounding its barriers often need to be reconfigured.

Investing in fit-out work to improve your building envelope is a great functional benefit to almost any commercial building. However, doing so without adhering to the proper guidelines could put your roof warranty and building envelope safety at risk. Be sure to always create a plan of action before choosing beginning work on your roof, to keep you and everyone who utilizes your commercial space dry and safe.

You’ve invested in your roof, don’t risk that investment. Contact Greenwood today to ensure your fit-out is safe and secure!

The Benefits of Green Roofs And The Role They Play In One of Boston’s Most Sustainable Buildings, The Boston University Center for Computing And Data Sciences

May 24, 2023

The focus on sustainability in the business world has increased interest in commercial roofing options. As a result, green roofs have become a popular choice as they offer numerous benefits for both the building and the environment. Essentially, a green roof is a roofing system that incorporates living vegetation into the roof structure. The vegetation is usually planted in soil and supported by a waterproof membrane.

One of the advantages of a green roof is that it helps to reduce energy costs by providing insulation and regulating the temperature inside the building. Green roofs also offer environmental benefits as the vegetation can help absorb rainwater, reducing the amount of runoff that enters the stormwater system, which can cause flooding and impact local water treatment facilities. Additionally, green roofs help to mitigate the urban heat island effect by reducing the amount of heat absorbed by buildings, which can help to lower temperatures in urban areas. Moreover, green roofs can improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and producing oxygen through photosynthesis.

The Boston University Center for Computing and Data Sciences is a carbon-neutral building recognized for its unique design and environmental friendliness. It features 31 geothermal wells drilled 1,500 feet underground to provide heating and cooling and has a high-performance envelope and an enhanced HVAC system to reduce energy consumption. In addition, while a traditional Sarnafil roof tops the building, it also has balconies and a lower wing roof covered in green roofs. The green roofs not only contribute to the building’s environmental design but also provide stunning views of the city and Charles River, serving as gathering places for students.

Installing these roofs presented various challenges strategically addressed by Greenwood Industries’ experienced crews. For example, the green roofs had to be installed during winter when the environment was completely dry to use the Hydrotech systems. Despite the strict deadlines and tricky weather, the project was completed by our crews on time with impressive results!

Incorporating green roofs into commercial roofing systems can offer a range of benefits for both the building and the environment. Working with an experienced and reputable commercial roofing contractor, like Greenwood Industries, ensures that the green roof is installed correctly and efficiently. Moreover, our full-service capabilities, including roof repairs, maintenance, and replacements, promise that a building’s roof is well-maintained and protected for years to come.

6 Reasons Why a Spring Commercial Roof Inspection is Essential

April 14, 2023

With winter snow, ice, and winds, your roof may have suffered damage, leading to leaks and other problems if not addressed. That’s why it’s crucial to have a spring commercial roof inspection.

Here are six reasons why a spring roof inspection is essential:

Identifying Damage

Winter weather can cause a lot of damage to a commercial roof. Snow can accumulate and create a heavy weight on the roof, and ice can cause cracks and punctures in the roofing material. Strong winds can also cause damage to roofing systems, such as dislodging shingles or tiles. A spring roof inspection can identify any damage caused by winter weather and address it before it leads to more significant problems.

Preventing Leaks

A leaking roof can cause extensive damage to a commercial property, including damage to interior walls, ceilings, and insulation. A spring roof inspection can identify areas where water may be able to penetrate and take steps to prevent leaks from occurring. This includes checking for damage to flashing, sealants, and other roof components that can cause leaks.

Removing Clogs and Debris

Just look at what happens when you ignore seasonal inspections! Our professional service & maintenance division, Greenwood Roof Services (GRS), responded to an emergency call. While this roof membrane was leak free, a clogged drain filled with winter debris failed during heavy rain and caused this roof section to flood until it reached the masonry flashing, where it penetrated the building. A clog like this is easy to miss and could have quickly been resolved with a regular inspection.

Extending the Life of Your Roof

Regular inspections and maintenance can extend the life of your commercial roof. During a spring inspection, a professional roofer can identify any minor issues that can be repaired before they become more significant problems. This can help prevent the need for a total roof replacement, which can be costly and disruptive to your business.

Ensuring Safety

A damaged roof can be a safety hazard for employees and customers. A spring roof inspection can identify any potential safety hazards and take steps to address them, such as repairing loose tiles or securing loose equipment. A safe roof is critical for the well-being of everyone who enters your commercial property.

Maintaining Warranty Coverage

Most warranties require regular maintenance and inspections of commercial roofs. If you don’t have a spring roof inspection, you may be risking your coverage. An inspection can help you stay in compliance with your warranty and ensure that you are protected in the event of a weather-related incident.

A roof inspection by Greenwood Roof Services professionals will ensure your roof is ready for spring and summer. Our professionals will clear drains and debris, caulk minor areas of concern, track wear and weakening roof sections, and examine your roof membrane for potential leaks. The process is documented with photographs, and GRS will then present you with a comprehensive report on the status of your roof and potential next steps. By identifying damage, preventing leaks, extending the life of your roof, ensuring safety, and maintaining insurance coverage, a spring inspection can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

Contact us today to schedule your spring inspection.

Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Providence Rhode Island. Slate Roof replacement

Saving a Providence Icon

January 10, 2023

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Providence, Rhode Island, is a majestic 132-year-old church on the National Register of Historic Places and one of Providence’s most recognizable landmarks. In recent years, the church has undergone two major renovations, and Greenwood Industries is proud to have been involved with both.

The initial project focused on replacing the entire historic slate roof. Greenwood replaced the slate in 2020, and at the time, the church thought the roof replacement would be the only major renovation needed. However, after an assessment of the two 156’ foot towers, both were determined to be in poor condition and need immediate repair or face demolition. The size of the towers made demolition almost as expensive as a complete restoration, so the easy answer was to save the beautiful, historical towers.

The restoration of the towers involved extensive masonry work, which included cleaning the exterior, repointing interior and exterior joints, and repairing and replacing stone assemblies. In addition, the restoration also required new Sarnafil roofs for the church, as well as the replacement of the copper fixtures.

Restoring a historic building requires tremendous attention to detail. To replace the stone, a local quarry was selected with a vein of brownstone similar to the original stone. Given the size of the towers, it also requires precise engineering and a stomach for heights. Greenwood used a 180’ boom lift to complete the job, which required meticulous planning from our safety team.

Ultimately, The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul was restored to its original form and gratefully remains one of Providence’s most stunning (and safe!) landmarks. The project also received several awards and accolades, including the 2022 Rhode Island AIA Design Award for Historical Preservation and Faith & Forms Best Religious Architecture Restoration Award.

Severe Storm

November 9, 2022

While hurricane season may not be on your radar if you live in the Northeast, fall weather can still bring severe storms and damaging conditions that create havoc for your commercial building system — especially your roof.

What can you do to prepare?

Joe and Matt from Greenwood Service Academy have put together eight easy-to-follow steps to help prepare your roof in the event of severe weather.

Eight Steps To Prepare Your Roof:

Check your perimeter edge metal. Unsecured edge metal is a nightmare with high winds and heavy rains.
Remove any unsecured rooftop equipment and clear loose debris. These objects can create a significant hazard in high winds.
Inspect the roof field for penetrations, punctures, tears, and rips. These issues must be taken care of before heavy rains infiltrate your building envelope and put your assets at risk.
Remove any vegetative growth from your roof system. Growth can clog or otherwise damage your roof system.
Clear all drainage points and make sure drain baskets are appropriately secured. Clogged drainage points prevent water from draining off your roof, and unsecured baskets can lead to clogs.
Inspect solar panels, RTUs, and other mechanical equipment. Exposed electrical equipment and loose doors on RTUs may require securing.
Check trees around the buildings that could create a falling hazard. Overhanging branches or dead trees can damage your roof in high winds.
Inspect masonry and coping. Loose masonry and joints can allow water to penetrate your building envelope.

Schedule your professional roof inspection from Greenwood Roof Services today and let our experts identify any potential issues before they become a headache.

Western Avenue Studios: A Study in Service & Maintenance

October 28, 2022

Western Avenue Studios in Lowell, MA, is the largest arts collective in the United States. The complex houses more than 350 different artists plus a coffee shop, brewery, and more. It’s enormous for a reason. The guiding principle is that Western Avenue Studios be affordable for the community. At a time when rents are booming, studios here start at a few hundred dollars per month.

Housed in a 100-year-old mill complex, Western Ave consists of five different buildings. A secure building envelope is vital for an old building and even more critical for a building housing artists. Leaks and moisture can ruin an artist’s livelihood. That’s why it was vital for Western Avenue Studios to find the right roofer for preventative maintenance and repairs. After working with other companies, they started working with Greenwood Roof Services and its Executive Vice President, Joe Jolicoeur. Greenwood’s ability to address all six sides of the building, from leak repairs to a recent roof restoration, provides affordable, dedicated resources to keep the building system secure. And more importantly, GRS serves as an extended team to the facilities management team, working together to come up with outside-the-box solutions. In one such case, GRS removed a tree growing into the side of the building, a difficult feat because it was located in a wall right next to a canal! Coupled with annual inspections and 24-by-7 emergency services, headed by a dedicated project manager, GRS has been instrumental in keeping the facility in tip-top shape for the past five years.

We recently met with Karl Frey, the founder of Western Avenue Studios, and he took us on a tour of the facility. Check out this short video to learn why he loves working with Greenwood Roof Services and why his collaboration is essential for the arts community.

Consider A Roof Restoration Instead

October 28, 2022

The supply chain crisis has caused unprecedented delays and price increases, and for many, a traditional roof replacement is no longer feasible due to expanded costs and timelines.

Our professional maintenance division, Greenwood Roof Services (GRS), has developed a roof restoration program that can help mitigate roof replacement roadblocks and add years to the life of your roof at a fraction of the cost. A roof restoration can save 70-80% of the price of a complete re-roof. Roof restorations are available for several roof types: EPDM, TPO/PVC, Built Up Roofs, Modified Built Up, and Metal Roofs.

So, what is the qualifying process? To determine if a roof qualifies, our team does the following:

Thermal Scan
Visual Inspection
Review of information on the roof’s installation

After determining if a roof is eligible, we can often start on the restoration in under two weeks. On top of that, the roof restoration can be done in under a week. That’s a considerable time difference when compared to a complete re-roof!

Recently, GRS performed a roof restoration at Western Avenue Studios in Lowell, MA. One of the complex’s EPDM roofs was restored employing the following process:

Prepping, priming, and re-flashing roof seams
Identifying deficiencies around roof penetrations
Topping off any pitch pockets with any gaps to fill around pipes
Pinning-down heaving insulation
Re-seaming all edge metal

More importantly, all roof restorations come with our one-of-a-kind Roof Restoration Warranty. Warranties are customizable and are available in multiple term lengths.

Are you interested in learning more about the process? Click here or check out our Roof Restoration Episode of the Greenwood Service Academy, where Greenwood Roof Services EVP Joe Jolicoeur and Director of Business Development Matt Clark take you through our systematic and professional process.

Piloting Through The Supply Chain Crisis

October 27, 2022

Guest Blogger: David Klein, President | Greenwood Industries

2022 has proven to be one of the most challenging years our industry has faced in decades. Like many in the construction industry, Greenwood has weathered the Great Recession and the COVID lockdowns, but the supply chain crisis continues to fundamentally influence how we do business. Costs are skyrocketing, and we are seeing greater than six-month wait times for material that previously took six days. However, over the past 30 years, I’ve learned that whenever there is a challenge, there is also opportunity in decisive action. As such, we have taken steps to ensure our customers’ projects are kept on time and budget.

Investment. As we began to sense the challenges to the global supply chain, Greenwood made a strategic decision to significantly increase its inventory. This is very different from what we had done in the past, working within a “just-in-time” delivery method. “Just-in-time” is ideal for normal conditions – you purchase and deliver material where and when you need it. Right now, “just-in-time” would mean that we might not see material until later in 2023. However, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t material out there. If I see material available that I know we will need in the next six months, it only makes sense to buy it now. In taking that risk, we’ve avoided some inevitable price increases, and ultimately, we’ve avoided losing some substantial jobs because we’ve had the material in-house ready to roll out.

Logistics. Of course, we’ve had to consider our logistical capacity with increased material. Greenwood has added significant warehouse space to accommodate our ability to procure and hold project materials. This shift in planning has encouraged our purchasing managers, executive staff, warehouse personnel, and project managers to collaborate and learn new processes. And, ultimately, our communication is better for it.

Creativity. Sales teams in every industry have a common refrain: Customers have so much information that it can make it hard to “sell” them. Customers often want things a specific way, which is their right; however, it may not always be the best way to complete a project. With the supply chain crunch, all sides need to be flexible and understand global constraints. Our teams have been super creative and diligent about finding ways to do a project to the same high standards but with different materials. It’s about being creative and helping customers understand that our decades of experience will ensure we complete the job the right way.

And, we aren’t stopping there. Greenwood Roof Services, our professional maintenance and service division, has recently launched an innovative roof restoration program with a customizable warranty. These restorations are a cost-effective, timely alternative to re-roofs for customers when they are priced out of the market or unable to wait out the lengthy supply-chain delays. Ultimately, we must continue to innovate and remain flexible to the challenges presented in this ever-changing industry!