Why Roof Safety Matters

Rooftop safety is often overlooked, yet it’s critical for protecting your team and your facility. OSHA mandates fall protection for employees working at heights of 4 feet or more in general industry settings and 6 feet or more in construction. Beyond regulatory compliance, ensuring safe rooftop access reduces injury risks, minimizes liability, and demonstrates proactive facility management. Upgrading your roof’s safety features such as guardrails, walk pads and access systems, mitigate hazards like skylights, roof edges, ladders, and areas with heavy machinery.

Strategic Safety Upgrades to Maximize Your Budget

Year-end budget dollars can go a long way toward improving rooftop safety. Consider these strategic installations:

• Crossover Platforms & Stairs: Facilitate safe passage across rooftops, especially over equipment or parapets. Modular systems like ErectaStep® provide pre-engineered, bolt-together metal stairs and platforms that are OSHA-compliant, quick to install, and durable.
• Walk Pads: Protect roofing materials and provide stable footing, particularly in winter when warranties often require them.
• Safety Rails & Hatch Guards: Prevent falls around roof hatches and skylights, common hazards across facilities.
• Ladder Access Systems: Replace risky traditional ladders with systems designed for compliance and ease of use.

Spotting Risk Areas

Evaluate your roof with a critical eye. Common areas needing additional protection include:

• Ladders and hatch access points
• Loading docks and production areas
• Skylights and roof edges
• Areas with heavy machinery

Go Beyond Roof Safety: Comprehensive Building Envelope Services

Greenwood Industries can help with building upkeep beyond rooftop safety. Our roofing maintenance and repair packages provide ongoing inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs to extend roof life. Our waterproofing solutions protect structures from moisture intrusion, while historic restoration and masonry services ensure the longevity and performance of critical architectural elements. Together, these services support safe, durable, and code-compliant facilities.

Take Action: Schedule a Roof Safety Audit

To assess your facility’s roof safety and overall envelope, consider scheduling a Safety Audit with Greenwood Industries. Our team evaluates your current systems and recommends upgrades to ensure compliance, enhance safety, and protect your investment.

Wrap-Up

Using expendable dollars to improve rooftop safety is an investment in your team, your compliance, and your facility’s long-term performance. Combine safety upgrades with proactive maintenance, waterproofing, and restoration services to maximize the value of your budget while safeguarding employees and your building.

The post Maximize Year-End Budgets: Turn Roof Safety into a Smart Investment appeared first on Greenwood Industries.

Architectural Metal Work Enhances Authentic Restoration

At the tower’s peak, Greenwood’s roofing team replaced the slate roof, while the architectural metal craftsmen fabricated and installed new copper trim around its base—a detail nearly invisible from the ground yet essential to maintaining the tower’s authenticity. These intricate design elements speak to the artistry and attention to detail that defined early-20th-century public architecture.

Skilled Masonry Restoration Ensures Lasting Structural Integrity

The masonry specialists from TWC Phoenix meticulously executed the masonry restoration of the clock tower’s walls, cutting and repointing brick, restoring joints, and applying protective coatings to the terracotta façade. Their work not only revitalized the tower’s historic character but also reinforced its structure for decades to come.

Interior Restoration Revives Clock and Bell

Inside, the restoration continued. The clock face was refinished to its original brilliance, and the bell—long a familiar sound in downtown Marlborough—was adjusted to ring properly once again. Every detail, down to the bell’s tone, reflects the teams’ commitment to precision and craftsmanship.

Accessing the clock tower safely required extensive scaffolding and careful coordination. Project Manager Ken Rondeau described the experience as “the coolest project I’ve ever been part of,” noting how unique it was to enter the tower through the clock face itself. To further enhance safety and maintenance access, Greenwood installed a new interior stair system to replace the aging wooden stairs.

Today, Marlborough City Hall’s clock tower once again stands proudly over the city—its slate roof gleaming, its brick and terracotta restored, and its bell sounding clear. Thanks to the skilled collaboration between Greenwood and TWC Phoenix, this historical restoration ensures that a 120-year-old masterpiece will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Learn more about Greenwood and TWC Phoenix’s historical restoration expertise and services.

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If your roof is out of warranty, you may already be wondering about replacement. However, if it has been proactively maintained through a managed roof care program, it could outlast its warranty by 10 to 15 years. In other words, age alone doesn’t determine whether you need a new roof, it’s really about condition.

Signs It’s Time for a Roof Replacement

1. Persistent Leaks

This one is obvious. If leaks are becoming a recurring issue, especially after major storms, it’s likely your roof system needs extensive repairs or a full re-roof.

2. Visible Membrane Damage

Cracks, ridges, or punctures in the roof membrane compromise the integrity of the system and indicate it may be nearing the end of its service life.

3. Membrane Flaking

On EPDM roofs, a common warning sign is membrane flaking. If you rub your finger across the surface and material flakes off, the roof has reached the end of its useful life.

4. Wet Insulation

If large sections of your roof feel soft underfoot, this often means water has infiltrated the system. Wet insulation loses effectiveness and can quickly lead to widespread structural issues.

5. Changes in Building Usage

If your property is undergoing a significant change in use—such as installing heavy rooftop equipment, expanding occupancy, or increasing energy demands—a new roof system may be necessary to support those changes.

Replacement Isn’t Always the Only Option

In some cases, a full replacement may not be needed right away. If the roof membrane is still in good shape, a roof restoration can extend the life of your system for several more years.

We specialize in roof restorations that extend the lifespan of aging commercial roofs while giving property owners peace of mind. Our experts can assess your system and recommend whether a restoration or replacement is the best option for your building.

Is it time for a new roof? Contact us today to schedule an inspection and discover whether restoration or replacement is the right solution for you.

The post When Is It Time for a New Roof? appeared first on Greenwood Industries.

1. Unexpectedly High Energy Bills
   Waterlogged insulation loses its Rvalue, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and driving up utility costs. If your summer energy bills spike without explanation, a compromised roof could be the culprit.

2. Soft Spots Underfoot
   When walking the roof, pay attention to any areas that feel spongy or give underfoot. Soft spots often indicate saturated insulation and an entry point for water.

3. Musty Odors Indoors
   Damp insulation and trapped moisture create the perfect environment for mold. A persistent musty smell inside your building is a red flag for water intrusion and microbial growth.

4. Flaking or Peeling Paint
   Water seeping behind interior walls can loosen paint, causing it to blister, flake, or discolor. While paint can peel for many reasons, paired with other signs, it often points back to a leak.

5. Unusual Exterior Moss or Mildew
   Moss and mildew thrive in damp, shaded conditions, but abnormal growth on one side of your building can signal chronic moisture from the roof or drainage damage.

6. Visible Water Accumulation (the Obvious Sign)
   Puddles on floors or water dripping from ceilings confirm a leak, but not necessarily above where you see it. Water can travel along beams and conduits before it appears, making professional diagnosis essential.

Even when signs seem clear, pinpointing the source of a roof leak can be a challenging task. If you notice any of the above indicators—whether you see them or smell them—don’t leave your facility at risk. Contact the experts at GRS today, and we’ll quickly locate, repair, and safeguard your roof against future leaks.

The post Five Subtle Signs (And One Obvious One) That You Have A Roof Leak appeared first on Greenwood Industries.

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Family Promise Metrowest serves families with children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness by providing shelter, education, and comprehensive support. The organization focuses on low- and moderate-income Massachusetts residents, prioritizing those from the Metrowest region. Families of all compositions and genders are welcomed.

Prior to the renovation, the Center’s roof was severely deteriorated and structurally compromised. These conditions disrupted daily operations, hindered family meetings, and affected collaboration with community partners. A secure and well-maintained facility is vital to delivering the safe, respectful environment Family Promise Metrowest strives to provide.

With a new roof in place, the organization is now positioned to expand in-person workshops, strengthen partnerships, and engage more volunteers. The upgrade ensures that the Center remains a professional, welcoming space—one that reflects the dignity every family deserves.

“Greenwood Industries didn’t just replace a roof—they reinforced the foundation of our mission,” said Danielle Conti, Executive Director of Family Promise Metrowest. “Their generosity and partnership reflect a shared belief that every family deserves dignity, safety, and a place to grow. When businesses step up like this, they don’t just improve buildings—they strengthen entire communities.”

To learn more about Family Promise Metrowest, donate, or volunteer, please visit www.familypromisemetrowest.org or contact Amy Miller at [email protected].

About Greenwood Industries

Greenwood Industries is the Northeast’s leading commercial roofing and custom building envelope provider, with offices in Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. For 30 years, Greenwood has delivered commercial roofing, architectural metal fabrication, waterproofing, and maintenance services for all exterior building systems. Recognized by Roofing Contractor Magazine as the tenth-largest commercial roofing company in the nation, Greenwood has earned numerous awards for craftsmanship. Visit www.greenwoodindustries.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Threads for more information.

About Family Promise Metrowest

Founded in 2008, Family Promise Metrowest (FPM) offers a spectrum of services to families that are facing housing instability and homelessness. From a family shelter based in Natick Center to a homelessness prevention program that serves families across the region, FPM has grown exponentially in recent years, now helping close to 100 families per year access stable housing, sustainable employment, affordable childcare, and educational opportunities. By partnering with local businesses, congregations, foundations, schools, and dedicated volunteers, FPM is creating real solutions to the housing crisis facing families.

Media Contacts

Amy Miller, Executive Director
Family Promise Metrowest
[email protected]

Ginny Pitcher, Vice President of Marketing
Greenwood Industries
[email protected]

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For Greenwood, historic preservation is more than a tradition—it’s our passion. Over the years, we’ve restored some of New England’s most cherished landmarks, from the Massachusetts State House to local museums, churches, and private residences. Through our partnership with TWC Phoenix, we now combine best-in-class roofing and waterproofing expertise with our deep masonry heritage to protect and maintain the entire building envelope.

One recent example is the clock tower restoration at Marlborough City Hall. In addition to structural masonry repairs—cutting, repointing, and protective coating—our craftsmen addressed a small but vital detail: the tower bell was no longer ringing clearly. A precise adjustment restored its full, resonant tone, just as it sounded a century ago. That attention to detail is what keeps New England’s historic main streets vibrant and alive.

Across the region, our team has preserved government buildings, monuments, cemeteries, residences, and more. Whether it’s a delicate masonry repair, a comprehensive roofing and waterproofing solution, or a full restoration of a historic façade, our experts share a true passion for craftsmanship that “stands the test of time.”

If you own a historic property in need of building envelope maintenance or restoration, Greenwood and TWC Phoenix are ready to bring our decades of experience—and our dedication to historic preservation—to your project. Contact us today to learn how we can help safeguard your piece of history.

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For more than three decades, Greenwood Industries and TWC Phoenix have built their reputations on delivering innovative commercial roofing, waterproofing, masonry, maintenance services, and architectural metal solutions while fostering a culture grounded in integrity, trade legacy, and people-centered leadership. Partnering with DPC positions Greenwood and TWC Phoenix to accelerate organic growth, pursue strategic acquisitions, and continue creating meaningful jobs throughout the region.

“Our mission has always been to deliver unparalleled roofing and building envelope solutions while nurturing a culture that puts family and craftsmanship first,” said David Klein, CEO of Greenwood Industries and TWC Phoenix. “This partnership not only provides the resources to fuel our next growth phase but also reaffirms the values that have defined us for decades.”

Transaction terms and timing remain confidential. Additional details will be shared as they become available.

The post Greenwood Industries and TWC Phoenix Form Strategic Partnership With Dunes Point Capital, LP, to Fuel Growth of the Northeast’s Leading Commercial Roofing and Building Envelope Solutions Company appeared first on Greenwood Industries.

Inspections Are Key
Most commercial roof warranties require regular inspections—some even mandate the timing. For example, an annual or semi-annual inspection may need to take place in the spring to assess any damage from winter weather. These inspections are common sense: they help identify potential issues early, extend the life of your roofing system, and ensure your building remains protected.

Don’t Overlook the Fine Print
Some warranty requirements are more subtle. For example, areas with high foot traffic may need to be equipped with walk pads. Without them, repeated foot traffic can damage the membrane. Walk pads not only preserve your roof system but also enhance safety for anyone accessing the roof.

Know the Limits of Coverage
Roof warranties also have limitations. For example, most warranties depend on your roof being designed for a specific wind speed—let’s say 80 MPH. If your building is in an area prone to hurricane-force winds, you may need a higher-spec system to stay protected under warranty.

In addition, many warranties do not cover damage caused by:

• Rodents
• Hail
• Acids or hazardous chemicals
• Unauthorized repairs or alterations

Maintenance Matters
Most warranties include a care and maintenance guide, but your facility team may not always be adequately equipped to follow it properly. That’s where a qualified service and maintenance partner comes in. By collaborating with a dedicated commercial roofing maintenance team, you can ensure warranty compliance and extend the life of your roof.

Your warranty is extremely valuable—but only if you adhere to the maintenance requirements. We’re here to assist you. If you have questions about your roof warranty or wish to schedule an inspection or service, click here to get in touch with us.

The post Avoid Voiding Your Roof Warranty: Why Maintenance Matters appeared first on Greenwood Industries.

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