The Roof Cleaning Institute Of America Training & Certification Forum
"Find A Certified Roof Cleaner Directory"

Redfisherman wrote:

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Not to be a PITA, but I know that I am so it doesn't really matter.  In the second paragraph "We want those perusing.... the dream"  Believe it should be changed to persuing the dream"  One is not looking over a menu, or flipping thought magazines, but, actually putting in place active elements (goals) to work toward and reaching the dream of a successful business. Sorry AC, love you  like a brother (son) you know that. I saw you were born in 1969, my first of 3 years in VN, fun time for all, you in diapers and me dodging bullets, well anyway all but 2.

#11 wither changed to whether

Section One: As in most orginizations that are Professional, there is a standard format, modified to each companies business, this is detailed in what papers, forms, guidelines are to be used and how they are filled out with basic information.  This is pointed out in the points, however, will the RCIA have a basic format of documents as a guideline so all members are on the same page, so to say?  These forms or documents would then be added to by each business to be specific to them and their area.  i.e. West Coast is different than East Coast.

Section Two: Equipment it is self explanatory, use the proper equipment in the proper manner.  Following USDOT guidelines will RCIA post relavent paragraph citations so we are all compilent.  Understanding this should be known and followed already by members, however, a guide or fact sheet just makes the organization stronger more professional.

Section Three: Chemicals, good pointing out the bad ones for the environment.  Maybe in continuing education for members, a chemical class to enhance knowledge of what to use and what not to use together.  Most do this already, "can I use this chemical or that chemical", knowledge is power and the wrong chemical can cause great damage.

Section Four: Safety is stressed in every business, how many safe days without accidents.  Just drive down the road an look at the signs for the very large companies they tell you how they are doing.  They also have a very large manuel of guidelines that everyone reads and signs.  Continuing education as well. The RCIA can give me these 10 points to be followed or used, but how will the RCIA know that I am complient or following the guidelines as a small business of 2 or 3 people? Do we send in an annual check sheet or go to continuing education class.

Section Five: Education CPR, all should already have or in process, this is general safety knowledge, life saving techniques.  This is not a comment about the RCIA, if you have children, or are in business already, etc., etc.

42-45- tall order to RCIA member, can as asked in an earlier post OSHA certification be used, or will RCIA give in depth fact sheet or training to certify? Will be big added expense to some completing requirements or certifying same.

45 #2 & 46 - Where will the classes be given and when at a round table, once a year? If locally by who, a traveling training instructor? or going to a larger business in you area (competition?) for training, good points, but a grey area.

49 - RCIA certified school - great idea, much needed education, however what is the cost?, where & when.  I know it all needs to be ratified by the membership and this is an evolving organization with growing pains.

After ratification by membership, where do all previous certified members stand, some will find it hard to complete the requirements if having to pay or wait for training to continue the certification or are they grandfathered without the requirements for new member certification?  This is just a question, don't take it the wrong way.  I understand the previous 50 points and the requirements for the membership, we all want a professional and creditable organization.

The more we do to be proactive the less we have to do to be reactive to OSHA, EPA, USDOT and anyother government agency out there who wants to put a hand in our business by placing more restrictions or requirements on us. 

This is all just my opinion and we all know about those, this document was difficult to put together for the members by AC and the board.  It is a great step in the right direction, it puts us on the road to being creditable and professional as we have every right to be, however, by not taking these first steps.  We are only going to open up the RCIA to rules, regulations and restrictions imposed by others. 

-- Edited by Redfisherman on Thursday 23rd of December 2010 09:26:19 AM

-- Edited by Redfisherman on Thursday 23rd of December 2010 09:29:29 AM

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Thanks Fred, changes made. Great points! as Gary discussed there will be alot of dressing that will go into this once approved. This will become the road map for the RCIA because we will now have to make all of these things possible and achievable for the members.

My Vote is in.
Thank you Board Members for all
the hard work you have into
setting CERTIFIED RCIA members
above the competition.


Chris

garyw wrote:

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Roof Cleaning Northern Virginia (571) 250 9650 wrote:

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Roof Stain Removers wrote:

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I voted. Are y'all gonna post the names of those who voted after the voting deadline? This is America and it should be a secret ballot, but IMO there would be more accountability if you posted a list of who voted. Obviously it would be an individual decision whether or not to dicuss your vote. BTW I voted against it for several reasons.

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I voted NO as well.   This is far too much like Big Government.  Something tells me this vote will follow closely with party lines.

For those that have the drive, creativity, business savvy and common business sense, join me in voting NO on this.

Feel free to call me if you'd like hear additional rationale.

(To the Board - with the RCIA having become 'For Profit', and seeing the results of the vote so far, this will end up damaging your bottom line unless the results change during the voting process.  It's essentially splitting your current potential revenue base.)

Respectfully,

Ted

 

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This is supposed to be a work in progress with all members contributing to its formation. There has been a post in here for almost 6 weeks asking for input. Now we have put this document together for review and input, and you want ot vote NO and influence others to do the same, without posting your dislikes or offering suggestions? I don't think that is what is meant in the definition of "Team Player".

Please explain your feelings so we can all be enlightened.
Gary

 

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I'm sure Ted will answer for himself but I will post my initial comments here.

I also voted no on the adoption of the RCIA 50 Point Roof Cleaning Standard.  After reading the standard a number of items generated questions for me. 

This document was presented by the Board for an up or down vote for adoption.  Now some comments have been made that this is just a starting point and a work in progress.  If it is a work in progress, the document should have been presented to the members for a period of review and change.  Through this review and change process a document for the standard could be submitted for a vote. 

Giving a 2 day period to vote just before Christmas was also poor planning.

As far as all my reasons for voting no, I'll have to send those in a PM to the Board once I'm back home after the holidays.

I would encourge the Board to pull this vote and provide a review and suggestion period before a vote to adopt a cleaning standard.  If my objection to the way the Board has handled this matter makes me a non-team player.  So be it.

Charles

I understand TSP is illegal in some parts of the U.S. but here in Greensboro NC it is still sold at Home Depot, Lowes, and professional paint stores.

Yes, it's illegal for consumers to use, but if it is being sold to professionals here in NC and many parts of the country it can be an option. Otherwise why would they sell it, if it is totally illegal. It's not that illegal.

I think it should be an option depending on the area of the country and not restricted by the RCIA saying it's not allowed at all.

Ac- my name is Art & you can call me by my name. 
     Gary, I got your PM & I hope my post was not percieved as "hit & run."  I have about 26 hours worth of stuff to do today & 24 hours to get it done.  Here is the short version of my thought process on the "no" vote. 
     #1:  This was presented to the paying members as an up or down vote.  I found myself wishing we had a line item veto option as I read.  
     #2:  Compliance costs.  So far, I have done 2 roofs and both were done in street clothes.  Never again will any of my employees or myself set foot on a customer's property without a shirt and/or jacket that has my company name & logo on it.  Since I require the shirts, I supply them.  I also require pants on my employees but they are allowed to bring their own.  I want my team to look as professional as possible, after all they are representing me.  That said, don't tell me I have to buy them a name badge that will get lost or damaged anyway.  That's silly & it wastes my money.  
     #3:  Chemicals.  As I said I've only done 2 roofs so far.  I'm not giving up TSP unless I prove to myself it is either unnecessary or not cost effective.  I understand that some people are prohibited from using it by law.  IMHO that sucks.  Feel free to contact your elected representatives & straighten that out.  
     One last thing.   I would urge everyone to keep all communication and debate about this on the forum & not go to PMs.  l  think that would be the most expedient way to gather a consensus and find a solution we can all be proud of. 

AC Lockyer wrote:

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Industry Standard for Roof Cleaning Contractors

Planed Ratification on December 25^th 2010

Forward

The Roof Cleaning Institute of America has developed this 50 point standard for raising the bar in the roof cleaning industry. Though the roof cleaning industry is unregulated by government we at the RCIA feel that a standard needed to be set forth and the bench mark be established that all reputable roof cleaning contractors will adhere to in the future.

The RCIA feels strongly that the roof cleaning industry and owning a roof cleaning company is a great way to achieve the American Dream! We want those persuing that dream to have some guidelines to help with growing their new business. For existing companies this standard will give them the competitive edge to stand out from other cleaning industry companies that don’t specialize in roof cleaning.

This 50 point standard is the first step in the RCIA starting and recognizing certifications from ourselves and other vocational training schools. Soon the RCIA, other .ORGs and NationalSchools will begin educating, training, equipping and certifying roof cleaning contractors using this 50 point RCIA standard. As these opportunities grow so will the RCIA Standard grow. This will become an evolving document being added to on a yearly basis, by amendment, at our RCIA National Conventions.

This RCIA 50 Point Standard has been developed and constructed on by its members. It will be voted on by its members and ratified by its members with a two-thirds, majority membership vote. The Membership of the RCIA will have had a direct hand in shaping their industry from this point forward. No one person, product, method, agenda or policy will make up this document. It is bit and piece of us all and we own it.

As we vote on the ratification of this standard over the next 48 hours we will be giving birth to the structure that will define us as an association. On December 25^th 2010 the ratification of this standard will fortify the fact that carrying the RCIA Logo on your truck, uniform, business card, web site and business means that you really had to accomplish something. Gaining the RCIA Certification will mean that you are capable, serious and formidable.

Now onto the 50 points of Standard for the Roof Cleaning Industry.

Section One, Professionalism

1.Members will always maintain a professional demeanor when presenting themselves as an RCIA member.

2.Members must not communicate intentional dis-information and must do ones best to speak in facts and truths when representing RCIA or when presenting information relating to the roof cleaning industry.

3.Members will identify themselves and their vehicles clearly with company name, logo, contact information and clearly display their RCIA member decals.

4.Members shall present customers with clear and complete proposals for service and stand by prices and scope of work without wavering.

5.Members will produce a complete and correct scope of work, for customers approval, before commencing contracted work.

6.Members shall not knowingly place customers in jeopardy by placing employees on a work site without proper criminal background checks completed.

7.Members shall adhere to their States minimum standards for licensing,  insurance and workers compensation.

8.Members who maintain a web site will use the site for company promotion, customer education and commerce. The website will also display the RCIA membership e-badge / logo.

9.Members will wear uniforms for professionalism as well as for safety. Salespersons and management will be clearly identified by company branded apparel as well as wear company issued ID badges. Spray Technicians will wear duty rated uniforms for identification and chemical protection.

10.Members shall resolve customer complaints quickly and equitably and where unable enlist the help of a professional consumer mediation association closing the complaint with satisfactory results.

Section Two, Equipment

11.Members roof cleaning equipment will meet all sub-parts of this section. Each standard will be applied to members equipment wither retail manufactured, custom designed or owner installed.

12.Members will insure that whether using chemicals and or water for cleaning roofs that the outgoing pressure of the application pump (at the pump head) does not exceed 800 PSI.

13.Members will insure that whether using chemicals and or water for cleaning roofs that the outgoing pressure of the application apparatus (at the spray tip) does not exceed  100 PSI.

14.Members applying the roof cleaning chemical solution and or water under pressure, directly on a asphalt shingle surface will use a fan spray tip (15-60 degrees) at a safe distance to no closer than 18” from the surface of the roof.

15.Members will insure that roof cleaning that utilizes a zero degree stream tip is for chemical application only. Applications utilizing a zero degree stream tip are for long distance applications of chemical in excess of ten (10’) feet.

16.Members will not in any situation use mechanical agitation for removal of stains from roofing materials. Mechanical agitation can be but is not limited to, high pressure washing over 300 psi, use of flat surface cleaners, brushing, scrubbing or scraping.

17.Members shall have written standards for cleaning processes and varying pressures and chemical ratios for cleaning different roofing surfaces. Training specific to members equipment must be made available to authorized users.

18.Members shall insure that spraying equipment and holding tanks are maintained and not leaking and or emitting harmful chemicals and or VOC's.

19.Members shall insure that equipment either mounted to trailers and or directly to motorized vehicles is secured in accordance with USDOT standards. Mounts will be inspected and rated bi-annually.

20. Members shall insure that spraying equipment tanks conform to USDOT standards and remain within carrying capacities. Furthermore tanks holding chemicals can not be broken down or weakened by the chemicals stored within.

Section Three, Chemicals

21.Members shall follow either the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers (ARMA) or the RCIA’s Technical Guidelines for cleaning roofs including accepted chemicals.

22.Members are encouraged to use chemicals that have been tested and approved for cleaning roofs by either ARMA, The RCIA and or the Roofing Manufacturer.

23.Members shall become educated on the safety and usage of roof cleaning chemicals, their storage and the impact they may have on the environment.

24.Members shall mix their roof cleaning chemical solution strictly according to the chemical manufacturers label and receive training on mixing chemicals available to them.

25.Members shall use appropriate surfactants included with the sodium hypochlorite solution. Members using only sodium hypochlorite and water for roof cleaning would not be considered acceptable.

26.Members shall ensure that the final cleaning solution shall not exceed a PH of 12 for cleaning roofs. Exceeding a ph of 12 will result in a solution that is too corrosive, and detrimental to many roofing types, possibly voiding the roofing manufacturer’s warranty.

27.Members shall ensure that chemicals are carried in accordance with manufacturers label and take the steps necessary to keep incompatible chemicals from interacting with each other. Members must receive training on this topic.

28. Members shall not use Tri-sodium phosphate in any roof cleaning solution. Phosphates like TSP have been outlawed in much of the Americas therefore the RCIA does not endorse the use of TSP.

29.Members shall use chemicals that are environmentally responsible and or biodegradable. Where this is not possible members will utilize proper disposal and or collection methods to insure that good stewardship of the environment is observed.

30.Members will keep Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for each chemical carried and in use on their truck. Members will receive training on chemical disposal as well as spill clean-up and removal. Trucks will carry a spill contingency plan as well as local emergency numbers as well as contact info for Chemtreck.

Section Four, Safety

31.All members shall be required to educate themselves on the visible signs of dehydration and/or heat stroke. Member must be knowledgeable in the emergency treatment and action required to prevent further damage or death to employee or public.

32.Members shall be proficient in the proper placement of ladders regarding correct angle of slant. Member must be able to explain in detail the proper way to tie off a ladder to ensure no movement will occur. (See ANSI Standards)

33.Members shall be proficient in fall safety, the safe use of body harnesses, the inspection of said equipment, and the required times of use of said equipment. Members must also be educated in the proper use of anchoring systems associated with the use of these systems.

34.Members shall be proficient in the safe manner of accessing, ascending and walking a roof. Members must receive training for proper roof traversing techniques.

35.Members shall be proficient in the use and operation of high lift equipment that may be used on roofs. Members must be trained and checked out by the company safety officer before using high lifts.

36.Members shall use respirators and or nuisance gas masks. Members will be trained in the proper use, care and storage of respirators. Employers must have a OSHA respirator program in place that is applicable with the type of mask in use.

37.Members must shall use safety eye wear / face shield whenever mixing or spraying chemicals and or during operation of equipment that creates potential for eye accidents. Members will undergo training for the use of eye protection.

38.Whereas State or Federal DOT requires operators to have a commercial drivers license and or other endorsements, members will comply with this requirement.

39.Members shall insure that remaining chemical containers are cleaned out after use and discarded in accordance to their local municipalities’ regulations.

40.Members shall inspect and rate their equipment regularly to insure that the equipment standards are met avoiding damage to customers roofs as well as possible safety risks.

Section Five, Education

41.Members shall be required to attend a "First Aid and CPR" class taught by and documented at their local AmericanRedCrossCenter or some other qualified training center, such as police or EMS facilities.. Once the class is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

42.Members shall be required to attend a "ladder safety and inspection" class. Once the class is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

43.Members shall be required to attend a “Personal Safety Equipment (PSE)” class. Once the class is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

44.Members shall complete a “fall protection training and certification” class. Once the class is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

45.Members shall complete a DOT safety review. This is a free service. Once the review is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

46.Members shall complete proper training for “application of roof cleaning solutions”to ensure that the roof life is extended and no damages occur. Member must also explain the recommended procedure for collection of "run-off" cleaning solution. Classes for this type of training are available. Once the class is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

47.Members shall receive hands on instruction by an RCIA Certified Master Instructor in the field or applicable lab environment. Once the class is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

48.Members shall attend small business workshops and or utilize entrepreneurial centers in their area.Once the class is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

49.Members can receive all of the above training from their employer and or a vocational school if the training programs are on file with the RCIA. Once the employer or vocational school training is successfully completed documentation shall be provided to the RCIA certification committee.

50.Members shall complete a total of 12 credits (6 Hours) of annual Continuing Educational Units, (CEUs) for recertification yearly. Receipts, Certificates, Accreditations or alike will need to be scanned and forwarded by e-mail to the RCIA Certification Committee before recertification can be completed.

-- Edited by AC Lockyer on Thursday 23rd of December 2010 10:31:12 AM

-- Edited by AC Lockyer on Thursday 23rd of December 2010 10:50:07 AM

-- Edited by garyw on Thursday 23rd of December 2010 10:50:41 AM

-- Edited by AC Lockyer on Thursday 23rd of December 2010 10:52:03 AM

-- Edited by AC Lockyer on Thursday 23rd of December 2010 10:53:48 AM

 

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In the previous post concerning this "Standard" I did voice my opinion and was quickly shot down. I can't sit here at this moment and take this apart (2 days before Christmas?) but I will say that I could easily make it a 10 point Standard that would be enough. All of these are SHALL (look how laws are written with the world shall, that means it's final). Uniforms, lettering, forms, CPR, first aid and the arry of certificates we SHALL have. So, now that you all that have your certifications that will go on for a year, those of us who didn't join soon enough will be in an endless class room next year to become RCIA certified. This has gone over the edge and has made something that should be simple into what some of us fight daily with being controlled by more and more government. If this is what it will become I am sure to be only a member. This certification process has gone way too far. And yes, you guessed... I voted NO.

I have been doing remodeling for 33 years. Most were good years and then I found a new way to make a living. I have been on more roofs than most here, I have set more ladders than most here and in my 8 years as a fire fighter, I have been through the FF1, FF2 & FF3 training as well as hazmat training and proper ladder placement. Any certification I did have with that is gone since it's been about 15 years but, everything is well placed in my head. At my age I want to make a living, not sit in class rooms or pay someone to show me what I already know.

BTW... this was posted as "The Standard" to vote on, not as a work in progress as stated in a few posts.

Brett

 

Roof Cleaning Missouri 417-230-8103 wrote:

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Roof Cleaning Pro Greensboro NC (336)362 7659 wrote:

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I understand TSP is illegal in some parts of the U.S. but here in Greensboro NC it is still sold at Home Depot, Lowes, and professional paint stores.

Yes, it's illegal for consumers to use, but if it is being sold to professionals here in NC and many parts of the country it can be an option. Otherwise why would they sell it, if it is totally illegal. It's not that illegal.

I think it should be an option depending on the area of the country and not restricted by the RCIA saying it's not allowed at all.

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I am confused on this one, we can purchase TSP and I use it at times, I like it also


21.Members shall follow either the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers (ARMA) or the RCIA’s Technical Guidelines for cleaning roofs including accepted chemicals.

28. Members shall not use Tri-sodium phosphate in any roof cleaning solution. Phosphates like TSP have been outlawed in much of the Americas therefore the RCIA does not endorse the use of TSP.

Which is it? Do we follow the ARMA or Not?

technical

bulletin

Asphalt Roofing

Manufacturers Association

1156 15th St., NW, Ste. 900

Washington, DC 20005

Tel: (202) 207-0917 • Fax: (202) 223-9741www.asphaltroofing.orgARMA Form No. 217-RR-89

A member service provided by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association

Revised May 2007Algae Discolorationof RoofsNote: This document was prepared by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association and is disseminated for informational purposes only. Nothingcontained herein is intended to revoke or change the requirements or specifications of the individual roofing material manufacturers or local, state and

federal building officials that have jurisdiction in your area. Any question, or inquiry, as to the requirements or specifications of a manufacturer, should be

directed to the roofing manufacturer concerned. THE USER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSURING COMPLIANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS.

Nothing contained herein shall be interpreted as a warranty by ARMA, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of

merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or non-infringement. IN NO EVENT SHALL ARMA BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, including

special, indirect, consequential or incidental damages or damages for loss of profits, revenue, use or data, whether claimed in contract, tort or otherwise.

Where exclusion of implied warranties is not allowed, ARMA’s liability shall be limited to the minimum scope and period permitted by law.

For many years, roof discoloration caused by algae has been observed throughout the United States and Canada.

This is commonly referred to as "fungus growth." The discoloration usually has a brown to black appearance, and

may be mistaken for soot, dirt, moss, or tree droppings.

The primary species of algae being observed is Gloeocapsa Magma. This type of algae is contained in and transported

through the air, and tends to collect and grow upon roofing structures. Natural pigments produced by this

algae may cause a white or light colored roof to gradually turn dark brown or black. The algae discolorations should

not be confused with moss or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discolorations.

This type of roof discoloration has been most widespread in the Gulf States and along the Northwest and Eastern

Seaboards. It is not, however, confined to only these regions. Algae growth occurs to varying degrees in all regions

of the country, especially those subjected to warm, humid conditions. It should be noted that almost all types of

roofing systems are susceptible to algae discoloration. It is, of course, most readily visible upon white or pastel roofs,

while it is not so visible upon darker shades of roofing.

Algae discolorations are difficult to remove from roofing surfaces, but may be lightened by applying a solution ofchlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate, and water. Solutions for these ingredients may vary between shingle manufacturers

and depend on the amount of discoloration. Solutions range from one cup TSP, one gallon bleach and five

gallons of water, to one cup TSP and 2.5 gallons each of bleach and water.

 

 

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Good Point.

TSP is illegal in some parts of the US, NOT all parts.
The RCIA has to be very careful in what it endorses
for use. There can be legal ramifications to the RCIA
for blanketly endorsing something that is legal in some
states, and not in others. I believe this is why in the
50 points is was clearly stated RCIA does not endorse
the use of phosphates and TSP. This is just my observation
on this.

 

Roof Cleaning Missouri 417-230-8103 wrote:

---

 

Roof Cleaning Pro Greensboro NC (336)362 7659 wrote:

---

I understand TSP is illegal in some parts of the U.S. but here in Greensboro NC it is still sold at Home Depot, Lowes, and professional paint stores.

Yes, it's illegal for consumers to use, but if it is being sold to professionals here in NC and many parts of the country it can be an option. Otherwise why would they sell it, if it is totally illegal. It's not that illegal.

I think it should be an option depending on the area of the country and not restricted by the RCIA saying it's not allowed at all.

---

I am confused on this one, we can purchase TSP and I use it at times, I like it also


21.Members shall follow either the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers (ARMA) or the RCIA’s Technical Guidelines for cleaning roofs including accepted chemicals.

28. Members shall not use Tri-sodium phosphate in any roof cleaning solution. Phosphates like TSP have been outlawed in much of the Americas therefore the RCIA does not endorse the use of TSP.

Which is it? Do we follow the ARMA or Not?

technical

bulletin

Asphalt Roofing

Manufacturers Association

1156 15th St., NW, Ste. 900

Washington, DC 20005

Tel: (202) 207-0917 • Fax: (202) 223-9741www.asphaltroofing.orgARMA Form No. 217-RR-89

A member service provided by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association

Revised May 2007Algae Discolorationof RoofsNote: This document was prepared by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association and is disseminated for informational purposes only. Nothingcontained herein is intended to revoke or change the requirements or specifications of the individual roofing material manufacturers or local, state and

federal building officials that have jurisdiction in your area. Any question, or inquiry, as to the requirements or specifications of a manufacturer, should be

directed to the roofing manufacturer concerned. THE USER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSURING COMPLIANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS.

Nothing contained herein shall be interpreted as a warranty by ARMA, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of

merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or non-infringement. IN NO EVENT SHALL ARMA BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, including

special, indirect, consequential or incidental damages or damages for loss of profits, revenue, use or data, whether claimed in contract, tort or otherwise.

Where exclusion of implied warranties is not allowed, ARMA’s liability shall be limited to the minimum scope and period permitted by law.

For many years, roof discoloration caused by algae has been observed throughout the United States and Canada.

This is commonly referred to as "fungus growth." The discoloration usually has a brown to black appearance, and

may be mistaken for soot, dirt, moss, or tree droppings.

The primary species of algae being observed is Gloeocapsa Magma. This type of algae is contained in and transported

through the air, and tends to collect and grow upon roofing structures. Natural pigments produced by this

algae may cause a white or light colored roof to gradually turn dark brown or black. The algae discolorations should

not be confused with moss or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discolorations.

This type of roof discoloration has been most widespread in the Gulf States and along the Northwest and Eastern

Seaboards. It is not, however, confined to only these regions. Algae growth occurs to varying degrees in all regions

of the country, especially those subjected to warm, humid conditions. It should be noted that almost all types of

roofing systems are susceptible to algae discoloration. It is, of course, most readily visible upon white or pastel roofs,

while it is not so visible upon darker shades of roofing.

Algae discolorations are difficult to remove from roofing surfaces, but may be lightened by applying a solution ofchlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate, and water. Solutions for these ingredients may vary between shingle manufacturers

and depend on the amount of discoloration. Solutions range from one cup TSP, one gallon bleach and five

gallons of water, to one cup TSP and 2.5 gallons each of bleach and water.

 

 

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Oopps good catch! I didn't write the standard. We have had a post up in the prem members section for almost a month as well as one in the moderators section. Literally we posted 50 empty spots separated by 10 point categories. Members of the cert committee and others filling them in based on discussion and what the prem members asked for in their section.

I tried to take them all and make them the same tense, person and look like one person wrote them. Actually about 10 people had a hand in this. I just dressed it up and put a bow on it.

I missed that totally. I haven't read the ARMA bulletin in a LONG time. What recommendation do you have for fixing the verbiage on this?

Thanks,

AC

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa FL (813) 655-8777 wrote:

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AC Lockyer wrote:

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Roof Cleaning Missouri 417-230-8103 wrote:

---

 

Roof Cleaning Pro Greensboro NC (336)362 7659 wrote:

---

I understand TSP is illegal in some parts of the U.S. but here in Greensboro NC it is still sold at Home Depot, Lowes, and professional paint stores.

Yes, it's illegal for consumers to use, but if it is being sold to professionals here in NC and many parts of the country it can be an option. Otherwise why would they sell it, if it is totally illegal. It's not that illegal.

I think it should be an option depending on the area of the country and not restricted by the RCIA saying it's not allowed at all.

---

I am confused on this one, we can purchase TSP and I use it at times, I like it also


21.Members shall follow either the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers (ARMA) or the RCIA’s Technical Guidelines for cleaning roofs including accepted chemicals.

28. Members shall not use Tri-sodium phosphate in any roof cleaning solution. Phosphates like TSP have been outlawed in much of the Americas therefore the RCIA does not endorse the use of TSP.

Which is it? Do we follow the ARMA or Not?

technical

bulletin

Asphalt Roofing

Manufacturers Association

1156 15th St., NW, Ste. 900

Washington, DC 20005

Tel: (202) 207-0917 • Fax: (202) 223-9741www.asphaltroofing.orgARMA Form No. 217-RR-89

A member service provided by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association

Revised May 2007Algae Discolorationof RoofsNote: This document was prepared by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association and is disseminated for informational purposes only. Nothingcontained herein is intended to revoke or change the requirements or specifications of the individual roofing material manufacturers or local, state and

federal building officials that have jurisdiction in your area. Any question, or inquiry, as to the requirements or specifications of a manufacturer, should be

directed to the roofing manufacturer concerned. THE USER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ASSURING COMPLIANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS.

Nothing contained herein shall be interpreted as a warranty by ARMA, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of

merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or non-infringement. IN NO EVENT SHALL ARMA BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, including

special, indirect, consequential or incidental damages or damages for loss of profits, revenue, use or data, whether claimed in contract, tort or otherwise.

Where exclusion of implied warranties is not allowed, ARMA’s liability shall be limited to the minimum scope and period permitted by law.

For many years, roof discoloration caused by algae has been observed throughout the United States and Canada.

This is commonly referred to as "fungus growth." The discoloration usually has a brown to black appearance, and

may be mistaken for soot, dirt, moss, or tree droppings.

The primary species of algae being observed is Gloeocapsa Magma. This type of algae is contained in and transported

through the air, and tends to collect and grow upon roofing structures. Natural pigments produced by this

algae may cause a white or light colored roof to gradually turn dark brown or black. The algae discolorations should

not be confused with moss or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discolorations.

This type of roof discoloration has been most widespread in the Gulf States and along the Northwest and Eastern

Seaboards. It is not, however, confined to only these regions. Algae growth occurs to varying degrees in all regions

of the country, especially those subjected to warm, humid conditions. It should be noted that almost all types of

roofing systems are susceptible to algae discoloration. It is, of course, most readily visible upon white or pastel roofs,

while it is not so visible upon darker shades of roofing.

Algae discolorations are difficult to remove from roofing surfaces, but may be lightened by applying a solution ofchlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate, and water. Solutions for these ingredients may vary between shingle manufacturers

and depend on the amount of discoloration. Solutions range from one cup TSP, one gallon bleach and five

gallons of water, to one cup TSP and 2.5 gallons each of bleach and water.

 

 

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Oopps good catch! I didn't write the standard. We have had a post up in the prem members section for almost a month as well as one in the moderators section. Literally we posted 50 empty spots separated by 10 point categories. Members of the cert committee and others filling them in based on discussion and what the prem members asked for in their section.

I tried to take them all and make them the same tense, person and look like one person wrote them. Actually about 10 people had a hand in this. I just dressed it up and put a bow on it.

I missed that totally. I haven't read the ARMA bulletin in a LONG time. What recommendation do you have for fixing the verbiage on this?

Thanks,

AC

 

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TSP will be used in a RESPONSIBLE manner is what it should say!

 

 

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Got the edit done. see if yall like how I did it.