Month: November 2024

Employee Spotlight: Jason Dunn

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

At Maxwell Roofing, we value dedication, teamwork, and family. Jason Dunn, a service foreman, embodies these qualities every day as he brings his expertise and passion to the team. Since joining Maxwell in 2021, Jason has become a key player in our service department, ensuring that every project is handled with precision and care.

The Road to Maxwell

Jason’s journey started in New York where he was born, but he has called Tennessee home since the age of nine. After enrolling at Western Kentucky University, Jason found himself drawn to the roofing industry and left school to explore his interests. He began his career as a laborer with a small company in Nashville and worked his way up, gaining valuable experience along the way. After about seven years in production work, Jason sought a change. He wanted more time with his wife, Megan, and their two daughters, Aubree and Evie, and was able to create that balance at Maxwell Roofing.

“I worked long hours, sometimes from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. In those days, I wouldn’t even get to see my girls. Maxwell offered me the chance to do what I love while prioritizing time with my family. I’m a family man, and it feels good working for people who appreciate that and support a healthy work-life balance,” he says. 

Current Role

As a service foreman, Jason’s days are anything but routine. From chasing leaks to managing small and large-scale projects, he thrives on the variety and challenges the job presents. 

“I love that every day is different. It keeps me on my toes, and I’m always learning something new.” 

Whether he’s working solo or with a team, Jason enjoys solving problems and making sure each client’s issue is resolved to the highest standard.

Why Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. Stands Out 

For Jason, what sets Maxwell Roofing apart as an employer is the genuine care and support he experiences daily. 

“I feel valued as an individual, not just as a number. The leadership team—those at the very top of Maxwell—are always checking in, asking me how I’m doing, what’s going on in my life, thanking me, or giving me some type of bonus for doing a good job. I matter to them and they matter to me.”

The service department is built on collaboration, and Jason knows he can always rely on his colleagues for help and guidance. 

“At Maxwell, you’re never left to figure things out on your own. There’s always someone willing to help or offer advice. If I have a question, I know I can count on my team to support me, and I’m happy to do the same for them. It’s a true team effort, and that’s something I value every day.”

With three years at Maxwell Roofing under his belt, Jason is excited for what the future holds. 

“I’m very happy here and don’t plan on going anywhere. Maxwell took a chance on me, and I’m committed to giving my best every day in return.”

Personal

When Jason’s not at work, you’ll find him spending time with his family, whether it’s at his daughters’ softball games or taking vacations to Destin, Florida. He’s also a loyal sports enthusiast, so depending on the time of year, Jason is either cheering on the New York Yankees or tuning in to watch the Boston Celtics play. 

A Smart Investment: Choosing the Best Commercial Roofing System for Your Needs

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

When it comes to selecting the right roofing system for your commercial building, the decision you make can significantly impact both the value and functionality of your property. Whether you’re managing an office, retail space, or an industrial facility, choosing the best roofing system involves assessing your specific needs and long-term goals. Making a smart investment upfront can lead to reduced maintenance, better energy efficiency, and an extended roof lifespan.

Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision when selecting a roofing system for your commercial building.

Assess Your Specific Requirements: Your Building’s Function

Every commercial building is different, and so are its roofing needs. Before choosing a roofing system, it’s important to think through the intended use for your facility. The function of the building plays a significant role in determining the right roofing system. For instance, if your building houses cold storage or temperature-sensitive operations like hot yoga, you’ll need a different roof system than if you’re housing standard office space. By understanding the future plans for your building, we can help assemble the right roof system solution to fit your needs. 

The right roofing system can add long-term value to your building, while the wrong system can lead to costly issues down the road. Choosing the appropriate materials and system design upfront is essential for long-term performance. 

One standout example is L.A. Jackson, a rooftop bar at Thompson Nashville. This rooftop entertainment space required a carefully designed roof system that could support foot traffic, withstand various weather conditions, and still be aesthetically pleasing. Maxwell Roofing installed a system that met all of these needs, ensuring the long-term functionality of the space. (And if you’re considering a rooftop bar or deck for your commercial property, be sure to check out these six tips to help you plan.)  

Common Misconceptions About Commercial Roof Investments

Many building owners believe that all roofs and bids are the same, but this is a misconception that can lead to poor decisions. Here are a few common myths we often encounter:

  • “All roofs are the same.”

Not true. A premium roofing system may have a higher initial cost but will often require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan, ultimately saving money in the long run.

  • “All bids are the same if they include the same words.”

Even if two bids use similar terminology, the scope of work and the quality of materials may differ. If the total bid price is greater than a 5-7% difference, the scope is likely not the same. It’s important to work with a trusted consultant or designer to evaluate the details of each bid carefully.

  • “Roofs last 20+ years without much maintenance.” 

While it’s true that a commercial roof can last for 20+ years, this is only achievable with regular inspections, preventative maintenance, and timely repairs. Neglecting minor issues can lead to significant damage and early failure.

Making a Smart Investment

When it comes to commercial roofing, making the right investment upfront is crucial to ensuring the long-term value and functionality of your property. From selecting materials suited to your building’s specific needs to ensuring proper installation and maintenance, every step of the process plays a role in the overall performance of your roof. At Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., we’re committed to partnering with our clients to help you every step of the way. Contact us with any questions about your next project. 

Winter is Coming: 4 Commercial Roofing Tips to Help Property Managers & Building Owners Prepare Your Roof

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Winter is coming, and with it comes the potential for harsh weather conditions that can damage your commercial roof. If you’re a building owner or property manager, you know how important it is to prepare your commercial roof for the winter months.  It can help prevent costly repairs and protect your building from the elements.

Eliminate the Guesswork of Winter Roof Maintenance

Being proactive about your roof is a best practice for every season. But when it comes to winter roof maintenance, it’s not just an option—it’s a necessity. With decades of experience in Nashville and Huntsville, we know winters can be unpredictable and extreme. Every winter, commercial roofs in our area are susceptible to freezing rain or snow, significant changes in temperature, and high winds during severe weather—sometimes all in one week. 

We also recognize that one of the biggest challenges that building owners and property managers face when preparing their roofs for winter is knowing what to do. There is a lot of information out there, and it can be difficult to know where to start.

Another challenge is finding the time to winterize your commercial roof or proactively prepare your roof during the fall and winter. Building owners and property managers have a lot on their plates, and finding the time to schedule and complete roof maintenance tasks can be difficult.

As a trusted commercial roofing partner for hundreds of building owners and property managers across Tennessee and Alabama, we know how to proactively prepare every type of commercial roof and want to help you eliminate the guesswork, too.

4 Commercial Roofing Tips: How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

1. Inspect Your Roof and Address Repairs Before Winter Arrives

It’s crucial to conduct a thorough roof inspection before winter sets in. An experienced service technician can help you look for signs of external damage such as punctures or tears in the roof membrane, potential open laps or flashings around penetrations, and sealant failure, and address any issues promptly to prevent them from getting worse.

2. Remove Overhanging Tree Limbs and Clear Debris from Your Roof, Gutters, and Downspouts.  

Trees can be a danger to your roof in winter. The weight of snow and ice can cause branches to break and fall on your roof. It’s important to trim back any overhanging branches before winter arrives to prevent damage.

It’s also crucial to perform roof and gutter cleaning prior to the winter months. This can be done by removing any leaves, branches, and dirt from your roof. Secondly, you can make sure that your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris so that water can drain properly. This can help prevent water damming in the event of freezing temperatures, which can cause damage.

3. Recognize When You Should Inspect Your Roof for Damage

Determining when to assess your commercial roof for damage is another key aspect of effective maintenance. It’s important to understand that the frequency of assessments can depend on various factors, including weather conditions, roofing material, and the age of the roof. 

It can also be valuable to perform a second inspection in the middle of winter, typically during January or February. This mid-winter check can help you determine how the roof is holding up under the added stress of snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures.

4. Establish a Winter Maintenance Budget and Emergency Response Plan

One of the most frustrating aspects of managing a property is dealing with unexpected expenses. That’s why we encourage many of our partners to set aside a budget for roof repairs. A good rule of thumb is to budget 1-2% of the value of your roof each year for repairs and inspections. Budgeting for roof maintenance is one of the wisest decisions you can make to protect the health of your commercial building.

In addition, you should also develop a response plan that identifies protocols for how you will address potential roofing emergencies. Having a professional on call at all times during winter could save your building extensive damage in an emergency situation.

Let Maxwell Roofing Help You Prepare for Winter

Proactive problem-solving is a critical aspect of property management and building ownership. Maxwell Roofing has been serving Nashville and Huntsville for decades, and we have a team of experienced and certified roofers who can help you prepare your roof for winter.

By following the tips above, you can help ensure that your roof is in good condition and ready for the winter months. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Maxwell Roofing today. We are here to help you protect your commercial roof and your investment.