Cole Roofing is pleased to announce that John Osterritter is being promoted to the new role of Director of construction and Field Operations. In his new role, John will oversee the PM and Operations team and the day-to-day activities of the Field Construction Team, including safety, productivity, and quality.

John has consistently shown a desire and aptitude to taking on more responsibility within Cole Roofing. Over the past few years, he has managed some of our largest and most complex projects, maintained and enhanced existing client relationships, established beneficial relationships with new clients and vendors, and created a training and onboarding program for new Project Managers. Most recently, John has taken over our internal post-contract/pre-construction procedures as well as the responsibility for overall scheduling of the Field Construction Team.  John has sat on the Cole Roofing Leadership Team since 2022 and graduated from the NRCA’s Future Executive Institute program in February of 2024.

“I look forward to mentoring him in this new role and am excited to watch his continued growth and success in Cole Roofing Co.” Jim Layman, Vice President of Construction    

 

 

 

For a century Cole Roofing has built a reputation for quality workmanship. Cole Roofing is committed to the delivery of client focused projects on time, safely constructed and on budget.

 

Alright, folks, let’s talk about something that’s always been at the heart of Cole Roofing: safety. We’ve been up on roofs across Baltimore and beyond for generations, and we know firsthand that a safe job site isn’t just about avoiding accidents – it’s about taking care of our team, our family. That’s why we’re passionate about creating a true culture of safety, one that prioritizes worker well-being every single day.

More Than Just Hard Hats: Building a Foundation of Safety

You see, safety isn’t just a checklist we run through before we head up to a roof. It’s woven into the very fabric of how we operate. It starts with comprehensive safety training. We don’t just hand out a manual and say, “Good luck.” We invest in ongoing training for every member of our team, from the newest apprentice to our most experienced foreman. We cover everything from fall protection and proper tool usage to hazard communication and emergency procedures. We make sure everyone understands the risks and knows how to mitigate them.

Open Communication: The Cornerstone of a Safe Jobsite

But training alone isn’t enough. We believe in open and honest communication. If someone sees something that doesn’t look right, we want them to speak up – no questions asked. We hold regular safety meetings, toolbox talks, and on-site inspections to ensure everyone is on the same page. We encourage our team to share their experiences and ideas, because they’re the ones on the front lines, and they often have the best insights. We believe that a culture of safety is a culture where everyone feels comfortable voicing their concerns.

Accountability: We’re All In This Together

And yes, accountability is key. We hold ourselves and each other accountable for following safety protocols. This isn’t about pointing fingers or assigning blame. It’s about ensuring that everyone understands their responsibilities and that we’re all working together to create a safe environment. We understand that mistakes can happen, and when they do, we use them as learning opportunities to improve our processes and prevent future incidents.

Why Does It Matter?

Why do we put so much emphasis on safety? Because our people are our greatest asset. They’re the ones who make Cole Roofing what it is. We believe that everyone deserves to go home safe at the end of the day. A safe job site isn’t just good for our team; it’s good for our clients, too. It means projects are completed on time and within budget, and with the high quality we are known for.

Our Commitment to You

At Cole Roofing, we’re committed to creating a culture of safety that goes beyond compliance. We’re committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and protected. It’s a commitment we’ve made for generations, and it’s a commitment we’ll continue to uphold for generations to come.

If you have any questions about our safety practices, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to share our knowledge and experience. After all, safety is something we should all be working on together.

 

We’re excited to announce that Cole Roofing and Gordian Energy Systems will be exhibiting together at NFMT Baltimore! Join us at our booth to learn how we can help you create a more sustainable, energy-efficient, and resilient building. We’re combining our expertise in commercial roofing and solar energy solutions to offer a comprehensive approach to building optimization.

Why Visit Our Booth? A One-Stop Shop for Building Solutions

We understand that managing a commercial facility is complex. That’s why we’re bringing together two essential aspects of building maintenance and improvement: roofing and solar energy. By visiting our booth, you can:

• Explore Cutting-Edge Roofing Solutions: Cole Roofing will be showcasing their latest advancements in commercial roofing materials and techniques. Learn about options that offer superior durability, energy efficiency, and fire resistance. Discuss your specific roofing needs with our experienced team and discover how we can help you protect your investment.
• Discover the Power of Commercial Solar: Gordian Energy Systems will be on hand to discuss the benefits of commercial solar energy. Learn how solar can reduce your energy costs, enhance your brand image, and contribute to a more sustainable future. We’ll be showcasing various solar solutions and discussing how they can be integrated with your existing building infrastructure.
• Get Expert Advice: Our team of experts from both Cole Roofing and Gordian Energy Systems will be available to answer all your questions. Whether you’re curious about roof maintenance, solar installation, or the combined benefits of both, we’re here to provide valuable insights and guidance.
• Network with Industry Professionals: NFMT Baltimore is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other facility managers, building owners, and industry professionals. Share your challenges, learn from others, and discover new solutions to improve your building’s performance.
• See the Synergy: We’ll be demonstrating how integrating solar with your roofing system can maximize efficiency and cost savings. Learn about best practices for combining these two critical building components and how Cole Roofing and Gordian Energy Systems can work together to provide a seamless solution.

What to Expect at NFMT Baltimore

NFMT Baltimore is a premier event for facility professionals, offering a wide range of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and exhibitor showcases. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in facility management.

Visit Us and Let’s Talk!

We’re looking forward to connecting with you at NFMT Baltimore. Stop by our booth to discuss your building needs and learn how Cole Roofing and Gordian Energy Systems can help you achieve your goals. We’ll be offering some fun give aways!

Event Details:

• Event: NFMT Baltimore
• Location: Booth # 1233 | Baltimore Convention Center | One West Pratt Street | Baltimore, Maryland 21201
• Dates: March 25-27, 2025
• Attendance: Attendance is free, get your tickets here: Home | NFMT 2025 | Baltimore Convention Center | March 25-27, 2025

We can’t wait to see you there!

At Cole Roofing, we’re not just about putting a roof over your head – we’re about ensuring that roof is a safe and reliable shield for your business. And when it comes to safety, fire protection is absolutely paramount. Commercial roofing presents unique fire hazards, and understanding these risks is the first step in mitigating them. This post will delve into why fire safety is so crucial for commercial roofing and what measures you should be considering.

The Stakes are High: Understanding the Risks

Commercial buildings often house valuable assets, critical equipment, and, most importantly, people. A fire can devastate not only the structure itself but also the operations within, leading to significant financial losses, business interruption, and, tragically, potential injuries or fatalities. Several factors contribute to fire risks in commercial roofing:

• Flammable Materials: While roofing materials have come a long way, some older or less reputable options can still be highly flammable. Think about the insulation, the roofing membrane itself, and even the adhesives used.
• HVAC Systems: Rooftop HVAC units are essential for climate control, but they also present a fire hazard. Electrical malfunctions, overheating, or even debris buildup can ignite a fire that quickly spreads to the roof.
• Construction and Repair: Hot work like welding or torch-applied roofing during construction or repairs poses a significant ignition risk. Proper protocols and trained professionals are essential during these processes.
• Lightning Strikes: Flat, expansive roofs can be particularly susceptible to lightning strikes, which can easily ignite flammable materials.
• Adjacent Structures: Fires in neighboring buildings can spread to your roof, especially in densely populated areas.

Building a Fire-Resistant Roof: Key Considerations

So, what can be done to minimize these risks? A proactive approach to fire safety is key. Here at Cole Roofing, we emphasize the following:

• Choosing the Right Materials: Opt for fire-resistant roofing materials with a high fire rating. This includes the roofing membrane, insulation, and any adhesives used. We can guide you through the available options and help you select the best materials for your specific needs and budget.
• Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Routine inspections are crucial for identifying potential fire hazards. We recommend regular checks of HVAC systems, electrical wiring, and the roof itself for any signs of damage or wear. Prompt maintenance can prevent small issues from escalating into major problems.
• Proper Installation: Even the best fire-resistant materials are useless if they’re not installed correctly. Our experienced team adheres to strict installation standards to ensure your roof’s fire safety integrity.
• Fire Suppression Systems: Consider incorporating fire suppression systems like sprinklers or foam systems, especially in high-risk areas.
• Lightning Protection: Installing a lightning protection system can significantly reduce the risk of a lightning-induced fire.
• Emergency Preparedness Plan: Having a well-defined emergency plan is essential. This includes clear evacuation routes, fire drills, and readily accessible fire extinguishers.

Cole Roofing: Your Partner in Fire Safety

At Cole Roofing, we understand the critical importance of fire safety for commercial buildings. We’re committed to providing our clients with not only high-quality roofing solutions but also expert guidance on fire prevention and protection. From material selection to regular maintenance, we’re here to help you create a safer and more secure environment for your business.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Cole Roofing today for a comprehensive assessment of your commercial roof and a personalized fire safety plan. Protecting your investment and, more importantly, the people within it is our top priority.