The topics for the breakout sessions were decided based on feedback we heard from you! Take advantage of the knowledge these top SPF professionals have to share, as their topics are geared toward your future being successful. The breakout sessions are wrapping up Thursday, so read up on them and make your selections early! Also, watch for session highlights in the Sprayfoam 2015 Show Daily and in upcoming issues of SPFA's print magazine, Sprayfoam Professional.
BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Thursday, Jan. 29
Breakout Session 3: 10:15-11 a.m.
3A. Overcoming Objections in Promoting SPF Roofing
Building material and construction costs rising, operational demands on the worksite, dislocation of occupants, misunderstanding of performance and longevity, finicky code officials? The list of objections to any roof, particularly those toward SPF roofs, is long. Discuss how to turn objections into opportunities.
3B. "Tricks and Tips of the Trade" for Roofing Detail Work
Drains, walls, curbs, pipes, edge metal and more exist on the worksite to haunt you and stall your productivity. Attend this SPF roofing contractor-led session for a discussion on field challenges and their solutions.
3C. Dealing with Overspray: How to Avoid and What to Do If It Happens
Overspray is always a concern for outdoor sprayfoam projects. Attend this session led by an industry-leading consultant who has worked on many overspray projects to discuss avoidance
and remedies.
3D. Prevention & Remediation of Ice Dams
Ice dams in buildings, the costly and damaging result of a confluence of building science principles, can be prevented. Learn how to avoid them, and in case you face them, how to deal with this problem.
3E. OSHA and SPF: Site Protection for Foamed Plastic Installations
OSHA released a National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Isocyanates in 2013 that included requirements for respiratory protection, respiratory plans, training and enforcement through increased inspections. These requirements apply to the SPF industry. Attend this session to learn how to be safe and compliant on the job.
3F. Energy Ratings – New Trend in Codes
Energy audits and ratings, home energy mortgages, training and certification, the HERS Index-scoring and your relationship with RESNET member professionals can drive your business forward. RESNET is responsible for creating the national training and certification standards for HERS Raters and Home Energy Survey Professionals, both of which are recognized by federal government agencies. Hear from RESNET executive director about energy ratings and their role in new code trends.
3G. Wall Assemblies: Where Are We in the Big Picture?
Wall assemblies are complex but stand to be one of the most effective approaches to performance. Sprayfoam has a major role in this, but when will SPF get the true energy efficiency rating it deserves? Are wall assembly designs taking advantage of the increased
strength potential of SPF? Find out answers to these questions and more.
3H. Sprayfoam Federal Agency Update: EPA & OSHA
The EPA maintains a Chemical Action Plan (CAP) on Isocyanates, and OSHA maintains a National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Isocyanates, both impacting the SPF manufacturing and contracting communities. Attend this federal paneled session by representatives of EPA and OSHA to hear an update on the programs, what they mean for you, and how to be aligned with the requirements.
3I. Government Affairs
Craig Brightup is a regular face at SPFA events and will again be providing his rundown on government relations efforts to promote energy efficiency, incentives, regulatory efforts, consequences of the mid-term elections and more.
Breakout Session 4: 11:15 a.m.-Noon
4A. Roofing Foam Lifts: Thin/Thick Foam Lifts Problems and Fixes
Foam lift thickness is an important consideration in roofing SPF and an important aspect of the manufacturer’s installation Instructions. Thick to thin, each poses its own challenges. Discuss the common problems and fixes.
4B. Preparation of Substrates Prior to Application of Foam; Primer Use
Sprayfoam is superior on a roof, but the substrate preparation plays a big role in the installation and long-term success of the project. Attend this session led by an industry-leading consultant to discuss considerations around substrates and primers.
4C. Existing Structures: How to Address a Retrofit SPF Job
Retrofit and renovation in residential and commercial projects for SPF have added challenges. They were built to codes and designs from many years ago and may have other cosmetic and functional problems that will impact your install.
4D. Open Cell Insulation: Benefits, Installation Techniques: a Primer
Open cell SPF is known as a very effective home insulation option. Attend this session to hear about all of the benefits along with the installation considerations, whether you already offer this solution or are considering it.
4E. California Department of Toxic Substances Control
In early 2014, the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) released a regulatory plan for three initial priority products, SPF among them, to undergo workshops, hearings and other steps to assess product safety and possible alternative materials. The SPF industry has been a vocal critic of the process. The SCP program has been touted as a possible model for future environmental and safety regulation across the country. Attend this DTSC staff-led session to hear about the program and get answers to your questions about possible impacts.
4F. Handling Customer Complaints and Concerns
Despite all efforts to resolve a worksite or customer issue, invariably things can go wrong on a project. How you handle this situation can either hurt or propel your business for years.
4G. Insurance for SPF Businesses
Having the right insurance for your sprayfoam contracting business is critical to be sure you, your employees, business, and customers are protected. Having proper insurance is also a requirement for qualification to the SPFA PCP Accredited Contractor program. Learn about insurance options from an SPFA partner provider and make sure your business is covered.
4H. Code and Regulatory Actions Affecting the SPF Community
Knowledge of building codes and your burden to comply is a critical component of any successful contractor. Attend this session to get up to date on code changes that may affect you so that you can properly prepare.
For more details on the breakout sessions, click here.