Certification Program for Roof Tile Installers

The Tile Roofing Institute (TRI) will launch a contractor training and certification program later this year in an effort to expand best practices for the installation of tile roofing systems. The tile roofing industry currently has no national certification program for installers, although TRI publishes several tile installation guides that are recognized internationally.

The training program will be based on TRI’s Concrete and Clay Roof Tile Installation Manual for Moderate Climate Regions, a guide that is co-sponsored by the Western States Roofing Contractors Association and recognized by the International Code Council.

In regions of the country where tile roofs are more prevalent, there is currently a disparity in the level of knowledge about proper tile roofing installation techniques. In parts of the country that have fewer tile roofs, the lack of an aggressive training program inhibits some contractors from entering the tile roofing market. TRI’s certification is designed to capitalize on both of these opportunities.

“The program will assist the contractor with the proper basic installation skills, and also help builders and home owners identify installers who are knowledgeable of the current installation guidelines,” says Charles McGrath, managing director of the TRI.

The TRI Tile Roofing Installer Certification Program will consist of a day and a half of training, followed by a written exam. The program will be taught by TRI-certified instructors and will cover broad-based tile roofing practices and techniques, including planning and execution of residential projects. It will also address regional practices present in the markets where the trainings are conducted. The first training session will be held in Southern California later this year, and subsequent sessions will be held in other locations across the country in 2006.

Upon successful completion of the course and exam, contractors will be able to use the title “Certified Tile Roofing Installer,” and companies can promote that they have certified installers on staff. A certification logo will be available for use on marketing materials, such as ads and company literature.

To learn more about participating in the TRI Tile Roofing Installer Certification Program, call 312-670-4177 or e-mail Heidi Lerfald.

The Tile Roofing Institute (TRI) is the leading resource and proponent of concrete and clay tile roofing systems. TRI manufacturer members produce 95% of the tile roofing installed in North America, and actively work with research and testing organizations and local code bodies to improve the quality, durability and affordability of tile roof systems. TRI is a non-profit trade association and membership is open to all those involved in the production, distribution and installation of clay and concrete tile roof systems. More information about TRI can be obtained by visiting www.tileroofing.org. [ return to top ]