The official magazine of the Home Builders Association of Virginia
VIRGINIA builder
Celebrating more than 50 years of service to housing in Virginia
Vol. 22, No. 5 June 2009
Hurricane hardy
Homey and energy efficient HBAV foundation invests in the future
At ,A mOment like this,
Aren t yOu glAd yOu hAve Builders mutuAl?
Construction debris can do irreparable damage to the unprotected eye.
O
ur WorkSafe program provides our policyholders with valuable information and safety training to avoid accidents like this one.
Your very own field expert can provide free individual consultation at the jobsite and help you control losses. Plus, our policyholders have unlimited access to Builders University OSHA-approved safety courses, English/Spanish Fall Protection Certification, and our risk management CD containing valuable safety reference material. We even offer discounted “Safety Stuff,� like the attractive safety glasses above, through our online store. Staying safe and productive is just a matter of having the right tools.
800.809.4859 www.buildersmutual.com
VIRGINIA builder
Vol. 23, No. 5
June 2009
2009 HBAV officers E. Rand Sompayrac, president Michael D. Newsom, first vice president treasurer C. Richard Bogese Jr., second vice president Kevin DeChristopher, associate vice president Robin S. Newhouse, vice president-secretary Regional vice presidents Region I: Robert J. Flynn Region II: Hugh Mitchell Region III: Chip Hudnall Region IV: David Blalock Region V: Richard Coleman Region VI: David Hepler State representative John D. Stokely Jr. (Northern Virginia) HBAV staff Michael L. Toalson, executive vice president Barrett Hardiman, vice president/director of regulatory affairs Kathy M. Harley, director of administration and finance/education director James D. Bonnell, director of member benefits services Barb Preddy, administrative assistant Rhonda Allison, legislative assistant 707 E. Franklin St., Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 643-2797 www.hbav.com Editorial inquiries can be directed to: Stacey Enesey Klemenc E-mail: staceyklemenc@cox.net 2112 Flowerdew Ct. Virginia Beach, Va. 23454, (757) 427-6355 Advertising inquiries can be directed to: Lisa Nixon E-mail: vabuilderads@yahoo.com 2213 South Brook Drive, Orange Park, FL 32003, (877) 449-2535 Published by Association Publishing Inc. www.associationpublishinginc.com Sandra K. Amidon, Joyce F. Hearn APR 2117 Smith Ave., Chesapeake, Va. 23320 (757) 420-2434 Advertising sales assistant Valerie Myers Graphic designer Paige Takach To change your address (804) 643-2797 Virginia Builder mails copies of the magazine to names supplied by the Home Builders Association of Virginia. To correct your address, please contact HBAV at the number above. Nonmember subscriptions are available from the publisher for $27 a year. Virginia Builder (ISSN 1552-8715) is published nine times a year for members of the Home Builders Association of Virginia and is edited according to AP style. Acceptance of advertising in Virginia Builder does not imply endorsement of the product or service by the Home Builders Association of Virginia. Opinions expressed in articles are those of the authors and people quoted and not necessarily those of the Home Builders Association of Virginia. Mention of specific products or services in editorial content does not imply endorsement by Virginia Builder or the Home Builders Association of Virginia. No material may be reproduced for further publication without the express permission of the association and the publisher.
Affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders.
June 2009
After more than two years’ effort, the Australian-based LiteSteel Technologies has opened a new $30 million plant in Troutville to manufacture lightweight steel beams for residential use in North America. (Photo courtesy of LiteSteel Technologies America LLC.)
departments 3 President’s Perspective 6 Product Roundup: Make your homes hurricane hardy 10 HBAV Build-PAC Honor Roll 12 Membership Benefits Update 14 Counsel’s Corner: Vested rights erosion 16 In the limelight: Peninsula Housing & Builders Association 19 Spike Summary 20 Stateline 20 Advertisers’ Index
FEATURES 4 It’s almost time for the 2009 convention 6 2009 hurricane season outlook includes seven named storms 11 Energy efficiency – what a concept! 13 HBAV Educational Foundation makes a difference 18 Gores Group acquires majority stake in Stock Building Supply 19 LiteSteel Technologies America begins beam production at Virginia facility 20 Call Miss Utility of Virginia
On the cover: Hurricane-resistant products are designed to withstand severe and damaging weather conditions, while not detracting from a home’s good looks. The 2008 New American Home in Orlando, for instance, features StormBreaker Plus windows from Simonton. (Photo courtesy of Simonton Windows.) Virginia Builder 1
w h at ’ s i n s i d e
The official magazine of the Home Builders Association of Virginia
2 Virginia Builder
June 2009
By Rand Sompayrac, 2009 HBAV president
H
ousing is critically important! I which is currently reviewing recommended have heard it said many times changes to the Uniform Statewide Build“housing led us into this recession ing Code. This is not the time to make and housing will lead changes in the USBC that us out.” Housing should have will increase the cost of new massive incentives, it being one homes and many such proposals of the prime generators of the are on the table. They range nation’s economy. It is estimated from requiring tamper-resistant that housing and its associate receptacles to be installed industries contribute more than house-wide to the same for 5 percent to the nation’s gross expensive arc-fault receptacles domestic product. and — the most expensive of Recently, I followed the all — mandatory sprinklers for HBAV lead and filed an oball new one- and two-family Rand Sompayrac jection regarding the Virginia dwelling units. Board for Contractor’s proposal HBAV is the only association HBAV is the to increase its contractor fees represented at every BHCD only association meeting on the proposed at all levels. Government and quasi-government agencies, like changes to the USBC that will represented at most of our local governments, affect residential housing. Once every BHCD are struggling with significantly every three years is a code reduced revenue streams due to year in Virginia and I am very meeting on our severe building contraction. pleased that we have HBAV the proposed Why is their solution always to at the table representing our aggressively increase the fees industry in that complex and changes to the for us to do business? controversial environment. USBC that will In these difficult times, it is The primary responsibility of wrong for agencies to increase affect residential HBAV is “to promote a suitfees at our and our customers’ able environment to ensure the housing. expense. At all levels — local, vitality of the building industry, state and national — the fees so as to benefit its members we are charged to do business continue and the citizens of the Commonwealth.” to escalate. Earlier this decade, a common It seems our industry is always a prime tactic localities employed to slow growth was target of increased fees and taxes but to significantly increase fees thus increasing HBAV remains vigilant and will continue to the total cost of new housing. vigorously defend your right to do busiThis practice did two things. First, it ness with limited government or outside increased the price of new housing stock, agency intervention. thereby raising fees and tax revenues for The 2009 Statewide Membership Drive the localities. And second, it was dejust finished. I greatly appreciate all the ceptively used by localities as a form of hard work from every local association in growth control. our federation. Great things were accomTheir current modus operandi now that plished by many dedicated people across their revenues have declined is to raise the Commonwealth who understand it’s any and all applicable fees to fund their our duty to communicate the importance own “bailout.” This scenario is negatively and relevancy of our associations. impacting building contractors. Now is Bob Schultz, the HBAV membership not the time for local, state and national training specialist, made an impor tant administrations to raise taxes. observation that everyone in the buildThe same would apply to the Board ing industry should remember. He said, for Housing and Community Development, “Wouldn’t it be great if someone were June 2009
working diligently and passionately every day on behalf of you and your business, lobbying your local, state and federal governments to protect your business interest, (See PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE on page 7)
WHAT WE DO EVERY DAY, POWERS YOUR EVERY DAY.
www.dom.com Virginia Builder 3
president’s perspective Sponsored by Dominion
Increasing fees and builders’ costs won’t stimulate the economy
Heading for Hilton Head
It’s almost time for the 2009 convention
W
e’re coming down to the wire but you’ve still got time to take advantage of the fun and networking opportunities you’ll discover at the Home Builders Association of Virginia’s 2009 Convention on the island of Hilton Head, S.C., Sunday, June 21, until Wednesday, June 24. Located along a pristine stretch of sandy white beach in Port Royal Plantation, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa promises to provide HBAV members and guests the utmost in Southern hospitality. Named to Conde Nast Traveler’s 2002 Gold List, this rejuvenating resort features plenty of activities for all ages. Within the plantation, there are bicycle and jogging paths, three championship golf courses and 16 tennis courts. There are also lots of other activities you can engage in nearby — such as kayaking, deep-sea fishing and horseback riding — which the hotel’s concierge can help you arrange. The Westin offers several renowned dining options, including a AAA four-diamond restaurant, The Barony Grill. There are several outdoor pools and a heated indoor pool at the hotel, as well as a white sand beach for those who prefer the Atlantic Ocean. The cost to attend the 2009 convention is $495 for members and $395 for spouses, guests and children older than 6. Children 6 years and under are free. No HBAV registration refunds will be given after June 6. There’s an additional $87 fee for golfers who want to sign up for the HBAV Annual Business Networking Golf Tournament Tuesday, June 23. Tee off begins at 11 a.m. There is no charge to play in the HBAV Annual Business Networking Tennis Tournament from 2-4 p.m. Monday. However, players must preregister. As in years past, HBAV’s associates are planning to sponsor a night to remember. “Cooking with the Associates,” a Parrot Head Beach Party, is slated for 7-11 p.m. Monday, June 22. Conventioneers must register directly with the hotel to reserve a room at the group rate, subject to availability. Cost for a room with a traditional island view is $199, a partial ocean view is $229 and a prime ocean view is $259. To reserve a room, call (800) 937-8461 or visit www.starwoodmeeting.com/ Book/8B18. The hotel’s number is (843) 681-4000. For more information about the upcoming 2009 state convention, call HBAV at (804) 643-2797. VAB
Schedule of Events SUNDAY, JUNE 3-5 p.m. 4 p.m. 5-5:30 p.m. 6-7:30 p.m.
21 HBAV registration Hotel check-In HBAV Associates Committee meeting Welcome reception
MONDAY, JUNE 8-8:45 a.m. 8:45-10:00 a.m. 10 a.m.-noon 10-11 a.m. 11 a.m.-noon Noon-1:30 p.m. 2-4 p.m. 7-11 p.m.
22 HBAV welcome breakfast Business sessions I and II HBAV membership meeting HBAV Build-PAC Committee meeting HBAV Legislative Committee meeting HBAV board of directors meeting HBAV Annual Business Networking Tennis Tournament Associate-sponsored dinner event
TUESDAY, JUNE 8-8:45 a.m. 8:45-10 a.m. 11 a.m. 6-7 p.m. 7-11 p.m.
23 President’s breakfast Business sessions III and IV HBAV Annual Business Networking Golf Tournament Cocktail reception Awards banquet, dinner and dance
It’s not too late to join friends and colleagues from across the Commonwealth for a little R&R at HBAV’s annual convention June 21-24 in Hilton Head.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24 Noon Hotel check-out 4 Virginia Builder
June 2009
HBAV Registration Form 2009 Annual Convention • The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa Sunday, June 21 - Wednesday, June 24 Name:________________________________________ $_______________
Prices
_____________________________________ $_______________
Member $495 Spouse/Guest $395 Children $395 (Children 6 years and under are free.)
_____________________________________ $_______________
No HBAV registration refunds after June 6, 2009
Spouse/Guest:_________________________________ $_______________ Children: _____________________________________ $_______________
Golf ($87)
$_______________
TOTAL
$_______________
Tennis (N/C)
# of People_________________________
Company:_____________________________ Phone:__________________ Address:______________________________ Fax:____________________ City:__________________________________ State:_______ Zip:_________ E-Mail Address:_______________________________________________ Local Association:_____________________________________________ l Builder l Associate l Other
Dig With C.A.R.E. Keep Virginia Safe! Whether your project is big or small, one free and easy call gets the underground utility lines marked and helps avoid costly damages, fines and even personal injury. So, please call 811 and dig with C.A.R.E.
June 2009
Return this form with payment to: HBAV, 707 East Franklin St., Richmond, VA 23219 (804) 643-2797 • Fax (804) 780-2482 Payment: l Check Enclosed l VISA l Master Card Amount Paid:__________________________________________________ Card Number:_________________________________________________ Expiration Date:________ Signature:_______________________________ Hotel Reservations may be made at the following Web address before June 6, 2009: http://www.starwoodmeeting.com/Book/8B18 or by calling 800-937-8461
Call Miss Utility at before you dig. Allow required time for marking. Respect the marks. Excavate carefully.
This message brought to you by the Virginia State Corporation Commission
Virginia Builder 5
By Stacey Enesey Klemenc
Put up a safety net
The next time a hurricane breezes into town, your newest house could be ready to stop a wayward limb or a hurling 2-by-4 dead in its tracks. Designed to stand up to most anything Mother Nature can toss about, Typar StormWrap is equipped with a web of fibers that acts as a net to catch and resist windborne objects. It’s similar to the company’s flagship
Typar StormWrap is a fiber-reinforced weather-resistant barrier designed to protect homes and businesses from the throes of extreme weather.
s
product roundup
Make your homes hurricane hardy product, Typar Housewrap, in that both have outstanding tear strength. The fiber-reinforced weather-resistant barrier product, designed for both residential and commercial use, also blocks exterior water and moisture from penetrating, yet allows wall cavities to breathe and stay dry. As part of the Typar Weather Protection System, it contributes to the requirement for the Energy Star Qualified New Home program as an important component in the air sealing and insulating category. Installing it can earn builders points in various green building programs. StormWrap is Miami-Dade County and
2009 hurricane season outlook includes seven named storms
A
s the 2009 hurricane season begins, things don’t look as bad for the East Coast compared to what’s predicted for the Gulf Coast. The Weather Research Center in Houston reports there’s a 70 percent chance this year that the region from Louisiana to Alabama will experience landfall of a tropical storm or hurricane. States along the Atlantic seaboard are given 30 percent odds. “We expect at least seven named storms with four of these tropical storms intensifying into hurricanes this season,” says Jill Hasling, WRC president. “We’re forecasting the season will continually elevate with tropical storm activity and we’re predicting that August, September and October will be the most likely months for extremely active situations.” The WRC Orbital Cyclone Strike Index forecast also includes heavy activity for the Atlantic, says Hasling. OCSI was developed in 1984 to indicate which section of the U.S. coastline has the highest risk of experiencing a tropical storm or hurricane.
6 Virginia Builder
s If you build in coastal areas, you would be wise to investigate the plethora of impact-resistant products on the market today, including windows, roofing, entry doors and garage doors. Impactresistant products are tested to withstand severe weather and flying debris that could damage a home. When severe weather is forecast, homeowners often must evacuate a home with very little time to secure it. (Photo courtesy of Simonton Windows.)
The OCSI has a proven 88 percent accuracy rate. For 2009, the OCSI forecast includes the following coastal areas and their chance of experiencing violent weather: • Louisiana to Alabama – 70 percent • West Florida – 60 percent • Georgia to North Carolina – 50 percent • Mexico – 40 percent • Texas 40 – percent • East Florida – 30 percent • U.S. East Coast – 30 percent
Other 2009 predictors from the WRC OCSI include: • Number of named storms: 7 • Number intensifying into hurricanes: 4 • Number of hurricane days: 7 • Number of tropical storm days: 47 • U.S. landfalls: 3 • Cat 3 or higher storms in the Atlantic: 50 percent For the full 2009 Hurricane Season Forecast, call (713) 529-3076 or visit www. wxresearch.org. VAB June 2009
President’s Perspective (continued from page 3)
assuring the public that buying a brand-new home is a smart thing to do, and also providing you with unparalleled business education and networking opportunities?” Well, guess what folks? That’s what HBAV and its affiliates are doing! As you are reading this article, we are (or nearly are) at the beach on Hilton Head Island enjoying the camaraderie of our fellow builders and associates from around the state, discussing new building products and techniques, discovering the latest sales and marketing trends, finding the best methods of utilizing the tax credit and new mortgage techniques … all while savoring a cool refreshment and a welldeserved break. VAB
s Great Barrier premium siding from Norandex — seen here in one of the company’s newer colors, Firebrick — is popular with contractors in Virginia because its Jawslock system provides for a truer and straighter installation.
Florida Building Code approved. It will not support the growth of mold or degradation of interior air quality. For more information, call (919) 457-3030 or visit www.typar.com.
It’s a Great Barrier
If you build on the coast or in other areas where high winds often pull down other siding panels, Great Barrier from Norandex may be just the panel you’re looking for. On the outside it looks like natural cedar and comes in 15 classic colors as well as a variety of new deeper designer shades. But its real beauty lies deep within the .044 inch-thick panel. An innovative locking system called Jawslock combines a 3/4-inch panel projection and a reverse rolled-over nail hem that doubles the siding thickness at the nailing surface for resistance against high winds. Visit www.norandex.com for more information.
Shutter with a view
Forget the hurricane shutters, special screens or plywood if you install hurricane Gorell Windows & Doors. The made-in-theUSA, energy-efficient windows are especially designed to continually protect homeowners and their homes from airborne debris during storms while still letting in natural daylight. They also protect against intrusion, reduce noise infiltration and significantly block UV rays.
let us help you grow your business . Visit one of these locations : Fishersville, vA 22939 (540)337-9300 (800)914-8959 FAx(540)337-9306 Fredericksburg, vA 22401 (540)373-5253 (888)246-5264 FAx(540)373-5293 gAinesville, vA 20155 (703)753-8814 (800)237-5434 FAx(703)753-8834 glen Allen, vA 23059 (804)550-3711 (800)544-7701 FAx(804)550-5137 newport news, vA 23606 (757)873-3939 (800)927-4477 FAx(757)873-0134 norFolk, vA 23502 (757)857-5377 (800)868-5377 FAx(757)855-4201 richmond, vA 23237 (804)714-0974 (800)818-3853 FAx(804)714-1397
Stop Fishing Around. Once You See Our Products You'll be Hooked!
That’s because Norandex Building Materials Distribution offers builders the largest selection of top name, top quality exterior building products. Our name is catching on with leading builders around the country because we offer value, unmatched service, and strongly back every product we sell. See us for:
SIDING & SOFFIT WINDOWS SKYLIGHTS
DOORS STORM PRODUCTS VINYL FENCE GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS SHUTTERS
SPECIALTY ROOFING ACCENT PRODUCTS
roAnoke, vA 24012 (540)362-9200 (800)346-2230 FAx(540)362-2529
DECK & RAIL MANUFACTURED STONE and MORE!
winchester, vA 22603 (540)662-2244 (800)327-2142 FAx(540)667-8779
Norandex. When you hook-up with us you’re landing what you’ve always wanted in an exterior building products supplier.
www.norandex.com
(See HURRICANE HARDY on page 9) June 2009
Virginia Builder 7
Build A Relationship Full of
SAvingS!
Builder/Contractor Advantages • Priority scheduling for installation & service • Experienced sales team providing personal service • 24-hour fully staffed emergency service • Referral Rewards & MUCH MORE! Call us TODAY for a no obligation consultation. Charlottesville (434) 295-4194
Kenbridge (434) 676-8217
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Madison Hts. (434) 528-9843
South Hill (434) 447-3600
Emporia (434) 634-3136
Mt. Jackson (540) 477-9355
Stephens City (800) 237-1320
Fredericksburg (540) 898-0357
Petersburg (804) 862-4560
Suffolk (757) 539-5371
Gloucester (804) 693-9046
Portsmouth (757) 488-7803
Warrenton (540) 347-2055
Harrisonburg (888) 526-3189
Ranson, WV (800) 222-0808
Warsaw (804) 333-3790
Iron Gate (540) 862-4148
Richmond (804) 783-9500
Waynesboro (540) 942-4101
www.amerigas.com 8 Virginia Builder
June 2009
s Gorell’s Armor Max Plus windows are specially engineered to protect a home and its contents from violent weather year round without having to do anything special.
Hurricane hardy (continued from page 7)
Unlike with other storm protectors, homeowners only need to close and lock the windows when violent weather approaches. Gorell’s top-of-the-line windows — Armor Max Plus — include a double-hung model with tilt-in sash, a two-lite lift-out slider and a picture window. All three models have passed ASTM Large Missile Impact testing to 140 mph and boast Texas Department of Insurance approval, which allows them to be installed anywhere needing hurricane protection, right up to the coastline. The company touts its ability to provide consistent two-week delivery on hurricane products year round. This means homeowners can still replace windows during hurricane season. Armor Max Plus windows incorporate three panes of glass, two of which sandwich a nearly impenetrable PVB interlayer. The glass is deeply embedded into the sash, significantly increasing the windows’ structural integrity. The rigid master frames have 13 separate insulating chambers and heavy-duty double-cam sweep locks. The windows have a low-E coating and are filled with argon gas. For more information, call (724) 465-1800 or visit www.gorell.com.
s Marvin’s Integrity Impact products achieve their Wind Zone 3 rating without adding unsightly reinforcements.
Consisting of double-hung, awning and casement windows, outswing doors and direct glaze shapes, Impact products meet International Building Codes for many coastal states. The line is certified by the Window and Door Manufacturers Association to sustain in winds up to 140 mph and withstand impact from an 8-foot-long 2-by-4 stud traveling at 50 feet per second. The windows are made of a UV-resistant pultruded fiberglass called Ultrex, which is
a perfect fit for the salt-ridden and intense UV exposure of the coastal areas. It’s twice as strong as steel and eight times stronger than vinyl. It will not degrade in coastal conditions. Thanks to optional PVD metal finishes and optional stainless-steel hardware, Integrity offers even more corrosion protection. For more information, call (888) 5378263, or visit www.integritywindows. com. VAB
A product with Integrity
With hurricanes and coastal storms increasing, Integrity from Marvin Windows and Doors offers its Impact family of products, a line of high-performing, energy-efficient Wind Zone 3-rated windows and doors.
June 2009
Virginia Builder 9
2009 HBAV Build-PAC Honor Roll
build-pac
(as of April 7, 2009)
Governor’s Club
Century Club
Jeff Ainslie/John Ainslie Ainslie Group Tidewater BA Jules Elliot Olde Colony Homes Inc. Fredericksburg Area BA Douglas R. Fahl Dewberry Northern VA BIA Thomas Jordan Carrhomes Inc. Northern VA BIA Mak Koebig Peak Construction Co. Inc. Shenandoah Valley BA/ Piedmont BIA Robin Newhouse/ Dominion Virginia Power Fredericksburg Area BA Pam Pekrun Tidewater BA Ginger Slavic-Jones Craig Builders Blue Ridge HBA Henry H. Stephens Personal Peninsula H&BA Scott Sterling IDI Group Cos. Northern VA BIA John D. Stokely Jr. Personal Northern VA BIA Tidewater BA Tidewater BA Tidewater BA
Tommy Balzer Birthright Family Limited Partnership HBA of Richmond Roy O. Beckner S.W. Rodgers Co. Inc. Northern VA BIA Shawn Callahan Metwood Building Solutions Roanoke Regional HBA Pam Comstock/ Gilbert C. Martin Co. Inc. HBA of Southside VA Gilbert Martin Kevin DeChristopher Mid-South Building Supply Top of VA BA Richard Entsminger Personal Northern VA BIA Bill Garrett W.B. Garrett Inc. HBA of Richmond Chip Hudnall Chip Hudnall Custom Building HBA of Rappahannock John Olivieri Associated Development Mgmt. Corp. Tidewater BA Mark Granville-Smith Personal Northern VA BIA Clark Massie Tetra Corp. Northern VA BIA Charles Miller Miller Custom Homes Tidewater BA James Petrine Enirtep Inc. Roanoke Regional HBA Danny Plucinik Cardan Homes HBA of Southside VA J.M. Snell II Valley Renovations Inc. Shenandoah Valley BA Roland Specter Specter Construction HBA of Southside VA Clement “Kim” Tingley Tingley Construction Co. HBA of Richmond
General Assembly Club Clem Carlisle East West Partners HBA of Richmond Richard A. Coleman Coleman Homes Inc. Fredericksburg Area BA Sam Craig Craig Builders Blue Ridge HBA Benjamin Graham The Graham Cos. Northern VA BIA C. Richard Napier Personal HBA of Richmond Vincent Napolitano/ Napolitano Homes Tidewater BA John Napolitano
Capitol Club David Blalock FSK Management Peninsula H&BA C. Richard Bogese Jr. Personal HBA of Southside VA James L. Carver James L. Carver Builder Fredericksburg Area BA Anthony Clatterbuck Graystone Homes Inc. Piedmont VA BIA Louis V. Genuario Jr. Genuario Cos. Northern VA BIA Louis Hale Walsh, Colucci, Lubeley, Emrich &Walsh Northern VA BIA Hugh T. Mitchell Personal BA of Southern VA Frederick Napolitano/ Pembroke Enterprises Inc. Tidewater BA Richard Olivieri Michael Newsome Clark Whitehill Co. Tidewater BA John Peterson Terry Peterson Residential Cos. Tidewater BA Rand Sompayrac Personal Fredericksburg Area BA Preston Stallings Personal Blue Ridge HBA William G. Thomas/ Reed Smith LLP Northern VA BIA Maureen Stinger Kenneth O. Thompson Ken Thompson & Associates Inc. Northern VA BIA
Build-PAC Honor Roll 2009
Partners Club C. Eugene Baker C.E. Baker Construction Inc. Peninsula H&BA David Bomgardner Personal Northern VA BIA Ron Boothe Boone Homes Roanoke Regional HBA Walter Cheatle Jr. Trigon Homes Piedmont VA BIA Richard Costello AES Consulting Engineers Peninsula H&BA Claudia K. Cotton Personal Tidewater BA David Dunwody Personal Piedmont VA BIA Peter Fields Fields Construction Inc. Roanoke Regional HBA Bob Flynn Personal Roanoke Regional HBA Don Haight Full Services LLC Piedmont VA BIA William Halprin Personal Tidewater BA Chris Hargis Kitchen & Bath Ideas Builders & Associates of Central VA John Hendrickson John A. Hendrickson Construction HBA of Rappahannock Ron Herring The Home Crafters HBA of Rappahannock Todd Holtzman Holtzman Propane Piedmont VA BIA Walt Hopkins Cave Hill Corp. Shenandoah Valley BA Jim Jackson Superior Equipment Sales Inc. Tidewater BA Ron Johnson Personal Piedmont VA BIA Pete Kotarides Kotarides Developers LLC Tidewater BA Steve Lawson The Lawson Cos. Tidewater BA Laura Newman Newman Properties Piedmont VA BIA Joe Miller EJ Miller Construction Co. Roanoke Regional HBA David & Judy Milstead Milstead Construction Shenandoah Valley BA Kenneth Patterson D.K. Patterson Construction Shenandoah Valley BA Personal Bruce Reese Fredericksburg Area BA Ron Saunders Personal HBA of Rappahannock Tommy Shields Jr. Shields Construction Co. Augusta HBA G.H. Sturtevant Wel-Vant Construction Tidewater BA C. Warren Wakeland HBA of Richmond HBA of Richmond Mike West R.D. Wade Builder Inc. Blue Ridge HBA Wendell A. White Personal Tidewater BA
Thank You for Your Help! 10 Virginia Builder
June 2009
Energy efficiency – what a concept! by Valerie Myers
I
n April, nationally known building firm K. Hovnanian’s Landover Group unveiled its Building America Concept Home, which will serve as a resource center for the public to gain firsthand information on the most recent energy-efficient residential building measures. From the outside, the 3,050-squarefoot home blends right in with the other houses in the Eagles Point development in Woodbridge. But inside, consumers can take guided tours through the house and receive a high-level overview of the technology and construction practices used to create the energy-efficient home. “Anyone who visits the house can get information on all the different products used in the construction of the home,” says Chris Payne, purchasing manager for K. Hovnanian’s Landover Group. “There are interactive displays set up that showcase the energy-efficient features as well as brochures on the various products.” The Landover Group has been a member of Building America’s Integrated Building and Construction Solutions (IBCOS) research team for the past nine years and the Woodbridge concept home is the fifth Building America home the firm has constructed. Launched in 1991, Building America is a program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy that forms research partnerships with residential building industry professionals to improve the quality and energy efficiency of homes. The ultimate goal of the program is to have net zero-energy homes, or homes which produce as much energy as they use, by the year 2020. IBCOS partners with builders and developers to deliver homes that are more energy efficient, safe, healthy, durable, comfortable and environmentally responsible. The concept home also provides a means to showcase K. Hovnanian’s relationship with the Department of Energy and IBCOS to other industry professionals. “Our experience with IBCOS has been great,” says Payne. “Being a part of the research team has been a valuable learning experience and we enjoy being able to introduce these energy-efficient standards to home buyers in the Mid-Atlantic region.” The concept house is an example of
June 2009
the systems-engineering approach to building homes that Building America promotes. Systems engineering considers the house as one whole system, as opposed to a number of different components. Homes are built considering the interaction between the building envelope, mechanical systems, landscaping, neighboring houses, orientation, climate and other factors. “The systems-engineering approach allows us to achieve the greatest level of energyefficiency for each home,” says Payne. The concept home is also a K. Hovnanian High Performance Home (HPH), a standard recently implemented by the Landover Group as a result of its involvement with IBCOS. HPH standards greatly increase the energy efficiency of a new home without raising the price. “Our HPH standard maximizes value for the consumer at no extra cost,” says Payne. “A home buyer will pay no more for an HPH (home) than they would for
a comparable code-built home, but HPH owners will save on their overall energy costs.” The Landover Group has gotten high marks for the concept home. At the unveiling, the home was awarded a gold level rating from the NAHB National Green Building Standard and also achieved Energy Star certification. “We have gotten a lot of positive feedback in response to our energy-saving efforts from our trade partners, other builders and local government officials,” says Payne. The Landover Group already has plans to start construction on two more Building America homes in the coming months. Tours of the Woodbridge concept house are being offered each Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. To schedule a tour, call (703) 580-9942 or visit www.khov.com/ highperformance. (Valerie Myers is a staff writer.) VAB
Cookin’ with the Associates June 22, 2009
Here’s to our sponsors with good taste! 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Dominion Virginia Power First Market Bank HBAV Benefits Group Metwood Inc. Mid-South Building Supply
PRO-Build Stock Building Supply Superior Equipment Sales Virginia Housing Development Authority
Virginia Builder 11
Member benefits update
HBAV partners with Verizon Wireless by Jim Bonnell, LUTCF, director of member benefit services
T
he Home Builders Association of Virginia has recently partnered with Verizon Wireless and the Home Builders Purchasing Program to obtain significant discounts on wireless service for eligible contractor members. Some of the highlights of this new program are below:
• • • • • •
Bonnell
Corporate discount – 22 percent (all calling plans $34.99 and higher) Free activation for all corporate subscribers (not employees) Employee discount – 18 percent (calling plans $34.99 and higher) Data feature discount of 17 percent ($24.99 data feature and higher) Accessory discount of 25 percent $20 unlimited data feature for Blackberry and PDA devices (corporate lines only – standard pricing is $44.99) • Broadband access (data card access) – 17 percent discount • Variable discount on phones (depending on the phone)
To be eligible for this discount, member firms must be a member in good standing; derive all, or substantially all, of its revenue from the construction industry; and be a construction company, home building company, remodeling company or other trade or craftsman (e.g., a subcontractor such as an electrician or plumber whose primary trade is within the construction industry). For more information, please call me at (804) 643-2797.
HBAV Member Rebate Program increases builders’ buying power The newest member benefit from HBAV is the Member Rebate Program for builders. This program is the result of using the combined buying power of the builders in the association, combined with many other states, to qualify for the same manufacturers’ rebates that the nation’s largest builders receive. • The program doesn’t require builders/remodelers to change how they do business. • The supply chain is not affected. • No receipts are required. • Claims are filled quarterly for all homes or projects that are closed or completed. Participants saved an average of $762.35 last year! The first step to get started is to register for the program. Simply visit www.HBAV.com and click on the link on the right side of the home page: “HBAV Member Rebate Program.” Page 7 of this document is the registration form. As an incentive to get Virginia’s builders started in the program, retroactive membership is being allowed back to Jan. 1 of this year. This means all homes that closed between Jan. 1 and March 31 are eligible for rebates. For more information, visit www.HBAV. com or call program administrators at (866) 849-8400. VAB
12 Virginia Builder
June 2009
HBAV Educational Foundation makes a difference
T
The Home Builders Association of Virginia wishes to express its appreciation to the following members for their generous support of the 2009 Annual Sponsorship Program:
June 2009
Authority
Virginia Builder 13
2009 Annual Sponsorship rogram
he HBAV Educational Foundation continued its investment in the future of Virginia’s building industry April 17 by awarding two scholarships to students enrolled in the building construction program at Virginia Tech. These substantial scholarships mark the third consecutive year the foundation’s board of trustees has unanimously agreed to provide financial support to students at the Myers-Lawson School of Construction. Erich S. Roscher of Staunton is a junior at Virginia Tech majoring in construction engineering and management/structural engineering. Roscher He plans to graduate in May 2011. Recently, Roscher completed a semester co-op in Gulfport, Miss., where he worked as a construction site supervisor. He’s also a captain and personnel lieutenant for Southwest Virginia’s Mountain Rescue Group, a student member of Blacksburg’s Volunteer Rescue Squad, a group leader for New Life Christian Fellowship and the captain of his intramural soccer team. All of these extra curricular activities help him maintain an average of 80 hours of community service per month. David K. Glenn of Virginia Beach is a junior at Virginia Tech majoring in building construction with a real estate minor. He expects Glenn to graduate in May 2011. When he graduates, he plans to pursue a career in the residential construction industry and one day hopes to own a full-service land development company. Glenn currently serves as an abusive conduct hearing board member in the Office of Judicial Affairs, is an Executive Committee member of Virginia Tech’s G.E.R.M.A.N. Club and a member of the student chapter of the Construction Management Association of America. He also plays various intramural sports. Both students will receive $2,000 toward their fall semester tuition. Upon successful completion of this first semester, they will be PLATINUM eligible for another $2,000 in spring 2010. “The board of trustees wants to sincerely Dominion Virginia Power congratulate these young leaders on their HBAV Benefits Group impressive track record up to this point Virginia Housing Development in their collegiate careers. It is the hope of our leadership that these young men continue to grow and excel in their studSILVER ies and that these scholarships help them Clark Whitehill Enterprises Inc. as they develop into the future leaders of the home building industry here in Virginia,” Creative Home Builders LLC says Chairman Doug Fahl. FSK Property Management The mission of the HBAV Educational Mid South Building Supply Foundation is to enhance industry professionalism and to invest in the future PRO-Build leaders of the home building industry in Virginia. For additional information about BRONZE the foundation or to make a contribution, please contact Jim Bonnell, HBAV’s direcMeridian Construction Capital tor of member benefits services, at (804) Napier Signature Homes 643-2797. VAB
counsel's corner
Vested rights erosion by Michael Banzhaf
L
andowners familiar with permitted development of “retail sales” without conditions and allowed gross floor area to be developed the proffer system in the in a commercial building of any size. No structure Commonwealth of Virginia on the proffered concept plan submitted with the rezoning application exceeded 80,000 square feet know the difficult negotiain a single location. tion process required to formulate On May 9, 2006, the Blacksburg Town Council approved the rezoning application. On March 27, proffers sufficient to obtain approval 2007, in response to citizens’ concerns about a boyack Banzhaf of a rezoning. Once accepted by proposed 176,000-square-foot building, town council commenced proceedings to revise its zoning ordithe legislative body in conjunction nance to preclude by-right development of “big box” structures with a rezoning, proffers become part of the in excess of 80,000 square feet. In an effort to obtain approval of the pending site plan berezoning and serve as legislative guidelines for fore town council amended the zoning ordinance, the landowner development of the rezoned property. brought an action in the circuit court to compel approval of More often than not, proffer language means one thing to the property owner and something else to local government officials or neighbors of the project. The Feb. 27, 2009, Supreme Court of Virginia opinion of Town of Blacksburg, et al. vs. Board of Zoning Appeals of the Town of Blacksburg, et al., (Koontz, J.) No. 081001, presents an all too-common debate between a landowner and a politically charged local government with a resolution that significantly erodes vested rights principles of City of Suffolk vs. Board of Zoning Appeals, 266 Va. 137, 580 S.E.2d 796 (2003). In Town of Blacksburg, the Supreme Court summarized the tension that exists between the right of a landowner to make use of his property to his advantage and the necessity that local governments be permitted to restrict the use of land within their borders in order to assure orderly growth. Virginia case law establishes a landowner has the right to continue an existing use of his property even after a change in zoning that causes the use to become nonconforming. However, when the landowner has not yet developed a use on his property in accordance with its current zoning classification, the property owner has no vested right to continue the land’s existing zoning status. A landowner may acquire a vested right to future development of his land that may not be prohibited or reduced by subsequent zoning legislation. In 1998, in response to entreaties by the Home Builders Association of Virginia and others, the General Assembly codified in Code of Virginia § 15.2-2307 situations that clarify common-law vested rights. The three-part test of Section 15.2-2307 was applied to the facts in Town of Blacksburg to the detriment of the landowner. In January 2006, the landowner applied to the town of Blacksburg to rezone 26.63 acres of property located in a predominately low-density residential district to a general commercial district to develop what the proffers described as a “University Towne Center” with a “traditional neighborhood design.” At the time of rezoning, the town’s “general commercial district” 14 Virginia Builder
the site plan. Before the circuit court could rule on the merits of the action, town council amended the zoning ordinance to preclude development of a “big box” development in excess of 80,000 square feet on the property without prior approval of a conditional-use permit. The landowners requested a determination by the town zoning administrator that they had a vested right to develop their property citing City of Suffolk vs. Board of Zoning Appeals. The Supreme Court of Virginia in City of Suffolk held the substantial expenses incurred by the developer for development of a portion of a 154-acre property were sufficient to provide a vested right to develop the entire property with residential uses, even though the city had rezoned the bulk of the property to a nonresidential district. In Town of Blacksburg, the town zoning administrator concluded the developers had not obtained a vested right to develop the unrestricted retail sales use. The landowners appealed the negative zoning determination to the Board of Zoning Appeals. The BZA overturned the zoning administrator’s determination. Town council appealed the BZA ruling to the circuit court. Relying on City of Suffolk, the circuit court found that the May 9, 2006, rezoning and proffers constituted a “significant affirmative governmental act” under Code of Virginia § 15.2-2307, the developers were pursuing development of the property in reliance on the zoning approval, and the proffers had adequately identified the specific tract of land, project and use of the property. In Town of Blacksburg, the Supreme Court noted all parties had agreed the proffered rezoning met the statutory test of a significant affirmative governmental act. Town council argued for a landowner to acquire a vested right in a particular use proffers must expressly reference that use. The developers asserted so long as at least one of the accepted proffers touches on the use of the land in any fashion, an unrestricted right can accrue as to any permissible use of the land not expressly excluded or limited by the proffers as a whole. June 2009
Rejecting the developer’s arguments and distinguishing the City of Suffolk opinion, in Town of Blacksburg the Supreme Court held the circuit court erred in ruling the BZA correctly determined that the developers had a vested right to develop structures on the property in excess of 80,000 square feet. HBAV has been The Supreme Court instrumental interpreted Code of Virginia § 15.2-2307 in securing to require proffers to vested rights affirmatively identify the use for which for Virginia a vested right is builders. sought. In Town of BlacksHowever, the burg, the Supreme recent Town of Court concluded a proffer cannot be Blacksburg said to specify use decision erodes in accordance with the requirements of those rights. Code of Virginia § 15.2-2307 by a negative inference arising from the absence of a prohibition of the use within the proffer. After the Town of Blacksburg, landowners seeking to claim vested rights solely upon an approved proffered rezoning will need to factually establish the accepted proffers specify the use sought to be vested. General reliance upon development approvals and expenditures for a project not directly related to the sought-after vested right may not be sufficient in themselves to provide vested rights protection. HBAV has been instrumental in securing vested rights for Virginia builders. Due in no small part to the association’s efforts, Code of Virginia continues to provide vested rights protection for landowners who have obtained subdivision or site plan approvals, who fall within the scope of Code of Virginia § 15.2-2303(B) or who can establish a factual pattern that fits Code of Virginia § 15.2-2307. However, the recent Town of Blacksburg decision erodes those rights. (Michael Banzhaf focuses his practice on obtaining land-use approvals for landowners in the rapidly developing Northern Virginia area. He has experience in environmental matters such as wetlands, flood plains, Chesapeake Bay Preservation areas and environmental impact statements. He can be reached at [703] 729-8540 or mbanzhaf@reedsmith. com.) VAB June 2009
Built to Stand the Test of Time
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Workers’ Compensation General Liability • Roofers Program
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Virginia Builder 15
by Heidi Ketler
A
fter several months of deliberation, the powers that be in Hampton city government will make their final decision, yielding to the wisdom of a proposal to partner with the Peninsula Housing & Builders Association in an historic redevelopment project. The PHBA bid was one of three proposals submitted. The others offered more money for the 4.3-acre parcel in Buckroe Beach with Chesapeake Bay views, but PHBA leveraged its Parade of Homes. “It’s really refreshing to have a local jurisdiction understand the value of a parade,” says Katie Hayes, PHBA executive vice president. “Our plan will work well for everybody,” says Katherine Renn, PHBA president. “The parcel will be developed within two years. It will give our builder members great exposure because of the Parade of Homes. The lots are reasonably priced so sales prices are reasonable and the homes will sell easily. It makes sense the whole way around.” s PHBA has plans to develop a parcel of Buckroe Beach and make it As part of the initiative, PHBA will enter into a limited liability the site of for Virginia next year’s 4.875x4.875 spring Parade ofCOLOR:HBA Homes. 2HBA of Virginia 4.875x4.875 COLOR corporation with 5/5/09 Harrison &6:06 LearPM Inc., Page owned1 by long-time Hampton developer Tommy Thompson. Participation in POH2010 LLC is open to PHBA builders, and those who have expressed early interest are now being recruited. Participants must make an initial investment to cover development costs, purchase a lot and build a parade home. In return, 50 percent of any profit will go back to the builders. PHBA will split the rest with Harrison & Lear.
Strengthening unity
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In The Limelight
PHBA leverages Parade of Homes
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The Parade of Homes in May next year will feature seven single-family homes that will sell for $500,000 or less, and three- and four-plex condo units. When complete, the new community beside Buckroe Beach Park “will strengthen the unique identity of this beachfront community,” says Renn. Construction is expected to begin this September. “We hope to help inventory levels and have a second one in the fall (2010),” with the location to be determined, says Renn. With the parade a year in the making, PHBA will host a Dream Home Tour this fall. The scattered-site tour of new construction gives builder participants the opportunity to spend time with visitors on a more personal level, says Hayes.
©2009 Home Buyers Warranty Corporation
16 Virginia Builder
June 2009
Strengthen your Position by Marketing It’s easy to let fear set in during times of economic uncertainty, but remember, businesses are built on sales. It’s times like these, when business is off, when you need more sales and more customers. Advertising in Virginia Builder is the most effective way to introduce your products and services to over 7,500 Mid-Atlantic region building professionals, 9 times a year! And, because Virginia Builder is the official publication of the Home Builders Association of Virginia, you not only benefit from your ad promotions, you help support the efforts of HBAV members as well! Contact Lisa Nixon today at (877) 449-2535 or vabuilderads@ yahoo.com to talk about how you can increase your sales through effective and targeted marketing and special rate options.
s 2009 PHBA President Katherine Renn is following in the footsteps of her mother, the late Elizabeth Thompson, who was PHBA president in 1988.
Sharpening tactics Founded in 1956, PHBA represents the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson and Williamsburg, as well as the counties of Gloucester, Isle of Wight, James City, Mathews and York. These days, PHBA is seizing opportunities to build bridges, with encouraging results. For example, it shares resources with James City Clean County Commission, also called JC4. A recent JC4 seminar on storm water management drew an audience of 50 or more. Home Builders Association of Virginia past President Henry Stephens was among the guest speakers. PHBA also makes building HomePAC coffers fun. During the fall 2008 fundraising auction, Renn won the bid for a skeetshooting package at Old Forge Sporting Clays. She plans to take those lessons soon, so she has a ‘shot’ at winning prizes in the Fall Clay Shoot, she says.
Next generation Renn is following in the footsteps of her mother, the late Elizabeth Thompson, who was PHBA president in 1988. “My mother is my inspiration to try to do the things she had done and build a better association.” Her stepfather, Tommy Thompson, served as PHBA president in 1976 and 1980. As vice president of The Kicotan Co. Inc. Builder/Developer, Renn continues to work with him in new home construction and development. (Heidi Ketler is a free-lance writer living in Roanoke.) VAB June 2009
<Type Your Association Name Here>
vALue-ADDeD ASSoCiATion BenefiTS
Benefits through Anthem Life Anthem Life’s group life insurance helps employees provide financial security for their loved ones. As an association member
As an association member, you receive — at no additional cost — special benefits and programs designed to bring even more value to your Anthem plan.
you now get this security as part of your benefits plan at no additional cost.
ALL COVERED EmpLOyEEs AnD DEpEnDEnts RECEiVE: $10,000 Life and AD&D coverage • Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance promise timely benefit payments for the family if an employee passes away or faces a qualified loss in an accident. $2,000/Spouse and $2,000/Child Dependent Life coverage • Dependent Life Insurance pays a benefit to your employee if a spouse or child passes away. Resource Advisor • This program gives employees and their families free and confidential access to support resources, including: • Up to three legal and/or financial consultations for all employees • • • •
Up to three visits per year with a counselor for employees with a disability Up to three in-person counseling sessions as well as three legal and/or financial consultations for beneficiaries 24/7 telephone counseling and referral services Web site resources for child care and elder care databases, wellness information, wills, and power of attorney forms
Travel Assistance • Provides emergency medical assistance, travel services, and pre-departure information for members in case a medical emergency arises while traveling 100+ miles from home for personal or business reasons.
This insert is only one piece of your enrollment package. Exclusions, limitations, and applicable policy numbers can be found in the enrollment brochure.
This ad is only one piece of your enrollment package. Exclusions, limitations, and applicable policy numbers can be found in the enrollment brochure.
payment of the premium by the employer constitutes acceptance and agreement of the terms detailed in the group insurance policy and certificate and as outlined above.
In Virginia: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of Virginia, Inc. (serving Virginia excluding the city of Fairfax, the town of Vienna and the area east of State Route 123). Life and Disability products underwritten by Anthem Life Insurance Company, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its affiliated HMOs, HealthKeepers, Inc., Peninsula Health Care, Inc. and Priority Health Care, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ® ANTHEM and 360o Health are registered trademarks of Anthem Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and and agreement Blue Shield names and symbols areinregistered of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Payment of the premium byInsurance the employer constitutes acceptance of the terms detailed the groupmarks insurance policy andand certificate andAssociation. as outlined above. In EVASH4220A Virginia:(10/08) Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans of Virginia, Inc. (serving Virginia excluding the city of Fairfax, the town of Vienna and
the area east of State Route 123). Life and Disability products underwritten by Anthem Life Insurance Company, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and its affilated HMOs, HealthKeepers, Inc., Peninsula Health Care, Inc. and Priority Health Care, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ® ANTHEM and 360° Health are registered trademarks of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.EVASH4220A (10/08)
Virginia Builder 17
O
Gores Group acquires majority stake in Stock Building Supply
n May 6, an affiliate of The Gores Group LLC acquired 51 percent of Stock Building Supply Holdings LLC, a Wolseley PLC company. Based in Raleigh, Stock is one of the largest suppliers of building products to professional builders and contractors in the country. For its fiscal year ended July 31, 2008, the Stock business acquired by Gores generated $3.5 billion in revenues. The transaction is the result of a strategic review process undertaken by Wolseley and Stock to identify a partner to position Stock for future growth. After conducting a thorough evaluation and receiving bids from many interested parties, it was determined that a partnership with Gores would be most beneficial for Stock’s employees, vendors and customers. Given its confidence and support for the business, Wolseley will retain a 49 percent interest in the business. “Gores’ strong operational expertise and focus will help position the company during this unprecedented downturn and to out-
perform the market,” says Stock President Joe Appelmann. “Stock has been providing the U.S. market with the highest quality building materials for more than 80 years,” says Ian R. Weingarten, managing director of The Gores Group. “The company has taken aggressive actions to mitigate the effects of the housing downturn by continuing to diversify its business and streamline its operations.” “Executing a joint-venture agreement with Gores and completing this recapitalization will allow Stock to emerge financially stronger from this economic down cycle,” says Chip Hornsby, group chief executive officer of Wolseley. As part of the transaction, Gores has committed to invest $75 million in the company and provide a $125 million revolving credit bridge facility. Gores’ investment is conditioned upon completion of a voluntary, prepackaged Chapter 11 process expected to last 45-60 days. The bankruptcy provides Stock with the
flexibility to shed the company’s operations associated with its closed locations and underperforming markets as well as inject fresh, needed capital. The new capital is intended to ensure a stable ongoing business model as well as permit the company to pay all of its creditors their claims in full as allowed by the bankruptcy laws. Integral to the prepackaged plan is the stipulation that all trade creditors, suppliers, customers and employees will receive the full allowed amounts owed to them. As a result, creditors are not required to vote on the plan. Stock’s operations will continue as usual during the filing and beyond. Throughout the process, employees will continue to receive their salaries and benefits, and Stock will pay in full all vendor obligations. In conjunction with the prepackaged recapitalization, Stock has arranged for debtor-in-possession financing from Wolseley, with an initial commitment of up to $100 million. VAB
Shop and compare health plans at HBAV.com
The Home Builders Association of Virginia has opened up a new service on HBAV.com that allows members to obtain insurance quotes and compare different health plans in seconds.
The new online quote engine compares different insurance carriers, plan types (PPO or HMO), deductibles, co-payments and even allows you to apply for coverage online!
www.HBAV.com
18 Virginia Builder
June 2009
The new North American plant for LiteSteel Technologies America LLC was commissioned into service in March. The Troutville facility is now producing the company’s signature product, a lightweight steel beam engineered for residential and light commercial construction projects.
LiteSteel Technologies America begins beam production at Troutville, Va., facility
T
he new North American plant for LiteSteel Technologies America LLC is now producing its signature product — LiteSteel beam, a lightweight steel beam engineered for residential and light commercial construction projects — in a new $30 million facility in Troutville, just outside Roanoke in Botetourt County. The initiation of LSB production culminates more than two years’ effort to bring the LiteSteel beam technology to the North American market. LSB is a patented, cold-formed, lightweight steel structural beam that combines the strength of steel, but with the installation ease normally associated with wood products. Ideal for basement beams, garage beams, long-span headers, roof and ridge beams, and floor and deck supports, LSB has been used in Australia for the past four years in thousands of residential and light commercial construction projects. The new Troutville facility is producing LSB in 12 different sizes, ranging in nominal beam depth from 8 to 14 inches. LSB’s patented manufacturing process gives it a unique profile with a flat, thin web and two fully welded hollow flanges for maximum structural performance in terms of load-carrying capacity, bending movement and deflection from the amount of steel employed. LSB is designed with engineering features and benefits that reduce time and installation costs for builders, remodelers, contractors and framers. It is: • Lightweight – LSB saves money by eliminating the need for a crane for installation. On average, it’s 40 percent lighter than equivalent hot-rolled steel or engineered wood beams. • Strong – LSB delivers equivalent structural performance in terms of load-carrying capacity when compared to hot-rolled steel or engineered wood. • Versatile – LSB can be cut on a job site with a circular saw and drilled, screwed, bolted or nailed using standard professional tools. It’s easily integrated with wood framing using standard connectors. All of the LSB products manufactured in the new plant are covered by a Code Compliance Research Report. The report certifies that the LSB products are in compliance with the International Building Code of 2006, the International Residential Code of 2006 and the Florida Building Code of 2007. A link to the Code Compliance Research Report is included on the LST Web site at www.LiteSteelbeam.com. The code report includes span and load tables, providing a prescriptive method for building with LSB. When building to the included methods, an engineer’s seal is not generally required (always subject to local code and the ruling of the local code official). LiteSteel Technologies America is a OneSteel Group Co. whose shares are listed on the Sydney Stock Exchange. For more information on LiteSteel Technologies America, visit the Web site or call (877) 285-2607. VAB June 2009
spike summary The following are the HBAV members with the highest total year-to-date, new, retention and accumulation credits as of March 2009: HIGHEST YEAR-TO-DATE TOTAL CREDITS Name
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
YTD total Total
Jim Cox, RRHBA Thomas W. Dye, TBA Charles Miller, TBA Mike Perry, TVBA Glen Raymond, FABA Pete Kotarides, TBA John Scanelli, TBA Shawn Callahan, BACV John Iuliano, TBA Gary Parker, FABA
19.00 17.00 16.50 15.00 13.50 11.00 10.50 9.00 8.50 8.25
97.50 25.00 707.50 101.50 74.50 96.00 575.50 58.00 258.50 337.50
HIGHEST YEAR-TO-DATE TOTAL NEW CREDITS Name
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
YTD total Total
Thomas W. Dye, TBA Pete Kotarides, TBA James Oliver, NRVHBA Glen Raymond, FABA Walter Cheatle, PVBIA David Milstead, SVBA Reid Pocock, TBA Allen Loree, TBA Jim Cox, RRHBA Chip Hudnall, HBARap
14.00 10.00 7.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 6.00 5.00 4.00 4.00
25.00 96.00 24.50 74.50 73.50 3.00 10.00 11.00 97.50 74.00
HIGHEST YEAR-TO-DATE RETENTION CREDITS Name
YTD total Total
1. Charles Miller, TBA 2. Jim Cox, RRHBA 3. Mike Perry, TVBA 4. John Scanelli, TBA 5. Gary Parker, FABA 6. Tom Huxtable, TBA 7. Peter Fields, RRHBA 8. Glen Raymond, FABA 9. J.T. Huddleston, RRHBA 10. Rand Sompayrac, FABA
16.50 15.00 12.00 10.50 8.25 8.00 8.00 7.50 7.00 7.00
707.50 97.50 101.50 575.50 337.50 514.50 108.50 74.50 875.50 312.50
HIGHEST YEAR-TO-DATE ACCUMULATION Name
Total
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
James Carver, FABA J.T. Huddleston, RRHBA Charles Miller, TBA Claude Grandy, RRHBA John Scanelli, TBA Jules Elliott, FABA Preston Stallings, BRHBA Tom Huxtable, TBA Lewis Jamison, RRHBA Bill Hendricks, TBA
895.50 875.50 707.50 639.50 575.50 541.50 524.50 514.50 478.50 458.50
Virginia Builder 19
Call Miss Utility of Virginia and dig with C.A.R.E.
A
s you begin planning your next outdoor home improvement project — whether it’s a new flower bed, sprinkler system, patio or in-ground pool — remember to call Miss Utility of Virginia at 811 before you dig. Also, please dig with C.A.R.E. to avoid damaging underground utility lines.
C.A.R.E. means: • Call Miss Utility at 811 before you dig, • Allow the required time for marking, • Respect the marks and • Excavate carefully.
stateline
“This simple, four-step process will help prevent utility outages, damage repair costs, civil penalties, injuries or worse,” says Frank Hudik, senior damage prevention specialist with the Virginia State Corporation Commission, the agency responsible for enforcing the provisions of the Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act. For 30 years, Virginians and the Commonwealth’s underground utility infrastructure have been protected by this act. “Whether the project is big or small,” Hudik emphasizes,
“property owners, excavators and contractors should call Miss Utility first and always dig with C.A.R.E.” Calling 811 puts residents in touch with Miss Utility of Virginia, the state’s one-call notification center. Miss Utility employees process information about the project and notify utility operators of the planned excavation or demolition. Utility operators then send locators to the site to mark the underground utility lines for free. Once the lines have been marked, the approximate horizontal locations of the underground utility lines in the project area are known. The excavation can then proceed by first hand digging two feet on either side of the marks. To learn more about Virginia’s damage prevention program, contact the Virginia State Corporation Commission, Division of Utility and Railroad Safety, at (804) 371-9980. The division’s staff will answer questions and can provide an array of free damage prevention literature, including brochures, manuals and a new children’s coloring book. The Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act, sometimes referred to as the “Miss Utility Law,” was passed in 1979 to address the responsibilities of all stakeholders to help prevent damage to underground utility lines. For more information, visit www.missutilityofvirginia. com. VAB
SVBA Green Building Committee Chairman Aaron Yoder with A.M. Yoder Construction checks a window seal on the Habitat home while Benjamin Meredith, a certified EarthCraft inspector with Building Knowledge, looks on.
Shenandoah Valley Builders Association Showcasing green building with a Habitat twist In an effort to promote green building, SVBA joined forces with Central Valley Habitat for Humanity to build a Habitat home at its 29th annual SVBA Home & Garden Show April 4-5 at the JMU Convocation Center in Harrisonburg. The project, proposed by SVBA Green Building Committee Chairman Aaron Yoder, involved building a home that showcased green building products and practices as recommended by SVBA on site during the home show. After the show, the home was transported to a construction site in Grottoes, where it was inspected and finished according to Energy Star and EarthCraft specifications. The house is now an energy-efficient, comfortable and durable home for a deserving family selected by Central Valley Habitat for Humanity. VAB 20 Virginia Builder
Advertisers’ Index 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty...........16 AmeriGas......................................................8 Anthem........................................................17 Building Industry Insurance Association...........inside back cover Builders Insurance Group....................15 Builders Mutual........inside front cover Costen Floors.........................back cover Demilec USA............................................12 Dominion......................................................3 HBAV.com..................................................18 Miss Utility...................................................5 Norandex/Reynolds..................................7 ScreenEze......................................................9 For more information on any of these advertisers, visit www.hbav.com and click on the Virginia Builder button to take you to a listing with links to their Web sites.
June 2009
Workers’ Comp
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Building Industry Insurance Association, Inc.
757-420-3022
www.vabuildersinsurance.com
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Does your insurance company respond when the wires get crossed? We offer loss control, loss prevention services and low rates to builders, remodelers and subcontractors.
Health Insurance
• Group health insurance plans for your employees • Health insurance for individuals • Dental insurance
• Long-term care insurance
Building Industry Insurance Association, Inc., a risk retention group
757-420-3022 June 2009
www.vabuildersinsurance.com
Contact Jim Bonnell at
1-800-734-6344, ext. 305
or go to www.hbav.com Virginia Builder 21
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22 Virginia Builder
9840 MAYLAND DRIVE (BETWEEN GASKINS & PEMBERTON)
June 2009