A: Los Angeles Chargers training facility, this project was an STO EIFS system and required an extensive air barrier and water proofing system. I’m proud of this project because the Chargers are my favorite football team and this project turned out beautiful. I also like the fact that it is seen by millions of people every year on television and in person.

A: A properly installed air barrier system protect the structure of the building from the different temperatures and weather that the building is exposed to all year long. It also helps with the climatization of the building. This helps with the overall heating and cooling expense of the building.

A: After receiving my level 3 certification, I was put in charge of installing an air barrier system over an existing system that failed at an occupied 5 story hospital during COVID. We used a PAREX EIFS system. It turned out great, the system was tested and passed with flying colors. The owners were thrilled with the end result. The success of this project led to my current position and has made me a very valuable asset to my company.

A: Trade damage and owner design changes after installation of the air barrier system. It never fails, once the air barrier is installed, other trades damage it or something is added to the building and the air barrier is compromised by design changes during construction. The only way to overcome this is to make sure we patch and fix these areas. I need to make sure my team knows how to patch and fix these problems correctly.

A: All our clients are aware of the importance of air barrier systems, that’s why we win the contracts. We just need to show them that we know what we’re doing and make sure that our customers are satisfied.

A: I think installers sometimes get in a hurry and miss some basic but important steps in the installation process. The only way to avoid this is to make sure you have the right amount of qualified manpower on site.

A: We try to stay up to date on all our equipment, from gas or electric sprayers to electric caulking guns. The newer equipment helps us get our job done faster and easier.

A: I think people under value our worth to a project. We can make or break a project if the air barrier is not installed correctly. A small leak in the air barrier can cause enough damage to shut down a project or cause millions of dollars in damage.

A: New products are introduced every year, or old products get replaced with new products. I see this all the time with the EIFS systems. I make sure to study all the literature and installation documentation with my crew before we step on site. I also receive all the ABBA Today news letters. This also keeps me informed on all the latest air barrier information.

A: I would like to see more ABAA certified installers in the workforce. This would improve air barrier installation across the United States. It would also raise awareness of how important our work is.