Meet Our Roof Expert
Elvedin Krupic, our in-house roof specialist, is passionate about roofs – the materials, their effect on durability, occupant’s safety, new technology, and the aesthetics that bring a project’s design and the client’s vision to life.
Elvedin Krupic | Technical Coordinator
A well-designed and constructed roof is essential to the health and safety of a building. Having an in-house roof specialist ensures that construction projects stay on schedule and that the finished building is safe and healthy. Elvedin collaborates with our project teams through every project stage, eliminating potential problems throughout the design and construction process. His high-quality roof design work is well-known among our clients and construction teams.
How did you become a roof expert?
One doesn’t learn much about roof design in college. At SWBR, I have been privileged to have a unique opportunity to work on countless roof projects. We have a long history of high-quality architectural detailing and take great pride in our roof designs. I’ve inherited that tradition and am passing it along to our future generations of designers.
Why do you love designing roofs?
From the dawn of civilization, humans have been preoccupied with the shelter and its vital role in providing protection against inclement weather and assure survival. The roof is the first line of defense against the elements and the most important part of any shelter or building enclosure. It’s not about the roof itself, it’s about protecting the inhabitants and possessions under the roof.
Roofing products and installation methods are constantly advancing, and I find the continuous evolution of roof design rewarding. I have encountered hundreds of roof challenges, including historic building restorations, brand-new building constructions, and modern building renovations. The roof systems available for different building types are endless – it’s fascinating. I love that I’m constantly learning and helping to ensure that our projects run smoothly and results in a project that meets our client’s needs.
How do our clients benefit from having a roof expert on the team?
It’s my job to understand every aspect of the roof – the materials, durability, cost, even manufacturers – so I can give the client the best options to suit their needs. Material selection is critical. The right materials, which do not necessarily mean the most expensive, will positively impact the roof’s durability, long-term maintenance, even the air quality of the building. It’s my job to know every option available that fits within the client’s needs and the project’s budget.
And of course, the design must blend with building’s aesthetics. I design durable, sustainable, and long-lasting roofs that match the building’s exterior design. A poor roof design can have a negative effect on the building’s appearance. It’s my job to make sure it adds to the structure’s beauty.
With the continuous evolution of roofing products and installation methods, how do you select the right design and materials that meets your clients’ needs?
Research, research, research. For me, that involves reading numerous trade publications and books (perhaps too many), talking to manufacturers, attending continuing education and seminars, and participating in hands-on installations.
It’s also about researching the client – their mission, the people they serve, the purpose of the buildings, and the challenges they face.
How has technology benefitted the roofing design process?
Technology is always changing and improving the design process. Revit and modeling focus on detailing and analysis, which is helpful for larger projects. Thermal Imaging Analysis allows us to evaluate construction conditions, identify opportunities to improve performance, and assess needs for critical maintenance. As a Certified Level II Infrared Thermographer, I utilize this technology to verify construction meets the design intent and performance requirements, and better understand existing construction. This improves energy performance, interior comfort, and reduces overall operational costs.
