Background: MHI was founded in 1995 by Michael L. Hamilton after completing several successful years in the roof material manufacturing and distribution sectors of the roofing industry.  The purpose for the formation of MHI was, initially, a response to a growing concern in the local roofing industry. At times, Contractors can establish their own interpretation of the required elements in completing a project.  While the means and methods may or may not be the best possible application of the materials, an end result that prevents water infiltration is often considered a successfully completed project by Contractors, Manufacturers and Owners alike. That is, until a leak develops. Typically, in the Gulf Coast Region, a built up roof is expected to last between 12-15 years, depending on various components and site conditions.  Considering the large capital expenditure involved with the replacement of a roof, this is not a relatively long period of time.  It is prudent for a facility Owner to try to maximize the serviceable life of a roof to minimize these expenses.  When leaks develop prior to the anticipated date of the roof requiring replacement, additional costs are then required to provide repairs and restore interior finishes. MHI’s initial findings was that there were many facility Owners and School Districts that were experiencing widespread failures and water ingression within the first 10 years of the roof’s life.  Alarmingly, there were several instances where a building was reroofed for the third time in its 20 year existence.  Most of these roofs were installed on an Owner/Contractor contract relationship only  - where the Owner places a certain amount of trust in the Contractor, and a different degree of trust in the “warranty” document from the Manufacturer.  While the Owner typically fulfils their end of the contract by making the agreed payment, the Contractors warranty usually expires after 2 years and the Manufacturers often could find technicalities regarding inadequate installation, or fine print in the warranty document – to absolve themselves of a financial responsibility. MHI implemented a system of full time observation to take place during the installation of all lightweight concrete decking, roof membrane system and metal flashings.  This was combined with provision of a comprehensive, up to date specification for each project outlining the exact methodology for completion of the work.  Additionally, the manufacturers were required to make weekly visits to the site and provide reports on the work in progress, to avert potential warranty issues from arising in the future.  Since inception of this approach, the facility Owners and School Districts which have taken advantage of these services have stopped the capital expenditure of replacing roofs prior to their anticipated life expectancy.