Division 7 Solutions Inc.

Drawing upon his background in chemistry, Roy Schauffele, FCSI, CCPR, LEED Green Assoc., decided to implement his knowledge of building envelope technology and founded Division 7 Solutions Inc. as an architectural representative firm in 1987. Growing up in a smog-filled city, Schauffele decided that he wanted to make a difference in the environment and established a green building, manufacturing and consulting firm. Headquartered in Converse, Texas, Division 7 serves the commercial, institutional and industrial sectors of Texas and Oklahoma.

Beginning his career in research and development, Schauffele quickly found that he was skilled at not only introducing new technologies into the construction industry, but also educating others in the application new methods. Recognized as an internationally published author and speaker, Schauffele is a leader in the field of energy conservation and sustainable building. His expertise ranges from insulation, roofing and waterproofing, green roofing, water conservation, cool roofing, air barrier technology and the urban heat island effect.

When initially introducing new products and technology to the industry, Schauffele did not have an easy start. “There were some architectural firms that thought I was crazy,” says Schauffele “And then there were those firms that had the foresight, ambition and the drive to do the right thing to build better buildings.”

Going green

When Division 7 became a green company, Schauffele and his team introduced the concept of air barriers and continuous insulated sheathing to the state of Texas. “That solved a lot of the mold problems we were having here in Texas,” says Shaufele. “It also added a 40 percent energy savings to every structure that was built the way we suggested. We do not patent the new technologies we create; we introduce them and allow them to go their own way. We’re very proud of what we have added to the industry.”

Division 7 has been involved with the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) from the early stages of the organization. “I jumped on that bandwagon real quick,” says Schauffele.” I believe I might have even booked out the first or second booth at their first show in Austin, Texas. Some people might be involved with green building because it’s good press; we’re involved because it’s the right thing to do.”

Of the many benefits the council offers its members through networking and education,  Schauffele appreciates what the organization has done for the industry. “The overall thing that the USGBC has done is creating awareness,” Schauffele explains. “Through that awareness the organization has been able to show the industry that there is a better way to build at no additional cost.”  Schauffele acknowledges that small firms like Division 7 are able to recognize new technologies with the USGBC and advance them to the next level. “When they start thinking about new technology we can brainstorm and figure out where they are going with it. We can then plan, anticipate and do some research and development to hit the right target. We’re very good at that.”

Schauffele is involved with numerous building associations and networks. Build San Antonio Green (BSAG), is a voluntary third-party certification program that works with the homebuilding community to create homes with increased efficiency, comfort and durability. As a technical adviser to BSAG, Schauffele has helped the organization to become the most awarded city green program in the state of Texas.

Schauffele is finishing his second term as the chairman of the board of the air barrier association of America (ABAA). Incorporated in Massachusetts in 2001, ABAA consists of stakeholders in the building envelope industry and maintains a mission of working together with membership, industry and trade to be the recognized voice for air barrier knowledge.

Through his involvement in the industry, Schauffele has been involved in many events with the purpose of educating the industry on energy efficiency. “We self-fund about 120 American Institute of Architects (AIA) HSW learning units per year,” says Schauffele. “We’re constantly educating architects.” According to the AIA course approved for the learning unit designation must be applicable to the architecture industry and benefit or enhance an architects practice.

Getting better all the time

In 2003 Schauffele spearheaded another venture which also involves the employees of Division 7. STS Coatings is a certified HUB manufacturer in Texas that develops energy saving and environmentally acceptable products for the residential and commercial industries. As one of the founding members, Schauffele and his employees are part owners of the company. STS Coatings produces the highest rated radiant barrier spray paint in the country and manufactures its own line of low VOC sealants.  With the heat that residential roofs are made to withstand, radiant barrier spray paint is capable of blocking out up to 80 percent of heat waves. The company also provides its own fluid applied (25 percent recycled content) ABAA evaluated and listed air barrier system.

With retirement in the relatively near future, Schauffele shows no sign of slowing down. Division 7 is constantly moving forward and progressing in the industry every day. “I work with some great people and I’m still having fun,” says Shauffele. “I’m still learning, still enjoying myself and still searching for energy efficient ways to build. My motto is ‘you can always do better.'”

Division 7 Solutions Inc. will continue to challenge itself to be the best as the future becomes greener.