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LEED Pilot credits Review: Integrative Project Planning And Design

The role of architect, engineer, developer, and contractor is changing in the world of building construction. The Design-Build Institute of America estimates that 50 percent of all buildings built in the U.S. were completed using a team-based approach. Professionals today understand the need for individual sustainability in their projects to maximize energy, water, and savings while lowering the impact on the surrounding environment with integrative project planning and design. What is the Objective of Integrative Project Planning and Design? The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, was launched by the U.S.  Green Building Council to minimize the impact construction has on the environment. Through integrative project planning, they take the design process to the next level by breaking it down into two independent and measurable sections: PC5: Preliminary Integrative Project Planning and Design PC6: Integrative Project Planning and Design The performance credit sy...

7 Things You Need To Know About the First OSHA Fine Increase in 25 Years

For the first time in 25 years, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has increased the fine amount for employers who are in violation of safety regulations – and it has increased these fines for maximum penalties by a whopping 78 percent. You might be thinking that it’s about time, especially since very few things – if anything at all – cost the same today as they did in 1990. Just think, a gallon of gas only averaged $1.08 back then. A postage stamp cost a quarter. The current average is about $2.20 for gas and either 49 or 47 cents for postage. You get the picture – things today don’t cost the same as they did 25 years ago. On that note, here’s what you need to know about the OSHA fine increase: 1. The increase in fine was approved in last year’s federal budget. Which was signed by President Obama on November 2, 2015. The increase in fines was a result of the Inflation Adjustment Act published by the U.S. Department of Labor, which permits government agencies to a...

4 Best Practices For Rooftop Cable Trays

A lot of thought must go into choosing and installing cable trays in order to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the cables that run through them. Those systems ensure the effectiveness of the cables they protect, reduce wear and tear to rooftop installations, and help ensure safety for people, as well as, property. 1) Use Cable Trays! The first and most obvious of these best practices is that you should always use cable trays. Commercial rooftops typically have a number of different types of cables running across them, carrying high and low-voltage electrical current to meet power and communication needs. It's important to protect both the cables themselves, as well as, the insulation around them. Don't let cables sag between trays, as that can cause wear and tear and eventual damage. It's also crucial to protect the insulation, which is best done by de-energizing cables during installation. That way, all parts of the rooftop installation are protected, not just the ca...

Winter Is Coming! 7 Tips to Prepare Your Commercial Rooftop

The leaves are turning, you’re still picking up stray candy wrappers from trick-or-treaters, and travel plans for Thanksgiving are underway. This can only mean one thing: Fall is in full swing, and winter is right around the corner. For facility managers and building owners in northern regions, this means it’s time to start prepping your buildings for the cold and snow. One of the most important aspects of this preparation is ensuring your rooftop is ready to handle the imminent winter weather. Without further ado, here are seven tips to keep in mind during preparation. Clear Your Drains and Gutters Once a layer of snow comes in, it could bury your access points making them difficult to reach. Debris blocking downspouts can slow drainage of melting snow and ice which can extend the length of time your roof is carrying an additional load. Perform a full rooftop inspection. For some parts of the country, this could be the last time you’ll have a clear view of the entire roof, so take adv...

Let’s Talk About Resilient Design

Whether you manage your own facility or work for others as a roofer or builder, you have seen the term “resilient design” somewhere. Resilience is the new black when it comes to sustainability. As the climate patterns shift, the need for resilient architecture becomes even more pronounced. Modern building design relies heavily on this concept and The Resilient Design Institute is at the forefront of its advocacy. What is resilience, though, and what is its role in roofing? What is Resilience? Put simply, resilience is about adaptation. The world is changing and superstorms like Hurricane Sandy are becoming the norm. The shift in weather patterns and other environmental disturbances are changing the building industry, as well. Structures of all sizes – warehouses, office buildings and homes – and the infrastructures around them must able to adapt to these shifts. Resilience is about adapting to both local and regional changes in respect to things like the warming planet. Through resilie...

The Anatomy of a Commercial Rooftop

When you serve as a building owner or as a facility manager, you need to know a little bit about many different things. One of the most critical things you should learn about is your roof. But, what makes a commercial rooftop unique and what do you need to know about this vital part of your building’s structure? Let us share a bit of knowledge about the anatomy of a commercial rooftop. Structural Deck Steel is the most popular roof deck surface. However, there are many other options including wood, concrete, and gypsum. Any installer or professional working on the roof will need to know what the deck is made of so they can get a better idea how to proceed with future work. Attachment Most commercial roofing systems in the US today are mechanically attached to the deck. Mechanically attached means that the installer secures the roof to the structural roof deck with screws and large washers called plates. The bolt and washer setup is a secure attachment system that allows for maintenance...

5 Critical Maintenance Tips for Your Rooftop Pipe and Equipment Supports

Regular roof maintenance is vital for keeping your roof watertight and preventing expensive future problems. One of the most important things on your roof maintenance checklist should be your pipe and equipment supports. Identifying and troubleshooting problems early will help ensure a long-lasting roof system. To lengthen the lifespan of your roofing system, regularly check your rooftop for the following signs of failure. 1) Sagging pipes and ducts Flexing or sagging pipes or ducts are a good indication that your rooftop supports are too far apart to bear the weight of the pipe and its contents. The proper spacing of supports depends on the weight of the pipe or duct. You may need to install additional supports or change the fittings to prevent your pipes and ducts from flexing or sagging. >> Read More: 8 Factors to Consider When Planning Roof Pipe Support Spacing >> 2) Cracks in support bases If the weight of the pipe or duct and its valves, fittings and pipe contents exc...