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Are Roof Access Stairs and Walkways Really Extras?

Maybe you’re a building manager who finally persuaded the owner to invest in a new roof. Or maybe you’re the owner, and you just signed the check. Either way, you might be reluctant to spend even more money on “extras.” But things that extend the life of your roof and protect your workers aren’t extras; they’re the basics. Along with rooftop walkways, roof access stairs definitely fall into that category. Let’s take a look at why that’s true. The challenges Rooftops may not be designed for foot traffic, but that traffic is a fact of life. All rooftops need maintenance at some point. Even brand new roofs need to be inspected regularly. Unless you’ve got a drone to do a flyover for you, maintenance workers will need to check things out in person. And older roofs need both preventive maintenance and repairs, which is another reason workers will at some point need to be on the roof. All of that foot traffic can really add up over time, causing serious wear-and-tear to the roof. Equipment n...
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There’s a Tear in My Roof Membrane…Now What?

It’s a moment every maintenance professional dreads – a building occupant calls to report a leak, and it’s up to you to investigate and to identify the source. You probably have your fingers crossed that it’s anything other than a torn roof membrane. But how do you find out? And, if it is, what do you do about it?   Identifying a torn roof membrane Before you start your roof maintenance by examining every inch on your hands and knees, start by looking for the most common signs of a problem: Debris: Debris should always be your first suspect. Even smaller pieces can damage the membrane if somebody steps on them, and larger pieces work their way in gradually during the hotter months. If there is any debris on the roof, examine the area for tears or punctures. Wrinkles: Wrinkles indicate that the roof deck is moving independently from the perimeter. The most immediate problem is that, when the wrinkle gets to the edge of the membrane, it creates a gap that can let water in. In additio...
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How Do Solar Panels Affect the Integrity of the Roof?

With the arrival of summer weather – and with many parts of the country experiencing record-breaking heat waves – it’s hard to ignore the power of the sun. It can make walking across the street seem like a marathon, it sends energy bills soaring, and it can make a parked car feel like a furnace. No wonder the sun gets a bad rap this time of year! But instead of bemoaning the sun’s power, why not put that power to work for you? Installing solar panels on your commercial roof can reap huge benefits when it comes to reducing your electrical bill. Still, some building owners hesitate to take the plunge. Sometimes it’s because of the cost (although costs are decreasing rapidly, and government incentives can further soften the blow), but sometimes it’s because the owners and facility managers are worried about what solar panels will do to the integrity of the roof. It’s a legitimate question. The good news is that properly installed solar systems shouldn’t detract from the roof’s integrity. ...
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5 Tips for Single-Ply Roof Installation

In 2012, Roofing Contractor magazine reported that more than four billion square feet of TPO single-ply roofing had been sold in North America over the previous five years alone. Today, single-ply roofs, whether TPO or PVC, continue to be a popular choice for both contractors and building owners. That popularity has led to a wealth of “best practices” compiled by contractors with years of experience in the field. Here are just a few of their tips: 1. Take the Time to Prep the Roof Surface Not surprisingly, singly-ply roofing systems work best when they’re installed on a clean surface. Before you begin installation, thoroughly sweep the roof to remove dirt and other debris, cut out any blisters present on the existing roof, and repair any holes or cracks with non-shrink grout. Strongly encourage the building owner to purchase a roof insulation board or an approved separation sheet. It’s a small expense that goes a long way in protecting their investment. 2. Read the Manufacturer’s Instr...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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