FAILURES
Protect the Roof
Deborah Slaton, David S. Patterson, AIA, and Jeffrey N. Sutterlin, PE
Protect the Roof |
Minimizing Risks with Solar Roofs Commercial low-slope rooftops are an attractive platform for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity-producing systems. Nevertheless, a roof’s function is, first and foremost, to protect the building’s contents and people from the elements. In this regard, design professionals need to anticipate the potential risks associated with the installation of roof-mounted PV arrays. This sort of due diligence is particularly important when installing PV systems on existing warranted roofs. |
To Test or Not to Test…? A guide to field quality control When properly applied, tests can yield valuable insight into the installed performance of systems, aid investigators in determining the cause of a failure, or help to determine if a product is performing to its intended level. However, when improperly applied, many tests and standards can produce misleading results, improper conclusions, and lead to unnecessary repairs or remediation efforts. Within this context, the article takes an in-depth look at roofing assemblies, along with glazing, masonry, and air barrier assemblies. |
Importance of Qualified SPF Installers
HORIZONS |
Solar reflective roof coatings Enhancing longevity and efficiency Cool roof coatings have achieved more than 30 years of proven energy savings. However, the federal government and building code bodies have only recently embraced the use of these reflective coatings. For decades, the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA), the national trade association for manufacturers of cold-applied protective roof coatings and cements, has promoted industrial and maintenance roof coatings, including solar reflective materials. Due to these efforts, … |
Reducing Environmental Impact with Coatings Inadequate insulation and air leakage are leading causes of energy waste in most projects, and coatings selection can play a big role in reducing these inefficiencies. This article examines use of coatings in applications as diverse as cool roofs, air barriers, infrared (IR) reflective pigments, and radiant heat barriers. |