Building Codes, Industry Standards, and Evaluation Reports May 15, 2010 Given the differing roles and complementary functions of building codes, industry stan dards, and product evaluation reports, it is important that construction professionals understand the appropriate applications for each. BUILDING CODES For most local and state jurisdictions across the United States, the controlling building codes are modeled upon the International Building Code (IBC) and/or the […] Read More
Underlayment Combinations for Stormy Weather May 15, 2010 Whether the outer covering consists of shingles, tiles, metal, or another material, it is only one part of a residential roofing system. Other components to consider for any given climate and building design are the underlayment, sheathing, insulation, vapor barrier, ventilation, and so on. This paper reviews current trends in the development of underlayment products […] Read More
Airtight Wall Construction with Structural Insulated Panels March 15, 2010 INTRODUCTION Structural insulated panels, or SIPs, have made significant headway in the nonresidential construction market in the last ten years. These insulated building panels have long been a fa – vorite of timber framers and custom homebuilders, and the recent demand for more energy- efficient buildings has expanded the breadth of applications for the technology. […] Read More
Managing Moisture and Condensation in Metal Roofing Systems with Vapor-Permeable Underlayments and Drainage Layers November 14, 2009 Most steep roofs are ventilated on the underside of the deck, and the composition and performance characteristics of an un – derlayment don’t appear to be all that important. In fact, the most important function of a roof underlayment in many cases will be limited to the installation period itself. This is particularly true of […] Read More
Coal Tar Built-Up Roofing: A Leading Solution For The 21st Century August 15, 2009 IN AN ERA IN WHICH ALTERNATIVE ROOFING SOLUTIONS ARE BEING DEVELOPED, WHY CHOOSE COAL TAR? Coal tar is still being chosen because it is one of the most durable systems available. Coal tar has a molecular structure that provides a natural resistance to water, ultraviolet rays, and chemicals – elements commonly found on a rooftop […] Read More
