Commercial Roofing Types
Roofers Round Rock TX plays an important role in your business. It protects your facility from the elements, manages water flow and drainage, and helps you hit energy efficiency goals.
A leaking industrial roof can have a major impact on your operations. It can damage equipment and contaminate sterile areas. It can also increase operational costs and present a safety hazard for employees.
Metal roofing has long been a popular choice for commercial buildings and has recently gained popularity in residential homes due to its longevity, low maintenance requirements, and attractive appearance. Typically made of steel or aluminum, metal roofs come in various panel types, thicknesses, and finishes that affect the cost and aesthetic appeal.
Metal roofs can be built as a flat or low-sloped system. They are often installed on industrial buildings with flat or very low slopes, such as warehouses and distribution centers. A leaking or otherwise unprotected roof can cause serious damage to inventory and other assets on the premises, and disrupt business operations while repairs are made. It is important to have an experienced professional roofer handle these projects quickly and efficiently to minimize downtime and lost revenue.
When choosing a metal roofing company, it is important to understand the materials that are used and how they will impact your building’s structure and environment. There are a variety of metal roofing options available, including corrugated panels that look like they belong on sheds and barns or standing seam systems that create a more traditional commercial appearance. Most metal roofing is made from rolls of 24- or 26-gauge steel that are given a metallic coating to protect against corrosion and then covered with a baked-on finish. There are also a few natural metals, such as copper and stainless steel, that do not require the additional coating but have an attractive patina when left unprotected.
Some metal roofing requires the use of underlayment to prevent leaks and to provide added insulation value. Felt underlayment is a good option and is less expensive than synthetic underlayment. Regardless of which type of metal roofing you choose, it is crucial to have an expert roofer install the underlayment to ensure it is done properly and will last for years.
When it comes to flat and low-slope roofing, modified bitumen (MB) roofs are a common choice. These durable and reliable membranes can provide exceptional protection against the elements for your building, helping to keep energy costs down. However, the specific performance of your MB roof depends on the type and quality of the material you choose as well as how it’s installed.
In the past, most commercial buildings used built-up roofing (BUR), a complicated system of alternating layers of asphalt and fabric over a base layer of gravel. But BUR was time consuming, labor intensive, and difficult to repair. Developers of modified bitumen set out to create a simpler and more practical roof system that offered the same protection as BUR but was less expensive, easier to install, and held up better in cold temperatures.
Generally, MB roofs are built using either a 2-ply SBS or 3-ply APP modified bitumen membrane. Both are made with different base materials that can be altered through the use of additives. Depending on the additive, APP membranes can be flexible or hard. In addition, APP membranes may be heat-welded to the substrate or self-adhered. The latter option offers a quicker installation process that eliminates the need for high-heat application and eliminates potential fire risks associated with torch welding.
Modified bitumen roofs are usually installed on low-slope or flat structures, though they can be installed on sloped roofs as well. They can be installed using a traditional “torch down” method or with a cold-applied adhesive (such as with Polyglass’ Polar cap and base membranes, which are designed to be applied in freezing temperatures).
Like most other roofing systems, MB membranes are available in a variety of colors, including black, white, sienna, and grey. Black is the most popular color because it helps to reflect the sun’s rays, which can otherwise increase your building’s cooling expenses. But this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best color for your roof; it all depends on your specific needs, location, and aesthetic preferences. When choosing a color for your MB roof, consult with a qualified roof professional to find the option that’s right for you.
TPO is among the most popular commercial roofing solutions. Its single-ply membrane construction offers a range of benefits, including low installation costs and long lifespans. Its white or light-colored surface also reflects sunlight and helps keep the inside of the building cool. Unlike many other types of roofing, TPO is highly durable and resistant to punctures and tears. It is also a more environmentally-friendly option than most other roofing systems, as it is both recyclable and non-toxic.
TPO roofing is installed on flat or low-sloped roofs, and it comes in a variety of thicknesses. The most common is 60-mils, although 45-mils are also available. The TPO sheets are bonded together using a hot air welding process. The welding allows the seams to be as strong as the sheet itself. These welds also help resist uplift from high wind conditions.
During the TPO installation, the installer will add insulation to protect the building and its contents. This can be done with Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso), expanded polystyrene (EPS), or extruded polystyrene (XPS). The insulator should match the needs of your local climate and roof pitch. A professional will be able to advise you on the best option.
Another benefit of TPO is its ease of installation. However, this can come with a downside. As TPO is a roll-good system, it comes in relatively small rolls that are typically 8 feet wide and 50 or 100 feet long. This creates many more seams than other roofing systems, which increases the potential for human error during installation.
If the seams aren’t properly sealed or welded, the roof will not be watertight. This can lead to leaks and other problems in the building’s interior. When this happens, it is important to call a professional roofing contractor for a roof repair. A roofing inspection can help determine if the problem is caused by the membrane, insulation, or structural deck.
One of the main reasons for TPO leaks is that the seams are not adequately bonded to the insulation and structural deck. This is usually because of improper installation, which leads to a lack of adhesion.
Single-ply membrane roofing has become a popular alternative to traditional flat or low-slope roof materials like hot asphalt. This system is made of a flexible, durable membrane that’s essentially a stretchy skin for your building’s roof. Unlike asphalt, which requires burning torches to apply and has seams that are prone to leakage, single-ply membrane systems come with pre-fabricated seams that are highly resilient and waterproof.
A single-ply membrane is also more eco-friendly, reducing installation and maintenance costs while helping your business cut down on energy costs by providing a reflective surface that lowers air conditioning bills. It’s available in a variety of colors and is able to withstand various weather conditions. Additionally, many single-ply roofing membranes can be recycled at the end of their useful life, further reducing your environmental impact.
The most popular single-ply membrane in the industry is TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin). It combines a synthetic rubber with a reinforcing scrim to provide added strength. TPO membranes are heat-weldable, which makes it easier to repair damaged areas of the roof. They’re also highly durable and resist UV rays, making them ideal for use in warmer climates.
Another option for single-ply roofs is EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), a thermoset rubber. It’s resistant to chemicals, ozone exposure and other harsh conditions found in industrial settings. It’s also incredibly resilient in colder climates and offers extra protection against tears, punctures and impacts.
Lastly, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) rounds out the top three most popular single-ply membranes. It’s a durable choice that stands up to ozone exposure, heavy foot traffic, impact damage and UV rays. PVC is also a chemically resistant option, standing up to grease, oils and acid rain.
If you’re in the market for a new industrial roof or need to repair an existing one, contact the experts at AAA Roofing to discuss your options. We have years of experience with commercial and residential flat and low-slope roofs, including PVC, TPO, EPDM and other single-ply membranes. Our team can help you find the best solution to meet your needs and budget. We specialize in new construction, re-roofs, repairs, maintenance and leak detection.
Why You Should Become an Electrician
Best Electrician Huntsville is a career choice that’s both stable and rewarding. You’ll find opportunities in construction and manufacturing.
The skills required are complex, but you can learn them at a vocational school or an apprenticeship program. This is a great option if you don’t want to go into debt for your education.
Electrical wiring is the cabling that connects electrical outlets, switches and fixtures in a structure. It is subject to strict safety standards. Whether you are constructing a new home, or simply upgrading your existing electrical system, faulty wiring can cause fires, power surges and other dangerous issues. Professional electricians are trained to safely and correctly install electrical wiring, ensuring that it is up to code.
Electrical wires are insulated to protect against shock and fire hazards. The insulation on a wire can be made of plastic, rubber, fiberglass, metal or other materials. The material is chosen based on the environment where the wire will be used. For example, a wire that is designed to be run inside a wall will be insulated with plastic, while a wire meant for use outdoors will be coated in a weather-resistant metal.
The most common type of electrical wiring is known as solid or stranded wire. Solid wires have a single conductive strand and are much less flexible than stranded wires. They are typically used when a lot of movement isn’t required, or when the space available for the wiring is limited. Stranded wires, on the other hand, have a large number of thin solid wires wrapped around each other to make a larger and more flexible cable.
Insulated cables are typically grouped together and run through one of several forms of conduit between electrical devices. They can be run through a specialized, bendable pipe known as a flex tube or a metal or PVC tubing called a raceway. Wires may also be run through rectangular cross-section metal or PVC wire trays with lids, or they can be encased in concrete.
RG Electric can help you understand electrical wiring basics to avoid common mistakes like leaving wires exposed or running multiple circuits to the same outlet. Always be sure to turn off the electricity to any area where you are working before beginning an electrical project, and leave at least 4 to 5 feet of insulated cable extra for future projects. Also, be sure to clearly label each cable with the room and circuit it’s leading to in your service panel to prevent confusion.
Electrical Outlets
Electrical outlets, or receptacles, are an integral part of the modern home. We take them for granted until they are not working properly or have faulty wiring, which can lead to electrical fires. The good news is, residential electricians can help you prevent these hazards by upgrading or repairing your home’s outlets and receptacles.
Outlets come in many shapes and sizes, depending on their purpose and how they are used. For instance, many homes in the United States use two vertical slots to fit plugs with two prongs. Newer models may include USB charging ports. Some even come with a third opening that accommodates three-prong power cables.
Another important type of outlet is a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). These outlets are designed to prevent electric shocks that could happen when plugged in near water. You can test these outlets by pressing the “test” button located on the outlet. If you see that the light on the front of the receptacle glows, it means that it is functioning correctly.
If you have young children in your home, it is a good idea to invest in tamper resistant outlets. These are designed with a spring-loaded cover that cannot be removed easily by curious toddlers. They will deactivate the outlet if they are tampered with.
AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) outlets are another excellent safety feature that should be considered for your home. They work to detect dangerous arcs in your wiring and break the flow of electricity, which can help prevent electrical fires. Unlike standard circuit breakers, which can sometimes fail to detect problems, AFCI outlets are much more reliable.
Outdoor electrical outlets are also worth considering for your home, especially if you have a lot of exterior power appliances and lighting fixtures. These are often left exposed to the elements and can be susceptible to moisture, which can cause a lot of damage if not dealt with promptly. Having these outlets installed by a professional is an excellent way to make your outside areas more functional and enjoyable. An experienced electrician will know what type of outdoor outlet is best for your specific needs.
Electrical Panels
The electrical panel is the heart of a building’s power supply system. It receives the external wires that carry electricity from a utility company, then distributes them to every area of the building. Depending on the size of a building, it may have one main electrical service panel, or several smaller subpanels that provide power to different areas of the facility.
The panel is usually located in an out-of-the-way part of a home, such as the basement, garage, or laundry room. It is a large metal box with circuit breakers, and often has a lid that can be removed to allow access for maintenance work. There are a number of things that can be done to an electrical panel to increase its efficiency and durability. For example, a wire duct can be installed to organize and protect the wiring running into the panel. This can help to minimize the risk of electrical problems by keeping all of the wires neatly organized and out of sight. A din rail is another useful component, as it allows multiple components to be mounted on a single strip of metal that can then be moved around to where they are needed. This can save time and money by allowing electricians to quickly locate the parts they need in a panel.
Another important feature of an electrical panel is the master breaker switch. This is a large breaker that controls all of the other fuses or circuit breakers in the panel. If it trips, that is an indication that the system is overloaded and needs a professional to check and repair it.
In addition to the master breaker, there are also typically 15-amp and 20-amp circuits that control standard outlets and lights, and 30 and 40-amp circuits for appliances like dryers or dishwashers. Increasing the amperage of a home’s service panel can improve the capacity for heavy electrical devices and reduce the risk of tripping fuses or circuit breakers.
It is important to be careful when working on a panel, as it contains live wires that can cause serious injury or death. It is best to have an electrician make any necessary repairs or upgrades to ensure the safety of your family and guests.
Electrical Safety
Electrical safety is an important aspect of any workplace. In addition to requiring proper training for employees who will be handling electricity, it’s also necessary to ensure that all equipment is properly inspected and maintained to avoid potential hazards. There are many types of electrical hazards, such as electric shock, fire and arc flashes. Each type of hazard can result in serious injury or death if not avoided.
Whenever you are working near power lines, make sure you’re not closer than the recommended distance set by your jurisdiction and utility company. If you accidentally come in contact with a power line, call 911 and your utility company to help you. You should never try to rescue someone who has come into contact with a live power line, because you could be killed by the current flowing through your body.
Other common electrical hazards include faulty wiring and overloaded circuits that can cause fires. To prevent these issues, always keep an eye out for warning signs like equipment that heats up or sparks when turned on and be sure to inspect cords and wires regularly for signs of wear or damage. If you notice any of these issues, immediately take the equipment out of service.
When you are working with electricity, it is always wise to wear insulated gloves and safety glasses. In addition, make sure all outlets are childproofed and that your kids know not to stick anything into electrical outlets or appliances. Finally, invest in a tool such as the Thermo Clip(tm), which is an easy-to-use visual over-temperature indicator. The tool attaches to any wire size from 17 AWG to 750 MCM and circuits rated up to 36 kVAC (600 VDC), helping you to identify and correct problems before they become dangerous.
Properly handling electricity can be a challenge, but all workers need to understand the risks and how to prevent them. Keeping the basics of electrical safety in mind can prevent many injuries and keep your workers safe at work. If you need additional guidance on how to protect your workers and avoid electrical hazards, be sure to check out the range of electrical safety training courses available by Skills Training Group.