tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40915430448942098032024-03-05T15:42:54.988-08:00John A. D'AnnunzioCommentary on roofing and waterproofing, forensics, design, and application.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-85714901959191231872013-12-08T18:49:00.001-08:002013-12-08T18:49:50.366-08:00Properly Seal It Up<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">John A. D’Annunzio<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Not all building leaks occur at
the roof. After a new roof is installed additional leaks can still occur if the
joints at exterior components at the roof level are not properly sealed. A best
design practice is too include proper sealant application requirements in the
remedial roof design.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Sealants are applied in a number
of points throughout a roof application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are applied at counter flashing joints, metal seams, at tubular
penetration flanges, and a plethora of openings in the roof system or adjoining
walls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not all sealant materials are
suited for all substrate applications.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some sealants have better coefficients of expansion than others and are
better suited for areas of high expansion/contraction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Roofing contractors get into trouble when
they use the one-size fits all approach to sealants.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The success of the construction
sealant is based on proper selection and use of the various sealant materials
for a specific application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sealant
selection should be based on the adhering substrates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>General recommendations for sealant selection
typical in roof applications are as follows:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Concrete-to-Concrete:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Two part polyurethane<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -1.5in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Brick
to Brick:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Two part polyurethane<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -1.5in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Metal-to-Metal:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Perimeter silicone sealant<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -1.5in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Metal
to Brick:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Perimeter silicone
sealant<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
Metal-to-Metal:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Perimeter
silicone sealant<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -1.5in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Metal
to Brick:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Perimeter silicone
sealant<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Specific sealant requirements can
be divided into two simple areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
first comprises of universal properties that a sealant requires to be effective
and the second explains the process of proper sealant application.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
There are three universal
requirements that a sealant must posses to be successful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Adhesion<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>2.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Compatibility<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>3.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Durability<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
A sealants performance in any
joint depends on the adhesion of the material to the joint wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bond of the sealant/adhesive to the
substrate must be strong enough to withstand stresses well beyond those that
the joint is designed to encounter. Most sealants adhesion traits vary
depending on the existing substrate. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Another important attribute that
aids proper adhesion is surface preparation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most sealant manufacturers provide surface preparation instructions,
particularly if primer is required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With
all sealants, it is important that the surface is clean and dry prior to
application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sealant should be
installed as soon as possible after cleaning the substrate, before the surface
is contaminated with the dust and dirt from the job site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best adhesion is obtained when the
sealant is applied and tooled to completely fill the recess provided in the
joint.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Whenever different construction
materials adjoin compatibility is always an issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Different materials have different
formulations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Signs of incompatibility
range from slight discoloration of the sealant to loss of adhesion loss at the
substrate. At construction joints, the sealants must be compatible with the
substrate, adjoining sealants and building components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sealant must also be durable enough to
provide a service life equal to that of the adjoining components.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-66388246261961404712013-11-30T09:45:00.000-08:002013-11-30T09:45:40.620-08:00Why is Waterproofing Required?<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>John A. D’Annunzio<o:p></o:p></strong></div>
<o:p> </o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The first question that an
architect will have to answer is if waterproofing is required on the building
that they are designing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This can be a
complex question and the answer could have a significant ramification over the
life span of the structure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Economic and
code requirements could also weigh heavily in the decision process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Waterproofing may be included for a piece of
mind, this is the one component of the building that it may be best to caution
on the side of err.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
There are five reasons why
waterproofing is required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Code requirements</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Keep water out of the building</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->To protect the structure: concrete and steel</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Hydrostatic pressure</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Economics: the cost of excavation<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">One: Code Requirements<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Certain codes require the use of
waterproofing in different conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is the responsibility of the architect or designer to make certain
that the waterproofing component is in compliance with the applicable Federal,
state or Local codes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The primary
distinction of the codes in regards to the water table and hydrostatic
pressure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A proper engineering study of
the grounds is required to establish this criterion for the design phase.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The IBC code requires
dampproofing or waterproofing application when the site ground water table is
maintained at an elevation of not less than six (6) inches below the bottom of
the ground slab.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The IBC codes also
require waterproofing applications where hydrostatic pressure will occur.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
ASTM states that dampproofing or
waterproofing is required for slabs on ground and foundation retaining
walls.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Two: Keep Moisture Out of the Building<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The main function of a structure
is to protect man from the environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This has been the one element that has remained consistent throughout
the history of mankind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Advancements in material
technology, application procedures and design have not changed this function.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The main purpose of waterproofing is to serve
as a barrier that protects the interior of the structure from moisture
intrusion and other environmental ingress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Below grade building components
are susceptible to moisture intrusion because they can be exposed to moisture
from groundwater for weeks – even months – at a time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Buildings constructed in low-lying areas with
high water tables can be exposed to groundwater throughout the life of the
structure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
There are several points where a
below grade exterior component is prone to moisture infiltration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These points require proper design diligence
from architects to keep moisture out of the building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of the more common areas of concern are:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Tie-rod Holes</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Cold Joints</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Expansion Joints</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Penetrations</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Internal Drains</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
</div>
<h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Three: Protect the Structure: Concrete and Steel<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
In addition to keeping moisture
out of the building, waterproofing serves another equally important role.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It helps protect the structural elements –
concrete and steel – from moisture and environmental (chemicals, soils, etc.)
related damage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Deterioration from the elements can occur in the form of
cracks and spalling of the concrete or corrosion and rusting of the steel
components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In each case, these
deficiencies have an adverse effect on the long-term performance capacity of
these components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Concrete in its self is not completely waterproof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the integrity of the concrete is maintained it can remain waterproof, however, concrete can crack before hardening through construction movement, plastic or drying shrinkage or early frost damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Concrete can crack after hardening through settlement, seismic forces, vibration or creep, deflection from soil movement or excessive loading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span></span><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Four: Hydrostatic Pressure <o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The determination of hydrostatic
pressure is an important element prior to the design stage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a basic factor in the choice of a
waterproofing system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By definition, if
hydrostatic pressure is present than waterproofing – not dampproofing – is
required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Aspects demanding consideration
regarding hydrostatic pressure include the intensity and duration of the
pressure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This should be defined by a
civil engineer and is important in consideration of waterproofing materials
that are specified.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other issues that
require clarification prior to design are if the pressure is continuous or
intermittent and if the water is stationary or flowing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The issue of hydrostatic pressure
is extremely important in the design of waterproofing systems for several
reasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hydrostatic pressure can have
adverse effects on waterproofing systems if they are not properly designed or
applied.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hydrostatic pressure can force
membranes into voids in the concrete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cracking
in the concrete that occurs under flexural stress can rupture the membrane and
create leaks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Hydrostatic pressure can also force water into tie-rod
holes, cold joints, and rock pockets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
can also turn minor imperfections into probable sources of leaks.</span></div>
</span><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
</span><div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Five: Economics<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
In the last decade the term ‘value
engineering’ has gained prominence, particularly with General Contractors who
look to add to their profit margins through substitution of materials and
systems. The term implies that there may be some value in substituting design
materials or application procedures with less expensive methods of
construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This approach is highly
cautioned in below grade waterproofing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The primary reason for this concern is one of risk v. cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If a building owner wants to cut costs, the
waterproofing system is the last place to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is because the cost of excavation far
exceeds the initial cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Due to this
fact, the designer should always minimize risk despite any reasonable – or
unreasonable – costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With waterproofing
you only have one chance to do it right!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">The architect should stand firm on the waterproofing
design and should not accept change orders for materials or systems that they
are not familiar (or comfortable) with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If the building owner or general contractor forces changes to design of
materials or application procedures without the designers acceptance, the
designer should have those parties sign a release of liability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a professional in the industry the
designer will assume liability for all design components – even those changed
without their consent – unless a release of liability is provided.</span></div>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<b>Where is Waterproofing
Required?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Once it has been established that
waterproofing is required, the next important decision is to determine where it
is required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Typically, waterproofing
should be applied over all below grade concrete surfaces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are several other established building
components that require waterproofing protection, they are:<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Underground Structures</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Elevated Structural slabs over underground
spaces</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Structural slabs below grade</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Structural slabs above grade</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Foundations</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Lagging walls</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Plazas</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Terraces</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Promenades</div>
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</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Planters</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-77406998686521124442013-11-18T14:33:00.000-08:002013-11-18T14:33:14.158-08:00Atachment Codes Required to Decrease Roof Damage in High Velocity Wind Zones<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>John A. D’Annunzio<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
System attachment is the most
critical element of roof design and application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Improper attachment results in the increased
probability of wind blow-offs and contributes to membrane strain created by
differential movement of the system components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The design and application methods must address attachment of the total
system and all of the components – substrate, roofing, flashing, metal
coverings and penetrations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The most
prevalent element that proper attachment will deter is damage from wind force,
particularly wind uplift damage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Wind
damage of roof systems primarily initiates at perimeters and corners of the
building and infiltrates throughout the field of the system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Generally, wind vortexes occur at the
perimeter of the building displacing perimeter components (flashings, wood
nailers, metal coverings, etc.) creating openings for wind entry into the
system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The wind transcends through the
system in a cross directional pattern creating uplift and damage at points
throughout the field of the system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wind
uplift can also occur from below the deck in facilities damaged by wind from
interior entry points, such as windows, doors, overhead doors, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Secondary wind damage can also occur at the
roof from membrane protrusions created by wind driven projectiles.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<b>High
Velocity Wind Classifications<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
There
are four high wind velocity classifications, which range from 39 mph to in
excess of 300 mph.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The most common type
of wind is a gale force wind, which can vary in wind speed from 39 to 72
mph.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These types of winds are steady in
velocity and have sporadic gusts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wind
forces in combination with thunder, electric storms and heavy rainfall are
referred to as squalls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Squalls can
range up to 90 mph. Even though gales and squalls have the least amount of wind
force of the four classifications, they contribute to over 70% of the wind
related claims per year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is largely
due to their common occurrences in most U.S. regions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Hurricanes
primarily occur in the Gulf and Atlantic costal regions and contribute to wide
spread damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most hurricanes form in
the Atlantic as tropical storms, when they exceed 73 mph they reach hurricane
status.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are five levels of
hurricanes, which are categorized by wind speeds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hurricanes typically occur between the end of
May through November – the official hurricane season. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Tornadoes
are characterized as severe squalls with the addition of a funnel
(vortex).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wind speeds are high and
typically immeasurable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have been
estimated to be between 200 to 300 mph within the vortex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are most common in the central United
States in the spring, however, they can – and have – occurred in other regions
at other times of the year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Effects of High Velocity Wind Speeds on Roofs<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Wind, especially at high
velocity, creates vacuum or negative pressure, lifting the membrane and roof
insulation material loose from points of attachment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wind uplift is severe at the roof perimeter
primarily at corners, where it exceeds the normal static pressure against the
wall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Wind damage to roofs also occurs
through membrane punctures created by the impact of wind driven
projectiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The projectiles typically
consist of roof components (metal terminations, flashings, membrane, tiles,
etc.) or mechanical equipment displaced in windstorms. In most cases, the
projectiles are from adjoining roofs or surrounding buildings that puncture
roofs otherwise unaffected by wind damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The membrane openings created by
these impacts allow for the free flow of moisture into the roof system during
the rainstorms that characteristically follow these events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since the International Building Code states
that roof systems with more than 25% of wet insulation require roof removal to
the deck, the cost of collateral damage from wind- storms can be excessive.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Required Changes in Design, Manufacturing and Application<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Proactive measures are required
to decrease roof damage in high velocity wind zones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These changes are required throughout the
roofing process during the design, manufacturing and application phases:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
1.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Design
for Attachment:</b><span style="color: navy;"> </span>Wind uplift damage can be
significantly reduced through the design and implementation of proper roof
attachment procedures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Proper roof
attachment can be determined in accordance with FM requirements or ASCE
Standard Wind-Uplift calculations. The procedure to determine wind uplift
pressure rating on specific buildings during the design phase is based a
calculation that takes into account the basic wind speed in the geographical
area, ground surrounding the building and the roof uplift pressure at the field
of the roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The buildings height and
perimeter construction are also considered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is the responsibility of the specifier to complete these calculations
and to determine the proper wind uplift rating for the building.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only materials and systems that meet the
calculated uplift pressures should be applied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: justify;">
The calculated pressure is applicable for the
determination of the entire roof system – roof deck and all above grade
components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, this procedure only
determines attachment rates for the field of the roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pressures required for corners and
perimeters must be calculated separately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">2.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span>Manufacture of Impact Resistant
Membranes:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> The application of impact resistant
membranes would significantly reduce collateral damage to the roofs that
illustrated no other signs of wind-uplift damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regulations could be implemented utilizing
the current ASTM impact resistance testing standards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
3.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Compliance During Application:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The largest impact that these potential
changes could have will be the compliance of the contractor during the
application phase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The current
wind-uplift requirements are typically only monitored through the design
phase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This includes the manufacturers
system testing, which is conducted in a controlled setting with materials that
may or may not be applied on all roof projects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some roof specifications and designs are reviewed for code compliance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, there are no current regulations for
the verification of the completed systems attachment methods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Due to the fact that insurance companies will
be forced to pay claims on roof systems that possessed improprieties of
application, a concentrated effort may begin to verify what they are insuring
prior to a catastrophic event. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The costs associated with
application verification may be prohibitive due to the scale of the task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, in a year where the insurance
companies are paying billions of dollars for roof and associated collateral
damage (interior repairs, loss of production, temporary housing, etc.) this
issue may rise to the top of the agenda.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some insurance carriers have maintained a proactive stance in this area
and have existing verification methods in place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The remaining insurers may begin requiring
their insured building owners to provide roof system compliance verification as
a stipulation of their policy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Required Building Code Changes<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The only way to enact these
changes is through the implementation of more stringent codes in all high
velocity wind zones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This would include
the Gulf and Atlantic coastal regions and should include inland areas a minimum
of 100 miles from the coast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The current
codes make reference to the FM and ASCE attachment methods; however, they are
primarily enforced in the design phase and the codes do not address project
compliance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Proper code implementation should
mandate regulations as stringent as the high velocity section of the Florida
Building Code.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These sections can serve
as an effective template for code development, particularly due to the fact
that they have been in effect for over a decade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Proper code development requires
implementation of standards that address all phases of roofing: design,
manufacture and application. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The success of the code will be
based on the ability to complete project compliance inspections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the wind related failures that we
have observed over the years were initiated by improper application methods.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Typically, project design is reviewed and
approved (or rejected) by code agencies prior to construction; however, actual
application practices are not always inspected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The primary reason typically stated for this oversight is that the local
agencies (code enforcement and/or insurance companies) lack the manpower
required too complete such a daunting task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The failure of this reasoning is that other building components – such
as structural, electrical, mechanical and plumbing - have required compliance
inspections on all facilities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Therefore, additional manpower may not be required; roof attachment
inspections could become part of the structural inspections.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Code enforcement should be
maintained at the local municipality level and can be monitored through the
issuance of mandatory permits for all roofing projects (commercial and
residential, new construction and remedial projects).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The issuance of permits (prior to project
inception) can be based on the following criteria:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->ASCE wind uplift calculations are prepared by a
licensed engineer for the specific project facility to determine the wind
uplift pressure for the facility and to determine the proper attachment
requirements.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Fastener pull-out tests are required to determine the
attachment capacity of the existing substrate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Materials and/or systems should comply with identified
high velocity wind regulations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
would include – but is not limited to – wind uplift testing and puncture
resistance testing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Once the permits are issued and
the project begins, code compliance can be enforced through mandatory project
inspections.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Code compliance inspections
must be completed at the following intervals:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Substrate Attachment</b>: To ensure application
attachment methods are in compliance with the approved project design
requirements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These inspections would
include attachment of the underlayment, insulation and/or membrane on low-slope
applications and title, shingle, and/or standing seam metal attachment on steep-slope
applications.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Application at the field
of the roof and the wind vulnerable edges must be inspected.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Final Inspection:</b> To ensure that the roof system
is applied in compliance with the approved project design requirements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tile uplift tests and/or specific material
extraction may be required to determine project application methods.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The intent of the proposed roof
attachment codes is to minimize structural damage and limit associated human
health and safety risks in high velocity wind events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These code changes will not eliminate all
wind related roof damage, but they will greatly reduce damage initiated by
improper attachment methods and flying projectiles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The cost savings realized by these codes for
insurance companies, building owners and municipalities (State and Local
levels) could be substantial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
potential savings to human health and safety would be immeasurable.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-19345330794477887332013-11-06T14:55:00.000-08:002013-11-06T14:55:49.806-08:00Roof Membrane Systems: Advantages and Disadvantages<br />
<div class="MsoTitle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b>Roof Membrane Systems: Advantages and Disadvantages<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoSubtitle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><u>Membrane System<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Advantages<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Disadvantages</u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">EPDM</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Economical<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Life
Span – 15 years<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Track Record
to 1980s<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Seams require
continual maintenance<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Flexible
Sheet<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Ponding
water is detrimental<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 7;"> </span>Extensive
maintenance required<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 7;"> </span>Single
layer of protection<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">PVC</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Economical<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Environmental Issues (Chloride)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Seams strong
as welded steel<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Life Span – 15 years<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Ponded water
not an issue<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Single layer of
protection<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Track Record
to 1980s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">TPO</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Economical<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Change in Material Formulations<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Seams strong
as welded steel<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Life Span – 15 years<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Flexible
Sheet<span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Limited
Track Record – mid 1990s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Ponded water
not an issue<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Single layer of
protection<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Modified
Bitumen</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Life Span – 20+ years<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Costly<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Multiple
Layers of Protection<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Ponding water is
detrimental<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span>Track record
to 1980s<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Coating required for
long-term<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-6010252580691854912013-09-05T15:50:00.000-07:002013-09-05T15:50:39.780-07:00Comprehensive Specs = Successful Project<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">John A. D’Annunzio</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Since I started in this industry in 1987 I have been very
consistent in one point: specifications need to be comprehensive so that they
do not lend themselves to contractor interpretation. The reason for this
sentiment is that in the past twenty-five years I have witnessed – or should I
say – I have been an expert witness – in dozens of legal cases where the
specification was open to the contractors’ interpretation. As you can probably surmise,
this rarely ends well for anybody but the lawyers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The latest case study in this scenario involves an exterior
sealant project on a pre-cast concrete high rise building in the mid-west. The
architect was hired by the Owner to review previously completed exterior
building studies, complete their own investigation of the building and design a
series of remedies that will stop moisture infiltration into the building. The
previous building studies indicated that moisture infiltration was due to openings
at sealant joints at pre-cast panels and windows. The architect relied on these
findings and never completed their own investigation of the building.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Specifications and drawings were completed that indicated
new sealant was required at all buildings joints. The contractor bid the
project, completed the sealant application and was paid for their work. A month
after project close-out leaks developed at corner windows. The contractor
reviewed the leaks and stated that ‘corner tape’ was required and that they had
not completed these joints because they were part of the structural window
frame and did not require sealant. Their claim was that the existing sealant at
these points was improperly applied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The Owner agreed that ‘corner tape’ was probably the correct
remedy and told the contractor they could progress with this work, but no extra
fee would be paid. This is where the dance started; step one – contractor: this
was not in specification. Step two – owner: we told architect to correct all
exterior issues. Two steps up now one step back: architect: spec and drawings
state to seal all building joints.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The drawings do state to seal all building joints but illustrate
arrows to all building joints except the corner window frames.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Time for the dip in the dance: All parties agree ‘corner
tape’ should be applied. The Owner is willing to pay the Contractor extra for
material but why should they pay rigging costs and labor for joints that were
supposed to be sealed. Shouldn’t this have been in the contract?!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Now we dance again. Step one – contractor: this was not in
specification. Step two – owner: we told architect to correct all exterior
issues. Two steps up now one step back: architect: spec and drawings state to
seal all building joints.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Before the next dip the lawyers may cut in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
This would not have happened with a comprehensive
specification. So I will say in again in 2013: specifications need to be
comprehensive so that they do not lend themselves to contractor interpretation.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-9351147749576602862013-08-20T06:24:00.001-07:002013-08-20T06:24:49.951-07:00A Few Words About Wet Insulation<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>John D’Annunzio</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong> August 20, 2013</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Once the moisture source is
eliminated insulation will physically dry out from normal building
environmental elements – building heat rises through insulation. It may appear
to be dry by sight – and in the case of some insulation materials – it may
appear to be dry from the touch. Once wet no insulation material fully recovers
its original structural and thermal capacity. Bottom line; just because it
looks dry does not mean it is dry.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The only true way to determine if
insulation is dry is through gravimetric testing. Gravimetric testing
determines the percentage of moisture present in an insulation. Each insulation
material has its own coefficient of acceptable moisture percentage. This is the
point at which the insulations thermal and structural capacity diminish.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
It should be pointed out the IBC
code indicates that all wet insulation must be removed from an existing system
for a roof recover application. The code also states that only one recover
application is acceptable on a low-slope roof system. Furthermore, some States
and local codes indicate that if over 25% of a roof area has wet insulation –
the entire area requires removal.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-55302656811276305532013-08-15T09:07:00.000-07:002013-08-15T09:07:55.502-07:00Service Life Predictability<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>John A. D'Annunzio</strong><br />
<strong>August 15, 2013</strong></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The most heated debate in the roofing industry centers on
the issue of roof removal vs. roof repair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It is not uncommon that 3 or 4 roof evaluators of a given roof
installation would reach 3 or 4 different conclusions relative to the roofs
condition, maintenance requirements, and service potential.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The evaluation of the sources of available
maintenance options, and their economic benefits to the building owner, would
likely yield additional varying conclusions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Their condition exists because roof maintenance is often conducted in
the absence of a standard set of measurements, values, or decision-making
guidelines.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
For example, a 2-inch high
‘ridge’ in the roofing membrane is an entirely different problem on a six-year
old roof than it is on a twenty-one year old roof.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also different when it occurs within an
organic felt system rather than a fiberglass felt system, and so on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How many authorities or experts would agree
on its ultimate impact on the serviceability of a roof system?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The standard of measurements and
values referred to would establish the specific problems or potential problems
existing within the roofs, their severity, their density, and their impact on
the remaining serviceability of the system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Depending on the defect type and membrane type, its age, and other
considerations such as climate and building occupancy, a ‘decision tree’
process could guide the user to the most technically and economically sound
course of action.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The intent of a program developed
in this manner is to reduce costs, minimize maintenance requirements, and
establish a level of quality assurance that would result in predictable and
controllable roof service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The program
should be dynamic so that it can be upgraded, revised, or remolded to reflect
changing roof technology, in house experience, or specific user requirements.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Developing a system to rate a
roofs condition, estimate its service life, and to provide a basis to make
decisions or select repair alternatives is a difficult task.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ideally, the system would be based on the instrument-measured
impact that each situation (such as a defect, weather) has on the roofs
integrity and condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each
measurement would include combinations of problem type severity level, and
identify the membrane type, the climate, test sample analysis, and thermal
performance of the insulation component.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Such an approach would require both roof investigation and material
forensic analysis in a laboratory.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Considering the complexity of
roof systems, and the state-of-the-art in roofing technology, an empirical
approach is necessary to establish a procedure that will provide a disciplined
and effective management tool for optimizing the service life of a roof
system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Following are suggested
procedures for instituting the rating and decision process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This process eliminates the subjectivity of
the evaluator and is based solely on objective analysis and evidence.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText2" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<u>Forensic Analytical Serviceability Tracker (FAST)<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The goal of the Forensic
Analytical Serviceability Tracker (FAST) program is to remove all subjectivity
from the formulation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The service life
prediction is based solely on objective evidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All roof system components should be
analyzed, inspected, and tested.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
In the Forensic Analytical
Serviceability Tracker (FAST) procedure a service life prediction is
established within the following parameters: <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The age of the existing roof system<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The industry average service life of the roof system</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Roof Condition Evaluation: <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">a.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Roof Inspection<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">b.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The identified distress factors of the existing roof
system<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The on-site forensic analysis of the existing roof system,
based on:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; mso-list: l2 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">a.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Moisture analysis<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; mso-list: l2 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">b.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Attachment – bonding or wind uplift<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Material Forensic Testing (Laboratory Analysis)<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<u><span style="font-size: small;">Forensic Analytical Serviceability Tracker (FAST) Calculation Factors<o:p></o:p></span></u></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The following factors are used in
the calculation of the FAST method of determining the existing serviceability
of an existing roof system:</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Provide the age of the existing roof system.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Identify the existing roof membrane system in the chart
below and determine the industry average service life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(The National Roofing Contractors Association
(NRCA) developed the estimated service life chart).</div>
<h6>
<u><span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></u> <span style="font-size: small;"><u>Roof Membrane System Mean Life Years</u></span></h6>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Natural Slate<span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"> </span>60.3<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Clay Tile<span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"> </span>46.7<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Metal Panels<span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"> </span>26.5<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Coal-tar Organic BUR<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>23.0<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Coal-tar Glass BUR<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>11.2<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Asphalt Glass Shingles<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>17.7<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Asphalt Organic Shingles<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>17.5<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Asphalt Glass BUR<span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>16.7<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
SBS Modified Asphalt<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>15.9<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Asphalt Organic BUR<span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>14.7<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
EPDM<span style="mso-tab-count: 7;"> </span>14.2<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
PVC<span style="mso-tab-count: 7;"> </span>13.8<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
APP Modified Asphalt<span style="mso-tab-count: 4;"> </span>13.7<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
CSPE-CPE<span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"> </span>12.8<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
EP-TPO<span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"> </span>12.7<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.25in;">
Polyisobutylene<span style="mso-tab-count: 5;"> </span>10.6<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The roof condition investigation should determine the
existing defects of the roof system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All
components of the roof system should be investigated: membrane, flashings,
penetrations, and metal terminations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All defects should be noted.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; text-align: justify;">
All roof
membrane systems have defects that decrease the service life of the roof
system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The major defects that have a
direct influence on the service life of the roof system should be identified.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The on-site forensic analysis of the existing roof system:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">a.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Moisture Analysis: Proper analysis includes a
combination of both non-destructive and destructive methods of testing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Investigations completed using only one of
these methods are insufficient and lack creditability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The equipment used to conduct non-destructive
tests provides analysis (a snapshot) of the overall roof conditions of large
expansive areas in a quick and efficient manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Destructive testing – coupled with
gravimetric tests – are required to verify the conditions observed by the
moisture analysis equipment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">
There
are three types of non-destructive testing equipment:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Impedance or Capacitance<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Infrared<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Nuclear<o:p> </o:p></li>
</ol>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo2; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">b.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Attachment: System attachment is the most critical
element of roof application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Improper
attachment results in the increased probability of wind blow-offs and
contributes to membrane strain created by differential movement of the system
components.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Testing can be conducted
with bonded pull test or wind uplift (dome) tests in compliance with <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Material Forensic Analysis of the existing system
(Laboratory Testing):<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; mso-list: l2 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">a.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Insulation:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>determine
the condition of the existing insulation by completing the following tests:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Gravimetric Moisture Content<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Volumetric Moisture Content<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.5in; mso-list: l2 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">b.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Membrane: determine the condition of the existing
membrane by completing the following tests:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; text-align: justify;">
<u>Built-Up
Roof System and Modified Bitumen:<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D 2829 Standard Practice for Sampling and
Analysis of Built-up Roofs<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D 4 Standard Test for Bitumen Content<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D 1670 Standard Test Failure End Point in
Accelerated and Outdoor Weathering of Bituminous Materials<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D 2523 Standard Practice for Testing Load
Strain Properties of Roofing Membranes<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Microscopic Examination<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; text-align: justify;">
<u>Thermoset
Membrane Systems (EPDM):<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D 4637 Standard Specification of EPDM Sheet
used in Single Ply Roof Membrane, to include<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D412 Tensile strength<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D412 Elongation<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D816 Factory Seam Strength <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Mil thickness of existing membrane<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Seam strength<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Microscopic Examination<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1in; text-align: justify;">
<u>Thermoplastic
Membrane Systems:<o:p></o:p></u></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D 4434 Standard Specification for Poly
(Vinyl Chloride) Sheet Roofing, to include;<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D638 Tensile strength at Break<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D638 Elongation at break<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D638 Seam Strength <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ASTM D638 Overall Thickness<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Seam strength<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l3 level2 lfo3; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Microscopic Examination</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-86260359243828914942013-08-09T06:31:00.000-07:002013-08-09T06:31:45.197-07:00Forensic Testing Used to Investigate Building Exterior Components<div style="text-align: center;">
John A.
D’Annunzio<br />
August 9, 2013<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<strong>Introduction to Forensic Testing</strong></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Forensic testing is playing an increasingly larger role in
determining the cause of building exterior failures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The most important attribute of properly
completed forensics testing is that it eliminates subjective thought and
presents objective analysis based on factual evidence. This is critical,
particularly when you have participants that have a vested interest in the
cause of a premature failure, such as contractors or material
manufacturers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
In building exterior investigations forensics testing can
be employed through two investigative methods: <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->on-site
analysis, and <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->material
testing in an off-site laboratory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
These methods can be conducted at all building envelope
components from below-grade waterproofing, exterior walls, sealants, to
roofs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The most effective conclusions
are drawn when both methods are applied in tandem to analyze a problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On-site analysis performed independently may
provide only subjective conclusions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<strong>On-Site Analysis</strong><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
On-site analysis is completed
through a thorough inspection of the required component.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In some respects this analysis is comparable
to a crime scene investigation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All
aspects of the component are investigated to determine the cause of the
problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Analysis can be conducted by
visual observation, non-destructive testing using various moisture meters,
gages and specialized testing equipment and through the collection of physical
material samples that are extracted from the component. Material samples
collected from the site are transported to an off-site testing laboratory for
analysis.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<strong>Material Sample Testing</strong></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Material sample testing is the
primary element in forensics testing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Material testing identifies the types of materials applied in the
construction of the building exterior component and, more importantly, it
identifies the quantities of materials applied in construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the United States construction material
testing is conducted in accordance with the testing procedures established by
the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ASTM is comprised of several sub-committees
that work within each building component discipline to develop and update
testing standards and procedures for all materials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sub-committees are comprised of industry
professionals, primarily manufacturers, who work on these efforts on a
volunteer (non-paying) basis. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-70202537343051411352013-08-07T06:21:00.000-07:002013-08-07T06:26:06.177-07:00Can Hail Damage a Roof System? Hail Yes!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">John A. D’Annunzio</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
August
7, 2013</div>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">How to Inspect for Hail Damage<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Hail force damage is often
difficult to find because it is not easily detectable in all roof
membranes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is often only visible
within or below the roof surface.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Typically, the use of magnifying instrumentation or microscopic analysis
is required to clearly identify the damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Damage to single ply membranes is often illustrated through fractures
that occur at the bottom of the sheets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Damage
to built-up roof membranes may occur in the interply layers, and damage to some
systems - such as SPF and PVC - can be identified at the surface layer in
severely damaged conditions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Small hailstones should not
damage the membrane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it has
happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best way to determine the
size of the hail is by inspecting the metal components of rooftop equipment or
copings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Indentations from hail over the
metal coverings can be measured to determine the actual hail size.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also a good idea to investigate
adjoining roof areas or surrounding buildings to determine if the same storm
produced similar damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Certain roof membranes are negatively affected by cold
weather conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A combination of
cold weather and rain can significantly cool the membrane surface and make it
brittle, which makes it more susceptible to damage from the force of hail.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<b>The Effects of Hail on
Low-Slope Membranes:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Water in the form of hail could
have negative effects on all roof systems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Depending on the type of membrane and the size of the hail, roof damage
can be sustained in the form of punctures or holes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The roof area should be inspected after every
hailstorm to insure that no damage has occurred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All commercial low-slope roof membranes can
be damaged by hail to some extent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Damage can occur from improper installation or material defects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Hail damage to built-up roof
systems typically occurs due to improper application of surfacing
aggregate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aggregate that is not evenly
distributed throughout the roof area (bare spots) or is applied in inadequate
amounts renders the membrane vulnerable to hail force damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As previously noted, the damage typically
occurs at the interplies due to the force of the impact.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Hail damage to Sprayed
Polyurethane Foam roofs largely results from improper application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In consistent application, which results in
uneven distribution of foam throughout the roof area, creates vulnerable points
in the system for hail impact damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Properly applied (thicker) areas are more likely to restrict impact than
the improperly (thinner) areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
lower density of foam in the inadequately applied areas reduces the compressive
strength of the material and increases the probability of damage from hail force
impact.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The most vulnerable roof systems
to hail force damage are single ply membranes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These types of membranes are susceptible because they typically do not
employ protective surfacing components or the redundancy of materials that
other conventional low-slope roof systems provide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Impact resistance is limited to a single
membrane layer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Premature deterioration
of the material can also contribute to hail force damage many single ply
membranes – particularly Thermoplastics – have a tendency to harden and become
brittle in colder temperatures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
type of material deterioration can be identified by taking samples from exposed
field areas and from unexposed laps at covered seams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Comparative studies of these samples will
indicate the differences in the physical properties of the membrane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The vulnerability of unreinforced PVC in
colder temperatures is well documented in this industry.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">How to Avoid Hail Damage<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The best way to avoid hail impact
damage on low-slope roofs is by installing adequately manufactured materials in
accordance with proper application procedures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The durability and puncture (impact) resistance of a membrane material
is an important criterion of membrane selection, particularly in hail-laden
regions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The impact resistance standards
for membranes that are currently enforced in the Southern Florida Building Code
may soon be enacted in all hurricane regions, due to significant membrane
damage from projectiles during these windstorms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Similar codes may be considered in hail-laden
regions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is very likely that that the
insurance companies that are paying millions of dollars in hail force damage on
an annual basis will lobby for these types of requirements.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Some hail force damage may occur due to the inherent
tendencies of the applied membrane.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
only defense against these situations is a combination of proper application
procedures and the addition of protective surfacing components over vulnerable
membranes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Proper application procedures
include accurate and even distribution of aggregate on built-up roof systems
and proper foam distribution in SPF systems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>On single ply applications it is critical that a durable (higher mil
thickness), impact resistant (reinforced) membrane is installed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In hail laden regions additional surfacing
components, such as pavers or ballast, may be considered to provide further
protection.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-69517644455187514332013-08-05T06:14:00.000-07:002013-08-05T06:15:05.750-07:00Problems With Roof Membrane Can Lead to Leaks<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>John A. D'Annunzio</strong></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><o:p><span style="text-decoration: none;"></span></o:p></u></b><br /></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
The roof membrane can also be compromised, potentially
causing roof leaks and other problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The building owner or maintenance supervisor should first make sure that
the roof system has been applied properly by a licensed, qualified roofing
contractor. However, even when the roof system is applied properly, the
membrane can fail due to the following circumstances: <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Blisters, ridges or bare areas in the roof
membrane can compromise the roof system’s performance. Cracks in the membrane
can often occur as a result, allowing moisture into the system and the
facility.</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">· </span></span><!--[endif]-->Ponding areas or excessive wear in certain
areas, can lead to structural damage to the roof system and leaks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Plant growth on the roof surface, which
sometimes occurs in the areas of chronic ponding conditions and accumulation of
dust and organic air-borne contaminants, can also cause damage to the membrane.</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Punctures in the membrane, which may be caused
by broken blisters, fasteners backing out of the substrate, dropped tools or
other dropped objects, hail, lack of proper membrane support, or by mechanical
abuse, allow for the moisture intrusion into the membrane and the facility.</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.25in; text-indent: -0.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Plugged drains caused by debris, abuse,
incorrect or marginal design, or insufficient maintenance, can lead to improper
drainage and chronic ponding problems.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
While some of the roof-related problems can be easily
fixed, such as flashing around HVAC units or removing debris from drains, others
may require professional assistance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
the problems are the result of a faulty application or material failure, the
building owner or maintenance supervisor should contact the roofing contractor
who performed the original work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
You may also want a professional roofing consultant to
inspect your roof to get an unbiased opinion of your roof system’s potential
problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Either way, a little regular inspection and maintenance of
a buildings roof will help to eliminate major problems, and the costs
associated with those problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-67049381311946123062013-07-23T08:19:00.003-07:002013-08-26T06:25:23.416-07:00Interpretation of New Energy Code<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>John D’Annunzio</b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><o:p> </o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The Energy Crisis (as it was labeled) in the United States in the late
1970s initiated the wide spread installation of above deck thermal insulation
boards on low-slope roof systems. Prior to that time insulation was used in
specific regions of the country and primarily as a substrate for built-up roof
applications. Oil shortages drove up heating costs and the industry started to
investigate energy savings through the use of thermal insulation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Polyisocyanurates and Polystyrenes were introduced to the commercial
low-slope market in the eighties and many federal and state facilities
(schools) began requiring that higher R-value insulations be applied on their
facilities. There were unwritten rules as to specific R-values, however these
were largely voluntary measures and were not actual code requirements.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">That has changed. The new Energy Codes – which are becoming part of local
and federal building codes – are specific as to the required R-value of the
insulation system on low-slope roof systems. This will have an impact on all of
the low-slope roof systems that you design, so you should be aware of these
requirements and specifically how they are regulated in your area.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Below is the code interpretation of the <b>2009 International Energy
Conservation Code </b>relating to low-slope commercial facilities:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
This code establishes the minimum
R-value required for insulation above the deck on commercial buildings. The
thermal R-value required for insulation applied entirely above the deck is
based on climate zones in the chart listed below. The code indicates that the
thermal R-value prescribed is for the insulation only and does not include
other building materials or air films.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">TABLE 502.2(1)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BUILDING ENVELOPE REQUIREMENTS – OPAQUE ASSEMBLIES </b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ROOFS<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">INSULATION ENTIRELY ABOVE DECK</b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p> </o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Climate Zone<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>R-Value<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->15<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->20<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->20<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->20<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->20<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->20<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->25<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 3.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -1in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->25</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-77002292292184395392013-07-22T06:29:00.000-07:002013-07-22T06:29:21.658-07:00How to Properly Determine Moisture Content in Roof Systems<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>John A. D’Annunzio</b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
When properly completed the
determination of moisture content utilizes advanced technological equipment,
laboratory testing and scientific equations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The process has advanced to the point where analysis can be objective
and reliable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This phase of the industry
has advanced from the days of the ‘educated’ toe and subjective claims of how
the system felt as it was walked across.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
<h1 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Standard Moisture Analysis Procedures<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Proper analysis includes a
combination of both non-destructive and destructive methods of testing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Investigations completed using only one of
these methods are insufficient and lack creditability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The equipment used to conduct non-destructive
tests provides analysis (a snapshot) of the overall roof conditions of large
expansive areas in a quick and efficient manner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Destructive testing – coupled with
gravimetric tests – are required to verify the conditions observed by the moisture
analysis equipment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<o:p> </o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
There are three types of
non-destructive testing equipment:<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Impedance or Capacitance<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Infrared<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">Nuclear</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Impedance or capacitance moisture
testing is conducted using a variety of small hand held meters that – when set
over the roof membrane – emit low frequency electronic signals from rubber
electrodes located at the base of the instrument.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These types of meters typically determine if
a specific roof area is either wet or dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They do not have the capacity to measure the percentage of moisture
present. Dry readings are projected at points where the electrodes are
insulated from one another and there is not a complete electrical circuit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The electrical conductance is greater at wet
areas, which provides a complete electrical circuit.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Impedance testing can be
conducted in a pattern or at various points throughout the roof area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A higher number of readings provide more
cohesive moisture determination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
testing cannot be completed over wet or ponded areas and modified instruments
are typically required for EPDM roof systems.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Infrared thermography is conducted
with the use of an infrared camera.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An
infrared camera detects the temperature of the areas within a roof system and
identifies temperature differentials throughout the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Infrared scanning is most effective after
sunset because as the air temperature decreases the dry insulation allows the
roof to cool quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In areas where
moisture is present – insulation or membrane – take longer to cool due to a
large thermal mass that is developed in these areas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Thermal mass or ‘hot spots’ are not always an indication
of moisture presence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can be
illustrated at under deck heating or cooling vents, venting of hot fumes,
moisture on the roof surface (ponded water), or at points of heavy gravel
application.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most infrared cameras
require clear weather conditions for an external period prior to and during the
testing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This typically includes no
recent or current precipitation, heavy cloud cover or windy conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Any – or all – of these conditions could
distort the infrared findings.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Nuclear thermography is conducted
using a nuclear scanning meter that emits neutrons from a radiation source from
the scanning meter down through the roof assembly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The emitted neutrons that encounter hydrogen
atoms in the roof assembly are slowed down and bounced back to the counting
detector within the scanning meter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Higher levels of slowed neutrons are recorded at wet areas because water
contains a significant amount of hydrogen atoms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The recorded reading is an average of the
total roof assembly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Generally, nuclear scanning can
be completed to depths as much as seven inches and testing can be conducted in
areas of ponded water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Testing is
conducted over the entire roof area by sectioning the roof into grids (5’x 5’
or 10’ x 10’) and recording the readings at each of these locations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<h2 style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Moisture Verification<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
After visually inspecting all of
the roof areas, making notes of all of the conditions, defects and problems it
is important to find out the true conditions of the roof system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is done by extracting a test sample or
core cut from the roof area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Core cuts
are conducted in a roof analysis because each of the moisture analysis methods
has their limitations, and thorough diagnosis of a roof system requires core
cuts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moisture identified by
non-destructive moisture testing is relative and must be quantified by a
combination of physical core cuts and gravimetric analysis.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The extraction process of core
cuts is similar if the sample is to determine construction or condition of the
roof system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The differences are in the
type of forensic testing that is conducted on the test samples.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the moisture analysis procedure the core
cuts are extracted to determine both the construction and condition of the
existing roof system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For these
purposes, the core cuts can be completed in the following manner for all types
of roof systems:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -27pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; mso-list: l2 level3 lfo2; tab-stops: list 45.0pt 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -27pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Identify the appropriate location of the test cut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The proper area should be representative of
the entire roof area construction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do
not take a test cut at a previously repaired area.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyTextIndent" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; text-indent: -27pt;">
2.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Take one test cut per moisture
representative in each roof area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A test
cut should be extracted from those areas determined to be dry, and areas found
to have varying levels of moisture presence; low, medium, or high. Facilities
with multiple roof areas and/or multiple roof systems require test cuts from
each roof area.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; text-indent: -27pt;">
3.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Identify the location(s) of the test
cut(s) on the roof plan. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; text-indent: -27pt;">
4.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Use a 12” x 12” template and measure the
area to be cut at 12” x 12”.</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; text-indent: -27pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; text-indent: -27pt;">
5. Following the established 12” x 12” pattern cut the
membrane, any insulation(s) and underlayment(s) to the structural
deck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Single ply systems can be cut
with scissors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bituminous roof
systems require a box cutter knife or hatchet.</div>
<div class="MsoBodyText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 45pt; text-indent: -27pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
6. Remove all roof system components, (membrane,
insulation, and underlayment) from</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
the opening.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol start="7" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Photograph the system components and structural deck
substrate.</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: left;">
8. Record system construction components identifying the
method of attachment of each</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
component, including:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; mso-list: l1 level4 lfo3; tab-stops: list 2.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->deck type</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; mso-list: l1 level4 lfo3; tab-stops: list 2.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->underlayment (if used)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; mso-list: l1 level4 lfo3; tab-stops: list 2.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->insulation type, thickness and condition (each layer)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; mso-list: l1 level4 lfo3; tab-stops: list 2.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->method of insulation attachment (each layer)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; mso-list: l1 level4 lfo3; tab-stops: list 2.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->membrane type, thickness and condition</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; mso-list: l1 level4 lfo3; tab-stops: list 2.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->method of membrane attachment</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 2in; mso-list: l1 level4 lfo3; tab-stops: list 2.0in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->type of surfacing and method of attachment<o:p></o:p></div>
<o:p> </o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The core samples should be placed
in a watertight container and immediately transported to an approved testing
facility for gravimetric testing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Gravimetric testing is conducted
by separating each roof assembly component<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13209150639385983429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091543044894209803.post-70843461187391805872013-07-19T08:32:00.000-07:002013-07-19T08:32:51.778-07:00Common Signs That Roof Replacement is NeccessaryJohn A. D'Annunzio<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<u><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></u> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<u><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Common Signs That Roof
Replacement is Necessary:<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Although all roof membranes have
different physical properties and failure modes there are certain deficiencies
that are common to all roof membranes. Here are some common failure modes in
all roof membranes to look out for:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Brittleness: All roof membranes become brittle at the
end of their service life. This phenomenon is more rapid in some membranes.
Once the material becomes brittle it losses the elasticity required to provide
weatherproofing service. The material can be tested (tensile/elongation tests)
to determine remaining service life or failure can be illustrated through
grazing/cracks and splits in the membrane surface. Visual observation of
material scrim or reinforcement is also an indication of material failure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Wet Insulation: All roof insulations lose structural
and thermal integrity once they are wet. All wet insulation should be removed
from the system to avoid costly structural deck damage (particularly on metal
decks). Typically, if more than 25% of a roof system has wet insulation a full
roof replacement is recommended. Wet insulation can be determined by any method
of moisture testing. If non-destructive moisture testing is conducted Gravimetric
Testing should be conducted to verify that the material is wet. Some adhered
membranes will illustrate wet insulation through excessive blistering and
membrane ridging.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Flashings/Penetrations: Flashings and penetrations are
the most vulnerable point of a roof system and nearly two-thirds of all roof
leaks occur at these points. Openings, splits and sagging of flashings
materials are common causes of roof leaks. Excessive openings or displacement
of these materials can lead to free flow of moisture infiltration into the
system and the building.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Paragon has developed a specific material testing program
that can identify the remaining service life of an existing membrane; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Forensic Analytical Serviceability Tracker
(FAST)</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Contact us at 810.343.3781 or </span><a href="mailto:John_paragon@ameritech.net"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">John_paragon@ameritech.net</span></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> to see
how FAST can work for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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