Pretty Funny Contractors Mishap!

Thought I would share this email I got today:

These contractors are installing the steel pillars in concrete to stop vehicles from parking on the pavement outside a Sports Bar downtown.  They are now in the process of cleaning up at the end of the day anxious to go home.  How long do you think it’ll be before they realize where they parked their truck?

Hope you enjoyed the laugh! Have a wonderful day and know that Roofmax will never do something like that. We’re pretty smart over here…we think…;)

Sincerely,

Tara Thornock

Roofmax

www.roofmax.net

Some Cool Roofing News…

Dear readers,

We hope you all had a wonderful, safe 4th of July…and that your roofs did not catch on fire from fireworks. Summer is so much fun! A great time to spend outdoors! I am always grateful for my roof in the summertime to keep that hotness out and coolness in. We hope your roofs are taking care of you and your homes.

As I got in this morning, I found this great article about some seriously cool roofing project going on in London right now and thought it would be good to share. Here is the link: http://www.khl.com/magazines/construction-europe/detail/item56956/

Have a great day! Stay cool!

Tara Thornock

Roofmax

www.roofmax.net

Check Out Our New Video!

We now have our new Diamond Certified video! They did a great job and we are excited to be able to share it with you all! Enjoy!

Hope you have a great Memorial Day Weekend!

Sincerely,
Roofmax
www.roofmax.net

Roofmax Welcomes a New Member to the Team!

 

 We are excited to announce the newest addition to the Roofmax family!

 

Raul Diaz joins us as our new PRODUCTION MANAGER

 

We have enjoyed getting to know Raul and are so happy to have him here ar Roofmax. He has an amazing professional background and is doing a great job in his new position. Here’s a little bio on Raul so you can get to know him better:

Born and raised in the Bay Area, CA, Raul Diaz began working in the construction business in 1982. Raul loves to eat Sushi, Round Table Pizza, Thai food and Mexican food. He enjoys watching UFC Fight Nights and going to the movies. He also loves coaching little league baseball and working out at his gym. Raul is married to his lovely wife, Lynette and they have 5 children and became a grandpa to his first grandson last December. Raul has worked with Roofmax since 2010. He has 28 years of overall roofing and remodeling experience. Raul is GAF Certified, and has won many roofing and remodeling awards. Raul is excited and anxious to meet your roofing and remodeling needs!

Again, welcome to Roofmax, Raul!

Tara Thornock

Roofmax

California’s Title 24 for Steep Slope Roofs

Building Energy Efficiency Standards

California has issued a new code for steep slope roofs and energy conservation. Roofmax has been following most of these guidelines-now standards-but wants to communicate to you what is expected now so that you can be sure your roof is installed correctly.

These standards are provided by the GAF materials corporation. The following are excerpts from the GAF provided Title 24 materials:

About Title 24

The California Energy Commission (CEC) was created in 1974 through the Warren-Alquist State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Act to construct and periodically modify energy efficiency standards for residential and non-residential buildings.

In 1978, all building codes and standards were combined under one umbrella called Title 24 Building Standards Code and Part 6 of this standard code has the requirements for energy efficiency while part 1 has the administrative requirements. For more information or to download a copy of Title 24, visit www.energy.ca.gov/title24.

Why is Title 24 Now for Homes?

• California has over 35 million people and from 1960 to 1974 when the CEC was created, they saw their energy consumption rise over 50% per capita, which means that not only as their population was increasing, the amount of energy each person was using was also increasing dramatically.
• California’s building efficiency standards (along with those for energy efficient appliances) have saved more than $56 billion in electricity and natural gas costs since 1978. It is estimated the standards will save an additional $23 billion by 2013.
• The CEC’s forecast data shows that 1/3 of the energy (natural gas and electricity) consumed in California is consumed by buildings.
• Strengthening the requirements of Title 24 has been a very key element in the state’s climate change initiative.

Why Cool Roofs?

• Roof surface temperatures and attic temperatures can be reduced significantly.
• By lowering attic temperatures, air conditioning costs can be reduced by as much as 10-15% according to the Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR program.
• Reductions in air conditioning use help to reduce “peak energy demand” on the power grid, reducing the need for new power plant construction.
• Cool roofs can reduce the effects of “Urban Heat Islands”, where data shows that urban areas have higher ambient temperatures than surrounding rural areas because of their concentration of dark surfaces and the sparseness of vegetation (dark surfaces can be up to 70F hotter on a warm summer day than reflective, “cool” surfaces).

When Does the Version of Title 24 That Includes “Cool Roofs” for Homeowners Go Into Effect?

Remember, Title 24 was first established in 1978 and has been the building standards code since then. The 2008 Building Efficiency Standards, Title 24 that has requirements for parts of California for “cool roofs” on residencies, goes into effect January 1, 2010.

Understanding How Title 24 Classifies Buildings

In addition to knowing where the building is located so you can know what is required, you need to know how Title 24 classifies “buildings”,

“Low Rise Residential”…describes:

• All single family homes of any number of stories
• All duplexes of any number of stories
• All multi-family buildings up to 3 stories in height
• Garden apartments and other housing types up to 3 stories in height

“Nonresidential”…describes:

• Offices, retail and wholesale stores
• Grocery stores, restaurants, theaters
• Hotels and motels
• Industrial work buildings
• Commercial or industrial storage units
• Schools and churches
• Apartment and multi-family buildings with four or more stories
• Long-term care facilities
• Dormitories
• Private garages, carports, sheds and agricultural buildings

California Building Climate Zones

Title 24 Prescriptive Requirements

Steep Slope Roofs

Alternatives to using a cool roofing product for re-roofing–any of the following can be implemented in lieu of using cool roofing products for low-rise residential buildings:

• Use of R-0.85 insulation or a 3/4″ air space added to the roof deck over the attic space, or,
• Insulating and sealing existing air conditioning ducts in the attic space accordance with Section 151(f)10, or,
• Buildings with no air conditioning in the attic (do not require cool roofs), or,
• In zones 10, 12, or 13, providing ventilation of at least 1 sq. ft of free ventilation per 150 sq. ft. of attic floor space and where at least 30% of the ventilation is within 2 feet of the ridge, or,
• Having a minimum of R-30 ceiling insulation, or,
• Installing a radiant barrier that meets the requirements of Section 151(f)2, or,
• In zones 10, 11, 13, or 14, having a minimum R-3 deck insulation above a vented attic.

How Roofmax is Complying With Title 24 Requirements

• Use of R-0.85 insulation or a 3/4″ air space added to the roof deck over the attic space.
• Existing ducts insulated and sealed in the attic space in addordance with section 151(f)10.
• In climate zones 10, 12 or 13 providing ventilation of at least 1 sq. ft. of free ventilation per 150  sq. ft. of attic flow space and where at least 30% of the ventilation is within 2 feet of the ridge.
• Building has a minimum of R-30 ceiling insulation.
• Installing radiant barrier meeting the requirement of Section 151(f)2.

If you have any questions about title 24, please feel free to call our office at 925-685-4151.

Sincerely,

Roofmax

www.roofmax.net

Roofing Companies: 4 Roofing Projects to Leave to the Pros

With so many building and home repair companies out there it’s hard to know who does what. Read on to find out what roofing companies do and what they can do for you.

Roofing Companies Install New Roofs

From residential roofing to commercial projects, roofing companies install new roofs. When there is new construction or a remodel, the roofing company will come in and install the entire roof. This can include everything from installing the trusses to framing the roof to laying the tar paper and installing the shingles. Though not many individuals have the need for complete roof installation, roofing companies that have the experience and knowledge to do so may be ones to look at when the time comes to research roofing companies for your own use.

Roofing Companies Repair Roofs

Roof repair is something all roofing companies do. Roof material will sometimes become worn or weathered, including warping, leaking, and missing shingles, and will require repair. Some contractors don’t like to do repairs. Many think that there is often the chance for continued decay or failure in a roof that requires repair in one place. For this reason some roofing companies may recommend replacement over repair. However, many residential roofing customers prefer repair over replacement for reasons of cost and expense. Good roofing companies can evaluate a roof to determine the damage and if repair or replacement is the best strategy.

Roofing Companies Replace Roofs

Roof replacement is the primary job of roofing companies. They spend most of their time replacing roof material on mainly residential roofing. They have many roof material options including a variety of shingles, tiles such as slate or ceramic, and even metal roofing. Because a roof is basically the umbrella that protects a home it is one of the most important parts of a house. Due to natural occurrences, such as hail, wind, and snow, and the debris that can pile up as a result of any of those, roof replacement is a common occurrence. Roofing companies also do roof replacement due to aging and wear and tear on average residential roofs. Damage from nature and age can cause leaks, and leaks can cause extensive interior damage and roof replacement is key to preventing them. Having a good and reliable roofing company evaluate your roof by doing a visual examination can help you decide if roof replacement is necessary in your situation.

Roofing Companies Can Install Solar Panels

Something relatively new to roofing companies is solar panel installation. Due to the recent concern for the environmental impact of conventional heating and energy sources, many people are turning to solar power for their homes. Roofing companies can install solar roof panels to residential roofing projects that can help generate enough energy to power an entire home. Though this type of project used to be done primarily by specialists, many roofing companies are now able to include solar panel installation into a residential roofing project plan.

6 Common Types of House Windows

Posted Nov 30, 2009 by WhatYouNeedToKnow

A quick look at 6 types of house windows commonly used. Trying to determine what type of house windows will suit your needs, this five minute guide will point you in the right direction

Are you looking to replace the windows on your home but aren’t sure how to do it? Some of you may still be questioning what type of windows you should install. Before you worry about the how of replacing your windows you need to answer the question of what type. Here is a quick overview of 6 common window types.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are similar to casement windows ( a style popular in the 1950′s and 60′s). However, unlike their predecessors these windows are generally wider and taller than a casement window. A common plae that you would see this type of window is below an existing window, or above a doorway. Many people will recognize these as bathroom windows as awning windows are commonly used for ventilation and air flow. Awning windows provide great natural sun light into your home.

Bay Windows

These windows are appropriately named as they allow for you to get a view of the whole bay from a single window oppening. Bay windows are a combination of windows, most commonly three panels, that are installed side by side to offer great visibility. If you plan to install these windows in your house you will likely be looking at a fixed frame window in the middle and double hung or casement windows on the sides. Also, when installing bay windows you should keep in mind the architecture and interior design of your home. You may want to consider installing a window seat on the inside to complete the look.

Bow Windows

Whenever a bay window exceeds three panels they are referred to as bow windows. Bow windows can also be distinguished from bay windows as they generally have a less square appearnce often appearing more rounded. Bow windows are the preferred choice for homeowners who have a great view. The primary challenge with bow windows will be privacy. Homeowners can mix and match the windows to suit their needs choosing from a variety of vented, fixed frame, or some combination of the two.

Casement Windows

Casement windows became very popular when modern design came about in the 1950′s and 60′s. In California you can find casement windows in most older neighborhoods. Casement windows are often made of metal. They are, for the most part, short and wide windows consisting of square panels of glass a little bigger than the size of an average textbook. While casement windows are considered somewhat outdated (they do not offer good insulation) you can still purchase casement windows and depending on where you live you might find the retro modern charm of these windows something your interested in.

Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows are in essence an updated version of the casement window. The double hung window followed up the casement window rush. Today you will find double hung windows on many homes in california and on the east coast. Double hung windows are almost exclusively made out of wood. Individuals who choose to use double hung windows in their home often prefer to leave the windows somewhat exposed in order to show off the natural wood charm. One bonus of having a window with a sturdy wooden frame is that the windows come in larger sizes. In fact double hung windows are the cheapest way to replace or add large windows to your home.

Skylight

A skylight is a great accent to any home. Skylights are installed in the roof of your home and open up a way for the sun to naturally light up commonly dark places such as the bathroom, hallway or even your kitchen. Skylights have a bad reputation for being hideous and an eyesore on your roof. Modern skylights have come a long way and you now have many options. In fact, some skylights have remote controls to change the amount of light that is coming into your homw. Sliding windows Sliding windows are common on track homes and are found all over the western coast, particularly southern california. Sliding windows can be wood, however, they are most commonly alluminun, or a white plastic. If you are looking to replace the windows on your home and do not mind having a common looking house, sliding windows can be very affordable and have some of the best energy star technology around at the moment. fixed frame Fixed frame windows are windows that do not move. Pretty simple.

www.roofmax.net

Final beam placed at DECC expansion

By: Kevin Pates, Duluth News Tribune

A white beam stood out among all others Tuesday afternoon near the roof of the DECC expansion project.

It was the final piece in completing the last truss, 16 feet deep, spanning 190 feet and weighing 160,000 pounds. The beam was put into place earlier in the day and had been signed by about 300 people – Minnesota Duluth men’s and women’s hockey players, construction workers and the DECC employees and board.

The hockey and entertainment building is 13 months from opening, but with the final of eight trusses in place, a 275-ton crane used in their erection can be dismantled and moved out next week. The north end of the $70 million structure will be closed off in January and work can continue inside with few effects from winter.

“We are on budget, on target and on task to open as planned,” DECC executive director Dan Russell said.

Read More: http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/153013/group/Sports/

Affordable housing units in Harlem will become the first green block in nation

BY Alana Casanova-Burgess
SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

Originally Published:Saturday, November 21st 2009, 8:38 PM
Updated: Sunday, November 22nd 2009, 12:01 PM

Water doesn’t trickle down from the right basin of Jeanette Davis‘ sink – it pours.

Puddles have formed under the kitchen cabinet of her W. 135th St. apartment, and the 58-year-old recently used a broom to evict a live rat from her neighbor’s mailbox.

“And this is what I go through every day,” she said.

But starting this winter, her building and its nine six-story companions along a historic row between Lenox and Seventh Aves. will be among the first affordable housing blocks in the country to undergo a green overhaul.

From solar panels on the roof to efficient boilers in the basement, the buildings are slated to be retrofitted with new energy-saving appliances and materials.

“We’re hoping our project will be a model for the entire country,” said Wendy Rowden, managing director for The Rose Smart Growth Investment Fund, which bought the buildings last year. The fund also got a15-year extension on the complex’s Section 8 status through the Department of Housing and Urban Development, she said.

Rowden also is hoping the buildings will benefit from federal stimulus money earmarked for such projects through the Green Retrofit Program – up to $3 million, she said.

Work on the 198 units is expected to begin by the end of the year.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2009/11/22/2009-11-22_affordable_housing_buildings_in_bronx_will_be_the_first_green_block_in_nation.html#ixzz0Xoz28qN9

A call for rooftop solar panels – Business – NewsObserver.com

BY JOHN MURAWSKI – Staff Writer

RALEIGH — An environmental advocacy group that says North Carolina’s greenhouse gas emissions are rising proposes a solution: Putting solar panels on nearly 700,000 rooftops.

Environment North Carolina, in a report to be issued today, says that based on current solar energy development in the state, the sun could supply at least 14 percent of the state’s energy needs in two decades.

The group’s report identifies Wake and Mecklenburg counties as having the greatest number of rooftops suitable for solar panels.

The Raleigh advocacy group is the latest in a string of environmental organizations to issue reports setting lofty goals for renewable resources and energy efficiency. The organizations emphasize that green energy targets that once seemed inconceivable are within reach if backed by government policies to pay the costs.

Environment North Carolina in Raleigh doesn’t estimate a price for its solar proposal, but according to a state regulator it would be astronomical — more than $100 billion at the current price for solar panels.

A call for rooftop solar panels – Business – NewsObserver.com.