Roofing systems: what's new for 1992?

Learn about some of this year's best roofing products in our exclusive Buyers' Guide on pages 47-56. For more information, circle the appropriate inquiry number on the Reader Service Card on page 105.

Contour Taper Tile[R], and Perform[R] Roof Insulations, made of certified quality

Free "Black Armor Coal Tar Roofing Systems 1992 Products and Specifications" catalogue describes company's insulation products, including: Armor Board Regular and High Density Fiberboard Roof Insulations, Armor R Plus Roof Insulation, and Protected Roof Membrane Assembly (PRMA). Allied-Signal Inc. Black Armor Coal Tar Roofing Systems. Circle 312.

Roofing systems brochure describes company's line of leading single-ply membranes, which are protected by solid EPDM walkway mats and backed by an exceptional warranty program. Allied-Trent Roofing Systems, Inc. Circle 313.

AMOFOAM[R]-RCY insulation board, made with a minimum of 50 percent recycled polystyrene resin, is available in 2- by 8-foot and 4- by 8-foot sheets in thicknesses of 1-, 1 1/2- and 2-inches. Product meets all R-value and fire characteristic requirements of model building codes. Amoco Foam Products Co. Circle 314.

System 2000[TM] architectural skylights expand the realm of skylight design through an easily assembled bolted design that prevents air infiltration and water penetration at test pressures above industry standards. Free company brochure details company's additional support services: design assistance, fast budget pricing, and value engineering. Architectural Skylight Co., Inc. Circle 315.

Design Span[R] concealed clip structural roof system combines standing seam aesthetics and ease of installation with tested performance ratings and spanning capability. Available in a wide range of coatings and colors, panels are in-line tension-leveled at factory for a true, flat surface. ASC Pacific/A BHP Co. Circle 316.

PLIOBOND[R] 9053 splice adhesive for EPDM single-ply roofing is a butyl-based contact adhesive with high initial green strength and excellent long-term durability. Ashland Chemical, Inc. Circle 317.

"Built-Up Systems Design Guide" and "A Guide to Preparing Built-Up Roofing Specifications", newly revised, provide performance guidelines for built-up roofing systems, as well as factors affecting their successful applications. Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Assn. (ARMA). Circle 318.

Colback[R] roofing reinforcements are spunbonded bicomponent fabrics made from fibers containing a polyester core and nylon sheath to produce high-quality modified bitumen roofing membranes. Products' exceptional multi-directional strength and elongation accommodate rooftop stresses. BASF Corp. Circle 319.

Galvalume sheet's aluminum/zinc alloy coating provides excellent heat reflectivity in standing seam roof applications. Sheet allows generous use of insulation directly over existing roof or directly under sheet panels, depending upon re-roofing project. Bethlehem Steel Corp. Circle 320.

NBP thermoplastic single-ply roofing membrane can be hot air-welded or repaired over its lifetime. Built-in biocide inhibits mildew, fungi, and algae growth; material is naturally fire retardant and watertight. White reflective color reduces energy costs. BondCote Roofing Systems. Circle 321.

Complete, fully warranted Vac-Q-Roof[R] roofing systems use Burke Hypalon as single-ply membrane; system requires attachment only at perimeter of roof and around roof penetrations. Vac-Q-Vents[TM] vacuum-producing devices, attached at specific locations, create a vacuum to hold single-ply membrane down, thereby eliminating fastener problems. Burkeline Roofing Systems/Div. of Burke Ind. Circle 322.

Company's standing seam roof systems include: MR-24[R] premium metal standing seam roof system; state-of-the-art composite CMR-24[R] Roofing System; and recently introduced VSRT[R] Architectural Roof System. Butler Manufacturing Co. Circle 323.

HyChoice[TM] single-ply roofing system is a lightweight reinforced membrane based on Hypalon[R]. CSPE membrane resists most corrosive chemical contact and is highly resistant to flame propagation, oils, ozone, and ultra-violet rays. Reflects nearly 80 percent of sun's radiant energy. Carlisle SynTec Systems. Circle 324.

Hy-Therm AP Roof Insulation, suited for use under gravel-surfaced, hot bitumen, full mopped built-up, or modified bitumen roofing and single-ply applications, consists of a thermally efficient, closed cell, polyisocyanurate foam core and specially formulated organic/inorganic facers. The Celotex Corp Circle 325

Hy-Plus roofing membrane, produced from an exclusive blend of two Hypalon[R] polymers, improves seam welding and rooftop exposure. Durable, lightweight, and flexible system can be used in fully adhered, mechanically attached, and ballasted applications. Centimark Corp. Circle 326.

Free company brochure offers information on company's single-ply roofing systems, from fasteners to flashing. Includes samples of colors, thicknesses, and a special membrane: cloth-backed Fleeceback[R] for cementitious deck applications. Cooley Roofing Systems, Inc. Circle 327.

"Copper Roofing Systems" brochure, Publication No. 402/9, offers general specifications for copper metal roofing, products, and installation. Includes dimensions guide for most common architectural sheet materials. Color table depicts weathering stages of copper over a 30-year period. Copper Development Assn. Inc. Circle 328.

Vector[R] styrenic block copolymers, designed specifically for use in polymer modification, are characterized by their consistency and heat stability. Seven new grades, offered as Vector 6000 series, include Styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), styrene-butadiene (SB) diblock, and SB radial materials. Dexco Polymers/A Dow/Exxon Partnership. Circle 329.

Sytrofoam[TM] brochure describes use of extruded polystyrene foam insulation in roofing and other applications. Includes specification guidelines and product's physical properties. Dow Chemical Co. Circle 330.

Dow Corning[R] Silicone Roofing System consists of two durable coats of silicone rubber over a seamless layer of spray-applied polyurethane foam. Heat-reflective, 100 percent silicone coating resists movement and weathering, while providing excellent energy savings, durability, and simple 7-year payback. Dow Corning Corp. Circle 331.

Elvaloy[R] ketone ethylene ester (Kee) polymer makes roofing membranes tough, flexible, and resistant to UV-light and harsh weather - without the need for liquid plasticizers. Roofing membranes based on material are white, keeping building rooftops cooler. DuPont Elvaloy. Circle 332.

Hypalon[R] synthetic rubber roofing material resists oil, pollutants, chemicals, and flame propagation. Offers excellent temperature flexibility, and can be heat-sealed for strong seams. DuPont Hypalon. Circle 333.

"Retrofitting Your Metal Roof With Duro-Last" brochure illustrates why and how to retrofit a metal roof with company's reinforced single-ply roofing system. Includes step-by-step retrofit application. Duro-Last, Inc. Circle 334.

Roofing pedestal system for the elevation, uniform spacing, and complete drainage of paver-stones installed on roof deck areas, Model 6x, meets aesthetic and functional needs of professionals interested in narrower openings between paver-stones. Envirospec, Inc. Circle 335.

Architectural roofing slates brochure illustrates product usage on a variety of commercial structures. Slates, made of highly compressed, fiber-reinforced cement, are integrally colored with an authentic slate texture and rough hewn edges. Eternit Inc. Circle 336.

Grade A roofing slates, available in 11 colors, ensure a custom match for a lifetime roof. Company emphasizes its selection, quality, experience, architectural assistance, and service. Evergreen Slate Co., Inc. Circle 337.

"FibreCem: The Ultimate Choice in Roofscaping" brochure details how non-asbestos fiber-cement Southern Slate[R], EuroSlate[R], and Beaver Shingles[R] add value, beauty, richness, distinction, and durability to a structure at a lower cost than natural slate. FibreCem Corp. Circle 338.

Insulation products brochure outlines company's complete line of energy-efficient rigid polyisocyanurate roof insulation products. Contains performance capabilities of company's ISO 95+, Tapered ISO 95+, and Nail Base insulation panels. Firestone Building Products Co. Circle 339.

Ruberoid[R] MB FR and Ruberoid MB Plus FR modified bituminous roofing products are polyester-reinforced, UL Class A fire retarding-rated, and available in both torch and mop grades. Membranes are completely flexible, facilitating flashing construction as well as field installation. GAF Building Materials Corp. Circle 340.

Roofing membrane brochure on StressPly, a built-up membrane designed for waterproofing and reinforcing, details product's puncture- and fatigue-resistance. Available in smooth or mineral surface and fire-retardant formulations. The Garland Co. Circle 341.

"White Marble Roofing Chips" brochure outlines benefits of Marble Top[R] roofing aggregate. High reflectivity saves as much as 12 percent in energy costs when compared to other types. Georgia Marble Co. Circle 342.

"Roofing ... 1992" catalogue highlights company's extensive line of roofing products: Summit[R] Series architectural shingles, fiberglass and asphalt organic shingles, Dens-Deck[R] moisture-resistant roof board, and more. Georgia-Pacific Corp. Circle 343.

Versiweld EPDM single-ply roofing brochure highlights product's ease of installation and resistance to oil, chemicals, and leaks. Combines durability and sheet performance of EPDM with advantages of hot air-welded, molecularly bonded field seam technology. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co Circle 344

Illustrated "Concrete Pavers for Roofs and Decks" brochure details company's concept of using concrete pavers as roof ballast materials. Highlights Prest[R] Pavers, Pavers on Support Pedestals, Prest[R] Paver on Pedestals, Pedestal[R] Pavers, Pavers for Lightweight Ballast, and Standard Walkway Pavers. Hanover Architectural Products, Inc. Circle 345.

Updated, 4-page catalogue includes information on roofing mastics, cold application roof cements, protective coatings, reflective coatings, and roll roofing and reinforcing materials. Includes product descriptions and usages, as well as application tips. Henry Co. Circle 346.

Trocal ISO roofing insulation, an energy-efficient, lightweight roof insulation engineered for flat or low-slope metal or concrete roof decks, consists of polyisocyanurate foam with non-asphaltic facers. Features R-values from 6.0 to 30. Trocal Roofing Systems, Huls America, Inc. Circle 347.

ASTEC ceramic insulating coating for metal and other roofs solves corrosion and leaking problems, while providing effective insulation. Outperforms up to four inches of fiberglass insulation in heat gain tests. Insulating Coatings Corp. Circle 348.

Free brochure highlights energy-efficient Hi-Tuff Single-Ply Roofing System, based on Hypalon. Hi-Tuff's white surface reflects 78 percent of the sun's heat, significantly reducing air conditioning costs. JPS Elastomerics Corp./Roofing Systems Div. Circle 349.

Company's line of waterproofing coatings, fabrics, resaturants, adhesives, and more are outlined in 24-page, illustrated brochure. Details suggested specifications and technical data, as well as information on company's asbestos-free products. Karnak Corp. Circle 350.

ULTRA-NP (Universal Low Tension Roofing Assembly - Non Penetrating) fastener is the only non-penetrating fastener with an anti-backout screw to virtually eliminate fastener backout through roofing membranes. Fastener's low-stress, open-end, rectangular design eliminates tears, stress, and punctures, actually allowing extra membrane to fold into fastener. G.M. Kassem[R] Roofing Systems, Inc. Circle 351.

Glass skylights feature energy-efficient SUN PLUS 4 dual sealed, low E-glazed, argon-filled, 7/8-inch tempered glass. Product transmits only 38 percent of solar energy, while blocking 62 percent of harmful ultra-violet rays. Kenergy/Div. of SNE Enterprises, Inc. Circle 352.

Manniglas Slipsheet[R] is a lightweight, glass-fiber non-woven that helps single-ply roofing systems achieve required UL Class A and Class B ratings for fire-resistance. At just 1.4 to 4.5 pounds per 100 square feet, material can eliminate need for tear-off in remedial applications. Lydall Manning Nonwovens. Circle 353.

Illustrated Industrial/Commercial Roofing Products and Systems" catalogue covers company's comprehensive line of built-up, modified bitumen, and single-ply roofing, as well as roof insulations and roof accessories. Details importance of roofing component integration for long-term integrity. Manville. Circle 354.

Complete line of specially formulated elastomeric coatings - including polyurethanes, silicones, and acrylics - protects and enhances insulating qualities of polyurethane foam. Seamless, watertight systems are lightweight and can be installed over existing roofs. Neogard, Div. of Jones-Blair Co. Circle 355.

Modified bitumen installation manual guides end-users through specifications and details likely to be encountered on an adhesive-applied, modified bitumen system. Nord Bitumi U.S., Inc. Circle 356.

Company's lead in tapered insulation systems, resulting in a superior drainage system with high thermal-resistance, is highlighted in free brochure. In-house drafting department with CAD capabilities assists with specification development, design assistance, and site surveys. Brochure also details Nailboard, a factory-routed nailable substrate. NRG Barriers, Inc. Circle 357.

Liquid elastomeric roof maintenance coatings for repairing and maintaining flat roofs, tar, asphalt, and rolled roofing are less expensive per square foot than other maintenance systems. Coatings reflect 90 percent of sun's rays. Oregon Research and Development Corp. Circle 358.

Roof inspection and maintenance guide explains why regular inspections help prevent long-term roof failures. Includes ten steps to an effective roof maintenance program. Owens-Corning Fiberglas Corp. Circle 359.

FOAMGLAS[R] roof insulation is an all glass, closed-cell, water-resistant, zero permeability product which retains its original insulating value for 20 years or more. Pittsburgh Corning Corp. Circle 360.

POLARA polyester reinforced membrane consists of two special grades of spunbond polyester developed exclusively for the reinforcement of hot-applied bitumen. UL-rated Class A, lightweight, seamless membranes are resistant to tears and punctures, making them excellent in re-roofing applications. Polara Polyester. Circle 361.

Urethane Foam Roofing Systems insulate from top side of roof structure, resulting in additional strength and stabilization. Systems provide a custom fit to every area of the roof with 100 percent adherence, and self-flash around vents, stacks, ducts, etc. Polycoat Systems, Inc. Circle 362.

Polyurethane foam roofing system is lightweight and seamless spray-applied, lending itself to all types of standard roofing situations by adapting to unusual shapes or configurations. Can be built up to varying thicknesses to promote drainage and provide insulation. The Polyurethane Foam Contractors Div./Society of the Plastics, Inc. Circle 363.

"Roofing Fastener Handbook" guides users in selecting the best combination of fastener, plate, and carbide-tipped drill for specific roofing projects. Contains a complete Factory Mutual approval table. The Rawlplug Co., Inc. Circle 364.

"Geoflex[R] Single-Ply Roofing" catalogue details roofing system's ease of application, highlighted by a self-sealing side lap that does not require any equipment, heat, solvent, welding, or adhesive. Membrane is compounded from Vistanex[R] polyisobutylene (PIB). Republic Powdered Metals, Inc. Circle 365.

"Copper & Common Sense" brochure details general specifications for standard sheet copper in horizontal seam roofing, thru-wall flashing, building expansion, joints, etc. Revere Copper Products, Inc. Circle 366.

RAC Insert Drain is designed for retrofit or replacement roofing. Features aluminum construction, mechanical back-flow seal, 14 1/2-inch-diameter strainer, 18-inch-diameter flange, and a metal clamping ring for use with most major roofing systems. Roof Accessories Co., Inc. Circle 367.

Roofing consultant objectives and programs are detailed in informative 6-page brochure. Features membership application procedures, consultant referrals, and more. Roof Consultants Institute. Circle 368.

"1992 Roof Paver Systems Catalog" describes company's 1200 and 1600 Series interlocking paver tiles for use over single-ply roofing. Tiles provide protection from wind, membrane punctures, and membrane deterioration. Roofblok Ltd. Circle 369.

Feltback membrane can be applied directly over smooth surfaced built-up roofing, mineral cap sheet roofing, or extruded and expanded polystyrene insulations for an economical recovering solution. For use with both fully adhered and mechanically attached membranes, system eliminates need for expensive recovery boards. Sarnafil, Inc. Circle 370.

Custom translucent skylight systems, in octagon, pyramid, ridge, double pitch, segmented barrel vaults, and canopies, fit a wide variety of applications. Full-color brochure covers project examples, test data, options, and guarantee information. Skywall, Inc./A Brower Co. Circle 371.

LO/MIT-1 Low "E" reflective roof coating, a spray-applied silver, silicone, non-thickness dependent, low-emissivity coating, will lower roof skin temperatures 20 to 40 degrees F. Greatly extends roof life when applied to bitumen, PVC, rubber, asphalt, tar, gravel, foam, shingle, tile, steel, and most other roofing surfaces. Solar Energy Corp. Circle 372.

Performance-engineered EPDM roofing-systems meet any new construction or retrofit project, and include an economically priced, mechanically attached system using a white membrane. Reflective qualities significantly reduce summer cooling costs. StaFast Roofing Products Co. Circle 373.

Specialists in roofing systems offer: project management and inspection services, general consultation, asbestos abatement consultation, roof maintenance programs, plan and specification reviews, roof system failure investigations, non-destructive testing, roof evaluation surveys, and more. Robert M. Stafford, Inc. Circle 374.

"1992 Commercial Roofing Specifications and Details" manual contains specifications, flashing and construction details, and other technical information related to company's full line of BUR and SBS modified roofing products. Section on modified bitumen systems highlights AWAPLAN PREMIUM[TM]. Tamko Asphalt Products, Inc. Circle 375.

Thermoplastic Cold Process Roofing System (TRS) is a technically advanced, permanently weather-resistant, elastomeric membrane designed for installation under ambient conditions - without the need for heat, open flames, or air-polluting volatile organic solvents. Multiple plies and reinforcing fabric are bound together seamlessly by a waterborne, elastomeric ply adhesive. Thermo Materials, Inc. Circle 376.

Environmentally safe, energy-efficient EPDM roofing systems accommodate an almost unlimited amount of insulation to ensure minimal heat loss/gain. Unique waterborne contact bonding adhesive contains no VOC's, is non-flammable, has high temperature-resistance, and is free-thaw stable. The Tillery Rubber Co., Inc. Circle 377.

Liquid roofing system of synthetic rubber is designed to protect and waterproof metal roofing. Once applied, system forms a reflective, watertight rubber seal that will not dry out or become brittle. Topcoat, Div. of Major Group Inc. Circle 378.

RetroDrain[R], available to fit existing 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-inch drains, allows roof drain replacement entirely from rooftop. Cost-effective, 1-piece drain body makes leakage virtually impossible. U-Flow Roof Drain Systems, Inc. Circle 379.

Foamular extruded polystyrene insulation is a rigid foam, lightweight panel offering high thermal performance and excellent moisture-resistance in roofing applications. Suitable for use below membrane in new and re-roofing single-ply applications; Protected Roof Membrane Assembly (PRMA) in both single-ply and built-up membranes; and tapered roofing systems. UC Industries, Inc. Circle 380.

Unfading slate roofing shingles afford greater reliability and lasting protection than substitutes or synthetics. Serviceability and color integrity can be measured in decades and centuries. Vermont Structural Slate Co., Inc. Circle 381.

Terra System One roof-deck system, made of precast concrete Terra-Pavers, Terra-Tab rubber paver support/spacers, and patented Terr-Adjust paver pedestal, provides usable space over sloped roof decks to allow easy access to roof's sub-surface. Wausau Tile, Inc. Circle 382.

News in 1992 from ...

National Roofing Contractors Association

As director of Technology and Research for Rosemont, IL-based National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Thomas L. Smith indicates his organization's goals for 1992 include not only developing an understanding of system design- and materials-related issues currently affecting its membership, but also actively addressing them. Due to slowed construction and available work, professional contractors are concerned about quality control since quality cost money. "There are real concerns about losing work to another contractor who is skimping, who will not provide the building owner with quality workmanship ... who will not comply with regulations," he says, noting the fall-out from the economy has also made owners more short-sighted in adequately funding a roofing or re-roofing project.

For the past two years, NRCA has been involved in a joint industry/government research project on replacements for CFCs, the blowing agents used to manufacture isocyanurate insulation. "We're heading into year three with our partners - the Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Energy, Society of the Plastics,and Polyisocyanurate Manufacturers Association (PIMA) - with a rather large, in-depth research project that's looking at alternative blowing agents for the iso-boards," he says.

Smith notes a 1989 document from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL-6527), which gives criteria for estimating energy consumption based upon roof color, has given the industry quantitative information to evaluate what influence roof color has on energy consumption: in warmer states, a lighter color is beneficial colder states benefit from darker colors. But he cautions building owners to consider the attributes and savings, as well the importance of proper roof design and maintenance procedures, when making roofing selection decisions relating to color. Well-maintained and properly drained roofs will assist building owners in maximizing color retention so energy benefits can be realized throughout a roof's lifetime.

News in 1992 from ...

Single-Ply Roofing Institute

Celebrating its tenth year, Wellesley Hills, MA-based Single Ply Roofing Institute (SPRI) continues a technically driven agenda in 1992. Development of a maintenance manual for building owners is underway - in conjunction with National Roofing Contractors Association - which is geared toward standard maintenance items that should be routinely done by building owners, as well as emergency repair techniques owners can use in the event roofing problems occur and until a professional roofing contractor can arrive on the scene.

Environmental issues are also the focus of SPRI, according to Ruth Warshaw, executive vice president. "For the longest time, re-roofing had been the lion's share of the market. Within that segment, the issue of whether you should tear off or roof over the existing roof has never been adequately resolved. As a result, we have a committee working on developing a method by which an engineering analysis can be performed to assist in the decision - one that's technically based."

SPRI's involvement with environmental concerns extends to its participation in a joint-roofing coalition between National Roofing Contractors Association Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, and Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association called Industry Summit. Each organization has created its own internal environmental committee, and jointly a task force, to discuss product disposal shipping regulations, packaging issues, and other environmentally related issues." As an industry, our goal is to take some initiative in the area of environment mental management and, hopefully, to deter government regulation," says Warshaw.

News in 1992 from ...

Roofing Industry Educational Institute

Educating end-users, design professionals, and roofing consultants about roof design and systems through its comprehensive roofing technology courses has moved Englewood, CO-based Roofing Industry Educational Institute (RIEI) to the forefront of roofing educational services. According to Dick Fricklas, RIEI's technical director, courses on steep roofing, spray foam, metal roofing, and single-ply roofing have recently been added to the organization's regular roofing technology course which covers condensation, fire, wind, deck issues, etc.

Although Fricklas notes that current technology within the roofing industry exists to provide commercial building owners with a very, very energy-efficient roof (although at a premium price), industry players are awaiting the Bush Administration's decision on the Energy Bill which contains an energy code for buildings. "If the bill passes, the roofing industry is ready," he says. "Without a code and with the bulk of roofing going to the retrofit market - with no engineers or architects usually involved in the process - owners are primarily concerned with first cost."

Fricklas adds ASHRAE 90.1, the latest revision to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers' recommendations for energy consumption in the United States, offers multiple paths by which compliance can be determined. "My impression is that the Bush Administration will actually publish the Energy Code this year," he says.

News in 1992 from ...

Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association

Rockville, MD-based Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has focused its energies over the past three years on government regulation, according to Russ Snyder, assistant to the executive vice president. "Government regulation is driving our industry - production techniques, environmental issues, and worker safety," he says. "During this time, manufacturers, through the auspices of ARMA, have done a lot toward R&D: coming up with a game plan for product performance standards through the 1990s for asphalt shingles, built-up roofing, and modified bitumen. Our main focus at this time is asphalt shingles, with a secondary focus toward modified bitumen. Built-up roofing seems to have become a stabilized product in the roofing industry, due to the advent of fiberglass felts."

This spring, Snyder will be spearheading an environmental awareness task force through a joint-roofing industry effort, called the Industry Summit. Primary objectives of the collaboration will include energy efficiency, recycling,and waste minimization programs. In other areas, ARMA continues to focus its efforts in increasing technical information related to quality control guidelines and product technology.

News in 1992 from ...

Metal Building Manufacturers Association

A strong new market is emerging for the standing seam metal roof in both commercial/industrial and residential retrofit markets', according to Cleveland-based Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA). Much like single-ply roofing in the early 1970s, it took an energy crisis and the search for more durable roofing systems to re-establish metal in the minds of the conservative roofing industry.

Although a recent study by Birmingham, MI-based Ducker Research Company indicates the total commercial standing seam metal roofing market grew to 520 million square feet in 1989, Ducker estimates that number will increase by as much as 9 percent annually through 1992. Much of this success is due to increased marketing efforts by MBMA and the American Iron and Steel Institute, both of which have developed programs to help building professionals become more aware of the benefits of metal.

Durability is one reason for metal's growing popularity, according to MBMA. Many standing seam roof systems have earned a Class 90 wind uplift rating from Underwriters Laboratories, the highest in the industry. In combination with those systems that also carry a Factory Mutual Class A fire rating due to their non-combustible surfaces, metal roofing in the commercial marketplace can help building owners reduce building insurance costs.

Of particular note to energy-conscious building owners, standing seam roofing's unique design makes it relatively easy to increase a roof's thermal resistance during retrofits. Two most commonly installed insulations for the retrofit marketplace are fiberglass blankets and rigid boards. Blanket insulation is normally unrolled over an existing roof after structural supports are installed; rigid boards, however, are preferred by many roofing contractors due to the ease of handling during re-roof applications. In addition, technical advancements in paints and coatings have greatly improved metal roofing's durability and aesthetic appearance to create a roofing package most appealing to discriminating commercial building professionals.

News in 1992 from ...

Polyurethane Foam Contractors Division

Two in-depth guides, offering practical information and procedures about minimizing air infiltration and energy waste, are available from Washington, D.C.-based Polyurethane Foam Contractors Division of The Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc. "Spray Applied Polyurethane Foam Perimeter Insulation Contractor/Applicator Handbook" and "Air Infiltration Control" discuss the benefits of using sprayed-in-place polyurethane foam to achieve the required air infiltration control necessary to reduce energy costs. Other benefits of such systems include: high insulation value; moisture resistance; seamless seal; configuration to irregularly shaped areas; rigid construction; light weight; and excellent adhesion.