Jack Gray Introduction There are several types of domes used as roofing features on buildings. Spherical domes are the most common. They have a uniform curvature and efficient load distribution. Ellipsoidal domes, which are shaped from a segment of an ellipsoid, are somewhat less common but frequently used in large-span structures where a lower height is desired. …
Introduction Sheet copper is a durable, highly malleable, and attractive metal product used extensively in architectural, construction, and industrial applications. It has excellent corrosion resistance and impressive longevity, and it’s easy to work with. In construction, copper is often used for roofing, flashing, gutters, decorative elements, and lightning mitigation. In typical roofing applications, the copper …
Introduction Sheet lead is a heavy, highly workable material, used in a variety of building applications, as well as for soundproofing and radiation shielding. In roofing, lead is commonly used for flashing at chimneys, vents, valleys, and structural joints. Common thicknesses for lead sheet used in roofing range from around 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch. …
Introduction I’m a professional roof consultant, and I’ve spent a lot of time researching roof replacement costs for my clients. This means I keep up-to-date with changing material and labor costs for all kinds of roofing, including copper roofs. I thought keeping (and regularly updating) accurate copper roof cost estimates online would be a helpful …
What is Plywood? Plywood is an engineered wood product made from thin layers, or plies, of wood veneer glued together. Each layer’s grain is typically oriented perpendicular to adjacent layers, which enhances strength, stability, and resistance to warping. Common subcategories of plywood include structural plywood, sheathing plywood, marine plywood, hardwood plywood, softwood plywood, and specialty …
I participate in the Amazon affiliate program and may earn commissions from purchases made through links on this page. Introduction I was at a Fourth of July party, talking to my friend’s cousin, and when he found out what I did for a living he told me about a problem he was having with his …
I participate in the Amazon affiliate program and may earn commissions from purchases made through links on this page. EIFS Cladding Systems Overview “EIFS” stands for “Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems” and it’s an extremely popular exterior wall covering for both commercial and multi-family residential construction. EIFS was first used on masonry buildings in the …
Introduction If you’re responsible for a roof, you may be thinking about using a roof coating to make your roof last longer. I was a roof consultant advising corporate and institutional clients for over 20 years. My company managed their roof assets; we recommended strategies and actions that would maximize the value of those roof …
Introduction R-value is critical attribute of low-slope roofing with above-deck insulation where the roof is a part of the building’s thermal envelope. The code-required roof R-value guides the selection of the type of insulation to be used, the amount of insulation, and the installation method of the insulation. A good understanding of R-value will help …
Lumber Production Why is a two-by-four called a “two-by-four” if it’s not actually two inches by four inches? Well, when a board is first milled from a log, that green piece of lumber, after that first rough cut, actually does have the approximate width and depth (the nominal lumber dimensions) by which the piece will …