What is Dimensional Lumber? Dimensional lumber is simply lumber that is produced with standardized dimensions. Standardized lumber dimensions such as “2 x 4” allow for a multitude of efficiencies in construction. Subcategories of dimensional lumber include appearance framing lumber, beams, joists, light framing lumber, planks, posts, stringers, structural light framing lumber, studs, and timbers. The lumber …
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 …
How Much Do Different Types of Pavers Weigh? The weight of a paver depends on the dimensions of the paver, the type of material used to make it, and the manufacturer’s formulation of that material. Stone pavers made from the same type of stone can also vary in weight somewhat depending on which quarry the …
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 …
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 …
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 When you’re dealing with roofs, material weights are always a concern. Especially if a contractor is trying to get you to let him to store materials on the roof. You want to avoid overloading. I …
Introduction Sheet zinc is a relatively long-lasting and naturally corrosion-resistant metal product widely used in architectural, construction, and industrial applications. When alloyed with small amounts of titanium and copper, zinc becomes malleable and strong enough for bending and shaping into structured profiles using forming machines or manual forming techniques, without significant cracking or loss of …
Introduction When I was managing roof maintenance programs for commercial properties in Chicago, every once in a while a property manager would express concern that the snow building up on her commercial low-slope roofs would melt all at once and the roofs’ storm drainage systems wouldn’t be able to handle it. It seems like it would be …