Economic Roofing Methods

Posted on November 19, 2011 by admin
Linda asked:




A roof of a house is often imagined as one with two slopes and a triangular front. Though regular pitch roofs are aesthetically pleasing, they are not exactly the most economically feasible. They cost more and require extensive planning while the construction is time consuming and requires specialized labour. In other words: the greater the surface area of a pitch roof, the greater the cost.

One of the best ways to reduce the surface area of the roof is to reduce the pitch angle and make it as close to the horizontal as possible. This results in a flat roof. This is one of the most economic roofing methods and can be found widely on commercial buildings. Various materials may be employed to build a flat roof, Asphalt, Bitumen and various polymers are among the most popular. The more unconventional materials include green tops (rooftop gardens), glass and alloy metals. These flat roofing systems are gaining popularity among architects, roofing installer and aspiring home owners alike.

The next method in discussion is slightly more expensive as it involves the entire roof to be built out of solar panels. The economic advantage of this particular type of roofs is not immediately obvious, but in the long run, the power generated by the roof can take off a huge chunk off your electricity bill. The initial design of a solar roof has to take the angle of the sunlight in to account. In tropical areas, the efficiency of the roof increases when the angle of the roof decreases and the sunlight falls in a right angle to the ground. In areas closer to the poles, sunlight tends to fall at an angle thus making pitch roofs and gable roofs more efficient.

The materials which are used as a roof covering act as determinant factors to the cost of the entire roof. Apart from the usual and costly materials such as corrugated asbestos, tiles and timber more economic and advantageous materials are also widely available. PVC corrugated sheets are a lightweight, durable and less expensive alternative to asbestos. These are available in a variety of covers, shapes and sized.  Zinc Aluminium sheets and fibre glass are other alternatives which are durable, light weight and don’t pile up on the cost.

The selection of a roofing material and a type of roof depends mainly on preference. But with today’s wide range of economically and functionally feasible alternatives everyone can select the roofing method most suitable for them with ease.



Green roofing
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Zinc roofing

Posted on November 18, 2011 by admin
Amjad asked:


Natural metals

It is very nice to use a roofing material that develops a patina with time. The patina often helps to protect the metal from corrosion. It is a living finish that changes and evolves with conditions, as opposed to paint, that is a flat, unchanging surface that only evolves in the sense that it gets scratched and dirty over time. Patinated metals can be naturally healing and are generally very long lived. Some examples of such metals are copper, zinc, and cor-ten steel.

Zinc Patina

As a non-ferrous metal, Zinc is naturally self-protecting. With time (usually 2-5 years), it forms a light grey matte patina. The patina is created when the zinc metal reacts with water and oxygen to form hydroxyde, then with carbon dioxide to form a layer of hydroxycarbonate. This natural patina protects zinc and naturally reforms when accidentally scratched.

Zinc roofing usually starts off shiny, but can be installed with a patina already created. Some sources suggest that this can enhance the longevity of the material by preventing early accelerated corrosion.

While the basis of the patina is alkaline zinc carbonate, additional substances

are incorporated from the local environment. This is why the color of the patina can vary slightly from one place to another.

The patination speed can vary between six months and five years, depending on climactic conditions & roof slope. The more exposure to wetting and drying cycles, the quicker the patina will develop.

(Mobile Themes)

Environmental benefits

Zinc has many environmental benefits when used as a building material:

1. The amount of energy used to produce zinc from ore is the lowest of all non-ferrous metals. Energy consumption is even lower when zinc is produced from recycled material.

The primary energy required to manufacture zinc sheets and coil is substantially lower than most metals for two reasons. First, the concentration in zinc ore is higher than other metals in their respective ores. Second, zinc has a relatively low melting point, approximately 785 F, and thus a relatively low level of fuel is required to extract, smelt, alloy, roll, and fabricate the metal. By comparison, the primary energy content of zinc is significantly less than that of aluminum, and also less than that of copper or stainless steel. Less energy is used for refining and recycling zinc because of its low melting point, whereas copper and stainless steel need twice as much energy, and aluminum even four times more.

2. Zinc is 100% recyclable. Recycled zinc conserves 95% of its initial energy content. When a zinc installation reaches the end of its service life, the material is 100% recyclable, without degradation or loss of properties.

3. Zinc’s long life span means that it seldom needs replacement. Zinc roofs have been know to last hundreds of years.

4. Because of its light weight, shipping costs are much less than with stone or brick.

(Mobile Themes)

Toxicity

5. There are different opinions on the toxicity of zinc. According to industry sources, runoff from a zinc roof is “non toxic,” “It is also a non-corrosive, environmentally friendly product with a 100% clear water runoff.” unlike lead and to some degree copper.

The AIA Continuing Education Center published an article: Essential Zinc: Building For The Future (Sponsored by Umicore Building Products) that details the effect of runoff from zinc roofs, claiming that if not actually beneficial to life, it is at least not harmful.

This appears only to be true when concentrations stay below a certain threshold. It seems that in most cases large concentrations of zinc in the environment are caused by things other than architectural metals. It is not far fetched to assume that the other benefits of architectural zinc outweigh potential hazards.

I found many articles and studies that showed that concentrations of zinc in san francisco bay are actually above the safe, background threshold.

Technical considerations

Galvanic corrosion:

As for galvanic corrosion, zinc is not compatible with copper or iron, so zinc is usually installed with a decent slope in order to drain water that might contain trace copper or iron residue. Obviously it is important not to allow contact between zinc and any metals that are at the opposite end of the galvanic chart.

Marine environments:

According to VM ZINC, Zinc is highly corrosion resistant in marine environments as well as inland. Regardless of location, erosion rates of the metal are relatively similar. In marine environments, zinc combines with salt in the air mainly to form zinc oxychloride (Zn2 O Cl2). Water soluble and not very adhesive, the white zinc chloride washes off the surface easily, and then the zinc patina develops and maintains the blue-gray color. However, unless washed away by rainfall, direct saltwater or sea spray contact ultimately reduces the lifespan of the material in dry, low rainfall maritime environments when the white chloride (essentially dried salt) stays on the surface.

Depending on atmospheric conditions, corrosion rates are low and vary between 0.5μm and 1.0μm per year. About 60% of the worn material continually washes off the surface while the remainder stays to form the patina layer. The highest wear rates are found in heavily polluted industrial areas, where sulfur dioxide concentration is high. In general, the service life of zinc as a roofing material in a marine atmosphere also ranges between 80 and 100 years, depending on exposure, roof geometry and installation quality.

Corrosion due to condensation trapped on the underside:

Several sources indicate that there are problems with corrosion from the underside of zinc roofing if moisture is allowed to condense there.

If the roofing system is designed such that warm moist air from the inside can travel up through the framing, insulation, and sheathing, as it gets colder, water vapor is likely to fall out of the air and be trapped. If the conditions are not right for patina formation (no air) or if the water sits on the metal for a long time, the zinc is likely to corrode. The manufacturers of zinc roofing all recommend either venting the roof, using zinc panels with a protective coating on the underside, or using a drainage layer directly under the roofing to allow moisture to escape.

According to and article by Janet Zaso in the AIA Continuing Education Center,

“Zinc roofing systems can be successfully installed on warm and cold roof applications. The term “cold roof” used here refers to one with a ventilated substrate rather than a reflecting “cool roof,” although some zinc roofing may also have this characteristic. Cold roofs are typically seen in residential homes with gable roofs and involve a roof ventilation system in which air is introduced at the eaves and ventilated at the ridge. Typically the layers of a warm roof include a metal deck, a vapor barrier and a layer of rigid insulation that’s on top the rafters rather than between or below them. Because a warm zinc roof doesn’t have the same air ventilation system as a cold one, and because zinc metal will corrode if moisture isn’t wicked from it, proper detailing will avoid roofing failures. Correct installation of a zinc roofing system is essential for protecting the metal against corrosion. Corrosion can be seen visually as a white chalkiness on the metal surface. Typically, the causes of zinc corrosion are water from condensation adhering to the back of the panel or standing water on the surface due to a lack of slope.”

“Generally, one of three approaches is used to prevent zinc corrosion from moisture. Skip sheathing is the oldest method and involves placing pine boards beneath the zinc roofing. The boards are spaced apart so that when condensation on the back side of the metal drips off, it will drip behind the pine boards where it can dry from air flow behind it — essentially a cold roof. This approach is still followed in Europe in some places and contributes to the longevity of some European buildings. Another method for protecting against condensation is installing a drainage mat beneath the zinc roofing. The newest protection against corrosion is a special backside polymer coating. The coating is often between 30 microns and 60 microns thick and protects the zinc metal from coming into contact with moisture from condensation.”

According to Contrarian Metal Resources: “Zinc panel systems must be back ventilated in order to prevent corrosion from the interior surfaces propagated by trapped moisture. Our InvariTique With Back CoatTM has a coil coating on the back side that eliminates the need for traditional zinc ventilation requirements. Warranties for our zinc products are available on a specific project basis, upon our assessment of the environment and design review. More about the ventilation requirements of ZINC can be found in the INFORMATION TOPICS section. For additional information regarding the properties of zinc, Alltrista Zinc Products is an excellent resource.”

A competitor to zinc in the premier roofing material market, states that their product is more durable because: Ice dams in valleys and along eaves are a common winter occurrence. Water trapped behind these dams can (and does) penetrate locks and seams. With zinc roofs, this can lead to “underside corrosion.” Moisture trapped on the underside of copper, on the other hand, has no negative effects, making FreedomGray the better choice for long-term durability.

According to an Old House Web article on flashing:

The underside of zinc flashing requires ventilation to allow protective patination to develop. If the underside is allowed to stay damp, white rust and corrosion can reduce service life severely. Requires proper detailing – the underside must be protected by bituminous sheet material against: alkaline influence (e.g., fresh concrete or mortar); acid reacting antifreeze agents; harmful influence of wood preservative. Contact with copper should be avoided.

(Mobile Themes)

 



Green roofing
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Framing a Butterfly Roof

Posted on November 12, 2011 by admin
mohsin khan asked:




A butterfly roof is seen in many homes and businesses in America today, and was very popular after the second World War. You can build one in your own construction project, as they have a number of benefits. If you want to know how to frame your butterfly roof, follow a few simple guidelines to getting the job done quickly and easily.

Materials Needed:

* Wood

* Saw

* Screwdriver or hammer

* Screws or nails

Step 1 – Make the Gables

The butterfly roof is made from two gables at either end of the construction which flow down towards each other. You will, therefore, need to begin to frame the roof by building the gables. Do this with two long pieces of wood, and two more pieces half the length. The two long pieces will go at the end of the gable, and the two short pieces will go in the middle. Repeat for the other side.

Step 2 – Attach the Joints

You then need two lengths of wood along each end of the gables, to hold the two pieces together, one at the top, and one in the middle. You should then take two long pieces of wood, and cut them down to size until they reach from the tall posts to the short posts. Place these on the top of the supports, and nail into position.

The house consists of two parts, each with its own roof – a bedroom / bath wing and a commons, with kitchen and large main room and covered outdoor room. In a region where shelter means a protected, shady place with good ventilation, this roof strategy provides a high, open, and airy quality.

The roof over the main room, springing from a height of about 9 feet (2.7 meters) at the center and rising on its south edge to 11 feet (3.4 meters), extends directly out from the room, whose western wall is essentially designed to fold back and disappear over a deck. This creates one large living space, which is half inside and half outside, the whole of it protected by the high floating roof above.

Storm shutters are used both to protect the screened openings on the south side in bad weather and to form a kind of eave line, masking the view of the neighbors to the south and creating the look of a low sheltering edge in this otherwise open, high -ceilinged space.



Solar Power for homes
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Protect Our Environment by Using Green Products

Posted on November 7, 2011 by admin
Hanep asked:




Everyone is have responsibility to make our environment going green. Unfortunately, it is not easy to detect the destruction of the environment, for the chemicals that are released into the environment that cannot be seen by the naked eye. But,  many cleaning products are petroleum-based.  All this are used everyday in our homes, offices, and surroundings.

The primary responsibility of the cleaning products is to get rid of unwanted particles, usually in the form of soil, grease, stubborn stains or general dirt. At the same time, bacteria may also be targeted. What the problem is, the petroleum-based liquids often attack much in its path when we trying to achieve this goal of cleanliness.

Nowadays, to remove stains, we has used  cleaning chemical products contain toxic chemicals. This is also has a side effects. The toxic materials  prove harmful to our health and also our environment. Therefore, By using the green cleaning products can help to prevent such hazards and to promote better living



Solar Power for homes
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Slate Roof Tile Installation Options

Posted on November 2, 2011 by admin
Beyardslate asked:


Slate Roof Tile Installation Options

Properly installed slate roofing can provide decades of service, superior fire resistance and exceptional beauty and elegance.

When providing roofing materials, roof contractors often refer to “squares” when talking about the size of a roof installation. When dealing with slate roof tiles it is important to understand while many roofing products can only be installed in one specific manner and hence a “square” requires a predefined quantity of roofing material, that is not the case with slate roof tile. The number of tiles or square feet needed of roof slate for any given installation will vary depending on the method and overlap of each course of slate roof tile used by the installer. This decision as to which installation method will be used is determined by many factors such as weight limitations of the supporting structure, cost of materials and installation, building codes, climate, desired useful life and other factors.

Slate has been used for centuries as a roofing material to provide decades of reliable service. It is not uncommon for a slate roof to last in excess of 100 years! There are basically two methods typically used to install slate roof tile, traditional and hybrid.

At the turn of the century, slate roof tile was installed in a manner where it was the waterproof barrier. Using this method and a 16 x 10-inch (about 400*200mm) slate roof tile a minimum of 221 tiles per square was required. This translates into a dead weight load in excess of approximately 1200 pounds per “square” for just the roof tile. To support this load the building structure must account for such a heavy material by increasing the strength of the roofing truss system, bearing walls of the building and building foundation. Traditional slate installation methods require planning and expense far beyond the cost of the slate roof itself. Because of the large number of slate roof tiles per square that must be installed installation labor can get quite expensive. Installation will typically exceed the costs of the material itself. When using this method it is common to install over wood lathe as opposed to solid plywood sub-roofing. This allows the slate to “breath” avoiding moisture traps and possible mold accumulation under the waterproof barrier of the roofing slate. The lathe is then typically covered by 30# felt paper followed by the slate itself. Copper or stainless steel nails or screws should always be used and traditionally flashing at peaks and valleys are made of copper in this type of installation.



Green roofing
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Don’t Pay the Roofer Until the Job is Complete

Posted on October 29, 2011 by admin
Andy Kaplan asked:




You should never pay for a roofing job up front. If any roofer asks that you pay for the entire project before it is complete, you should consider choosing a different roofing company.

Since many states do not require licensing for roofers, this is a field, where in the past, many con artists have swindled unsuspecting homeowners out of thousands of dollars. Therefore, it is vitally important to ensure that you are contracting with a reputable company before you even begin to think about exchanging money. You should spend several hours interviewing the roofer, calling and verifying references, and double checking the roofer’s insurance policies, policies for the workers who will be on your property, and making certain that the roofer has operated in a professional business manner before the exchange of money is even discussed. If a roofer requests that you pay all of the money up front, this could be a great indicator that you are dealing with a scam artist.

Though you should never pay the roofer the price agreed upon until the job is complete, you may be required to pay a deposit for the job upfront. Some states may regulate how much of the deposit you should pay, however you should never pay more than 73% of the total project cost in a deposit. There should also be a reasonable length of time between the deposit and the beginning and ending of your project as well.

One thing that is very important to note is that many roofers need the deposit to purchase the materials that will be used on the project. It is important that you know who your roofing contractor purchases these materials from and you should verify that the supplier has a good working relationship with the roofing company. In certain situations, homeowners may be held responsible if the contractor fails to pay for the building materials, so make sure that the contractor is paying their bills and that he or she has adequately paid for your building materials. By taking the time to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable and professional company, you can make certain that your project will be completed efficiently and to your satisfaction.



Solar Power for homes
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Remove and Prevent the Return of Roof Mildew, Roof Moss, and Roof Algae

Posted on October 28, 2011 by admin
rmharrington asked:




If you have never battled organic roof contamination, the concept of roof moss and roof algae may seem a bit unusual. Yet many residents in the vicinity of Charlotte, North Carolina understand this issue. Preserved forts, old barns with wood shakes, and park collections of frontier homesteads standout as the type of buildings that typically collect the algae, moss, and mildew. It adds character to the old buildings, and is a common thing around Concord, Kannapolis, and Gastonia.

 

Yet very few modern homeowners tend to think of roof algae or mildew as a threat to their primary dwelling site. This is strange, considering that all throughout the United States, millions of homes are damaged by the wear and tear that accompanies embedded roof algae and roof moss complications.

 

These organisms trap water on the roof materials. This accelerates the natural wear and tear of the roof coverings and the underlying wood. A clean roof removes and prevents the growth of algae or moss.

 

 

A Distinction

 

There is a distinction between algae and moss. Algae grow on water. Moss grows on land. One survives on sunlight while the later draws nourishment from dead or dying plants. Algae feel slimy. Moss feels spongy. Algae are a plantlike protist or phototroph.

 

Although most often limited to attics, basements, and bathrooms, mold can also invade your roof. Where ever water stands, spores can breed. When you spot mold, deal with it very quickly. It spreads fast and is a sure indication of retained moisture. It is also an indication of a deeper problem than surface moisture. Mold is a member of the Fungi family.

 

When provided with a suitable environment, any of these troublemakers can grow on your roof. This article compresses the treatment of mold, algae, and moss into a single area of roof complications. If you need in-depth definitions, you will have to do further research on your own.

 

 

Central Areas of Invasion

 

Areas of the nation that experience intense rainfall suffer a greater plague of algae. A sustained high level of humidity amplifies the problem. Due to a tendency to stay wet longer, the northern portions of roofs accumulate more algae than areas that face other directions. Shade trees that overshadow the roof also promote quicker growth of algae. When dust and other plant particles are mixed into a situation of trapped water, expect that moss and mold may also become a major roof problem.

 

Although some locations are more prone than others to breed phototroph and/or heterotrophs, no part of the nation, Concord and Charlotte included, is safe from the organisms. Furthermore, the invasions is not limited to a given roof type. Asphalt, clay, concrete, metal, and wood are all subject to algae and moss related water damage.

 

 

Clean It Up

 

Moss: The removal of moss is not difficult. The moss root system is shallow. Just attach a standard bristle scrub brush to a pole, brush down the roof, and tear the moss free. Be careful not to apply upstrokes with the brush as this may break or damage the bond between the layers of shingle. When the cleaning is complete, inspect the vertical slots between the affected shingles. If the ceramic granules are stripped away, you will only see the interior fiberglass mat that makes up the shingle. At this point, call a local Charlotte roofer.

 

Algae: Due to the lack of extended roots, algae are not as harmful to the roofing material as is moss. However, the black and green coloring of algae seriously clashes with the aesthetic designs of the roof. Algae is a bit more difficult to remove than is moss, and the green algae is much easier to clear away than is the black algae.

 

Mold and Mildew: Although mold is typically treated with a chlorine bleach solution, this is not a safe method of dealing with roof mold. Chlorine bleach runoff can damage nearby plants. Chlorine bleach can also hasten the corrosion of a metal gutter system, or strip the natural color from wood roofing shakes. When removing mildew, some roofers apply a copper sulfate solution. This too is a risk to nearby vegetation. In fact, calling a local Gastonia roofer may be your best choice for safe removal of roof mold.

 

Overall: Begin with a clean work area. Remove all organic debris, including leaves and branches. Use commercial materials. Be very cautious with power washers and other industrial cleaning tools. They can, when used improperly, damage your roofing materials.

 

Keeping It Clean: When finishing up, be certain to remove any tree limbs that overhang your roof. Introduce copper strips to the roof. This will hinder algae and moss buildup. Some roofers use zinc materials, but copper seems more effective. Copper also tends to better blend with the materials of a shingled roof. If you are replacing an old roof, or installing a new roof, and you are using asphalt shingles, purchase shingles that have copper hidden amid the ceramic granules.

 

 

Matters of Safety

 

Roof cleaning can be risky business. Wear shoes with good traction. Keep special guard when dealing with algae; it is extremely slippery when wet. Whenever possible, work the contaminated sections from the sides so as not to walk over wet areas. If feasible, work from a sitting position – this lowers the risk of slipping and falling. To prevent falls, use ladders of sufficient length for the task, and be sure to tie them off at the roofline. Keep someone nearby so that they can secure the foot of the ladder during your assent and descent.

 

If you have doubts about your own skills, avoid the risks; call in a local roofer.



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Green Living Made Easy – The Eco-Friendly Lifestyle

Posted on October 24, 2011 by admin
sixminutestyle asked:


Go Green this week on Six Minute Style as host Susan Doherty walks you through your home, room by room, with simple steps designed to help you save the planet and your cash. Yes, green living is good for your wallet too!

eco-friendly roof

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Ro-but Max teaches Stan to eat Green Living Food

Posted on October 23, 2011 by admin
motrahan asked:


Make your Mojo Gogo! Eat living greens!

Roofing

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Apr. 11, 2011 (Pt. 1 of 2)Green Living Series: QUEEN OF THE SUN Panel Discussion

Posted on October 22, 2011 by admin
RedRiverTheatres asked:


The Green Living Series, sponsored by Green Concord, with film screenings held at Red River Theatres, hosted a special Event Screening of QUEEN OF THE SUN: WHAT ARE THE BEES TELLING US?, complete with hive demo and honey wine tasting before the documentary, and a discussion after it. The film is a profound look at the global honeybee crisis & what people can do to help, from Taggart Siegel, award-winning director of the grass-roots hit, The Real Dirt on Farmer John. Panel for the discussion includes (LR): Moderator Deb from Bona Fide Green Goods, Michael Fairbrother, owner, Moonlight Meadery,Troy Hall, Beekeeper and President of the Kearsarge Beekeepers Assc.,Evan Eshelman, European Bee Farming, and Bill Whyte, Owner of Badger Balm. Remember that specialty films of local interest, often with engaging community discussions can only happen if Red River Theatres remains financially healthy. If you wish to be part of our film community and show your support, become a member today at: www.redrivertheatres.org For more info, or to support tonight’s sponsors: www.greenconcord.org www.moonlightmeadery.com www.badgerbalm.com www.queenofthesun.com

green living

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Realize That Not All Eco Roofs Are Green Roofs

Posted on October 17, 2011 by admin
Rod Harlan asked:




When people in the greater Los Angeles  area think of going green, they typically   think of changing their lifestyle toward becoming more environmentally  responsible. When it comes to the  phrase “green roofs” though, people typically  think of any kind of roof that is environmentally  friendly.  But the fact is that green roofs are a certain type  of eco roof that incorporates plants and other organic  things.  The terms may be a bit misleading, but the goals are  the same: to change the current mindset in the construction  field to become more conscience of mankinds effect  on the planet.

The push to forge  new eco roofing materials has yielded some terrific   new products for all types of desired looks.  For those that desire the wealthy look  of legendary castles and cathedrals, there are various  kinds  of eco slate roofing materials. Eco slate roofing materials look  just like a typical slate roof, except they use less slate  and they give the building owner excellent savings on  their utility costs.

Eco metal roofing materials are similar  to other forms of metal roofs, with some  exceptions;  eco metal uses recycled materials, and they are coated with special  treatments that reflect the heat from the hot Southern California sun  away from the inside of the  edifice.  These cool roof coatings can help to save into 50% on the  average  utility expenses associated with keeping a structure  air conditioned.

Then there are eco wood shake roofing  materials that are created with recycled   wood and plastic, but when finished look a lot like  classic  wood shingles. The great thing about eco wood shake roofing  materials is that they do not have to be altered for fire  protection. These wood shakes are made with a class  A fire rating and a class 4 impact rating, which is the highest  rating any type of roofing material can get.

As far as green roofs go, this  kind  of roof design is found to really take  off  in this current push to find the ability to  live in harmony with nature. If every commercial building  in Southern California got green roofs, not only would it  cut energy usage, it would also start to improve the air quality  for the whole state.

Because green roofs convert the  regularly  black rooftops of commercial buildings into lush gardens, these  places  can then be used for simple rooftop park space or used for other  things.  Some savvy commercial building owners have taken their green   roofs and leased out to bio-tech firms or even nurseries,  which adds to the total revenue for the commercial  building  as a whole.

The best part about   all of these environmentally responsible   roofs is that they qualify for excellent  tax  credits. The federal government and the state of California have  been handing out tax incentives to building owners  that go green. There are even some neighborhoods  in the greater Los Angeles area that also offer some incentives   to commercial building owners that add energy saving  designs  into their buildings.



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Watch Verengo Solar discuss Solar Energy on Green Living!

Posted on October 16, 2011 by admin
VerengoSolarPlus asked:


Verengo Solar VP, Emmitt Summers, talks about how solar power is becoming more affordable to install. And “green jobs” are on the rise in OC find out how we rank among other areas in California. Learn more about solar by visiting www.verengosolar.com

Roofing

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Palo Alto Green Living – A Healthy Sustainable Energy Efficient Historical Home

Posted on October 16, 2011 by admin
MasterpieceShowcase asked:


Palo Alto Green Living 1730 University Avenue, Palo Alto Available for Lease, Fully Furnished – $9800 Per Month This 1936 Old World Charm home was originally designed by artist and Stanford University design professor Pedro de Lemos. It has undergone a comprehensive retrofit using cutting edge Green technologies and materials to achieve Net Zero Energy use while preserving the architectural integrity of this iconic residence. The renewable energy sources available within the homes footprint offsets the total energy (in kWh) used by the house. This completely remodeled home is stylishly furnished and features super-efficient heating, cooling and ventilation systems. The five goals for the renovation were Energy Efficiency, Comfort, Health, Water, and Historic Preservation. Energy Efficiency Net zero energy is accomplished by generating electricity with solar power and conserving energy with an insulated building envelope and high-efficiency appliances. Comfort A comfortable home environment is created by a balanced heating, cooling and ventilation system which keeps the house at a medium temperature and keeps the air fresh. Health The indoor air quality was improved with a whole-house air filter and point-of-entry water filtration system. Low or no VOC materials were used in the cabinets as well as in the paint and finishes. Water The reduction of water use is achieved by installing low flow fixtures and appliances, a recirculation pump, and by reconfiguring the plumbing …

Green roof

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Which Roofing Materials Might be Best

Posted on October 12, 2011 by admin
Jacqueline Lessor asked:




When you have a brand new roof covering installed on your home, you’d like it to last for a very lengthy time. Brand new roofing can be a significant investment in the home, and so the more time the roof lasts, the better.  One approach to make sure the roof lasts longer is to obtain the most appropriate roofing material to start with.  There are several sorts of roofing materials and each has different characteristics.

Asphalt shingles are typically the most preferred type of roofing material.  They can be reasonably easy to install and work with.  They come in a range of colours to match just about any house’s design and style and are quite reasonably priced compared to a number of the alternative roofing material to choose from.  Asphalt shingles are available in various grades and may last anywhere from ten to thirty yrs depending on the grade of the shingles used. Asphalt shingles will probably be the best solution for you if you’d like to cost-effectively put a brand new roof on your home that will last for years.

Flat Roofs

Flat roofs are rather different from their angled counterparts.  Many flat roofing systems typically have an underlayment which consists of a foam covering. On the outer surface is a sealant which ought to be maintained at least every year.  This could be accomplished by basically sweeping off leaves and debris to ensure that the surface is free of pocks and holes, or re-coating the roof covering with more sealant to make it last longer, flat roofing systems normally will need more upkeep in comparison to conventional roofing systems.  In most cases, flat roofs often have a life span of about 10 to twenty yrs.  During that time they usually have to be re-sealed at the very least one time in order that they remain in top condition.



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Green Living Project at Chewonki

Posted on October 11, 2011 by admin
Chewonkivideo asked:


Watch a short video about how Chewonki incorporates sustainability into all that it does. This video features Don Hudson, Peter Arnold, an organic farm, and our 400-acre campus in Wiscasset.

eco-friendly roof

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Living Good Episode 7, Part 2

Posted on October 10, 2011 by admin
LivingGoodShow asked:


Episode 7, Part 2 is the continuation of the collard green wrap recipe. Part 1 features our Free Feel Good Tip, an interview with clothing company YeahYeah!Pony Prince, and the first part of the collard green wrap. Living Good is the show where we explore how to live a life that feels good…and is good for the planet. Art. Spirit. Food. Green Living. and More! Visit www.AmeliaAvila.com or www.UniversoulArts.com or www.youtube.com/LivingGood Show for more.

green living

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From Deconstruction to Design – The Road to Designing Sustainable, Modern Green Living

Posted on October 9, 2011 by admin
eHow asked:


Reclaimed Space co-founders Kimber Reed and Tracen Gardner team up with Zem Joaquin of Ecofabulous for the Dwell on Design Conference in Los Angeles. Understand the concept, mission and process for creating a sustainable living space that embodies modern design and green methods.

Roofing

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Thatch Roofing, Thatch Roofs, Thatching

Posted on October 8, 2011 by admin
Ted Doughty asked:




Thatch Roofing/Thatch Roofs

Thatch roofs combine the durability required to withstand all types of weather conditions and the beauty of Mother Nature’s plentiful bounty.  Thatch roofs use dry vegetation, usually in the form of straw, water reed, heather, and rushes to form a layer that waterproofs a dwelling.  Commonly used in developing countries because of its low price and abundance of materials, many well-to-do people use thatch roofs to give their homes and tiki huts a rustic feel.

Popular in tropical areas, thatch roofs have a history that dates back to thousands of years ago.  Needing an inexpensive yet durable material for their homes and buildings, people in the Middle Ages relied on thatch.  The combination of natural materials was highly flammable and responsible for devastating fires.  Today, flame retardant thatch roofing materials are available to fulfill safety requirements.  You should always use caution when lighting a grill.  Combustible items should remain far away from the flame.

Enjoying your new thatch roof is easy.  Once installed, it will provide shade from harmful UV rays and shelter you from unexpected rain showers.  A thatch roof attached to a tiki bar or tiki hut gives even the most suburban family home a trendy, exotic feel.  You will instantly become the talk of the town once you have added the finishing touches to your little slice of paradise.  Thatch roofing brings the look and feel of the islands to your backyard tiki hut.

Turn your home into the ultimate place to entertain guests.  Unpack your tiki torches and pull out the pool toys.  It’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor.  Having a place that you love makes even the worst day manageable.  Thatch roofing is a beautiful detail that will bring a smile to your face for years to come.

There is no good reason for you not to have the yard of your dreams.  Thatch roofing enhances the appearance of structures by giving them an inviting tropical vibe.  Who doesn’t enjoy having their home be a place that others want to visit?  You will have an endless string of guests stop by to check out your new thatch roof.

Rolls of thatch roofing are economical.  See for yourself.  Look at this site for inspiration.  You can find a variety of styles and lengths of thatch roofing materials.  Select the one that best fits your needs.

There are distinct advantages to having a thatch roof installed.  First of all, the materials used hold up well even in wet climate.  Second, the materials used to create thatch roofing are plentiful in many regions.  If taken care of properly, the crops are sustainable and can be harvested again and again.  That makes thatch a renewable resource.  Environmentalists can applaud thatch roofing materials for being earth friendly.

It shouldn’t take you long to install a thatch roof.  In fact, you can severely alter the look of your dwelling in one afternoon if you work efficiently.  So, what are you waiting for?  Grab some tools and a couple of your friends and get to work installing thatch roofing.  You won’t be disappointed once you see the end result.

http://www.tikishackimporter.com/commercial-grade-thatch-rolls.html



Green roofing
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Green Living Series: What is Permaculture? Discussion

Posted on October 6, 2011 by admin
RedRiverTheatres asked:


This is the 40 min. discussion which followed “What is Permaculture?,” a 45-minute video documenting the practical applications of permaculture currently utilized at D Acres Organic Permaculture Farm & Sustainability Center, located in Dorchester, NH. Shot over the course of four seasons, renewable energy, food preservation, animal husbandry, forest gardening, no-till agricuture, compost toilets, root cellars and greenhouses are highlighted. Josh Trought, producer and director at D Acres was on hand for the Q&A following the viewing on Friday, 2/11. Also on Friday, 2/11: The movie was preceded by an official Concord Green Drinks gathering at Red River’s Indie Cafe from 6-7pm. Sponsor: D Acres Panelists (LR): -Facilitator Deb from Bona Fide Green Goods, Concord – Lauren Chase-Rowell, Outdoor Homes – Josh Trought, D Acres – Dorn Cox, New England Famers Union – Steve Whitman, PSU and Low Energy Future Red River Theatres is a non-profit, independent, community supported cinema, which depends upon your support. Become a Member or make a donation at: www.redrivertheatres.org.

eco-friendly roof

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How to Prepare for Reroofing

Posted on October 6, 2011 by admin
Tony Fliven asked:




If you have installed a roof before you know that its hard work, well unfortunately reroofing is much more difficult.But dont be dismayed, if done right you will save yourself a lot of hassle.

 

Reroofing entails tearing apart the original roof and replacing the various layers of roofing material, which typically include sheathing, insulation and shingles, due to leaks or other damages incurred by the roof. Its to be expected that meticulous preparation take place to secure an architecturally-sound roof.

 

Reroofing can be very tedious and you must take that into consideration as you make time to schedule for gathering materials, analyzing your budget, hire a contractor and labor team if necessary. If you hire on a great roofing team, the job can get done efficiently within a month. Also, because the roof is such a significant element of the home it is crucial to have the proper measurements and materials on hand. Otherwise, your reroofing project can get delayed, and overspending, among other problems, can take place. As mentioned above, the greatest way to prepare for a reroofing project is to save money and create a flexible construction schedule that will allow some room for unforeseen events to occur, such as inclement weather.

 

Once the above guidelines are set, get started on the next phase. Many roofs only require shingle replacements, while others need the underlying sheathing support to be replaced as well. Spend time focusing on how your roof works to figure out its exact needs. You must also acquire the proper tools, some of which you may already have, while others will require a separate purchase. This includes a hammer, nails, caulk, tar adhesive and much more to ensure the shingles remain tight and the insulation is protected from outside weather.

 

Other things to do in preparation for a reroofing procedure include moving any exterior installations away from the home to make room for ladders and a stockpile of roofing material. This should be done to avoid having shingles and tools potentially fall on anything valuable. Also, take other safety precautions for yourself such as wearing a hard hat, a safety harness and construction boots.Save yourself the trouble and hassle reroofing can bring by preparing as much as possible before undergoing a reroofing project for your home.



Green roofing
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