Subscribe to RSS Feed

Author Archive

Roofs And Wind Damage

February 16, 2011 by Guest Author

The materials used for roofing come with variable resistance to wind uplift. Inherent resistance to damage by wind is characteristic of some materials but others are naturally more vulnerable to this kind of damage. Resistance to wind uplift isn’t a function of just the kind of material but also of many other things.

Roofs that are installed poorly are very vulnerable to damage due to strong winds. The most common problem in this front is bad nailing. Badly nailed shingles fly off with winds and cause damage to neighboring shingles as well. Nailing shingles properly and sealing them prevents this kind of damage and also prevents leaks from the roof.

Using nails and staples of poor quality is very bad and they should not be misaligned, as this makes them more susceptible to wind uplift and damage. Often nails and staples are not passed through the rafters and this can also make roofs vulnerable to winds. Screwing down the sheathing of the roof is very effective albeit expensive.

In areas that are prone to getting strong winds and cyclones and hurricanes, building codes lay down methods for constructing buildings in a way that they are protected from these winds. It is very important to follow these regulations while undertaking new constructions and renovations. Adhering to these codes also ensures you are covered again wind damage by your insurance company.

In many parts of the country, codes and insurance companies require homes to have hurricane straps that protect the roof from winds as fast as 100 miles per hour. Tree branches that are flying around as a result of wind are often the bigger problem than the wind itself.

It is imperative therefore that you get all tree branches hanging over the roof out of the way as otherwise they are bound to cause damage. You should also inspect your roof regularly and repair any damaged parts like flashings or rusted nails that are coming loose. It is not wise to avoid undertaking these repairs, as it may cost you big later.

Another thing that is often overlooked is roof ventilation. The right kind of ventilation is very important and plays a crucial role in conferring wind uplift resistance to a roof. It is also inexpensive. Not having proper ventilation can mean that hurricane straps and other wind uplift prevention measures are useless.

Two students in Virginia invented a ventilating system in 2008 called V2T. This ventilating system creates a vacuum by splitting air so that the roof is pushed down rather that pulled up when it is windy. Using these vents can save a lot of loss of property during storms.

Scott Rodgers is a great author who has been authoring on roofing for a long time now. His skill has given motivation to a host of workers, ranging from Macon roofers to Sioux City roofers.

Continue Reading »
No Comments

In case you are planning to do the installation of your thermostat on your own then you need to make sure that you are reading out all the manufacturer’s instructions before doing any work. Next, cut down the power supply to the furnace and air conditioner by disconnecting power cable at the breaker box or removing the fuse.

This is one of the most important step that should not be skipped by anyone. Next, remove the old thermostat cover and unscrew the old mounting plate from the wall. Do not disconnect any of the wires.

It is recommended to label each wire before disconnecting them. Failure to label the wires could result in hours of wasted time or a wrong connection. Now with the wires fully labeled, it is time to disconnect them from the screw terminals.

As you start the installation, thread the wires through the new thermostat base. It is very important to make sure that base is level and sits flush with the wall. A pencil can be used to mark the holes. You can drill holes at new locations if you want. With the help of mounting screws, base can be locked. Ensure that the base is level before tightening the screws.

Whenever, you start with wiring thing, it is recommended to check out the wiring diagram on your manufacturer’s instruction guide. Now mount the thermostat to the mounting plate. You need to connect wires now. With the help of wire stripper, you can cut 1/4 inch of the plastic sheathing in case you want that. The wire can be connected to screw terminals as per the matching letters. Be careful while doing it and don’t do any wrong connections.

Turn the power back on and begin programming the unit. The manufacturer’s instructions should contain the necessary programming information, as each unit is distinct in its programming process.

Just installing the unit will not save you the money. At the time of programming your unit, you need to give consideration to certain other factors as well. Most thermostats have four different settings- wake, away, evening, night/sleep.

As per your family’s schedule, you can set time for each of these settings. It will help you in making considerable savings. If you are out of your house during daytime then it is advised to set the temperature little low in winters and little higher in summers.

Scott Rodgers is a writer with ample experience in electricians work all across the nation. His exemplary guidance has generated business opportunities for a lot many Hyattsville Electricians Need one? click here!) and Bellevue Electricians (Need one? click here!).

Continue Reading »
No Comments

Recent Comments