What Greeks Have Known For Centuries"

                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Sometime as I look over the many countries that visit this blogsite, I think of you, those particular nations, and today I became fascinated with my visitors from Greece, and what the Greeks have contributed to society as a whole. 

The Greek heritage and civilization is, of course legendary, and as a result, are recognized as great benefactors to humanity.  From the sciences, to the arts, their mark has been indelibly etched upon this earth and rank among the truly magnificent people, and cultures, the earth has ever known.

A city named "Tarpon Springs" about 35 miles from Tampa, Florida is home to the sponge docks, a well known tourist area, and home to a large Greek community, and many fine Greek restaurants I've visited many times.

Why am I talking about Greece on a roofing information blogsite?  Because the Greeks have known about the value of reflecting radiant energy away from their homes for many centuries, as evidenced in the photos above.  I also wanted to illustrate how my "Low Hanging Fruit" approach to roofing follows this theme, except in today's modern society, we have the very same principles available in highly reflective synthetic roof membranes.

I don't want to ruin this rather personal message to my friends in Greece by rambling on about it, but to illustrate how many times, and how many years, we've seen this principle of physics applied.  I'd like you to take a moment, and ask yourself why our "modern society" doesn't implement more of this , instead of roofing buildings in petroleum?  I think if it was a good idea, the Greeks would have thought of it first.

I am quite thankful you take time from your day, and visit with me here.  In an effort to bring information to you, I am constantly evolving, and am humbled you care what I have to say.

Have a very happy, and productive day, reject negativity in all forms, and keep looking "UP".

Respectfully,

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon

CCC1325620 

"Reality of "OSHA"

Okay, today I will tackle some rather touchy issues as it pertains to OSHA.  I could be infinitely technical here, but will spare you the minutia and boredom.  I will approach the topic as an observation.  Some will be in support, and some will not, but I will share actual experience, and not hypothetical.

OSHA is a very complex, and infinite set of rules.  They are in fact, designed for worker safety, and the safety of all trades.  Many projects require a "site specific" safety program based upon an approved safety model.  these "site specific" programs require thought, and time, to properly address, and solve, potential safety hazards.

In many cases, once you've written the program, you will be asked to translate it into Spanish, and this is the best free software I've found for doing that:

http://www.online-translator.com/Default.aspx/Text

Boy did that save us some time.

In "Contractor World", the last conscious thoughts you should have each night should be the safety of those in your charge, and providing the safest work environment possible.  Your goal is to see the workmen return each day safely to their families.  I firmly believe the vast majority of contractors do exactly that.

I admire the many people who do this, and it takes a lot of work, and money, to make that happen.  10 or 30 hour OSHA courses are recommended for each employee, and that person should have his or her OSHA card on them at all times.

Okay, now you've got your safety program, site specific plan, Spanish translation, and OSHA training for each employee.  Outstanding.  But now comes the rub.  It is impossible for you to comply with the very fine print of OSHA.  It is so voluminous, you cannot reasonably be required to memorize every page.

I can tell you that I could go on a jobsite, and cite every single person on that job.  Startling isn't it?  And that's just what OSHA does when they feel like it.  I've watched firms that spend countless hours, and vast sums of money training, testing, and supervising employees, only to be slapped with a huge fine by OSHA because they felt like it.  I cannot change that, but I can make you aware of it.

OSHA's funding has been cut, and I can guarantee you they are out to make up that revenue.  Why do you care?  Because the cost will be transferred to you.  Or, if you work for a firm that has been cited by OSHA, you, and many others may be out of a job.  OSHA puts far more people in the unemployment line than they help.

OSHA, as any other government agency is a complex maze of pure confusion.  I am trying desperately to make you aware that you not only have to deal with OSHA, but you will have to deal with the temperament of the OSHA inspector.  You are at the mercy of how they feel that particular day, and I don't think anyone in construction will dispute what I just said.

Example:  I had a 100,000 sq. ft. project with non-friable asbestos encapsulated in the base flashing, and nowhere else on the roof.  My men were made to wear HEPA masks, and full Tyvek suits in 96 degree Florida sun.  Certainly, I was more concerned with them having heat stroke than breathing asbestos, because they were not in danger to begin with.  This is yet another example of trying to out think yourself, or justifying your position at the expense of others.

Regulation, upon regulation, upon regulation is starving us of oxygen to breathe and do our work properly, and safely.

I can only suggest you keep your safety records up to date, have ongoing training (I know how boring it is), and simply do your best.  Please see the poll question based upon an OSHA regulation it took me  hours to find.

It is very exciting to me to see my many friends across the globe checking in.  You are very welcomed, as the bulk of my work is for impoverished nations, and my true joy comes from helping them.  I do not take for granted, the many blessings my God, so loving, sends to me.  I do not measure myself by the accumulation of material things, but by achievement, on behalf of others.

Today, I will also introduce you to an absolute doll Rachel Beckner, of  Go Green Roofing.  I'm playing a little bit, because she's as cute as a button, and tease her husband night and day gogreenroofing@aol.com 

I know both she, and her husband Bob very personally, and would like to give both of them my very highest seal of approval.  Particularly if you have structures that require extensive engineering and thought beyond that of , let's say "standard" roofers.  they are full service people, and very client oriented.  Lovely people whom I place the utmost trust.  They are domiciled in the Sarasota/Bradenton area, but have a rather extensive service area.  I am proud to say they are people of faith, and in this business, we need all the help we can get.  It also illustrates a principle that cannot be broken.

Thank you for visiting with me today, reject negativity in all forms, and keep looking "UP".

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon
CCC1325620

"Sustainable Florida Program"

Please forgive me for taking so long between posts, but I've been overwhelmed with a number of projects lately in the U.S. and Europe.  The European venture is very exciting, and I will share the topic and outcome after a meeting in Brussels next Tuesday.

I'd like to make a very brief personal announcement if you don't mind, and that is to inform you that the state capitol communicated with me yesterday and has asked me to again be a Judge for their "Sustainable Florida" program, which I feel to be the most prestigious sustainability awards program in Florida.  I am both humbled, and honored, that they place a measure of value on my skill set, and it somehow validates a few things I speak to you about on this page.

I get to see up close, and in great detail, what our state is doing in terms of sustainability, and find it fascinating.  The applicants vary from a lady that suggests drying your clothes on a clothesline (she was smiling in every picture), to Wal-Mart.  Each nominee is judged without prejudice, I promise you.

This is my 4th. appointment as a Judge, and to say I'm thrilled, would be an understatement.  The responsibility is to review applications from major corporations, ambitious individuals, public service sectors, individual commissions and counties.  Each application is rather lengthy, numerous attachments to consider, and then I take into account cost, benefit, etc., and attach a numerical score that is transmitted to the Capitol, where the winners are determined.

It makes me very happy to serve my state in this way, and I am thankful for the opportunity to learn from these projects, so I can relay that information to you first hand.

This program is very efficiently run, and if you can spare a nickel, please support them.  The administrator Mr. Tim Center, Esq. is a very hard working guy that encouraged me years ago, and gave purpose to my research.

Over the weekend, I will be posting about "Roof Rebates" available in Florida.  Particularly the new program recently approved by TECO (Tampa Electric Company), as it is exciting.  Most roofers do not care about energy issues, and subsequently don't know about energy rebates.  The roofers who take education seriously, have a great advantage in knowing about energy rebates, and additional "Value" for them to present to their clients.

Soon, I will figure out how to post access to papers I've written for you to download.  Forgive me, but I think it's obvious I am still studying the basics of presenting my comments by way of this blog, and trying to improve the experience for both of us..

Again, I am thankful for the time you spend with me here, and always remember to keep looking "UP".

Very respectfully,

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon
CCC1325620

"How to write a roofing proposal"

This is intended primarily for entry level contractors, who may not know what is required of them in the most basic of all roofing paperwork: "The Proposal"

Many roofers and their clients use the "Proposal", in lieu of a contract (mainly residential), so that will be the focus of our discussion, elementary as it may be.  Remember, if it is not contained within the 4 corners of your proposal, it is not enforceable.  Watch "Judge Judy" sometime, and she'll tell you the same thing.

These components never change, and  regardless of your aversion to paperwork, or if you think you have a "better idea", believe me, you don't.

1.)  The proposal must be dated.
2.)  The client's name and address.
3.)  A detailed "Scope Of Work".
4.)  Price (furnished and installed, taxes included)
5.)  Terms (net 30 days typically), but in an effort to insure quicker payment, I've found that instead of "net 30 days", I like to establish when the project is officially over, because you can spend three lifetimes with nit-picking things.  When I write a proposal, I use the phrase "Upon final inspection by local permitting jurisdiction", so the job is officially over, not based upon your opinion, or the client's opinion, but by the inspector who has no interest in the matter.

6.)  "Hidden Damages".  this is a "unit cost" issue normally associated with deeteriorated lumber (decking mainly, and occasionally support members).  "Deteriorated Lumber" sounds a lot more professional than "Rotten Wood", doesn't it?  If the client balks at the "hidden damages" clause, walk away.  You (to the best of my knowledge) do not have X-Ray vision, and cannot reasonably accept the financial responsibility, and burden it will cause.

7.)  Signed by an officer.

I will again suggest taking your time here, and will state once more "if it's not within the 4 corners of the document, it does not exist".  A reasonable person can accept this, as they certainly would not go out on the limb they ask you to shinny out on.

The "Scope of work" section normally follows the installation in order of application, such as:
A.)  Remove and properly dispose existing roof system.
B.)  Inspect and replace deteriorated decking as "hidden damages", at unit cost listed below.
C.)  Nail 30 lb. underlayment to receive asphalt shingles.
D.)  Mechanically fasten asphalt shingles (6 nails per shingle).  Color selection by owner.
E.)  Fabricate and install prefinished metal accessory items (you may further describe the items individually if you prefer).  Color selection by owner.
F.)  Perform magnetic sweep of work area.
G.)  Furnish roofing contractor's two year guarantee.
H.)  Furnish material manufacturer's 25 year warranty.

All components installed per manufacturer's latest printed specifications.

Note:  If you have reduced your safety program to CD, you might want to spend 10 cents to burn a copy for the owner.  WHOA!! What's this, a roofer bringing up safety, and giving me a copy?  Killer.

If you want to scrimp on words, leave out items, or are afraid to tell a client you cannot predict wood replacement, that's your business, but I ADVISE AGAINST IT.  The idea of a proposal is  to eliminate guesswork, make the owner happy, and make sure you get paid.

A nice touch is to present your guarantee, and the owner's warranty to the client when you pick up your final payment.  Include a prepaid, addressed envelope, for them to send in the warranty registration, and you'd be amazed how impressive that is to the client.  To think you took the time to type out an addressed, and stamped envelope, instills additional "Comfort Level", and they will tell their neighbors how professional you are.

The owner has to work for the money they have.  As a result, you have to work for the money they pay you.  It should not be an "Us vs. Them" scenario, but as palatable experience as possible, for this very intrusive roof system installation.

The above will create great distance between you and any competitor.  Who would you choose, a guy in a broken down truck with a hand written estimate, or a full pro with the skill to make you happy knowing your investment is being maximized?

I did not mention lien releases, but that is also a nice touch, because once again, you are protecting their money.  People seem to like that.

I am thankful for my many visitors from around this beautiful earth we are fortunate to live in.  Thank you so much for spending time with me today, and always remember to keep looking "UP".

Reject negativity in all forms.

Respect,

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon
CCC1325620

"Ignorance, and Fraud, Perpetrated Upon The Public"

Friends, today I would like to share both technical data, and personal experience I've had trying to educate legislators, building departments, etc. regarding my skill discipline, which is of course commercial roof systems.  Please do keep in mind that I do not work for anyone, do not represent anyone, nor do I accept money from anyone.

In this way, I can be completely objective, and absent of prejudice.  By now, you know everything here is based upon science, and public record, so I will share the knowledge available to, but ignored by, our legislators.  Please keep in mind that my campaign is now in it's 8th. year, so I have more than a cursory knowledge of these affairs.

U.S. Secretary of Energy, Dr. Steven Chu has ordered all DOE structures to be roofed with "Cool" roof systems.  Your local government hasn't the slightest clue, nor interest, in anything to do with roofing.  Roofing is not exciting, by a long shot, but is a CRITICAL energy reduction component of all structures.

First, I will show an article by the Department Of Energy (U.S.), and then I will illustrate how unresponsive your local jurisdictions are in implementing it.  They actually do the exact OPPOSITE, of what Physicist, and Nobel Laureate, Dr. Chu suggests.  Certainly you will ask WHY?, and I will address that near the end of this post.

December 14, 2010

Energy Department Completes Cool Roof Installation on DC Headquarters Building to Save Money by Saving Energy

In new video, Secretary Chu discusses the benefits of cool roofs

Washington - Secretary Steven Chu today announced the completion of a new cool roof installation on the Department of Energy's Headquarters West Building.  There was no incremental cost to adding the cool roof as part of the roof replacement project and it will save taxpayers $2,000 every year in building energy costs.  Cool roofs use lighter-colored roofing surfaces or special coatings to reflect more of the sun's heat, helping improve building efficiency, reduce cooling costs and offset carbon emissions.  The cool roof and increased insulation at the facility were installed as part of the federal government's commitment to lead by example in increasing energy efficiency, reducing carbon pollution and demonstrating the benefits of clean energy technologies.
 
The Department of Energy also released today a video with Secretary Chu that shows the installation of the roof and explains some of the benefits that come with this important technology.  The video is available on the Energy Blog.

"The Department of Energy is leading by example, demonstrating how cool roofs can help achieve significant energy and cost savings.  This is a simple, low-cost technology that can provide tremendous benefits for government, businesses and homeowners across the country," said Secretary Chu.

Earlier this year, Secretary Chu directed all Department of Energy offices to install cool roofs, whenever cost effective, when constructing a new roof or replacing an old one.  The Department's new cool roof on the West Building covers approximately 25,000 square feet.  In the spring, DOE will also install a cool roof on the Headquarters' South Building, covering approximately 66,000 square feet.  As a result of the new cool roof installations on both buildings, taxpayers will save a total of $8,000 per year in energy costs.

Roofs and road pavement cover 50 to 65 percent of urban areas. Most traditional dark-colored roofing materials absorb 80 to 90 percent of incoming solar energy, increasing temperatures on the surface and in the case of roofing, heating the building, which in turn requires additional air conditioning.  White or special "cool color" roofs absorb less than 50 percent of solar energy, reducing the roof temperature and decreasing the energy used in air conditioning.

A dark roof can reach temperatures above 180F on a hot day, while a cool roof can stay 50 degrees cooler. A study by researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) found that using cool roofs and cool pavements in cities around the world can help reduce the demand for air conditioning, cool entire cities, and potentially cancel the heating effect of up to two years of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions.
Consumers can find Energy Star cool roofing products for homes and businesses at EnergyStar.gov.

Follow the Department of Energy on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Flickr. Follow Secretary Chu on his Facebook page.

Media contact(s):
202-586-4940

Sounds fabulous, doesn't it?  Well it is, until your local leaders get involved, and allow "both "Single Source", or "Proprietary Specifications" to take over Dr. Chu's very rational observations.  At this point, it is no longer a matter of simple physics, and reduction of energy costs borne by the taxpayers.  It becomes a matter of graft, collusion, and outright fraud, perpetrated upon "We The People".  As I mentioned, I've been at this for 8 years, and nobody except the Private Sector cares, as they are spending their own money, not the taxpayers money.  I find these so called "Officials" in contempt, because the knowledge, and data are in front of them, but they will not act upon it, for fear of disrupting a revenue stream.  Want proof?  Here are actual court proceedings, documents, and the felonious behavior of those involved.   Still going on today, and it is absolutely unacceptable.

My city (Tampa) has mandated all structures over 5,000 sq. ft. be LEED Silver Certified (a bit excessive perhaps).  But the actual Building Department has a "Sole Source" agreement with a boutique manufacturer, not locally stocked, and certainly not anything close to a "cool roof", and I've proven it to them.  Like ostriches, they place their head in the sand, and hope I'll go away, but I won't.

They recently roofed a water treatment plant here in Tampa, and put a heat absorbing, petroleum based roof on it.  A polluting roof, on a water treatment plant is the height of stupidity, and the definition of "Ignorance".  No amount of science, or practicality, could convince them to even consider a synthetic cool roof.

They LIED to me regarding the components being "Energy Star" (what a joke), and I revealed their lies through their preferred manufacturer's OWN LITERATURE.

Folks, I would ask you to help me, but frankly would not wish this torture upon anyone.  Contrary to popular belief, I am not a masochist, but my advocacy is perfect for anyone who is.  The only thing I can hope for is getting through to just one of them through the law of averages, but so far, I haven't had much luck at that slot machine.

It is absurdly simple to reduce our energy demands by 20%, saving precious taxpayer dollars.  If any of you are tired of this nonsense, I would suggest you start with your school district, or you are always welcome to contact me at RobertRSolomon@aol.com and I will help you.  I've also written a paper that illustrates the issue in great detail.  Please ask, and I will send it to you.

I am very thankful for the time you so graciously spend with me here.

Please reject negativity in all forms, and always remember to keep looking "UP".

Very Respectfully,

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon
CCC1325620

"Pre-Manufactured, Pre-Finished Metal Flashings"

I was talking to a few people about "value engineering" and the topic of pre-manufactured metals came up.  Normally, one of the first items roofers "cheapen" when trying to save a little money.  But, I am of the opinion that "cheapening" the effort, cheapens the contractor, and introduces great liability which is unnecessary. 

Okay, right there is where I lost a few of you.

Today (because of space), I will illustrate a very well known manufacturer of pre-manufactured metals, whom I've had much experience with.  All good by the way, and I can't say that about many companies.  Metal-Era fights fair, and if you've been following this blog, know I despise "Proprietary Specifications".

Much respect to them for being honest.  I cannot be more complimentary of their professional demeanor, or professional services.  Alright, now that I've done the "Pitch", I'll get into the body of this post.

I've seen hundreds of projects where the architect (or roofer) attempts to cut corners.  Folks, this NEVER works out well. Why Ron?  Because when a roofer installs a metal flashing made of mill phosphatized (paint grip) steel (normally 22ga.), the painter usually paints the exposed metal to match the building.  Great, but in 37 years, I have never seen them paint the back of the metal that is unseen from the ground.

So now you've essentially got bare steel for the back of the steel, and the flange onto the roof.  "Paint Grip" basically means the steel has been "etched" with an acidic wash so the paint will stick to it.  But when left exposed, it will prematurely rust, and here comes the problem.  And right at the place where you would find standing water.

The roofer is long gone, and the owner has a structure with a failed perimeter.  The roofing material manufacturer who issued the warranty isn't responsible (no manufacturer includes bare metals in their warranty), and there you stand on the roof where the "finger pointing" begins.  I will point out the astronomical cost of removing the failed metal, installing a new system, and incorporating it into the relatively new roof system.  Probably to the tune of $50.00 per foot, and I've done it many times, at or around that rate.  This is where many roofers will say "I can do it for $10.00 a ft., or , no way, I need $100.00 a ft.", but I'm only sharing my experience.  It really does just depend upon how you look at it.  Regardless, it's a lot of coin.

Okay, you're facing that problem, and now I'll bring up another topic that will be placed directly on your shoulders:  "Wind Uplift".  Pre-Manufactured metals have all necessary code, wind testing, and approvals in place.  To me, this alleviates a lot of "hand wringing", and sleepless nights.  I will not get into trhe minutia of ASHRAE codes here.  You may visit them here:  http://www.ashrae.org/

You absoluttely do not want to "cheapen" any flashings, be it metal, bituminous, or single ply.  NEVER.  Liability should be your number one priority in every phase of the system component assembly.

"Aw, man, I can make that stuff just as good as them", well, No, you can't, unless you have all necessary testing for every single metal flashing you're fabricating, and installing, and you don't.  Look, I prefer pre-manufactured, but you should never install a metal component that does not have a Hylar, or Kynar 500 finish.  This is a non-maintenance item, and represents great value.  The owner will thank you when he sees the building next door with paint peeling from the metal, and that's really what we're trying to do:  Following best roofing practices, to protect ourselves, and the owners.  You want every component to be as maintenance free as possible.

This is a coping option: (Courtesy of Metal-Era):

And this is a perimeter edge (gravelstop, or drip edge):
(Courtesy of Metal-Era)

This is a very rudimentary introduction to pre-finished, and pre-manufactured metal systems, but to really see a complete product lineup, please visit them at:  http://www.metalera.com/  It is critical to know that some of their assemblies are guaranteed to 170 mph, which is astounding.  Let me not get carried away with information overload.

Everyone knows that I do not single out one manufacturer over another, but Metal-Era is a starting point, and one that deserves serious consideration.

As always, I am thankful you are visiting with me today, and am humbled you spend your valuable time here.  Reject negativity in all forms, and keep looking "UP".

Much Respect,

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon
CCC1325620
RobertRSolomon@aol.com

"Reality Of Roofing" Videos

I apologize for my lack of postings this month, but I've been very busy with research, and civic engagements. Today, I'll make this roofing stuff look like "Channel 3 Playhouse", by illustrating the types of roofing I've been discussing with you, so you can further grasp the products and installations to exemplify my "Multidimensional" theme of certain systems, vs. the "singular" theme of other materials.

At the onset, let's understand one thing:  ALL roof systems repel water by their respective design processes.  But I ask the question "What else does it do?"

This first video illustrates the "Torch", or "Open Flame" installation of modified bitumen (petroleum).  After you've reviewed all the videos, perhaps I will have illustrated topics you should be asking of your respective Public sectors (schools, universities, hospitals, etc.).  Okay, let's get up on the roof, and try to think about doing all this on a 95+ degree day, so we can "humanize" roofers, and their work environment.



The propane torch is heating up the bitumen contained in the roll itself.  The bitumen is designed to "flow", and secure it to the insulation system.  I will point out that any torch applied modified bitumen rolls MUST INCLUDE A NON-FLAMMABLE SECOND LAYER OF INSULATION.  That increases labor, and cost, because you cannot torch directly to closed cell insulation (polyisocyanurate), as it will melt, or catch on fire.

This man is torching a 100 sq. ft. roll of modified, weighing approximately 100 lbs. per 100 sq. ft., and is very laborious as you would imagine.  The "white granules" achieve very little in terms of solar reflection with an SRI of approximately .27 (same as asphalt shingles), and will not qualify for any "LEED" project, or energy incentive.  The sun's radiant energy essentially "sees" these roof systems as "black", and they reach very high surface temperatures (180 degrees F. is not uncommon), and hold that heat well into the evening.  Modified bitumen roof systems DO keep a building dry, but are dangerous, costly, environmentally unfriendly, due to copious amounts of nitrogen and phosphorous they deposit into storm water.  Very inefficient in terms of energy costs.

Click this link for the video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xz-UlA6Dr-8&playnext=1&list=PLBDC9770E91B48CAD

Now, I would like you to pretend you're here in modern times with me, and not stuck in the "horse and buggy" days, like those in the videos. 

While the gentlemen in the previous videos may seem very passionate (read: comfort zone), I think you may find a bit more value and clarity, in what Physicist, Nobel Laureate, and Secretary of Energy, Dr. Steven Chu has to say about it.

Click this link for the greatest roofing statements ever:  http://blog.energy.gov/blog/2010/12/14/cool-roofs-easy-upgrade

I see where I have visitors from very hot climates, similar to the climate here in Florida.  But then again, most of the earth's populations do live in hotter climates.  If you live in the Arctic Circle, you probably don't have much need for anything except fire, and a helicopter. 

Everything I write, or provide here, is for YOU.  That is how I maintain my enthusiasm, and will continue to provide the "Reality of Roofing" to those who desperately need it.  For all the damage asphalt roofing does, it should be front page news, but since roofing is the most boring topic on earth, just isn't approached on the level I share with you here.

I would like to thank you for visiting with me today, reject negativity, and keep looking "UP".

Much Respect,

Robert R. "Ron" Solomon

CCC1325620  Florida