New Ideas

Shingle resists hurricanes

Atlas Roofing Corp. has released its StormMaster LM laminated shingle that is said to resist high-impact debris and wind that typically occur during hurricanes. The shingle, which features an SBS-modified bitumen blend for flexibility and durability, includes a 50-year, 102-mph limited transferable wind warranty.

Extrusions are for panels

CENTRIA has released its MicroLine extrusions for use with the company's profile series IW-60A Concealed Fastener Panels. The extrusions are said to replace or eliminate traditional flashings and create vertical joints on wall panels. The products are available in standard or custom colors.

Roof system resists leaks

Buil Keon Hwa Co. Ltd. has made available its SSAP-AL Roofing System that is said to resist leaks. The system's asphalt sheet can be installed without using kettles, torches or solvent-based cold adhesives and features I-shaped polyurethane and polyurea joints to seal sheets. The asphalt sheet, which is laminated with a noncombustible aluminum foil and fiberglass mat, is available with a ventilation system that reportedly resists wind uplift by producing a vacuum effect between the sheet and a substrate.

TPO membrane is self-adhered

GenFlex Roofing Systems has made available its Peel & Stick TPO Membrane System that features a pre-adhered backing to eliminate the use of bonding adhesives, hand welding and solvents. The system, which is ENERGY STAR®-rated, includes a membrane, curb flashing, seam tape, cover tapes and TPO pipe boots.

Extension eases drain connections

RHEINZINK America Inc. has released its RHEINZINK®-Drain Tile Extension that connects rainwater down pipes and standpipes without expanding sliding connections or soldering standpipe covers. The 10-inch-long product features a socket, mechanically attached standpipe cover and sliding mechanism that allow the main drain system to be cleaned without disassembling the lower down pipe.

In addition, the recently released RHEINZINK®-Telescopic Connection Set reportedly eases the connection of eave troughs and down pipes on 9- to 40-inch roof overhangs. The set's hook-in outlet pipe and elbow pipe can be snapped and locked in place. The pipe bend is said to equalize the system.

Coating is water-based

W.P. Hickman Systems Inc. has released its TARSHIELD WB, a water-based, coal-tar coating that is designed for roofs with 6-in-12 slopes. The product, which is compatible with asphalt or coal-tar membranes, can be a surfacing coat or flood coat on new or existing built-up roof systems. The flexible product contains no volatile organic compounds or asbestos and can be brushed, squeegeed and sprayed onto roof systems.

Coatings are reflective

Custom-Bilt Metals has made available its reflective ULTRA-Cool™ coatings, which are available for use on the company's standing-seam metal roof systems. The coatings are available in 24 colors, including dark shades. The coatings, which are said to achieve 38 percent reflectivity, also reportedly increase the life of a roof system by minimizing expansion and contraction.

Asphalt shingle resembles wood

Elk Premium Building Products Inc. has made available its Prestique® Grandé asphalt shingle that resembles wood. The 12 1/2- by 36 1/4-inch shingle features an interply headlap made of the company's VersaShield® barrier, which is said to make the shingle fire-resistant. The shingle includes a 1 1/4-inch nail area and is available in weathered wood, sablewood and antique slate colors.

Hoist is re-engineered

Beta Max Inc. has re-engineered its Smith Roofing Hoist System to feature an electric swing beam. The hoist also includes a redesigned winch assembly that is compatible with Briggs® and Wisconsin® engines.

The hoist can be operated hydraulically and provide a 2,000-pound capacity; electrically and provide a 1,000-pound capacity; and mechanically and provide a 1,200-pound capacity. The hoist is available with a standard Honda® engine.

Portable device features software

Digital Facilities Corp. has integrated its roof asset management software, InfoRoof Professional, with Electrovaya Inc.'s Scribbler Tablet handheld personal computer. The combination will allow roofing contractors, building owners and consultants to record roof information for reports while at job sites. The Scribbler Tablet features a rechargeable Lithium Ion SuperPolymer™ battery that is said to last eight to 16 hours.

Chute features a chain assembly

CHUTES International™ has improved its DURACHUTE plastic debris chute system with a chain assembly design. The chain design features a hook for reportedly easier connections and adjustments when linking sections. One chain is said to support 15,600 pounds; a standard 6- to 8-story chute system reportedly weighs 1,100 pounds.

Workbench is portable

TORQER Inc. has redesigned its RollaBench workbench that can be transported to job sites for repair work. The workbench features the Torqer Industrial Truk wheel system that requires 8 pounds of effort to move 2,000 pounds of gross vehicle weight.

The product is available in various models with five to 17 lockable drawers and one lockable cupboard. All models feature a 27- by 54-inch work surface and can be factory-installed with vises and other equipment.

Powder stops bleeding

Biolife LLC has released its UrgentQR™ powder that forms a Hematrix™ scab to stop a wound from bleeding and protect it from contamination and infection. Reportedly, 70 percent of wounds sprinkled with the powder stop bleeding in 15 seconds; 98 percent of wounds sprinkled with the powder stop bleeding in less than one minute. The powder reportedly does not damage tissue under wounds.

Skylights are pre-assembled

Naturalite Skylight Systems has released its Versaridge and Versalean skylights that are preassembled and preglazed. The products are available with three glazing options: insulating glass units, polycarbonate panels and translucent fiberglass panels. The Versaridge and Versalean skylights are available in any length and widths up to 6 feet. Versaridge skylights feature 7-in-12 slopes, and Versalean skylights feature 3-in-12 slopes.