October 2015

Most people prefer to be in a well-daylit environment as opposed to one that relies on electric light sources. According to the Mayo Clinic, the amount of daylight people receive affects their brain chemistry and mood, meaning people generally are happier in a space containing natural daylight. In addition to improving peoples' moods, installing daylighting systems can reduce building energy costs and boost your company's profits.

Metal roofing has gained popularity in the commercial marketplace, and the trend appears likely to continue. Since 2009, metal has achieved an annual growth rate in share percentage of about 4 percent, according to a 2015 study published by FMI Corp., Raleigh, N.C. As a result of its energy-efficiency characteristics, longevity and design flexibility, metal roof systems are being selected by more customers.

Located in Waco, Texas, Baylor University was chartered in 1845 and is the world's oldest Baptist university. Baylor University strives to prepare its students for worldwide leadership and service, but the campus community also enjoys rallying around its sports teams. When Baylor University built a new football stadium, administrators selected local roofing contractor Johnson Roofing Inc. to install a TPO membrane roof system on McLane Stadium.

The first major labor shift within the roofing industry occurred during the past 25 years when a primarily Anglo-Saxon and African-American workforce shifted to a significant Latino workforce. The roofing industry soon may experience a second labor shift as more second-generation Latinos join the workforce. Understanding generational differences between first- and second-generation Latinos will be crucial for the successful management of these workers.

The National Climate Association reports heavy rain events are projected to increase in frequency and intensity in all U.S. regions. A large amount of precipitation can overload roof drainage systems, leading to roof system failures. Knowing how to select and install proper drains in roof systems will help roofing contractors increase productivity and profits.