Focus

In this issue, we make two introductions: NRCA's 118th Annual Convention and a new column, "Manual elements."

The convention

The first, as you probably have heard, has been in the works since May 2004 when NRCA signed an agreement with Hanley Wood LLC, Washington, D.C., to sell its trade show. In "The new NRCA convention," page 28, you'll find detailed information about the convention, which will include the traditional ROOPAC golf, tennis, and trap and skeet tournaments; educational programs; and NRCA's Member Breakfast, Awards Gala and Dinner, and the National Roofing Legal Resource Center Breakfast. If after reading the feature you need further information about the new format, call Michelle Iniguez, NRCA's administrative assistant for convention and meetings, at (800) 323-9545 or (847) 299-9070, Ext. 7544.

The column

The second new item is the column "Manual elements," which has taken the place of "Essentials." The new column will focus on construction details culled from The NRCA Roofing and Waterproofing Manual, Fifth Edition. Each month, NRCA's Technical Services staff will highlight a detail, explain its importance for roof system construction, and provide background regarding the history of the detail and how it may have changed during the years. This month, the detail focuses on built-up roofing applications, specifically flashing and metal parapet cap installation. Click here to read the new column.

An interesting topic

This issue also features a story about phenolic foam insulation and how to remediate roof decks that have been damaged as a result of the insulation. Although the insulation has not been manufactured for some time, many roofing contractors are facing projects that require them to perform remediation work. "The aftermath of phenolic foam," page 16, explains the history of the insulation, problems it has caused and ways to approach remediation work.

If you have any comments about this issue or any other issue, don't hesitate to contact me at abailey@nrca.net or (847) 299-9070, Ext. 7555.

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Professional Roofing magazine and NRCA's director of communications.