New Ideas

Metal design manual released

The Metal Building Manufacturers Association has published Metal Roofing Systems Design Manual, a manual for those involved with metal roof systems. The manual features drawings and information about specifications, standards, installation and common industry practices. The manual also comes in a CD-ROM version.

New tool cuts quickly

DEWALT has released an 18-volt, 4 1/2-inch cordless cut-off and grinding tool used for cutting metal and roof drains, among other things. The tool's features include a universal flange, spindle lock, three-position handle for better control and keyless guard adjustment.

In addition, DEWALT has introduced its Tough Case drill bit set, a case offering an organized way to store bits. The case features stainless-steel sleeves marked with bit sizes for easy access and is made from plastic to prevent denting or rusting. The Tough Case features 29 DEWALT Pilot Point® drill bits in sizes ranging from 1/16 of an inch to 1/2 of an inch.

Shingle features wide nailing area

Landmark™-WideTrack QB™ has been introduced by CertainTeed Corp. The Landmark-WideTrack QB offers a 1 1/2-inch nailing area for more accurate shingle application in contrast to the 1/2- to 3/4-inch nailing area of a typical laminated shingle. The product features Quadra-Bond adhesive for strength and durability, as well as sealant strips on the back of each shingle.

Wider nail area for shingles is offered

Malarkey Roofing Products introduces The Zone,™ its laminated shingle feature that has a 1 3/4-inch nailing area, providing a wider nailing range. To prevent moisture and leaks, The Zone has a tapered backing strip and double rain seals.

Heating cable prevents leaks

Orbit manufacturing has released the Nexans TXLP radiant-heating cable, an electric cable that melts snow and ice on a roof and prevents clogged gutters and roof leaks. Good for use in residential and commercial applications, the cable includes a cross-link polyethylene insulating cover, nickel chrome wire and copper-grounding conductor. It also features three waterproof coverings—a PVC outer covering, metallic sheath and insulation layer. With voltages ranging from 120 volts to 480 volts, the cable is available in lengths up to 1,200 feet.

Rotary hammer is efficient

Metabo Corp. has released its BHE22 rotary hammer that is said to provide comfort and efficient drilling. With a 5.2-ampere motor and pistol-grip design, the hammer is used for anchor setting and drilling in wood, concrete, steel and more. The product features a 360-degree adjustable side handle for comfort and control, as well as a quick-change, three-jawed keyless chuck system for rapid accessory installation when drilling into nonmasonry materials.

The hammer is said to provide safety—it features a winding protection grid to deflect debris, gear box to reduce heat, and S-automatic safety clutch to protect the hammer and its user if a jam occurs. The product can drill 1/2 of an inch in steel, 1 3/16 inches in wood and 7/8 of an inch in concrete.

Shingles are lightweight

TAMKO® Roofing Products Inc. has introduced Lamarite™ Slate Composite Shingles that are said to be lighter than traditional slate and more weather resistant.

The shingles are made with the textures and contours of real slate for authenticity and come in colors such as dusk grey, mulberry and midnight black. The shingles are 18 inches by 12 inches, and spacer tabs on each shingle ensure precise roof alignment. Nailing locations are marked on each shingle, and shingles can be applied using a nail gun and 3/8-of-an-inch by 1 1/2-inch roofing nails.

Tape measure is do-it-yourself

IDEAL INDUSTRIES INC. has released MAG-TAPE,™ a one-person measuring tape with a magnetic tip that sticks to metal surfaces while measuring.

With a rubber boot that protects the case and provides users with a good grip, the 25-foot-long tape also has a rust-resistant blade.

A stopper prevents case damage by absorbing the returning tape's force, and oversized graphics on the measuring tape's blade improve readability.