New Ideas

Self-retracting device supports 425 pounds

FallTech has introduced the DuraTech^® 9' MAX Web Self-Retracting Device (SRD) to provide fall protection for workers.

Made of abrasion-resistant webbing and lightweight glass reinforced with polycarbonate housing, the SRD supports a maximum load of 425 pounds. The device has been tested for up to 5 feet below the D-ring, and its 9-foot working length is said to provide workers with an expanded work zone. A swivel eye on the device's housing connector reportedly reduces lifeline leg twisting. Multiple types of aluminum and steel leg connectors can be attached to the device. The SRD is available in single and twin configurations.

Website: www.falltech.com
Telephone: (800) 719-4619

Shingles imitate look of cedar

CertainTeed has introduced Cedar Impressions^® Individual 5-inch Sawmill Shingles designed to imitate the look of natural cedar.

The .90-inch-thick shingles are made of injection-molded polymer with Color Blends throughout, replicating the color shades found in white and red cedar. The shingles reportedly have been tested to withstand hurricane force winds, install similar to real cedar shingles, and never need painting or staining.

Website: www.certainteed.com
Telephone: (800) 233-8990

New shingle color introduced

Atlas Roofing has added a new color to its Pinnacle^® Pristine line of asphalt shingles.

Pinnacle Pristine Sunset shingles incorporate red, terracotta and umber Earth tones and feature Scotchgard™ Protector, a repellent designed to resist algae growth. Matching Pro-Cut^® Hip & Ridge shingles also are available.

Website: www.atlasroofing.com
Telephone: (800) 478-0258

Mounting supports accommodate equipment

Thybar Corp. has introduced its Roof Top Mounting Supports, structural supports capable of accommodating a variety of roof-mounted HVAC equipment.

Three basic styles of supports are available: TEMS-1, TEMS-2 and TEMS-3. TEMS-1 is designated for insulated roof decks with 3-inch cant and step to match deck insulation thickness. TEMS-2 is intended for noninsulated roof decks with 3-inch cant. And TEMS-3 can be used for all types of roof decks.

The factory-fabricated sheet steel supports reportedly have a high load-bearing capacity as a result of a system of internal bulkheads welded into place at specific intervals along the lengths of the rails. Each support features a welded 18-gauge galvanized steel shell, base plate and counterflashing; wood nailer; and internal bulkhead reinforcement. Optional features include additional height; heavier gauge metal; construction to fit roof slopes; wood nailers up to 2 by 12 inches; pressure-treated wood nailers; and overhanging wood nailers.

Website: www.thybar.com
Telephone: (800) 666-2872

Drill and driver are durable

DEWALT® has introduced its 20V MAX* XR^® 1/2-inch Compact Drill/Driver (DCD791) and 20V MAX* XR Brushless 1/4-inch 3-Speed Impact Driver (DCF887) featuring dust- and moisture-resistant sealed switches for heavy-use on job sites.

The compact drill/driver is shorter, lighter and more powerful than the previous model, measuring 6.9 inches in length and weighing 3.4 pounds while delivering 460 unit watts out of power.

The impact driver reportedly measures 5.3 inches in length, weighs 2.9 pounds and provides 17 percent more torque than the previous model. The driver has three speed settings, with a maximum speed of 3,250 rotations per minute.

Website: www.dewalt.com
Telephone: (800) 4-DEWALT (433-9258)

Coatings ideal for residential roofs

Progressive Materials LLC has introduced TotalRoof, a new line of silicone roof coating products designed to improve roof system performance and extend service life.

The product line is intended for homeowners undertaking residential applications. Used together, the products are said to provide a 100 percent silicone roof coating that can be applied in one coat to waterproof and seal an aging roof against leaks. The roof coating reportedly resists wash-off in rain, will not degrade from ultraviolet exposure and is environmentally friendly.

Website: totalroofcoatings.com
Telephone: (812) 944-7803

NRCA releases Toolbox Talks in Spanish

NRCA has released a Spanish translation of NRCA Toolbox Talks. The publication is designed specifically for foremen and trainers to review an important safety lesson with their crews each week. Examples of topics addressed include fall protection, fire prevention and equipment safety. Each lesson is structured to allow for various presentation styles and includes safety-training tips with illustrations detailing key points and questions to stimulate discussion.

The Spanish version of NRCA Toolbox Talks is $75 for members and $150 for nonmembers. An English version of NRCA Toolbox Talks also is available. For more information and to purchase NRCA Toolbox Talks, go to shop.nrca.net or contact NRCA's Customer Service Department at (866) ASK-NRCA (275-6722) or info@nrca.net.