Newsletter

Spraying Urethanes

I have been asked many times whether a white roof would qualify for a tax deduction.  Under the EPA Act of 2005, there is $1.60 available for the whole building envelope.  In order to qualify for this $1.60, one must save at least 50% of their total energy cost.  That's not to say that there are not rebates to be had.  Say for instance a building owner does not meet the 50% requirement.  Then a partial deduction of up to 60 cents per sf may be taken if there is a certain percentage of projected annual energy cost savings for one of three components: building envelope (at least 10 percent energy savings), lighting (at least 20 percent), or HVAC (at least 20 percent).

Business owners and contractors alike also wonder whether they can get a tax deduction by adding more insulation (foam) or installing a white roof.  In most cases, these items alone will not reduce a buildings overall consumption by 50%, so a building owner may not take advantage of the full $1.60 per sf deduction. However, there are instances where adding foam would reduce energy costs 10%, making the partial deduction of 60 cents per sf available.

In order to get the deduction, a qualified individual must perform calculations using a DOE or other approved software program to calculate the savings. The qualified individual must be an engineer or contractor licensed in the jurisdiction where the building is located.

All in all, energy rebates and tax deduction are a difficult process.  See The March 2010 issue of "Professional Roofing" for more information.

Have a safe and successful month.
Jason Popovich

View a Sprayer at Work

As more and more contractors begin to use urethane coatings, I want to reiterate some of the important issues regarding spraying them. 

1. The pump must be capable of 3 gallons per minute and 3500 psi.

2. Use separate hoses then the ones you use for acrylics.  Urethanes are moisture cured and the water in the acrylics will set the urethanes up.

3. Clean your hose and pump nightly with Toluene or Xylene.

As always, when in doubt, call me with any questions.

Reflecticlean is a great coating option for Kynar or similar metal panels. In addition, it’s chemical properties result in superior color retention.