Tools of the trade Firestone introduces roof modeling tool

The role of technology in the building design process has come a long way since the early days of using CAD systems to automate the drafting process. In the last twenty years, building information modeling (BIM) has transformed the way consultants, architects and contractors work together to bring ideas from concept to reality.

Firestone Building Products recognized the need to give roofing professionals an easy-to-use roof modeling tool that seamlessly integrates with popular BIM programs like Autodesk® Revit® Architecture building design software. RoofGenuity™, the first-of-its-kind roof modeling tool for the commercial roofing industry, was introduced this summer at the American Institute of Architecture’s 2010 National Convention and Design Exposition in Miami.

RoofGenuity enables architects, consultants, roofing contractors and building owners to populate the roof area on their building designs with various configurations of Firestone roofing system BIM objects to create the optimal model for their commercial building needs. It can used for a wide range of building types, including educational facilities; commercial, industrial and office buildings; entertainment venues; healthcare facilities; and government buildings.

To use RoofGenuity, roofing professionals can visit www.roofgenuity.com and register for a free account. After entering optional project location information, the tool determines the appropriate product recommendations and begins the roof assembly process.

Available in pre-configured or fully customizable systems, the modeling tool prompts users to select their preferred assembly features, including system type, attachment method, R-value, deck type and desired warranty. They also can choose options such as a cool roof, coverboard or vapour retarder. Based on the responses, a list of potential roof assemblies is generated, complete with product details and 3-D models.

RoofGenuity also features links to product (http://firestonebpco.com/roofing/) and technical (http://firestonebpco. com/technicalinformation/) information on the Firestone Build ing Prod ucts’s website. After final customizations are made, a 2-D CAD drawing or 3-D model of the finished assembly can be downloaded to a computer or exported to another BIM program.

Professionals involved in roofing decisions are invited to visit the RoofGenuity website (www.roofgenuity.com) to view a tutorial of the tool’s capabilities and begin creating exceptional roof assemblies to top off their next building project.