| While white “cool” membranes usually comprise the actual waterproofing material for a roofing system, vegetative and solar “roofs” are actually installed above the waterproofing membrane. Therefore, it is critical that a professional roofing contractor be involved in the installation of these “green-roof” systems. And while the term “green roof” can be used to describe environmentally friendly cool, vegetative, and solar roof systems, the term is used here to refer only to the vegetative materials installed over the waterproofing membrane. |
| Cool Roofs Over 90 percent of the roofs in the United States are dark in color. These low-reflective surfaces typically reach temperatures of 150-190°F (66-88°C). Cool roof materials, usually white in color, project high solar reflection and emission. A monitoring of 10 buildings in southern climates demonstrated a 20- to 70-percent savings in annual energy use. The impact in northern climates would be less; however, a noticeable difference in the inside temperature of buildings should be realized once cool roof materials have been installed. The EPA Energy Star program stipulates cool roofing specifications for both low- and steep-sloped roofs. Jim Giese Commercial Roofing has installed millions of square feet of cool roofing products over the years. |
| Green Roofs “Green” roof system technology continues to evolve, with research greatly expanding industry knowledge of assemblies, design and construction. A number of factors including climate, geographical location, building design, substrate and structural system must be considered when choosing a green roof. Jim Giese Commercial Roofing is a founding member of the Center for Environmental Innovation in Roofing, an organization that serves as an industry forum for increasing the knowledge, development and use of environmentally responsible, high-performance roof systems. We can provide our customers with a full range of green roof options and services. |
| Solar Roofs Currently, solar roofs are standard or upgraded systems compatible with the installation of various types of solar-collection devices. Essentially, the roofing system serves as a substrate for the installation of a solar system. Some solar-collection devices are installed above the roof system, while others can be installed directly to the roofing membrane. Jim Giese Commercial Roofing, working with licensed electrical contractors, can arrange for the installation of a variety of solar roof systems. |
 | ||