Rick Cook: Roofing
Part 1: Important Updates In Roofing Technology
Part 2: Focus On Sustainability: Effect on Roofing
Part 3: How New Codes Are Affecting The Roofing Market
Part 4: Tips To Ensure A Successful Roofing Installation
Focus On Sustainability: Effect on Roofing
November 2011 - Roofing
How has the focus on sustainability affected the roofing market? What, in fact, is a sustainable roof?
The emphasis (and marketing) of sustainability has a tremendous affect on the construction industry including roofing. Similar to the issues which have occurred with “value engineering” in the past where long-term performance was often overlooked for upfront costs, the long-term performance is being overshadowed by the upfront “environmental” appeal. For any system to “sustain” if must “endure” and to endure we must maintain. For “practical” sustainability we must use time proven systems properly installed with a proactive maintenance program. I totally support environmental initiatives and focus on sustainability but I believe we must stay focused on the long-term service life achieved through proper design, construction, and maintenance.
