Most of the discussion about the green building movement has
centered on the processes, materials and practices used when
constructing new, more energy-efficient facilities. Within the
commercial roofing industry, much of the attention has been aimed
at the return on investment opportunities with photovoltaic and
vegetative roofing options, and the debate about white or
light-colored reflective roofing materials has focused primarily on
TPO, white EPDM and PVC membranes. Insulation also plays a primary
role in generating a building's energy savings.
Since gaining industry acceptance during the mid-1970s, millions
of square feet of polymer-modified bitumen and built-up roof
systems have been installed on commercial, industrial and
institutional buildings throughout the U.S.; they, too, should be
part of the conversation. Making traditional polymer-modified
bitumen roof systems more energy efficient can be accomplished in a
number of ways, including reroofing and re-cover options.
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