(Godsil) Green Roofing is being aggressively promoted by public and private organizations as a key response to the environmental and energy crises we seem to be involved in. Some say it is a major response to global warming. How important do you think Green Roofing is and why?

Halat Is a Son of Riverwest

(Halat)The Green Building movement is just starting to catch on all over the world because it is the right thing to do in light of how mankind has tortured the Planet since the beginning of the industrial revolution. Green roofing is one aspect of the entire construction process. One thing that should be pointed out; there are shades of green available to building owners. Where a roof garden is not feasible do to weight limitations or other variables there are products available to help reduce the urban heat island effect.

(Godsil)Green Roofs cost quite a lot more than conventional roofs. How long will it take building owners to find their investment in a green roof paying off in terms of dollars saved?

(Halat) Some Green roofs will cost more that conventional roofing systems. The US Green Building Council has some pretty impressive statistics regarding ROI for Green Building techniques. Unfortunately, no one has yet to isolate the cost and ROI of roofing systems. If the desire to go Green is incorporated into a project during the design phase the cost is reduced and the payback is accelerated. For example, if the roof is planned to be used as a promenade it becomes usable space.

(Godsil)Green Roofing is a new industry with lots of risks. The costs of repairs for leaking green roofs will be enormous, given the existence of thousands of pounds of dirty and plants on the roofs. What is your response to this risk?

(Halat)The wisdom of the old adage of “measure twice, cut once” becomes even more apparent. Our industry can deliver a product to an owner that mitigates risk. Craftsmanship, attention to detail and proper planning will assure a successful outcome.

If you have questions about green roofs for Tom, please send e-mail to Halat@Milwaukeerenaissance.com.