Project Manager Machias Schoen at the International Roofing Expo
The Greensulate Team attended the International Roofing Expo (IRE) in Las Vegas over Valentine’s Day week (love was in the air for roofers!). There were 879 booths and 394 exhibitors from across the country. Despite the still struggling economy, attendance was up 25%!
Green roofs were the buzz word of the show; 2011 looks like the year that integrated roofing manufacturers and contractors are (finally) fully embracing green roofs. By the sheer numbers of green roof system offerings as well as vegetated roof innovations, it’s clear that the green roof industry is continuing its upward trajectory in North America.
One of the most interesting new products we saw was a modular tray system supported by coconut fiber (in place of the conventional plastic or rubber mold). Over time the coconut fiber decomposes and the plant system “merges” seamlessly to create the much sought-after “monolithic” look. Cool stuff indeed.
Greensulate, a leader in design, consultation, installation and maintenance of green roof systems, is constantly examining and evaluating the many new green roofing products and systems entering the North American marketplace. We pleased to report that there are many from Asia and Europe, as well as several great “homegrown” American innovations such as the modular system discussed above. Because we are not vendors of any particular system, but rather have extensive experience with designing and installing most of the systems in the marketplace, we are able to keep our eye on emerging technologies while designing and installing the best suited system for our clients’ needs, goals, aesthetic vision, budget and ROI. One size does not fit all when it comes to green roofs.
The IRE is a huge and kaleidoscopic event demonstrating both the innovation and growth of green roofing in America. And at Greenulate, we love all the action in Vegas — on every front! See you next year in Orlando. O-R-L-A-N-D-O.
