Green Roofing

The terms “green roof” and a “cool roof” are often used interchangeably, however, there are differences.

A green roof is technically a roof  system including a certain percentage of plants and vegetation.  The presence of  plants offers a better-insulated roof,  which translates as savings on heating and cooling bills.  Another benefit of green roofing is that the dirt absorbs some rainwater and slows the draining process, which can reduce the load on the storm sewer system. Green roofs also tend to have a longer lifespan than their conventional counterparts. Green roofs can last up to 40 years.

A cool roof is one that reflects the heat of the sun with a light color surface that absorbs less heat.  These systems can also reduce the building’s interior heat thereby reducing the use of  the building’s cooling system.

Windward Roofing & Construction is familiar with the most green roofing technologies, as well as City of Chicago building codes, and can survey roofs that are going green.