Module 5: Green Roofing & Industry Best Practices 

This final module explores sustainable roofing technologies and installation best practices, preparing roofers for the growing demand for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.

1. Cool Roofing & Reflective Coatings (Energy Efficiency)

Cool roofing reduces building energy costs by reflecting sunlight and emitting heat more effectively than traditional roofs.

Key Subtopics:

• How Cool Roofing Works:

• High Solar Reflectance (SR): Minimizes heat absorption (SR ≥ 0.65 for ENERGY STAR®).

• Thermal Emittance (TE): Releases absorbed heat efficiently (TE ≥ 0.75).

• Material Options:

• White TPO/PVC Membranes: Best for commercial flat roofs.

• Reflective Coatings: Acrylic, silicone, or asphalt-based (applied over existing roofs).

• Cool-Colored Shingles: Dark pigments with reflective granules.

• Benefits:

• Reduces air conditioning costs by 10–30% (DOE).

• Mitigates urban heat island effect.

2. Solar-Ready Roofing (Integration with PV Panels)

A solar-ready roof is designed to support photovoltaic (PV) systems without compromising waterproofing.

Key Subtopics:

• Structural Considerations:

• Roof must support additional weight (3–5 lbs/sq ft for panels + racking).

• Optimal roof pitch (15–40 degrees) and orientation (south-facing in Northern Hemisphere).

• Flashing & Penetrations:

• Waterproof Conduit Entry Points: Use flashing boots or sealants.

• Rack Mounting Systems: Avoid roof penetrations with ballasted systems.

• Combined Roofing + Solar Installations:

• BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics): Solar shingles (e.g., Tesla Solar Roof).

3. Sustainable Materials (Recycled Shingles, Eco-Friendly Membranes)

Eco-conscious roofing materials reduce landfill waste and carbon footprints.

Key Subtopics:

• Recycled-Content Shingles:

• Rubber/Plastic Shakes: Made from recycled tires or bottles.

• Metal Roofing: Often contains 25–95% recycled steel/aluminum.

• Eco-Friendly Membranes:

• EPDM from Recycled Tires: Durable and recyclable.

• Bio-Based TPO: Plant-derived polymers.

• End-of-Life Recycling:

• Asphalt Shingle Recycling: Repurposed into road pavement.

• Metal & Tile Reuse: Salvaged for new projects.

4. Final Hands-On Project (Full Mock Roof Installation/Repair)

A capstone exercise where students apply all skills learned in the course.

Key Subtopics:

• Project Options:

• Install a cool roof system with reflective coatings.

• Repair a simulated leak on a mock roof with proper flashing.

• Assemble a solar-ready section with racking and waterproofing.

• Evaluation Criteria:

• OSHA compliance (safety harnesses, tool use).

• Precision in waterproofing (flashing, seams).

• Material efficiency (waste minimization).

Why This Module Matters

• Green roofs can last 2–3x longer than conventional roofs (GSA).

• Solar + cool roofing can cut building energy use by 50% (NREL).

• Sustainable practices future-proof roofing careers.

Suggested Enhancements:

• Field trip to a LEED-certified building with cool/solar roofing.

• Guest lecture from a solar roofing specialist.