Recent Updates

“Earlier this year, the USGBC announced a 16-month extension to register products under LEED 2009, prior to the implementation of LEED v4 on Oct. 31, 2016. The action set off speculation, both off and online, about what caused USGBC to… Read More

“If Einstein were alive, many roofing contractors might be turning to him for help. Faced with the complex problem of choosing roof systems to fit their customers’ budgets and building code requirements, roofing professionals are being bombarded with “science-based” solutions… Read More

“The need for, use and design of a vapor retarder in the design of a roof system used to be a hotly debated topic. It appears now—when vapor retarders are needed more than ever—the design community seems to have lost… Read More

“In order to select the best roofing materials, facility managers must consider components that meet the needs of building design, location, and climate conditions.” Read the full article here

“An overall reaction against one-size-fits-all prescriptions also seemed to be a factor. ‘We are restricting the options of roof designers, architects, and building owners with these policies,’ ERA’s Ellen Thorp told EBN, referring to regulations that require cool roofs. Those… Read More

“A USA TODAY examination shows that thousands of “green” builders win tax breaks, exceed local restrictions and get expedited permitting under a system that often rewards minor, low-cost steps.” Read full article.

ERA Associate Executive Director Ellen Thorp has published a piece in Roofing Magazine that discusses the issues with mandating cool roofs in different climate zones. From the article: “Although the headlines are touting Los Angeles’ cool roof requirements, I’d like… Read More

“Hoff and the ERA are not trying to start a war with the EPA. In fact, it’s just the opposite. The association applauded the EPA for listening to the expertise of the impacted industries as it establishes its standards. Thorp… Read More

“BETHESDA, Md.—The EPDM Roofing Association is challenging a study conducted by Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, which recommends policy makers phase out black EPDM roof membranes because they pose a public health risk.” Also from the article: “Most ERA members manufacture… Read More

This article explains that white roofing might not be the best choice for San Diego, California. “Today, the majority of new roofing is a white single-ply membrane, either TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This is due mostly to… Read More