GAF Stays Ahead of the New 'Green' Codes
Wayne, NJ - Sustainability codes and guidelines have made an impact on the construction industry. In roofing, the influence of LEED, Title24, Miami 21, Global Cool Cities Alliance, and other programs and initiatives is undeniable. Major property owners, including the U.S. Navy, have mandated white roofs for their properties; and many more property owners are asking about sustainability. GAF, North America's Largest Roofing Manufacturer, has been proactive with products and services that help roofing professionals and property owners meet these standards while providing the building performance that they need. With the adoption of the International Green Construction Code (IgCC) expected to begin as early as 2012 in some jurisdictions, GAF offers a wide range of products that meet or exceed the code's requirements - such as innovative products like EverGuard® Extreme® TPO - confirming the company's leadership role in the roofing market.
EverGuard® Extreme® TPO is the first product designed for applications of solar on rooftops, with exceptional durability and the reflectivity needed for these installations. This durability makes it an ideal product for any roof, especially where property owners are looking to meet sustainability guidelines, earn LEED credits, or prepare for a future solar installation. EverGuard® Extreme® is only the latest of GAF's products that supports these new sustainability codes; Energy Cap(TM) BUR and SBS sheets were the first asphaltic membrane products to meet the requirements of Title 24 and other white roof standards, and will also meet IgCC requirements. Among the many other GAF products that meet the requirements of the new code are Timberline® Cool Series(TM) shingles, TOPCOAT® roof coatings, and GardenScapes(TM) vegetative roofing.
Additionally, GAF offers programs and services that make it easier for contractors to comply with these codes. GAF has addressed making recycling more accessible in a number of ways, including a multi-year sponsorship of the Construction Materials Recycling Association's (CMRA) Find-A-Recycler section of shinglerecycling.org, as well as the creation of the Certified Green Contractor program, which rewards contractors for their recycling contributions.
According to Bob Tafaro, President and CEO, "Sustainability means different things to different people. At GAF we take a pragmatic approach, which means offering the right solutions for our customers as well as focusing on using resources wisely, efficiency in operations, and end-of-life outcomes for our products."
GAF's operations have led the way in sustainability. GAF was the first major shingle manufacturer to have recycling at each of its shingle plants, and now has two zero-waste-to-landfill manufacturing facilities, with a goal of adding many more. "Our manufacturing process is very resource-efficient," stated Martin Grohman, Director of Sustainability at GAF. "In addition to shingles, our plants recycle metal, cardboard, and oils, as well as everyday items like batteries, paper, inks and toners, and CFLs."
While these new codes will continue to mean changes for the construction industry, GAF will continue to lead the way with products, services, and operations that meet the toughest requirements of both the most stringent codes and the most demanding property owners.
To learn more about GAF roofing products, visit gaf.com.
About GAF
Now proudly celebrating its 125th year in the industry, GAF has become the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, with sales of nearly $3 billion annually. The company's products include a comprehensive portfolio of steep-slope and low-slope roofing systems, as well as composite decking, which are supported by an extensive national network of factory-certified contractors. Its success is driven by a commitment to provide property owners and specifiers with the best and safest choice in roofing and by helping supportive contractors and distributors to build their businesses and avoid hassles.
With a focus on social responsibility, GAF has developed Advanced Protection® shingle technology, which provides superior durability and wind resistance, while reducing the use of scarce natural resources. The company has also developed single-ply and asphaltic membranes with superior durability and high reflectivity to meet the most rigorous industry standards while helping commercial property owners and designers reduce energy consumption.
The Company also supports the roofing industry through CARE, the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence, which has provided education to over 125,000 professionals. CARE's mission is to help professional contractors and distributors build their businesses through sales and management education, and to provide product and installation training to contractors, distributors, architects, property owners, and related industry personnel. For more information about GAF, visit gaf.com.
