Focus

The roofing industry certainly has become more sophisticated in its approach to designing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly roof systems. For example, NRCA recently published The NRCA Green Roof Systems Manual—2007 Edition, an entire technical manual dedicated to green roof systems. In addition, the possibility of embedding photovoltaic cells in roof membranes is now a reality.

So it should come as no surprise if this year's entrants in NRCA's SpecRight Excellence in Design Award program face stiff competition. Consider what previous award winners have accomplished: a green roof system on a building that features the largest privately owned, self-funded extensive green roof system in Maryland; a roof system featuring a green roof system, solar array, reflective white coating, and a weather station and Web camera; and a roof system that serves as a living laboratory to monitor energy use featuring electrical monitors to track roof system temperature and rainwater runoff, a green roof system that includes a small pond and a 24-hour camera that projects images onto the Internet.

The SpecRight Excellence in Design Award recognizes those who design long-lasting, energy-efficient, environmentally friendly roof systems according to accepted industry practices. If you have designed such a roof system, I encourage you to apply. This year's deadline for entries is Monday, Dec. 17, and self-nominations are welcome.

Roof systems must have been designed and installed after Jan. 1, 2005.

One winner will be selected in late January 2008. The winner will be announced during NRCA's 121st Annual Convention in Las Vegas Feb. 19-23 and will receive a $2,500 cash prize, publicity during the convention, and acknowledgements in Professional Roofing and on NRCA's Web site, www.nrca.net.

An official entry form can be found at www.specright.net/about/design.aspx. If you have any questions, call me at (800) 323-9545, ext. 7555 or e-mail me at abailey@nrca.net.

Ambika Puniani Bailey is editor of Professional Roofing magazine and NRCA's senior director of communications.