The Garland Company, Inc., a manufacturer based in Cleveland specializing in roofing and building envelopes, has launched a new smog-reducing cool roofing granule named StressPly Legacy FR Mineral.
Matt McDermott, president of Garland’s U.S. roofing division, expressed excitement about the company’s continued leadership in innovation and sustainability. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Garland’s standards for durability, waterproofing, and performance with any additions to their StressPly product line.
In a news release dated September 24, Garland explained that StressPly Legacy FR Mineral features a highly reflective cool gray smog-reducing granule on its mineral surface. These granules are activated by sunlight, enabling them to bond with nearby smog molecules and convert them into water-soluble salt, which is then washed away by rain.
Once activated, the granules can be “rejuvenated” for further use, while the resulting salt (nitrate) re-enters the natural nitrogen cycle, benefiting plants.
Garland highlighted that a standard commercial roof measuring 20,000 square feet, covered with StressPly Legacy FR Mineral in cool gray, has a smog-reducing effect comparable to that of 216 trees or the annual car emissions of an average American driver, equivalent to 14,000 miles.
Julie Geyer, director of research and development, noted that Garland consistently seeks to enhance its membrane products to achieve higher levels of durability and sustainability, and StressPly Legacy FR Mineral exemplifies this commitment. She emphasized that the compound contains six different eco-friendly raw materials, including a high-strength reinforcement resistant to punctures, made from recycled plastic bottles.
With sustainability at its core, StressPly Legacy employs repurposed polymers to divert materials such as Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene, plastics, and crumb rubber from tires away from landfills. The smooth-surfaced membrane incorporates up to 27% pre-consumer recycled content, 12% post-consumer recycled content, and 1% bio-based content. Additionally, its packaging is made from 100% recycled materials and maintains sustainability in its pallet bag, roll tape, and stretch film.
McDermott stated that the sustainable advantages of Garland’s StressPly Legacy line extend beyond the roofing itself, as the watertight performance outlasts average commercial roofs and contributes to improved outdoor air quality. He concluded with the company’s slogan: “There’s nothing greener than a roof that lasts.”
For further details, visit garlandco.com.