Much has been written about the use of cool roofs in northern climates. Some authors have raised concerns about the potential for condensation in such roofs, and some have questioned the energy-saving benefits in such climates. However, very little of the published information is generated from actual buildings in operation.
Target Corporation has for approximately two decades installed, almost exclusively, white, mechanically attached thermoplastic PVC roofing membranes on its facilities. These roof systems, which are typically installed over steel decks without a vapor retarder, have performed very well in all climates, and they are still to this day the base design for all of Target’s facilities.