Lessons from the Roof with Green Roof and Waterproofing Expert John Robinson, GRP – Living Architecture Monitor magazine

Although the green roofs get most of the glory, we often forget about all the other important components that come together to make green roofs a success. Green roof waterproofing works behind the scenes to make sure green roofs perform at their best and keep the building safe and strong. Its a tough job but someone has to do it and luckily we know just the person!

John Robinson, CDT, GRP, RRO has been a longtime supporter of Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and was one of the first accredited Green Roof Professionals (GRP) in the United States. John has been working in the roofing and waterproofing industry for over 35 years. He is currently the Education and Waterproofing Sales Specialist for Sika Sarnafil, a company he has been with for over 25 years! John knows the ins and outs of green roofs and GRHC is excited to share his insights on what it means to be a Green Roof Professional and what he loves most about working in the industry!

Why did you decide to become a GRP?

My company encouraged me as soon as the certification program started back in the late 1990s. I was motivated to become more knowledgeable it this small but rapidly growing industry. I believe professional certifications are important for individuals to differentiate themselves and to encourage them to continue their education process.

How has it enhanced your career?

It has given me more confidence to discuss green roofing and waterproofing systems. It has certainly helped my credibility to be considered a resource with designers, owners and contractors. The continuing education component is also vital to staying current in the industry.

What is your favourite part of your job?

Consulting with designers and owners to assist with specifying and then installing green roof and amenity deck systems. It is always very rewarding to see the vision of the team become reality and then the project becomes a vital and sustainable part of the community and the ecosystem.

Additional details about the GRP process or how it contributes to your work:

The GRP process is multidimensional and incorporates many aspects of the green roof industry. I enjoyed the classes and study groups. It is always a positive experience to meet and collaborate with new people that have similar interests across the spectrum of the industry.

What advice would you provide to someone interested in pursuing a similar career path to yourself?

Make sure the industry is one that you have a strong interest in and to take the time to let your skillset develop. Get involved with industry organizations and network yourself. Always keep learning and strive to become a resource to your client and colleagues.

What trends about green infrastructure/sustainability make you excited for the future?

I see many trends that will have a positive impact on infrastructure. I see a growing need for more secure green spaces in urban design. The recent challenges with COVID and other factors should increase this demand. Also, the increased need for stormwater management and quality control will continue to drive demand for these types of design. There is now enough data to show the positive effects of these systems on the environment and the human condition.

What do you see the role of green infrastructure in resilience and the COVID-19 recovery?

As stated above, I believe we will see a greater demand for green infrastructure in both urban and suburban environments. People see the need for a more interactive natural environment in their everyday lives. There is a need for more outdoor spaces within these environments for both health and recreation.

A quote from your employer on the benefits of having a GRP on staff/projects:

Having John on staff as a GRP further provides credibility and peace of mind to our clients knowing that hes at the forefront of new waterproofing technologies, code compliance and best practices. Johns level of experience and roofing aptitude gives him the ability to foresee and overcome complex obstacles before, during or after design and installation thats critical to the overall success of our projects. Bill Love, Director of Sales, Sika Corporation - Roofing

To learn more about John and Sika Sarnafil visit their website here

Green Roof Professionals are industry recognized as having the most extensive knowledge of green roofs due to the rigorous training and exam process. The GRP training series and exam is available online through the Living Architecture Academy. To learn more about Green Roofs for Healthy Cities or how to become a Green Roof Professional visit our website at greenroofs.org

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Lessons from the Roof with Green Roof and Waterproofing Expert John Robinson, GRP - Living Architecture Monitor magazine