Frequently Asked Questions About WindSmart Systems
What is the WindSmart System?
WindSmart is an innovative venting system designed for commercial roofing applications. When combined with WindSmart proprietary air-sealing techniques, it enables high wind uplift resistance while allowing the roof to breathe—solving the industry’s long-standing challenge of removing entrapped moisture. The system uses high pressure flow vents to equalize low air pressure at corners and perimeter to transfer to the field of the roof. WindSmart Systems pulling both air and moisture from beneath the membrane and securing the roof without adhesives or fasteners.
How does the WindSmart System work?
WindSmart integrates low-cost, standardized proprietary designs of air-sealing with one-way high flow venting in high wind uplift zones. This integration creates a vacuum-sealed roof assembly that improves energy efficiency, increases wind uplift performance, and eliminates the need for adhesives, fasteners, or ballast—resulting in a superior-performing roof compared to traditional roof systems.
What types of decks are compatible with WindSmart?
WindSmart can be installed over any type of roof deck. WindSmart is especially cost effective on non-fastenable decks such as:
• Structural concrete
• Precast Concrete
Lightweight insulating concrete
• Tectum
• Gypsum
In these cases, the system eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners or adhesives, significantly reducing construction costs while reducing project duration.
What membranes are compatible with WindSmart?
WindSmart is compatible with all types of single-ply membranes, including:
• PVC
• TPO
• EPDM
When using materials from Sika Sarnafil or Johns Manville, the system is warranted directly by either Sika Sarnafil of John’s Manville.
What are the benefits of a WindSmart System?
• Significantly reduces installation labor and material costs (no adhesives, fasteners, or ballast)
• Maintains insulation dryness for optimal thermal performance and occupant comfort
• Improves energy efficiency by up to 15% compared to mechanically attached systems
• Eliminates most VOCs and odors during installation
• No cold-weather installation limitations
• Tested to maintain insulation R-value over time
• WindForce 365 vents are modular, UV-resistant, impact-resistant, and warranted for the life of the roof
Is job startup assistance available?
Yes. WindSmart requires on-site startup training for all new applicators and crews. Once trained, applicators can choose between on-site or remote technical support for standard applications.
Can WindSmart be used in high-wind zones?
Yes. WindSmart is approved for use throughout the U.S., including coastal and special wind zones. On concrete decks, WindForce vents have achieved uplift resistance of up to 495 pounds—the highest reported for any vented roof system on the market.
How is moisture managed within a WindSmart System?
WindSmart’s ability to remove entrapped moisture has been validated through laboratory and field testing. The system includes a standardized evaluation process to recommend best practices for keeping the roof assembly dry. If moisture is present in an existing roof, WindSmart can develop a mitigation strategy to remove it over time. This approach supports in-place insulation reuse, reduces landfill waste, and enables continuous recoverability—dramatically lowering long-term ownership costs while promoting sustainable roofing practices.
Are there limitations on vent placement?
WindSmart uses ASCE wind uplift calculations to assist with vent placement for each project. WindForce 365 vents are strategically installed in the building’s highest uplift zones (perimeters and corners). These one-way pressure flow devices can also be reconfigured and deployed in specialized applications as two-way vents to further enhance moisture removal capabilities.
What maintenance is required?
WindForce 365 vents require no maintenance and are warranted for the life of the roof, including protection against very severe hail and wind-blown debris. Membrane and waterproofing maintenance should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
What is a Sika WindSmart System?
A Sika WindSmart System is a roof assembly that uses Sika or Sarnafil materials and is warranted directly by Sika. Any Sika Sarnafil Approved Applicator can become qualified to install a Sika WindSmart System.
What is a JM WindSmart System?
A JM WindSmart System is a roof assembly that uses Johns Manville materials and is warranted directly by JM. These systems can be installed by Peak Advantage Qualified Contractors, including members of the 5280 Council, Pinnacle Council, Summit Club, and Peak Level.
Can solar arrays be used with a WindSmart System?
Yes. WindSmart can be installed in a “solar-ready” configuration without compromising uplift performance. WindSmart is one of the most cost-effective systems for integrating solar arrays into a new roof assembly.
Are there any roof types WindSmart cannot be used on?
WindSmart is primarily used on low-slope commercial roofs, but can be used on virtually any roof and is not limited by slope, size, or geometric shape. In addition to low slope roofs, WindSmart has been successfully applied to:
• Standing seam metal panel roofs
• Gable roofs
• Barrel roofs
• Spherical roofs
The most cost-effective applications are on large, open roofs (over 100,000 sq ft) with non fastenable decks. On such applications it is virtually impossible for the roofing industry to compete with a WindSmart application.
What is the process for evaluating a building for WindSmart?
WindSmart uses a standardized 4-step project review process to quickly and accurately assess system suitability for any building in the U.S. This process is conducted in collaboration with contractors, designers, building owners, and manufacturer representatives (Sika or JM).
How do I verify that a WindSmart System meets design intent and code?
WindSmart Systems have been tested at Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and meet applicable codes such as IBC, IECC, and ASCE wind uplift standards. While WindSmart does not act as a licensed design professional, we provide expert technical support to help contractors and design teams apply the system in compliance with local codes and performance requirements.
What are the main benefits of wind vented roofs offered by WindSmart Systems?
Wind vented roofs effectively remove trapped moisture, promote sustainability by avoiding frequent roof tear-offs, and provide enhanced protection against wind and weather elements.
What products does WindSmart Systems provide?
WindSmart Systems produces air-sealed, pressure-equalized commercial roof systems across North America.
What is a sustainable, wind vented roof?
A sustainable, wind vented roof uses ventilation to eliminate trapped moisture, keeping roofing materials dry and reusable, which avoids future roof tear-offs and promotes sustainability.
Where is WindSmart Systems located?
WindSmart Systems is located at 3716 Ingersoll Avenue, Suite D, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA.
What are the business hours of WindSmart Systems?
WindSmart Systems operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
How can I contact WindSmart Systems for technical support?
You can contact the technical department via email at technicaldepartment@windsmartroofs.com or call the main phone number +1 855-294-5353.
What payment options does WindSmart Systems accept?
WindSmart Systems accepts payment via invoice.
What professional associations is WindSmart Systems affiliated with?
WindSmart Systems is affiliated with the National Roofing Contractors Association, Roofing Industry Committee on Weather Issues, Midwest Roofing Contractors Association, American Institute of Architects, and Building Enclosure Council.
What health and medical facilities are located near WindSmart Systems?
Nearby health and medical facilities include Midwife Services of UnityPoint Health - Des Moines, Melissa Koch A.R.N.P., B.S.N., C.N.M., M.S.N., Khara Keegan B.S.N., C.N.M., M.S.N., and Sara Johnson, WHNP, CNM, providing excellent access to medical services.
What nearby businesses might customers visit before or after meeting with WindSmart Systems?
Customers might visit Amazing SEO, a marketing agency, or ZebraHost, a web design company, nearby for related professional services.
Where can customers find food or relaxation spots near WindSmart Systems?
Nearby spots include Bruegger's Bagels for bakery and sandwiches, Massage Heights Ingersoll for massage and skin care services, and The Greenwood Lounge for a dive bar experience.