When you invest in a commercial roofing system, you want to know it will stand the test of time. Especially when it’s something as unique as a buried green roof. That’s exactly what designer and homeowner Tom Newhouse experienced with his remarkable property known as Underhill. 
 
At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve been helping businesses and property owners protect their investments for 40+ years. The Underhill project stands as a true example of how thoughtful engineering, quality materials, and expert installation can create a roofing system that performs beautifully—decades later. 

What Makes the Underhill Property So Unique?

The Underhill property isn’t your typical home. It’s a partially buried, eco-conscious structure that blends naturally into the landscape. The property is topped with a living green roof that has evolved over more than 12 years. 
 
Designed and owned by artist and designer Tom Newhouse, the home features 35 species of native Michigan plants. Newhouse carefully chose all plants to coexist with a base layer of hardy sedum. The result is a thriving ecosystem that not only provides exceptional insulation and stormwater management but also enhances the property’s natural beauty year-round.

As Tom described in his note to our team: 
“The well-engineered and expertly installed Weather Shield roof has been perfect—zero problems! I expected that, of course.”  

Hearing that kind of long-term feedback from an architect and designer of Tom’s caliber means a lot to our entire team.

How Has the Green Roof Held Up Over Time?

When Weather Shield’s President Andy Byma revisited the Underhill property recently, he was impressed. Not only by the health of the vegetation, but also by the performance of the roofing system itself. 

Andy shared his impressions: 
“The roof ecosystem seems to be thriving. The sedum is co-existing beautifully with the other vegetation—it’s one of the more natural-looking green roofs I’ve ever been on.”

Even after more than a decade, the reinforced waterproofing membrane beneath the vegetation remains in excellent condition. Because the roof is largely buried and protected from UV exposure, its lifespan is extended far beyond that of traditional exposed systems. 
 
Andy noted only a small maintenance consideration: a short section of exposed membrane along the south edge that could eventually degrade from sunlight. His recommendation? Simply cover it for added protection. 
 
With that small precaution in mind, Weather Shield stands behind Tom’s belief that this roof could easily last 50 years or more.

Why a Buried Green Roof Can Last Longer Than Traditional Roofing

The Underhill roof’s longevity isn’t just luck—it’s engineering. Several factors contribute to its long-term performance:

Protection from UV and Temperature Extremes

Being buried under soil and vegetation shields the membrane from sunlight and thermal cycling, two of the biggest causes of roof degradation.

Reinforced Waterproofing System

Weather Shield used a high-quality reinforced membrane, designed for durability and long-term watertight protection under green roof conditions.

Natural Load Distribution

The weight of soil and plant matter provides stability while also protecting against wind uplift—common issues on exposed flat roofs.

Healthy, Self-Sustaining Ecosystem

The combination of native Michigan plants and sedum has created a balanced green roof that requires minimal intervention while supporting pollinators and natural drainage.

These factors turn what could have been a maintenance challenge into a near self-sustaining roofing system. A perfect example of roof investment protection in action.

What Can Commercial Property Owners Learn from Underhill?

If you manage or own a commercial property and are considering a green roof or vegetative system, the Underhill project demonstrates a few key takeaways:

• Quality installation matters most. A green roof is only as reliable as the waterproofing system beneath it. Partnering with an experienced commercial roofing contractor like Weather Shield ensures long-term results.
• Plan for light maintenance. Even the best roofs benefit from occasional inspections—especially around transitions, edges, and penetrations.
• Sustainability adds value. Eco-conscious roofing not only reduces energy costs and stormwater runoff but can also enhance property value and marketing appeal.

Just like Tom’s home became a conversation piece and even made the local news, a well-designed green roof can be both functional and inspiring.

A Legacy of Design, Craftsmanship, and Care

After nearly five decades at Underhill, Tom and his wife decided it was time to downsize—but their roof continues to tell a story of durability, sustainability, and thoughtful design.

For our team at Weather Shield, it’s projects like this that remind us why we do what we do. Seeing a roof perform flawlessly after 12+ years—with zero leaks, thriving vegetation, and a 50-year life expectancy—is the ultimate proof of quality workmanship.

While every roof is different, the principles remain the same: the right materials, expert installation, and proactive care lead to the longest-lasting results.

If your commercial property needs a roof that performs for decades, we’d love to help you design a system that fits your building’s needs and your sustainability goals.

Contact the Weather Shield team today to schedule a consultation or inspection.