Did you know you can minimize your environmental impact and lower your utility bills by installing an energy-efficient roof? Learn about your options and their advantages.
Should You Invest in an Energy-Efficient Roof?
Spring is here, which means one thing: more sun. Sunlight can be great for people, but it can damage your commercial roofing system.
When it’s time for a roof replacement or restoration, it’s best for business owners to choose energy-efficient commercial roofing, also known as cool roofs. A cool roof is designed to reflect more sunlight than it absorbs. Its incredible reflective property is what makes it energy efficient.
Are Energy-Efficient Roofs Cost Effective?
Your HVAC system has to keep your entire building cool and comfortable. When your roof is inefficient, this system has to work twice as hard to maintain ideal temperatures—and turning your air conditioner to the max results in higher utility bills. The less impact the sun has on your roof, the less you have to rely on your AC.
Cool Roofs Are Perfect for Hot Weather
As a roof ages, it experiences natural wear and tear. Eventually, it’s not as insulated or reliable as it used to be. The weakened material and damaged sealing allow humidity inside; your HVAC system works hard to keep your building comfortable, but it remains hot and stuffy indoors. Uncomfortable temperatures make it harder for your workers to concentrate and can drive visitors away.
An energy-efficient roof returns the sun’s rays to the atmosphere instead of absorbing them. This keeps its surface as well as the inside of your building much cooler.
A few popular cool roofs are:
Metal Roofs
A metal roof is more energy efficient because metal is naturally reflective, which means its surface is much cooler than traditional roofing systems. One study confirmed that metal roofing reduced energy costs by 40% in the summer and 15% in the winter, so metal stays 50 to 60 degrees cooler than certain traditional roofing materials. Plus, metal is 100% recyclable, so it’s an all-around excellent choice for businesses that want to become greener.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are large reflective fixtures added onto your flat commercial roof. They’re an incredible source of renewable solar energy, which also makes owners eligible for utility incentives in California. Since you can generate your own power with some left over, your utility company pays you back with rebates and other discounts in exchange for your excess energy.
Urethane
Fluid membranes, also known as liquid-applied roofing systems, are common for commercial buildings. They offer UV protection, they’re low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and most importantly, they’re durable enough to provide years of reliability. One of the most popular liquid-applied membranes is urethane.
Urethane is a cool roof coating that’s primarily white, so it offers extreme UV protection, in case you were wondering what color roof reflects the most heat. These roof coatings are perfect for restoration because they firmly adhere to any roof substrate, including metal and concrete.
Will a new roof save energy? Absolutely. Call ROOFCORP today to discuss your building’s requirements
ROOFCORP Helps You Save Energy and Money
There are many options business owners can choose from. ROOFCORP can help you decide whether you should restore your existing roof or start fresh with a new structure. Either way, you won’t believe the savings you unlock when you switch to an energy-efficient roof. Your commercial flat roof protects many people every day. You need a dependable system that doesn’t cost you hundreds to thousands of dollars a year due to energy inefficiencies.
ROOFCORP has you covered. Speak with our specialists today.
