The pressure is on for business owners to start going “green.” It seems that everywhere you look, people are thinking about ways to use energy more efficiently and reduce unnecessary waste. Business owners may also be looking for practical changes that can benefit both their buildings and their operating costs.
Certifications and Approvals
- ENERGY STAR®
- Underwriters Laboratory (UL)
- US Green Building Council
- Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC)
Cool Roof Systems
A cool roof system uses reflective roofing materials designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less solar heat than many darker roof surfaces.
By reducing roof surface temperatures, a reflective roof may reduce heat transfer into the building and lower cooling demand in some situations. The actual effect on energy costs depends on factors such as climate, insulation, building use, HVAC efficiency, roof construction, and the specific roofing system.
Another potential benefit is roof restoration. When an existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, a reflective coating system may help extend its useful life while reducing the need for complete tear-off and disposal.
Before a coating system is applied, however, the roof should be evaluated for wet insulation, structural deterioration, drainage problems, damaged roofing materials, failed seams or penetrations, and other conditions that may need to be corrected first. Proper surface preparation and installation according to the selected system’s requirements are also important to long-term performance.
Energy Efficiency and Product Performance
Reflective roofing products vary in their solar reflectance, thermal performance, durability, warranties, maintenance requirements, and suitability for different roof types. Building owners, architects, contractors, and facility professionals should review current product documentation and applicable ratings or requirements when evaluating an energy-efficient roofing system.
A cool roof is not automatically the right solution for every building, but when the roof and building conditions are suitable, reflective roofing may provide a practical way to reduce solar heat absorption while supporting broader energy-efficiency and roof-restoration goals.
