It is no secret that business owners are always looking for ways to reduce operating costs. One area that can affect building performance is the roof. Depending on the building, climate, insulation, HVAC system, and roofing materials, a reflective or cool roof may help reduce solar heat absorption and lower cooling demand.
Cool Roof Systems
Many commercial roofing systems can become very hot under direct sunlight. Reflective roofing systems are designed to reflect more solar energy and absorb less heat than darker roof surfaces.
Reducing roof surface temperatures may help reduce heat transfer into the building and, in some cases, lower the load on air-conditioning or refrigeration equipment. Actual energy savings depend on factors such as climate, insulation levels, building use, HVAC efficiency, roof construction, and the specific reflective roofing system.
Extending Roof Life
Lower roof temperatures are not the only potential benefit of reflective roofing. When an existing roof is structurally sound and otherwise suitable for restoration, an elastomeric roof coating may help protect the existing roof surface and extend its useful life.
Coating systems can provide a continuous protective surface over properly prepared roof areas and may help address appropriately repaired seams, fasteners, and other vulnerable locations. Many elastomeric coatings can also expand and contract as temperatures change.
However, a coating system should not be expected to prevent every future leak or correct serious underlying problems. Before restoration, 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.
The useful life and performance of a restored roof depend on the existing roof condition, preparation, product selection, installation, drainage, climate, inspections, and ongoing maintenance.
Saving money is an important part of running a business, and the roof may be one area worth evaluating for potential energy and restoration benefits. A commercial roofing contractor can inspect the existing roof and discuss whether a reflective coating, repair, restoration, or replacement is appropriate for the building.
For more information, visit our Cool Roof Systems page.
