Energy costs are a major overhead for commercial properties. One of the most neglected sources of energy loss is the roof. By using energy efficient roofing, building owners can cut heating and cooling costs drastically, improve indoor comfort, and even prolong the lifespan of your roof.
Why Is Energy Efficiency Important for Commercial Roofs
Heating and cooling represent a high percentage of the volume of energy a commercial building uses. In areas with changing weather conditions, like Pittsburgh, Steubenville, and Slippery Rock, your roof plays an important part in keeping indoor temperatures steady.
An energy-efficient commercial roof helps:
- Lower monthly utility bills
- Reduce HVAC load and extend equipment life
- Increase year-round occupant comfort
- Reach sustainability goals or follow local energy rules.
- Increase property value
Upgrading your roof is not only good for your bottom line — it’s good for your building and the people in it.
1. Use Reflective Roofing Materials
Reflective materials keep the solar heat from entering the building. Cool roofs, such as Duro-Last® white membrane systems, reflect up to 88% of the sun’s rays. This keeps the roof surface much cooler and decreases the amount of heat entering the building below.
Advantages of Reflective Roofing:
- Lowers indoor temperatures in the summer
- Reduces air conditioning usage
- Aids in combating the Urban Heat Island Effect
- May qualify for energy credits or rebates
During warmer months, the payoffs from reflective roofs are particularly evident. For buildings with flat or large, open surfaces, such as warehouses, schools, and health-care facilities, savings can add up quickly.
2. Increase Insulation
Insulation is just as important to energy efficient roofing as the outer layer. A properly insulated commercial roof keeps the interior temperature stable – keeping heat out during summer and retaining heat in winter.
Poor or aged insulation leads to energy loss and increased expenses. When installing new insulation or replacing, always ensure the layer of insulation is effective at retaining heat and managing moisture.
3. Seal Roof Penetrations
Any pipes, vents, and skylights on a flat roof can let energy escape. Sealing and covering these openings securely keeps out drafts and water, which can ruin insulation and waste energy.
Routine inspections and quick repairs make your roof continue to function well. Inspection and maintenance provided by Frontier Contractors can reveal small problems before they turn into expensive issues.
4. Improve Roof Airflow
Ventilation is not only for pitched roofs. Flat roofs also need a strategy to deal with heat and moisture buildup. A roof that is not ventilated can trap hot air, making indoor temperatures higher and putting even more stress on your HVAC equipment.
During cold months, poor ventilation can lead to condensation and create freeze-thaw damage. Proper ventilation and insulation stabilize the space under the roof membrane.
5. Keep the Roof Surface Clean
Dirt and grime can make a reflective roof less efficient at reflecting sunlight. This will reduce energy efficiency of your roof and lead to premature wear and tear. Proper roof maintenance will keep your energy-saving investment performing efficiently.
A clean roof is not just nice to look at — it also affects how effectively your commercial roof withstands heat.
6. Work with an Experienced Contractor
Roofing performance is greatly determined by how well it is installed. Engaging a professional commercial roofing contractor guarantees your energy goals are accomplished with accuracy and professionalism.
Frontier Contractors installs energy-saving roofing systems for factories and companies in the greater Ben Avon area, including Pittsburgh, Uniontown, Indiana, Youngstown, and Steubenville.
Whether you’re putting on a new roof or replacing an old one, energy-efficient roofing is a smart choice for your business. Call Frontier Contractors today. We’ll help you take a look at your current system and suggest the perfect upgrades for better efficiency.