The HVAC systems in commercial buildings work hard in the summer months because flat roofs absorb heat and solar radiation all day long. They also consume large amounts of energy when temperatures plunge because about 25% of a commercial building’s heat escapes through its roof. If you run a business, improving the energy efficiency of your commercial building’s roof could reduce your utility bills and save you money. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you could stop heat retention in the summer and prevent heat loss in the winter.
Insulated Metal Roofs
Metal is one of the most energy-efficient commercial building roofing materials available. A durable and low-maintenance metal roof can last for up to 50 years, and it will lower energy costs by up to 40% if the metal panels are treated to reflect sunlight. The latest metal roof panels have cores made out of insulating foam and coatings that can reflect up to 90% of solar radiation. This significantly reduces heat transfer to keep commercial buildings cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
EPDM and TPO Roofs
Commercial roofing materials like ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) offer many of the benefits of insulated metal roof panels at a more affordable price. EPDM is a type of synthetic rubber, and TPO is a polymer and filler blend. Both of these materials are available in light colors to reflect sunlight and combining them with rigid foam insulation will prevent heat loss in winter. TPO and EPDM membranes are easy to install, but they are not as durable and will not last as long as metal roof panels.
Insulation
Roofing insulation materials have improved greatly in recent years. Materials like expanded polystyrene and polyisocyanurate have extremely high R-values and are great at reducing the heat flow in and out of commercial buildings. Older insulation materials degrade and settle over time, which can create gaps and weak spots that allow heat to enter or escape. When an old commercial building’s roof is still in good condition, improving its insulation can be a cost-effective way to improve energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
Inspections and Regular Maintenance
Roofing problems tend to get worse over time. Having a commercial roof inspected by experienced professionals every few years can identify small problems before they turn into major headaches, and that can save business owners a lot of money. During a roof inspection, professionals look for problems like gaps, tears and cracks that can reduce energy efficiency, and they check insulation for signs of deterioration.
Your Neighborhood Roofing Professionals
If you want your commercial building to be as energy efficient as possible, trust our friendly professionals at Joe’s Roofing in Reno, NV to provide top-notch commercial roofing services. To lower your utility bills and enjoy peace of mind, call us to schedule an estimate today.
