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The Benefits of Energy-Efficient Roofing for Commercial Buildings

It’s estimated that 30% of the energy used in commercial buildings goes to waste. That contributes to higher operating costs for businesses. It also has negative impacts on our environment, increasing greenhouse gas emissions. 

Your business can go green and save on operating costs in many ways. One way is to invest in energy-efficient roofing. 

Keep reading to learn more about the significant energy-saving benefits of installing different roofing materials on your warehouse or commercial building. 

Energy-Efficient Roofing Keeps Workers Comfortable

Heating and cooling a commercial building is always challenging. Inefficient methods result in energy waste that impacts your bottom line.

However, you want to ensure your workers have a comfortable, safe environment. Comfortable employees are more productive.

You may face obstacles keeping the air temperature at a comfortable level. For instance, operating equipment or heavy machinery can give off excess heat and steam. Heat stress is a common concern often overlooked in industrial and manufacturing environments. 

Dark, non-reflective roofing materials absorb heat rather than reflect it. That excess heat makes its way inside the building, causing your cooling system to work harder. 

One solution is cool roofing, designed to reflect more sunlight and keep the building comfortable. Cool roofing uses reflective paint, tiles, shingles, or a sheet covering to decrease roof temperatures. 

The best part of installing cool roofing is that you don’t need to tear off the existing roof to install it. That means reduced costs and minimal disruptions, allowing operations to continue. 

It Reduces Energy Costs

Energy-efficient roofing solutions assist the heating and cooling system. Since your HVAC system won’t work as hard to regulate temperatures, achieving a comfortable environment is easier.

As a result, your commercial HVAC system can do its job better. Plus, you reduce the risk of prematurely burning out the equipment, which can extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling units. 

You’ll be amazed by how much of a difference the right commercial roofing material can make in regulating temperatures inside the building. For example, metal roofing, as well as TPO and PVC roofs, increase solar reflectivity.

Running the cooling constantly impacts overhead. Reducing how often those systems need to run results in cost savings and reduced operating costs. 

Cool roofs are a wise investment to improve indoor temperature and comfort if you don’t have air conditioning equipment. It also helps if the current equipment isn’t powerful enough to provide adequate cooling. You can save even more with rebates and incentives when applicable.  

It Helps to Extend the Roof’s Lifespan

On average, a commercial roof lasts around 20-30 years with proper maintenance. A metal roof can last up to 60 years in the right conditions. 

Excess heat and exposure to the sun’s harsh UV rays can weaken roofing materials and cause them to deteriorate faster. Depending on your climate, this can significantly shorten the roof’s lifespan.

A cool roof can be 50–60°F cooler than conventional commercial roofing on those hot summer days. If you live in a sunny climate with mild winters, this might be the perfect solution to go green. 

Installing a durable, protective roofing system over your existing roof protects it against heat and the elements. It helps you to get the most out of your building’s roof, increasing the overall lifespan. 

It’s Better for the Environment

Although air conditioning keeps workers cool and comfortable, it comes at a cost. Air conditioning produces 1.95 billion tons of carbon dioxide every year. That’s almost 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Unfortunately, cooling the temperature inside with air conditioning impacts our climate, causing rising temperatures and more AC usage. It’s a vicious cycle. 

Carbon dioxide is a heat-trapping gas released when we burn fossil fuels and through natural processes. However, human activities have raised the atmosphere’s total CO2 levels by 50% in under 200 years. 

Commercial businesses must do their part to reduce their environmental impact. Replacing commercial roofs or installing a cool roof solution can reduce the need for air conditioning. It’s a simple and effective way to make a difference while keeping your employees comfortable. 

The Ideal Solution for Warm Climates

Although installing a cool roof is a great way to reduce your energy use, you should first consider the climate where you operate your business. 

Due to its reflective properties, a cool roofing system is an energy-efficient design that bounces sunlight off the surface. It keeps the inside of your building cooler during hot summer, but it can increase heating costs in colder climates. 

Therefore, you need to weigh the heating and cooling needs and other weather elements to determine if a cool roof is the best option. 

One way to determine the right choice for your business is to speak with a commercial roofing company and discuss the features and options available. Schedule a consultation to talk to a roofing professional so you can make an informed decision. 

Do Your Part for the Planet

As you can see, there are many advantages to going green and installing an energy-efficient roofing solution for your business. A cool roof reflects sunlight, which can help lower the roof temperatures. As a result, your building also stays cooler. 

A more comfortable building means happier and healthier workers. It also means you can save on energy expenses by reducing air conditioning use. Best of all, you know you’re doing your part for the planet. 

If you need California commercial roofing services, leave it to us at HP Roofing PRO. We offer cool roofing, maintenance, repairs, and much more. Get an estimate with our online calculator and contact us to get started today.