Sustainability has become a buzzword of sorts in today’s society, whether it is geared toward energy consumption or raw materials. As an increasing number of consumers rate it as a growing priority, the need to find companies that align with this commitment becomes key. A reputable roofing company should be dedicated to sustainability in roofing in an effort to support their clients’ and their own commitment to better protecting the world we live in.
What Is Sustainability in Roofing?
Sustainability is quickly becoming a trend for the environmentally conscious, and it can even extend to commercial roofing. In general, the term sustainability is used to describe the way in which something is made to meet or exceed standards for environmental wellbeing. In other words, operating in this way can be a more earth-friendly approach that in turn can be better for human health.
Sustainability in roofing for commercial buildings is the effort to markedly reduce waste and provide more energy efficient roofing systems that can decrease energy usage.
Considerations for Sustainable Roofing Materials
A professional roofing company with plenty of experience in sustainable roofing will know that the materials used are what can make one roof “greener” than another. Some considerations for these materials should include:
Coatings
While there are many different types of coatings on the market, a white or reflective coating can be instrumental in lowering energy usage, which can waste less energy and reduce energy bills.
Color
The lighter the color of the roof, the less heat it will attract. Reflective roofs are generally white in color and can therefore better reflect the sun’s rays.
Durability
Sustainable roofs are admirable and better for the environment, but it won’t do a commercial building owner much good if it is not durable. A roof that is green but does not last can prove ineffective if twice the materials ultimately end up being used.
Recyclability
Double down on greener roofing options by choosing one that has material made of other recycled materials.
Roof Slope
When it comes to sustainable roofing materials, the slope of the roof matters. What works for a flat roof may not be as effective for a sloped roof.
Weight
If a commercial building is regularly subjected to heavy winds or monsoon rains, it is critical for the weight of the roofing materials used to be able to withstand those types of weather events.
Benefits of Sustainable Roofs
There is more than one perk to committing to sustainability in roofing. While it is what many call a “greener” option and can be better for Mother Earth, it can also yield a number of other positive benefits, including:
- Better temperature control. A more calculated and purposeful use of energy saving materials, such as the application of a white or reflective roof, can help reflect the sun’s rays and make it exponentially easier to maintain the desired temperature inside of a building.
- Reduced energy bills and related costs. Along with more control of the internal temperature of a building, a reflective roof can also yield substantial savings when it comes to reducing energy bills and other energy-related costs.
- Less of a footprint when it comes to contributing to landfill waste. Getting a completely new roof for a large commercial building can yield a tremendous amount of waste that then goes to a landfill. However, a roof renovation can yield a sustainable roof while also cutting down on waste that is harmful to the environment.
- May be applicable to an existing roof. One of the most attractive aspects of a sustainable roof is that it can be applied to an existing roof. After an initial inspection is done for the roof and any necessary repairs are made, a reflective coating may be applied over the existing roofing surface of a commercial building.
How A Roofing Company Can Help with Sustainability
Some commercial building owners mistakenly think that to choose an option better for the environment, they have to start from scratch with a brand-new roof. This is often not the case.
Having a complete roof replacement done can create a great deal of harmful waste when a roof renovation may be possible instead. This involves using the application of more energy efficient options such as a reflective material to an existing roof.
A professional roofing company can assist with an initial inspection of the existing roof, make recommendations for necessary repairs, and then discuss the best type of sustainable options for your specific building.
When meeting with a roofer to discuss these options, be sure to utilize the above list of considerations for sustainable roofing materials. This can be a great starting point to work from.
If you are a commercial building owner interested in learning more about sustainability in roofing, reach out to a reputable professional roofing company to see the options for protecting your roof, and the environment.
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