Considering America’s harsh climate, there is an increasing need for sustainable roofing solutions among Business owners. If you’re looking to get your roof replaced or get a new roof installed, you shouldn’t overlook the benefits of an Eco-friendly roof. And when it comes to sifting options, there isn’t any shortage either.
We list down 5 effective Eco-Friendly Commercial Roofing Options extensively used in America, and you should use them too.
Solar Panels
Considering space commercial roofs have to offer, installing Solar Panels can effectively offset your commercial building’s energy needs. The new roofs can be outfitted to withstand the weight of Solar Panels, while old roofs can also secure such panels, though with some modification.
Although the Solar Company will claim they can safely install the panels on the roof, it’s important to give the contract to a professional roofing contractor to ensure no damage to the roof or the solar panels.
Green Roofs
Green Roofs contain roof plants and other vegetation. Facility managers in America who have installed Green Roofs have reported improved air quality in the surrounding areas.
Roof plants also help moderate the heating of the Commercial Buildings and significantly cut down on energy needs.
White Roofs
A White roof consists of a white or light-painted membrane. White or light colors have the ability to reflect maximum sunlight, keeping the roof cooler.
This means less reliance on Air Conditioners and more energy savings. No wonder why these “cool roofs” can lower the electricity bills of the building.
Metal Roofs
Metals are made of recycled materials and are considered most eco-friendly. They also last long (usually over 60 years) and have an excellent performance record (need little repair and maintenance over time).
Moreover, they can be recycled again when it’s time to replace them. They offer an excellent return on investment.
Slate Tile Roofs
If your building is located in America’s hot temperature zones, a light-colored Slate Tile Roof (also called reclaimed clay roofs) can be your best bet. The clay tiles in such roofs can last for as long as 100 years and are highly durable.
Due to the requirement of extra reinforcement to support the clay tiles, this roofing is a tad bit more expensive than Metal Roofs. However, given its lifespan and the energy savings, the additional cost breaks even in a couple of years.
Thermoplastic Roof Membrane
Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) and Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) roofs are known to offer effective protection from UV light, various roof punctures, chemical damage, and bacterial growth degradation. They are also lightweight and possess amazing reflective properties.
The built-up quality of such roofs offers amazing seam strength, making it durable in the long run. This roofing system is ideal for Restaurants and similar commercial buildings that emit fats or oils from the vents.
Moreover, they are designed to withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for hot zones in America. They also have a high tolerance to fire and strong winds.
Thermoset Roof Membrane
Thermoset roofing (also known as EPDM roofing) is one of the few roofing systems that require the least repair and maintenance. They are constructed out of a single-ply rubber material and are highly durable and versatile. Their installation is easy, which means you’ll save both time and money.
EPDM also comes with high tolerance to UV light and effectively cuts down the building’s energy needs.
Other merits of this roofing system include high resistance to acids, solvents, and alcohol, coupled with flexibility in colder temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an eco-friendly roof can significantly reduce your energy bills, and they come with many benefits like high durability, long life, and tolerance to UV rays, chemicals, and fire.
You can choose any roofing system from the above list for your next project. Many commercial roofing companies can effectively install such roofs for your building.
