
How the Right Roof System Can Decrease Energy Costs
When it comes to the energy efficiency of your home or commercial building, one of the most important factors to consider is your roof system. This article will explore how a roof system can impact energy efficiency and cut costs, providing an overview of some of the best options for commercial and residential roofing systems.
How Does Your Roofing System Affect Energy Costs?
Choosing the right roofing system is crucial when constructing or renovating a building, as it impacts the structure’s overall performance and significantly affects energy efficiency and costs. According to the Metal Building Manufacturers Association, several elements determine how a roofing system will contribute to energy expenses.
These factors include the choice of slope roof coverings, the type of insulation system used, and the adoption of quality control guidelines provided by the National Roofing Contractors Association. Through careful roof system selection, building owners can minimize energy consumption and attain green certifications such as the International Building Code’s energy standards. Furthermore, understanding building code requirements ensures your roof will abide by these guidelines, leading to a perfect balance between performance and energy efficiency.
Commercial Roofing Systems That Cut Energy Costs
Several commercial roofing systems are known for their energy efficiency, and their popularity has grown among architects, contractors, and building owners worldwide. The following subsections describe roof systems offering lower energy costs while meeting the system selection criteria.
Energy Efficient Metal Roofing
Metal roof systems have gained traction in the commercial sector due to their durability, high performance, and significant energy-saving potential. When expert metal building manufacturers design and produce these metal roofs, they use reflective materials that minimize heat absorption, thus reducing cooling loads on the building. Following quality control guidelines laid out by the National Roofing Contractors Association ensures that your metal roof system is correctly installed and energy-efficient.
Moreover, metal roof systems can be coated with specially developed cool roof coatings that enhance their reflective properties. These coatings have been proven to improve energy efficiency and reduce air conditioning costs, especially in hot climates.
Spray Coatings
Spray coatings, such as polyurethane or silicone foam, are applied directly to existing roof surfaces and can be used as a cost-effective solution for energy efficiency. These coatings offer high insulation levels, keeping a building’s interior cool by reflecting sunlight and minimizing heat gain. To enhance energy efficiency further, some spray coatings are formulated with built-in reflective materials that help retain a building’s insulative properties.
It is essential to adhere to the International Building Code’s requirements when selecting and applying spray coatings, including proper roof slope and ventilation, to ensure long-lasting, energy-efficient performance.
Commercial Roof Insulation
Another critical factor in improving energy efficiency is the choice of commercial roof insulation. Insulation materials like glass wool, rock wool, and expanded polystyrene are proven effective in reducing heat transfer through the roof, lowering energy consumption. Proper insulation installation and adherence to building code requirements contribute significantly to a building’s overall energy efficiency and operating costs.
Modified Bitumen
Modified bitumen roofing systems are made from asphalt and polymers, creating a flexible, durable, and energy-efficient roofing option—one such modification is coal tar pitch, which increases the roof’s water and weather resistance. According to the International Building Code, modified bitumen must meet specific roof requirements, including adequate reflectivity and proper installation procedures.
Modified bitumen roofing systems can offer substantial energy savings when properly installed due to their built-in solar reflectivity and high thermal efficiency. Per the construction contract administration recommendations, consulting with experienced professionals and manufacturers is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome in your roof system selection.
Determining which roofing system would best support your journey to cut energy costs is an important step. Take a deeper dive into different materials by reading this article today.
Energy-Cutting Residential Roof Systems
With the increasing focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, modern homeowners are looking for innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint and cut energy costs. One effective approach is to install energy-efficient residential roof systems. Each option offers unique energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetic benefits.
Slate Roofs
Slate roofs have been popular for centuries thanks to their durability, natural beauty, and minimal environmental impact. Slate is a naturally occurring stone, typically sourced from responsibly managed quarries. The material boasts excellent thermal performance, acting as an effective insulator to keep homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This helps to lower energy consumption and reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling systems.
Slate roofs are also an excellent choice for meeting building code requirements and adhering to the guidelines set forth by the Metal Building Manufacturers Association and the International Building Code. With proper installation and maintenance, slate roof systems can last over a century, making them one of the most sustainable and energy-efficient options. However, it’s important to note that slate roofs can be more expensive to install than other roofing materials and may require specialized skills from your construction contract administration team.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs, made from clay or concrete, have a long history of use in warmer climates due to their natural ability to reflect solar radiation and maintain a comfortable interior temperature. This energy-efficient feature makes them an ideal option for homeowners looking to minimize their carbon footprint and save on heating and cooling costs. Furthermore, tile roofs are highly durable, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance, leading many homeowners to see them as a worthwhile investment for the long term.
When selecting a tile roof system, it’s crucial to adhere to quality control guidelines provided by organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association and the Metal Building Manufacturers Association. Proper installation ensures that the roof will meet local building code requirements and provide optimal energy-efficiency performance throughout its lifespan.
Shingle Roofs
Shingle roofs, most commonly made from asphalt, are a popular and economical option for residential homes. In recent years, advances in material technology have led to the development of energy-efficient shingles designed to reflect solar radiation and reduce heat transfer. These “cool shingles” can help homeowners save on energy costs by limiting the need for air conditioning during hot weather periods. Additionally, shingle roofs are available in a wide range of colors, styles, and textures, which can also contribute to increased curb appeal for your home.
When installing a shingle roof system, adhere to system selection criteria provided by roofing industry authorities like the National Roofing Contractors Association and follow any relevant building code requirements. Engaging with experienced construction contract administration professionals is essential to ensure quality installation and long-lasting performance.
Residential Metal Roofs
Residential metal roofs have gained popularity in recent years thanks to their durability, energy efficiency, and versatile design options. Metal roof systems, often made from coated steel or aluminum, feature reflective coatings that help to minimize solar heat gain and maintain a comfortable internal temperature. This allows homeowners to enjoy significant energy savings and a reduced environmental impact.
In addition to their energy-saving benefits, metal roofs are also low-maintenance and long-lasting, with some systems boasting a lifespan of up to 50 years or more. Moreover, residential metal roofs are available in various styles, colors, and finishes, enabling homeowners to customize their roof’s appearance to complement their home’s overall aesthetic. To ensure proper installation and adherence to building code requirements, consult with a construction contract administration professional and review guidelines provided by the Metal Building Manufacturers Association.
EERC: Your Source for Energy Efficient Roof Systems
Energy-efficient commercial and residential roof systems help property managers and homeowners reduce their carbon footprint, save on energy costs, and offer sustainable, low-maintenance, and attractive roofing options. Don’t wait any longer! Contact our professionals at Energy Efficient Roofing & Construction for the highest quality roof systems in Texas.
Valuable Insights are Just a Click Away—Schedule Your Roof Inspection Today!
Are you in the market for regular commercial roof inspections? Or are you concerned that your roof is in need of repair or replacement? At Energy Efficient Roofing and Construction, we have experts who can help. Contact us today to schedule your next commercial roofing inspection!
Related Postings



About
Energy Efficient Roofing & Construction is a full-service roofing and general contractor that serves the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex with top-quality labor and materials.