Often the first thing thought about roof insulation is that it just keeps the building conditions comfortable. It does that and more. Roof insulation can make a building more energy efficient, improve the comfort of those in the space, and improve building efficiency over the life of the roof. Veirs Kluk Roofing has over 70 years of experience as a commercial roofing contractor and can inspect your roof insulation and make suggestions for improved efficiency.
The Role of Roof Insulation in Energy Efficiency for Commercial Buildings
The Role of Roof Insulation in Energy Efficiency for Commercial Buildings
Primary Role of Insulation
Roof insulation in commercial roofing serves as a thermal barrier while the shingles and roof coating provide the waterproof barrier. The roof insulation prevents the transfer of heat to the outdoors during winter. It also prevents the transfer from the hot roof to the interior in the summer. The less energy transfer, the less energy is needed to keep the indoors comfortable. By not wasting any energy production, the life of the HVAC system is extended and energy costs are lowered.
Roof insulation plays a part in extending the life of the roof. More consistent roof temperatures and less heat transfer also mean less condensation in the roof materials. When warm moist air reaches a cold roof surface, it will create condensation. If there is moisture, it can settle on any of the interior structures of the roof. This moisture can lead to mold, damage from moisture buildup, and result in a failing roof structure. The interior aspects of the roof need regular inspection and maintenance even when there is no obvious, visible damage to the roof exterior.
Energy Efficiency
Poor roof insulation can result in as much as 35% of a building’s heat loss in the winter. While in the summer, poor roof insulation can allow heat from the 150-degree roof surface to leak into the building. Striving for energy efficiency can mean choosing materials for your commercial roof that are a higher initial expense. Insulation comes with an R-value which stands for “thermal resistance”. This R-value tells us how efficient the insulation is at slowing heat transfer. Lower-cost materials are less energy efficient, as shown by a lower R-value. Lower-cost materials are more likely to need repairs or total replacement earlier than higher-quality materials.
High-quality roofing materials like insulation, may have a higher initial expense than lower-quality materials. The high-quality materials are more durable and will last decades longer. They withstand the heat, humidity, and snow of California while being less likely to need repeated repairs before being replaced. Synthetic roofing materials are becoming more popular due to their longer lifespan. They can also provide advanced protection in times of fire. Some roof insulation is also fire-resistant. Additionally, insurance premiums for these high-quality roofs are lower as they are viewed as less risky. Current commercial roofing trends in California are switching to preferred materials and technologies that bring these additional benefits as the long-term costs are lower. Local climate and local regulations play a part in what materials should be selected for commercial roofing. This could mean choosing composite shingles, or metal roofing, or even a synthetic material. Veirs Kluk Roofing can help you pick the best material for your commercial roof based on the California weather.
Improves Comfort
Commercial buildings are often uncomfortable for the people who work in them. The temperature can be too hot or too cold. Choosing quality roof insulation helps keep the interior temperature more consistent. Commercial roofing contractors can help you choose the best insulation for your building that eliminates temperature inconsistencies in the roof like hot spots in the summer and cold spots in the winter. Areas of different temperatures mean that the roof insulation requires repair.
Adequate roof insulation acts as soundproofing. It can lessen the sound of overhead airplanes, and wind from the outdoors. A quieter environment makes it easier for workers in the building to communicate. Roof insulation can also lessen the sounds of machinery in the building to the outside which will mean less disruption for any neighbors.
Commercial Roof Maintenance
The focus of roof maintenance is often on the outer layer of the roof that is visible. Weather damage can cause obvious repairs like shingles needing replacing or the roof needing recoating. Regular maintenance means all layers of the roof receive attention. The interior layers of your roof can show damage or need for repairs. Roof insulation benefits from maintenance and regular inspection to ensure that repairs are promptly done. If you see any water stains or have increased energy consumption, these small signs could mean you need commercial roof repair. If you notice any repair needs, reach out to Veirs Kluk Roofing right away for a free estimate.
Level of Experience
Veirs Kluk Roofing began as Kluk Roofing 74 years ago. Founder, Ed Kluk was joined by his son-in-law, Marc Veirs, who later founded Veirs Roofing. The two companies combined in 2006 but the professionalism and quality of work remained constant. After all these years, quality and fairness for every customer is a top priority. Veirs Kluk Roofing leads the industry in labor warranty services.
Roof insulation can be inspected and upgraded as part of commercial roof maintenance or a complete re-roof. Veirs Kluk Roofing handles the commercial roofing needs for Inland Empire, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange County, California. For more efficient roof insulation, reach out to us for an estimate at no cost!