Eco-friendly Commercial Roofs are a good way to go. Getting a new commercial roof can be a time-consuming process, so it goes without saying that you have to plan your investment so that it’s worth it. You’ll need to find the right contractor for the job, and, equally important, they need to know how to properly help you plan for maintenance.
If you’re in the process of getting one, you’ll want to keep several factors in mind. Is it the right one for my business? Is it durable? Is it high-maintenance or low-maintenance?
One additional factor is to consider less advertised, eco-friendly alternatives! Why would you go green? Here are some benefits before we dig into the actual alternatives you might consider.
4 benefits of eco-friendly commercial roofs
They’re a great way of connecting with customers
Now more than ever, customers are looking to work with responsible businesses that care about global issues. An eco-friendly roof is one way to communicate that your brand cares.
They can have big energy savings
Eco-friendly and sustainable roofs often have higher energy efficiency – i.e. they let less energy seep through, and so save significantly on energy savings. Other, like solar shingles, actually generate energy and help you reduce your bill even more [at no unnecessary cost to the environment].
Eco-friendly Commercial Roofs can be recycled
This is one of the best things about these roofs. Some roofing materials can only be disposed of in landfills, where it stays there for decades, and sometimes even longer. Eco-friendly roofs, on the other hand, are not only very durable and long-lasting, but can be recycled!
So, which ones could you consider for your business?
5 eco-friendly commercial roofs to consider
At 35 – 50% higher durability that regular shingles, solar shingles are one of the best investments you can make. They generate about 70% as much energy as full-fledged solar panel systems! And, with quartz-glass layering, they’re actually more aesthetic than most people imagine.
Metal roofs are one of the most eco-friendly roofs out there. Not only can they be recycled, but even a recycled roof can last up to 60 years, and can then be recycled again into a new roof!
Metal roofs also promote energy conservation through their installation – a metal roofing system requires carefully designed ventilation and insulation, which in themselves are energy-efficient practices.
You can create your company’s own paradise up on the roof! Green, or living, roofs are just what they sound like – roofs with vegetation and grass on top.
Not only do green roofs improve air quality, they also absorb water runoff and protect the roofing layer underneath. They also help provide better insulation to the building, regulating temperature and improving energy efficiency.
Cool roofs are made of materials that help reduce roof temperatures. Doing so helps curb energy costs from regulating building temperature. They also minimize heat trapped in densely-built areas, thereby creating a widespread efficiency effect.
White roofs, which are roofs colored in white or light colors, are a form of cooling roofs that help conserve energy.
Thermoplastic Polyolefin roofs are also cool roofs that are durable and chemical-resistant. They’re a particularly great choice for restaurants and businesses that release chemicals and oils through their ventilation systems.
SPF roofs last up to 50 years and create very little waste in their application. Because they’re liquid that expands into foam, and can be built on top of existing roofing systems, they minimize the cost and waste of roof removals. They’re also less conducive of heat, and so contribute even more to reducing energy bills.
What’s the best roof for my business?
Choosing the best roof for your business depends on your climate, the nature of your business, the specific requirements you might need [e.g. chemical or fire resistance], as well as your budget. There are many eco-friendly roofs that can meet such requirements, so the best thing is to consult with your roofing contractor and get their advice on which roof to get!
Need help with choosing a commercial roof? Contact us and get a free inspection and quotation to plan for your business.