There are several options when it comes to choosing roofing materials for a re-roofing project, so researching the characteristics and benefits of each type will help you decide which will work best for your particular situation. Here’s some information on the most common types of roofing materials:
Energy-efficient
Not only are energy-efficient roofs an observable display of a building’s commitment to environmental friendliness, they also help reduce energy bills by lowering operating costs and qualify the building for LEED certification, a nationally recognized, third-party authorization of a building’s ability to meet the highest standards for sustainable procedures and performance. Once a building is LEED certified, its owner is often eligible for tax rebates, zoning allowances and various other perks.
Fiberglass shingles
Comprising more than 80 percent of the roofing market, fiberglass shingles offer a Class A fire rating and aesthetic durability.
Traditional hot asphalt
In the past, the main drawback of asphalt roofs was their odor, but industry innovation has produced low-fuming asphalt and additives that have virtually eliminated this issue. The principal benefits of asphalt roofs are their cost-effectiveness and durability.
Single-ply membrane
Categorized as environmentally-friendly roof systems, single-ply membrane roofs can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 40 percent when properly designed. In addition, they’re completely recyclable, which adds even more LEED credits to an already certified building.
Cool roofs
Many commercial building owners are taking advantage of the cool roof process, which entails applying a white acrylic coating to a building’s existing roof. This fluid-applied coating saves building owners money not only because it’s less expensive than roof replacement, but also because it has numerous energy saving qualities—the white acrylic is highly reflective, which naturally lowers a building’s temperature during hot weather. Besides these immediate financial benefits, cool roofs also qualify for LEED certification and Title 24 compliance, extend the life of a building’s existing roof, and fall under the category of “maintenance,” enabling them to be fully expensed in a single year.
