Why does the initial cost of a cool roof varies with the type of product specified matter?

There is a lot of support from utility companies for the increased use of cool roofs, because they are an effective way to decrease peak demand. Offering incentives is a lot cheaper for the utility companies than building a new plant to accommodate everyone’s peak usage.

How much savings can you expect a cool roof to deliver?

It depends on a lot of factors, including geography, materials and whether there are areas where heating and cooling are escaping from the building. In a hot climate, a cool roof probably saves 10 cents per square foot per year. In the northern part of the country, it is less (more like 3-5 cents per square foot).

Cool Roofs for commercial roofs | White Roofing Systems

Cool Roofs for Commercial Buildings

What are cool roofs for commercial buildings, and how do they work? Cool roofs are commercial roof systems, usually made from reflective white coatings, that reflect sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional dark roofs. This keeps your building cooler, reduces your energy bills, and extends your roof's life.

High Energy Bills and an Overworked AC Unit

You're noticing your energy bills are higher than they should be, especially during warmer months. Your air conditioning system seems to be running constantly, struggling to keep your building cool. Inside, some areas might feel warmer than others, even with the AC blasting. This often points to your roof absorbing too much heat from the sun.

Heat Absorption and Premature Roof Failure

Traditional dark roofs absorb a lot of solar energy. This heat gets transferred into your building, forcing your air conditioning system to work harder and use more electricity. Over time, the constant heating and cooling also cause your roof materials to expand and contract. This stress, known as thermal shock, breaks down the roof membrane faster, leading to cracks, leaks, and an overall shorter roof life. Ignoring this problem means higher operating costs, more frequent repairs, and needing a full roof replacement sooner than you should.

Reflective Commercial Roof Coatings

A cool roof system uses a highly reflective, white acrylic coating applied directly over your existing roof. This system doesn't just reflect sunlight; it also sends the absorbed heat back into the atmosphere, rather than letting it soak into your building. We primarily use Conklin roof coatings for this. Here’s how we typically install a cool roof system:

Inspection: First, a Conklin-trained contractor will inspect your roof. We look for any existing damage, leaks, or areas where the insulation might be wet. If we find wet insulation, we remove and replace it. If the roof deck is too damaged or the roof is too far gone, restoration might not be the right option, and we'll tell you honestly.
Cleaning and Repair: We thoroughly clean the existing roof surface to remove dirt, debris, and any loose materials. Any cracks, seams, or vulnerable areas are sealed and reinforced. This prepares a smooth, clean surface for the coating.
Base Coat Application: We apply a base coat designed to bond with your existing roof material. This ensures strong adhesion for the entire system.
Top Coat Application: Finally, we apply one or more layers of the reflective white acrylic top coat. This is the layer that does the heavy lifting, reflecting UV rays and heat away from your building.

This process creates a seamless, waterproof, and highly reflective membrane over your current roof. It’s a restoration, not a tear-off, which means less disruption to your business and less waste in landfills. These coatings are suitable for many types of commercial roofs, including metal, single-ply, and spray polyurethane foam systems. The benefits of a cool roof include:

Lower Energy Bills: By reflecting sunlight, your building stays cooler, and your AC system doesn't have to work as hard, cutting down on electricity use.
Extended Roof Life: Reducing thermal shock significantly slows down the aging process of your roof, potentially adding many years to its service life.
Improved Interior Comfort: A cooler roof means more consistent temperatures inside your building, improving comfort for occupants.
Reduced Urban Heat Island Effect: On a larger scale, widespread adoption of cool roofs can help reduce the overall temperature in urban areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I expect to save on energy bills with a cool roof?

The exact savings vary depending on several factors, such as your building's location, insulation, existing roof type, and local climate. Buildings in hotter climates generally see greater energy savings. While we can't give specific numbers without an inspection, most building owners experience noticeable reductions in their cooling costs.

How long does a cool roof system last?

A properly installed and maintained Conklin cool roof system can last 15 to 20 years or even longer. Since it extends the life of your existing roof, it delays the need for a costly tear-off and replacement. Regular maintenance and reapplication of top coats can further extend its life.

Will a cool roof affect my building's heating in the winter?

For most commercial buildings, the benefits of reduced cooling costs in warmer months outweigh any minor impact on heating in colder months. Commercial buildings typically generate a lot of internal heat from lighting, equipment, and people, so retaining some heat through the roof is often not a significant concern. The overall energy savings are usually positive year-round. If your commercial building is experiencing high energy bills or you're looking to extend the life of your current roof, a cool roof system might be the right solution. Contact White Roofing Systems for a free, no-obligation roof inspection. Our network of Conklin-trained contractors can assess your roof's condition and recommend the best plan for your building. Call us today at (309) 303-3128 or visit our contact page to schedule your inspection.