Five Keys To a High-Performance Roof
January 12, 2012
Today's tip is about five factors that go into creating a high performance roofing system.
First, let's look at the two properties of a roofing system, reflectivity and emissivity, that make a roof "cool." Yes, a high solar reflectance, or albedo, and infrared emittance (the proper scientific terms) will result in a cooler facility, cooler city, and cooler planet, and the ability to do so is a key facet of a high-performance roof. To qualify as a cool roof, experts suggest picking a membrane with a reflectance of at least .65 and emittance of at least .85.
Second is durability. What's the point of claiming your roof is high-performance if you have to replace it long before its expected lifespan. Here's a loosely guarded secret: Short-term, cheap roofs are NOT high-performance. Indeed, durability is perhaps the most critical element in a high-performance roof system.
Third is choosing the proper membrane for your particular facility. For example, single-ply membranes are good in situations where you're recovering an existing membrane or as the membrane beneath a garden roof. Just remember, it's always critical to follow manufacturers recommendations. Matching a good membrane to a suitable roof is an absolutely essential step to achieving a high-performance roof.
Fourth is proper installation. Perhaps no other factor can have a more detrimental effect on the performance of a roof than poor installation. Get at least three bids from qualified contractors that are approved by the manufacturer of the membrane you're interested in. Visit the sites of their other jobs and talk to those facility managers about their experience. Understand that the manufacturer's warranty usually only covers material defects, so find a contractor that will offer a solid workmanship warranty, as well. And monitor the job — make sure the contractor sends an experienced foreman and completes the job on time but without cutting corners.
The fifth component is proper maintenance. A high-performance roof is not a set-it-and-forget-it proposition. Far from it. To get the most out of a roof, it requires regular attention. Experts suggest at least twice-yearly inspections, in the spring and fall. To continue to maximize a cool roof's efficiency, periodic cleanings may be necessary as well. One of the keys to maintaining a high-performance roof is to record when inspections and maintenance have been performed — treat the roof like you would any other facility asset.
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