Hello Friends, If you’re a business owner in Youngstown and thinking about going green with your building upgrades, you might be asking: Is it possible to combine functionality with energy efficiency when it comes to roofing? The answer is yes!
Today, we’re going to explore how flat roof covering options can help you save money, extend your roof’s life, and make a positive impact on the environment — without compromising on performance.
What Makes Flat Roof Systems Energy-Efficient?
Before diving into the best flat roof options, it’s important to understand what makes a roofing system energy efficient. Two of the most important qualities are reflectance and emittance.
| Quality | Definition | Scale | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reflectance | Ability to reflect solar energy away from the roof. | 0 to 1 (1 = best) | Keeps building cooler |
| Emittance | Ability to release absorbed heat rather than retain it. | 0 to 1 (1 = best) | Reduces interior heat buildup |
Roof materials with high reflectance and emittance are key to keeping your building cool and your utility bills low.
Benefits of Energy Efficient Flat Roofing
You might wonder: Why invest in energy-efficient roofing? Here are some compelling benefits:
1. Lower Utility Bills and Greater Comfort
By reflecting sunlight and releasing heat, your roof helps reduce indoor temperatures. This cuts down on the need for air conditioning, which translates to lower electricity bills. Studies show you can save 7% to 15% on energy costs annually.
2. Longer Roof Life
Traditional roofing materials degrade faster under UV exposure and heat. But energy-efficient materials are built to resist these elements, helping your roof last longer.
3. Fighting the Urban Heat Island Effect
Urban areas get hotter because of asphalt, buildings, and lack of vegetation. Energy-efficient roofing can help lower temperatures in your area by reflecting more sunlight.
| Benefit | Description |
| Savings on bills | Up to 15% annually |
| Extended roof lifespan | Resists UV damage and degradation |
| Environmental contribution | Reduces pollution and urban heat island effect |
Best Energy-Efficient Flat Roof Covering Options
Let’s now explore the top flat roofing materials you can consider if you’re aiming for energy savings:
1. Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
What it is: A liquid spray that expands into foam.
Why it works: SPF is a closed-cell plastic insulation that creates a waterproof and thermal barrier.
| Feature | Detail |
| Energy Savings | Up to 30% reduction in cooling costs |
| Lifespan | Up to 30 years with proper maintenance |
| Re-coating | Recommended every 15-20 years |
| Application | Can be used on EPDM, metal, wood, and more |
Bonus: SPF is also used in cold storage and insulation for walls and ceilings.
2. Flat Roof Coatings
If you already have a roof but want to make it more energy efficient, coatings are a smart solution.
A. Elastomeric Roof Coating
- Elastic material that stretches and returns to its original shape.
- Applied in liquid form and dries to a seamless, white surface.
Benefits:
- Resists cracking and peeling
- Reflects sunlight effectively
- Extends roof life instantly
B. EPDM Coating (Rubber Coating)
- Seals the roof completely
- Reduces heat absorption
- Can save up to 20% on energy bills
C. Asphalt Roof Coatings
- Ideal for restoring aging asphalt roofs
- Can add 10 to 20 years to your roof’s life
- More affordable than full roof replacement
| Coating Type | Main Benefit | Lifespan Extension |
| Elastomeric | Flexes with temperature changes | 10-15 years |
| EPDM | Waterproof and UV resistant | 15-20 years |
| Asphalt Roof Coating | Extends life of existing asphalt roofs | Up to 20 years |
Important Considerations Before Installation
1. Reflectance Deterioration Over Time
Even the best reflective roofs lose effectiveness due to dirt and wear. Routine cleaning and scheduled maintenance help maintain high reflectivity.
2. Consult a Professional
Talk to a certified roofing contractor. They can assess your property’s needs and recommend the best solution based on:
- Roof size
- Budget
- Local weather patterns
3. Check Energy Star Ratings
Look for materials that meet or exceed Energy Star standards for commercial roofing.
Real-World Application: A Business Case
Let’s say your monthly electricity bill is around $1,000 during summer due to heavy AC use. Installing an energy-efficient flat roof can cut your bill by 10%, saving you $100 per month. Over 10 years, that’s $12,000 saved — not counting the added lifespan of the roof.
| Item | Value |
| Monthly savings | $100 |
| Annual savings | $1,200 |
| 10-year savings | $12,000 |
| Roof lifespan extension | 10-20 years |
Conclusion: Small Change, Big Impact
Hello Friends, energy-efficient flat roofing is not just a buzzword — it’s a practical solution for Youngstown business owners who want lower costs and long-term sustainability. Whether you choose SPF, elastomeric coatings, or EPDM systems, each option comes with proven benefits.
So if you’re planning to upgrade your commercial roof, think beyond just covering a surface. Think about energy efficiency, comfort, long-term savings, and environmental responsibility.
The choice is yours — but choosing wisely today will reward you for decades.
Need help finding the right contractor or material? Let us know, and we’ll help you take the first step toward an energy-smart future for your business!