Energy efficiency isn’t just about going green—it’s about saving money, improving tenant satisfaction, and increasing comfort for everyone inside your building. If you manage or own a commercial building, school, church, or industrial facility, a well-functioning roof is one of the most important contributors to energy performance.
Your HVAC system can only do so much if energy is constantly escaping through the top of your building. A neglected roof could be driving up your utility bills and making your building less comfortable without you even realizing it.
In this article, we’ll walk through common questions about roof energy efficiency, how to identify energy leaks, and what steps you can take to fix them.
Q: What is an energy leak?
An energy leak refers to the loss of conditioned air—either heating or cooling—through inefficiencies in your building’s envelope. In most commercial buildings, the roof is one of the biggest culprits. If your roof is damaged, poorly insulated, or outdated, it’s likely allowing heated or cooled air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and less efficiently.
Q: How do energy leaks happen?
Energy leaks can occur for several reasons:
- Insufficient or degraded insulation under the roof deck
- Roof damage from storms or age, including cracks, gaps, or broken seals
- Improper installation of roofing materials or ventilation systems
- Lack of reflective or “cool roof” materials on buildings in hot climates
- Clogged or damaged ventilation systems, preventing proper air flow
- Even a small issue, like failing flashing or an unsealed penetration, can lead to significant energy loss over time.
Q: How do I know if my roof is leaking heating or cooling?
One of the most common signs is a noticeable increase in your utility bills—particularly if your HVAC system seems to be running constantly. Other indicators include:
- Hot or cold spots throughout the building
- Difficulty maintaining a stable indoor temperature
- Condensation issues or excess humidity
- Uneven wear on HVAC equipment from overuse
A professional roofing inspection can identify if your roof is the root cause of these energy issues.
Q: Do I need a roof replacement or a roof repair?
It depends on the condition of your current roof and your long-term goals. At Next Phase Roofing, we always start with a detailed inspection to determine if repairs are sufficient. In many cases, targeted repairs—like sealing leaks, replacing insulation, or correcting flashing—can restore energy performance.
However, if your roof is aging, has widespread damage, or lacks modern energy-saving features, a full replacement may be the more cost-effective choice in the long run. Modern roofing systems are often 30–40 degrees cooler than traditional roofs, offering immediate savings and long-term benefits.
Q: How can I make my roof more energy efficient?
There are several ways to improve energy performance through your roof:
- Upgrade Insulation: Adding or replacing insulation beneath your roof can prevent energy loss and improve interior temperature stability.
- Install a Cool Roof System: Materials like DaVinci Roofscapes, metal systems from McElroy, Mueller, or Sheffield Metals, or tiles from Ludowici are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.
- Ventilation Improvements: Proper airflow keeps heat from building up in attic or plenum spaces, reducing the load on your HVAC system.
- Use Energy Star® Certified Materials: These products meet strict standards for energy efficiency and are available across asphalt, metal, slate, and tile systems.
Our team can walk you through material options tailored to your building type, climate, and budget.
Q: How much can I save on heating and cooling bills with a new roof?
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that cool roofing systems can reduce energy use by up to 15–25%, especially in buildings with large roof areas or in regions with hot summers. For a commercial facility, this can translate to thousands of dollars in annual savings—sometimes enough to cover the cost of the new roof over time.
Key Takeaways
Your roof is more than a weather barrier—it’s a critical part of your building’s energy strategy. If your commercial roof is leaking heating or cooling, you’re likely wasting money every single month.
Whether you’re managing a church, school, office building, or industrial site, making energy-efficient improvements to your roof can:
- Lower utility bills
- Extend the life of HVAC equipment
- Improve occupant comfort and tenant satisfaction
- Increase your building’s value and performance
At Next Phase Roofing, we specialize in helping commercial property owners assess, repair, and upgrade their roofing systems with energy efficiency in mind.
Let’s take the guesswork out of your roof’s energy performance. Schedule your free commercial roof inspection here or call us at 405-500-7663.
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