Keeping Your Roof Cool, Protected
So you made the decision to install a new roof or invest in solar power! In this day and age, the choices regarding “what product” and “which contractor” are wide ranging and plentiful. As far as roofing goes, our climate here on Oahu has us searching for not only a long-lasting product, but an energy efficient one to save us money and keep our home or building cool.
Statistically, more home a building owners are going with roof-coating products, such as silicone and acrylics, than ever before. These products are not only economical, but highly energy efficient for reflectivity reasons, i.e. they do not allow the heat in.
They are traditionally applied upon metal, asphalt and concrete. Home and business owners alike are commonly having this roof installed in a white color, as white will have the highest reflectivity, but it can be tinted. This is an excellent choice for low-slope homes or buildings with existing substrates that are in decent to good condition. Prices range from $3 to $5 per foot.
Another low-slope product is the Single Ply Roof. This product consists of great big sheets of plastic or rubber compounds that are mechanically fastened or fully adhered to the roofing deck. The seams or overlap of the product are then heat welded together forming a monolithic (seamless) roof. This is the new building contractors roof-of-choice with great warranties and excellent reflectivity. The price ranges from $4 to $12 per foot, depending on roof removal and insulation needed.
For steeper roofing surfaces, metal products are a great option. Most of them are available with a reflective energy-efficient finish and come in many beautiful colors. The standing seam metal roof is a great candidate for solar as fewer penetrations into the roof have to be made to attach the PV or hot-water panels. The price range is $8-10 per foot.
Asphalt shingles have also come a long way regarding head distribution and energy efficiency. Most manufactures have a reflective shingle available that is very affordable. Additionally, there are a wide range of warranty options from 20 years to the lifetime of the structure. Pricing for this roofing system ranges from $3.50 to $6.50 per foot.
As far as PV or solar power goes, do it! Do make sure, however, that your contractor pays respect to the roof. Look closely at the leak warranty that is offered and ask questions regarding the mounting system that will be used to keep your PV secure and your roof free of leaks.
There are many PV and roof combo options available now.
Call Surface Shield Roofing Company today for more information concerning your next roof or solar installation at 497-2716. You can also visit www.surfaceshieldroofing.com.
SURFACE SHIELD ROOFING
contact // 396-9599
web // www.surfaceshieldroofing.com
email // surfaceshield@hawaii.rr.com