Membrane roofing systems are just typical systems. The membrane is crucial, but other parts within it, such as fasteners, vapor barriers, and insulation, are also valuable.
Experts working on these systems should not ignore good commercial roof insulation since the perfect pick will reduce energy costs and the way it is installed impacts the useful life of the roof. If you need the job done right call Anderson Metal Roofing and Shingles today.
What is Commercial Roof Insulation?
This is membrane of material put below the system to develop a heat barrier between the interior of the building and the exterior. It plays a significant role in cutting down heating and cooling costs for both residential and commercial buildings.
The main target is to reduce the transfer of heat between the internal and external temperatures.
Commercial insulation should be a priority, especially in places that undergo extreme climate variations. The more you aim to maintain optimal building temperature, the more you have to consider putting proper roof insulation and the specific R-value the first time. It will lead to massive energy savings.
Forms of Commercial Roof Insulation
You will come across a plethora of insulation materials and they are differentiated by the in the type of material, R-value, method of installation, and brand. An expert roofing contractor should quickly point out the best roof insulation for a specific project.
Here are some of the common types of commercial roof insulation you will get today;
- Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso)
- Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
- Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
- Mineral Wool
- Spray Foam
- Fiberglass
Performance of Commercial Roof Insulation
The materials that bring the insulation effect are put just beneath the roof membrane, and the procedure depends on the type of roof and the specifications from the manufacturer. Several materials can be used to bring this insulation effect, for instance, rigid boards and liquid applied foam.
Important things to look at when analyzing insulation are:
Thermal Resistance (R-value)
The R-value is the measure of how an insulation material blocks the flow of heat. This value in a commercial roof combines all the different materials combined in the roof system, but note that the insulation material contributes a considerable percentage of the R-value. When looking at different values, understand that the highest represents the most effective material. Remember that a specific material’s R-value will reduce with time as the roofing insulation becomes old.
It is not prudent to go for the material with the highest R-value as the type of environment and building come into play as well. This value is consistent with the statute of diminishing returns; after a specific width of the material, you do not get the same level of benefit from the other insulation layers. Moreover, excessive insulation can put more pressure on the roof membrane as a result of thermal shock.
Impact Resistance and Durability
Durability is a vital aspect of any commercial roofing and outdoor materials as well. Nature throws terrible things at us, and you need all your roof parts to stay strong and keep your building safe. Your membrane will act as the waterproof layer and initial line of defense during impact resistance when keeping your building safe, next is the insulation. Insulation has a significant role in the impact resistance of the entire system and should withstand any imminent impact on the roof.
Impact resistance for commercial roofs is a developing aspect in the industry with respect to standards rolled out recently. Excellent choice of insulation and system structure are critical to any systems impact performance to debris, hail, and other things dropping on your roof.
Insulation Fire Safety
Fireproof materials can have a massive role in keeping fires out and reducing their damage. Proper fire testing and certifications are needed if you need the roof to last for a long time and keep you safe. When picking a fire-resistant roof system, the system should have a UL Class A and fireproof rating or FM Class 1.
Keeping your commercial roof insulation safe
Regardless of how good your insulating material is, it helps to keep it dry. When moisture finds its way into the insulation material; it becomes saturated. The saturation makes the material hold more water, thus reducing its effectiveness. Insulation material that is wet from holding too much water can pass some of it to the roof and lead to leaks on other areas of your building, and it is easy to find a leak in your building and notice that the damaged membrane is a couple of feet away.
Roof insulation material that has a degraded R-value can reduce the uplift effect of the whole system, which poses a risk, especially if the place is windy. If it calls for it, utilize a vapor barrier to reduce moisture drive into the entire system from the inside. As of the outside, make use of a long-lasting, robust membrane that can keep the building safe and provide dry insulation that makes the most of its useful life.
Best Practices in Commercial Roof Insulation
When dealing with commercial roof insulation, it is useful to adhere to the maker of the membrane’s recommendation and pick a product that matches your desired application. This will see to it that your layer has an extended life, and it will protect your warranty coverage.
If you have any concerns and queries regarding commercial roof installation, types of insulation and any other parts of the roofing systems, contact Anderson Metal Roofing and Shingles.
