When evaluating roofing solutions, you should take into consideration what the roofing system will deliver in terms of real and lasting value. In other words, the roofing system opted for should not need to be replaced for at over 10 years.
Developments in white solar reflective elastomeric roof coating over the course of the past decade, primarily developed on Las Cruces homes in New Mexico, have resulted in a long-lasting roofing system that addresses the need for energy-efficient roofing. These roof coatings provide three primary benefits – sustainability, durability and solar reflectivity. When combined, these three benefits provide homeowners with reduced energy costs, value and protection.
Such a roofing system provides relief for the environment as well as the wallet. When high quality white solar reflective elastomeric roof coating products are correctly applied, they provide a protective barrier that can stand up to some of the harshest elements and last for years.
Reflective roof coatings act like mirrors, reflecting back the sun’s energy. When first applied, solar reflective roof coatings can provide a solar reflectance of around 80%.
Standard asphalt roofing reflects only around 25% of sunlight. This is because it is normally covered with a gray mineral with a rough texture and a black substrate which causes heat to be absorbed.
The solar reflectivity of white elastomeric roof coatings can reduce the surface temperature of asphalt roof surfaces if it is applied on to it. The reduction in roof temperature associated with white elastomeric roof coatings equate to lower cooling costs to homeowners and promote the life of the roof.
In comparison to white elastomeric solar reflective roofing systems, the installation of built up asphalt roofs is an energy consuming process that results in a roof which has a relatively short service life of 8-10 years.
It is estimated that 7% to 10% of landfills are comprised of roofing waste due to the fact that traditional built up asphalt roofing is not sustainable and requires frequent replacement.
All that is required to extend the life of a white solar reflective roof coating is periodic cleaning and an additional coating application as per the manufacturers recommendations.
As solar reflective roof coating systems only require supplemental coats to extend their life once the initial system has been installed, they help reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills associated with traditional roofing tear-off.
The combination of durability and energy savings make elastomeric solar reflective Las Cruces roofing systems an environmentally friendly and sustainable roofing solution.