What Is An R-Value?

When you consider what makes a commercial roof more energy efficient, the first thought should be how well insulated it is. Ask yourself this: does my commercial building stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, without driving my HVAC bills through the roof?

If the answer is “no”, then the next step is identifying how well insulated your roofing material is. How can you do this? You’ll need to calculate its R-value.

First, Let’s Discuss What the Term “R-Value” Means

When we assess the R-value of a material, we’re determining its ability to restrict thermal movement through it. In fact, the “R” in “R-value” stands for resistance to heat flow. Essentially, all you need to remember is the higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

To calculate the R-value, you simply add together the total thickness (in inches) of each insulating material within your roofing system: “For each different material, multiply the thickness by the standard R-value per inch for that material. Add the results for all the materials together to get the total R-value for the roof assembly,” (Roof Online).

Why Worry About Your Building’s R-Value?

The more roof insulation your commercial building has installed, the less you spend on monthly heating and A/C bills. When your building requires less energy to keep customers and employees comfortable, you save money. If you’re constantly cranking up your thermostat to maintain a comfortable environment, it’s costing you money.

Depending on where you live, you’ll also need to take into account local building codes. If changes to your building insulation amounts or type would be beneficial, you’ll want to ensure that work performed is in compliance with the local building codes.

How to Improve Your Building’s R-Value

There are many effective ways to help improve your commercial building’s roof insulation. For instance, a spray foam roofing system is both low maintenance and energy efficient. It typically has an R-value of up to 6.6 per square inch of thickness, and it can often be applied over existing roofing systems, which works well if you’re not looking to re-roof.

Choosing the best option for your building that’s both effective and affordable will require the expertise of an experienced roofing contractor.

At SUNVEK, we can answer your questions, walk you through your options and get you a fast, affordable quote to help you make the best, cost-effective decision. To get started, contact our team.

For more than three decades, we’ve helped commercial property owners and businesses improve their building’s R-value, cut down on monthly energy costs and feel confident about the integrity and functionality of their roofing systems.

Get started today!