Over the Top

Cool Savings with Cool Roof Technology

Submitted by Deveny Cay Wells, Editor, Coryell Roofing & Construction

We at Coryell Roofing hope you, our friends in the Arkansas educational system, are staying cool and enjoying your summer break. Speaking of staying cool, did you know that you live in the 9th hottest state in the nation—ranking even above the state of Arizona? In fact, from April to October, 7 months of the year, temperatures in the "the wonder state" range from the mid-70s to the mid-90s. Considering the 7 months of heat in your state, let's look at what matters when it comes to your roof and its effect on your cooling system and your school budget.

Roofing materials and color matter: Over time, UV rays degrade roofing materials, especially asphalt and tar. A degrading roof allows heat into your facility. Also, dark roofs can absorb as much as 90% of the sun's heat. According to the Department of Energy, “[c]onventional roofs can reach temperatures of 150° or more on a sunny summer afternoon.” The roof can transfer this heat through its surface to the building interior.

Heat transfer matters: Heat transferred from your roof to your interior forces your HVAC to work harder. Each year, you see this cost in higher-than-necessary electric bills. In the long-term, you see this cost in HVAC repairs and replacements.

The state of the economy matters: The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that U.S retail energy prices rose in 2021 at the fastest rate since 2008. Rates in 2022 are projected to continue to rise. HVAC supplier ABR Wholesaler's, Inc. writes that HVAC industry prices increased at historical rates in 2021 and will continue to increase in 2022. Some project unit increases as high as 56% by November.

Saving money matters: Most school budgets are strained. Knowing the condition of your facility's roof is taking one step toward possible savings. Looking into the benefits of cool roof technology is another. The Department of Energy lists the following ways a cool roof can benefit a building and its occupants:

• Reduce energy bills by decreasing air conditioning needs

• Help older, inefficient (or undersized) air conditioners provide enough cooling for today’s hotter summers

• Make it possible to downsize new or replacement air conditioning equipment, saving money and increasing cooling efficiency

• Improve indoor comfort and safety for spaces that are not air conditioned

• Decrease roof temperature, which may extend roof service life

Why not call today and ask for a free inspection by a certified roofing specialist educated in the newest energy-saving technologies! There may be some cool savings in your school’s future!