Roof replacement projects not only keep institutional and commercial facilities dry and safe from the elements, they also can help facilities reduce energy use and carbon emissions, a recent study revealed.
The Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association commissioned the study through consulting firm ICF International, showed that code-compliant levels of roof insulation installed above deck during a roof replacement project offers energy benefits.
The study looked at buildings such as schools, retail stores, strip malls, and small office buildings. The buildings were located in ASHRAE Climate Zones 2-6 in the United States and Canada. The analysis found roof replacements:
Are life-cycle economical under various conditions even when subjected to higher installation costs and discount rates.
Support the transition to building electrification through a reduction in natural gas fossil fuel use and improvement in energy efficiency.
Support building performance standards and carbon emissions reduction goals by offering a cost-effective tool to help building owners reduce energy use and lower carbon footprint.
Annual energy saving examples in climate zones around the country, when buildings are equipped with code-compliant roofs, are estimated at:
For more analysis, click here.
Dave Lubach is managing editor, facility market.
