With Christchurch’s ever-changing weather, keeping your commercial building warm in winter and cool in summer is key to staying comfortable. And, when it comes to making the most of your HVAC system, energy efficiency plays a big role in the knock-on effect to your power bill.
As Christchurch roofers, we meet many building owners and find that a surprising number of people don’t realise how much their roof affects the efficiency of their premises. A roof that's well taken care of will dramatically reduce the amount of energy wasted on controlling internal temperatures, keeping users comfortable and costs down.
In this article, we'll explain how roof maintenance can help make your building more energy-efficient. We'll also share tips for optimising your roof further for those who want to improve their efficiency beyond the basics.
Common Roofing Issues That Impact Efficiency
As Christchurch roofers, we see a few typical roofing problems we see on a regular basis. If not addressed, these can lead to a spike in your energy bill and even potential damage.
Leaky roofs are among the worst culprits, not just in terms of water ingress but also in terms of airflow. Even a small leak can let warm air escape in the winter, forcing your heating system to work harder. During summer, these same leaks can let in hot air, pushing your cooling system to its limits. Keep in mind that, depending on the location of the leak, it may not lead to a moisture problem. This is worth mentioning because while leaks that lead to dampness are quickly identified, those under eaves or in other dry spaces can go largely unnoticed unless you’re actively looking.
Poor insulation is another common issue that impacts energy efficiency. If your roof doesn’t have enough insulation, it can’t hold the heat in during winter or out during summer. As you’d expect, this means your heating and cooling systems have to use more energy to keep indoor temperatures comfortable.
Last but not least, improper ventilation can cause heat and moisture to build up in your attic or roof space. This not only makes it harder to regulate your building's temperature but can also lead to dampness and mould, which bring their own set of problems.
By being aware of these issues and spotting them early, you can rectify the problem and save yourself bigger headaches (and energy bills) in the future.
Tips for Improving Your Roof’s Energy Efficiency
Now that we’ve addressed some of the common culprits that decrease efficiency let’s discuss ways that you can increase your roof’s ability to regulate temperature and positively impact your power bill.
The suggestions below range from basic maintenance, which is a must for any building owner, to advanced options that may suit those wanting to invest their asset. If you’re unsure what the best course of action is for your unique circumstances, the team at FHS Roofing would be happy to come out for an obligation-free consultation to discuss your options.
Identify Potential Issues
When it comes to the health of your roof, the best place to start is with a thorough check-up, especially if you’ve not had a routine maintenance schedule. A leak investigation and repair appointment allows us to identify and fix any potential issues that may have occurred to your roof. Whether you’ve noticed a physical water leak during wet weather or suspect that air is escaping, impacting your power bill, our professional team can address the problem.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Even with an experienced team like FHS Roofing having searched for issues with your roof, regular checks are still crucial. A lot can happen in a short period of time, whether it’s been a particularly blustery winter or a stray branch has fallen over summer. By booking a regular inspection and maintenance appointment, we can spot potential problems before they become major issues, saving time and money in the long run.
Insulation & Ventilation Upgrades
What goes on beneath the roof itself is another important factor in improving energy efficiency. As we discussed earlier, poor insulation or ventilation will work against your HVAC system, meaning that you’re constantly fighting an uphill battle to regulate your building’s internal temperatures. While we don’t deal in insulation and ventilation at FHS Roofing, if we suspect yours needs some attention, we can put you in touch with a reliable local team who can help.
Cool Roofing
If your building is a particular sun trap, either due to its location or structure, a cool roof may be a good option. Used in warmer climates around the world, “cool roofs” are designed to reflect the heat of the sun instead of absorbing it. Reroofing in a light colour such as white or cream, or even simply repainting in these colours, can dramatically impact your building’s ability to avoid the sun’s heat.
Solar Power
Another great option for buildings that get a lot of sun is to consider installing a solar system. A “two birds with one stone” solution, you both deflect some of the heat from the building itself while capturing the sun's rays to generate your own electricity. While solar panels generally won’t harness enough energy to power a commercial building entirely, they’re well worth exploring for substantial cost savings. And, with a growing demand for green commercial spaces, they can even increase your property’s value.
By following even just one or two of the steps listed here, you'll already be on track to significantly boost your building's energy efficiency.
Start Saving Energy Today, Partner with the Right Roofing Company
Choosing a dependable, experienced roofing company like FHS Roofing ensures that you always receive the best advice, materials, and workmanship possible. We’re committed to helping Christchurch business owners improve their buildings' energy efficiency through our range of quality roofing solutions and maintenance services.
If you want to get proactive about the health of your roof, contact FHS Roofing today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a more efficient building.
