The Value and Purpose of Infrared Scanning

Roof leaks can develop for many reasons such as improper installation, design and maintenance. No matter the cause, roof leaks can be destructive and costly. Moisture and water that enters a flat roof system can often times remain and rarely dries. The trapped moisture causes the roof materials to degrade and the roof to fail prematurely.

It is recommended that an infrared scan, a non-destructive detection of moisture, be conducted within the first year after completion of installation to determine how well the system is performing. This first year inspection can help determine if moisture was built into the roof system during installation. This timeframe would allow repairs to be done and taken care of within the warranty period provided by the roofer.

Infrared scans should be part of your roof maintenance management system and conducted periodically depending on the age of the roof. Such inspections can pickup moisture problems while still manageable, prevent costly repairs and maintain the thermal value of the roofing system.

Infrared scanning is just one of the many preventative services offered by Jottan. For more information, visit www.jottan.com or call (800) 364-4234.

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Rising Energy Costs Impact on Roofing Trends

According to a report published on March 21, 2013 by BBC Research of Wellesley, MA, as energy costs continue to rise, the ability of roofing materials to reduce utility bills will begin to play a much larger role in helping to calculate the actual cost-effectiveness of the roofing system.

What types of roofing systems are rising in popularity in order to meet the demand that roofing systems become part of an overall plan to reduce energy costs? The BBC Research report states that by 2017 there will be significant increases in green roofing systems as well as energy-efficient reflective roofing product alternatives.

Let’s take a look at the different roofing systems and their benefits:
Green Roofs: According to Green Roofs for Healthy Living, green roofs offer a multitude of benefits. To name a few – prolonging the life of waterproofing membranes and the service life of heating, ventilation and HVAC systems through decreased use; improved air quality; and green roofs naturally filtrate rainwater for any water that happens to run off.

Reflective Roofing or Cool Roofs: The Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) states that the most obvious advantage of this feature is lower energy use and, therefore, reduced utility bills. Additional benefits of cool roofs include increased life of the roof, reduced HVAC system size, increased building comfort and reduction in urban heat island effect. If you’re not ready for a new roof but want to go ‘cool’ you can have a professional install a cool roof reflective coating.

Since not all roofing systems are all things to all buildings, be sure that the roofing company with whom you contract is experienced and knowledgeable in what type of system will work best for your region, climate, building type and design.