KEC Metal Roofing

The metal roofing is now well underway as you can see from the photo.  I wanted to talk a little about the roof and how it contributes to a sustainable project in a few different ways, specifically as it relates to LEED.

There are 2 direct points within the LEED rating system affected by the roofing material selection on this project.  First is the Heat Island Effect.  Many buildings have dark colored roofs since they use asphalt shingles or black EPDM roofing membrane.  These roof materials absorb heat from the sun and then radiate that absorbed heat into the atmosphere.  Urban areas with more dense buildings and parking are typically hotter than rural areas with vegetated shade.

According to the EPA negetaive impacts associated with Heat Island Effect include:

• increased energy consumption
• elevated emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases
• compromised human health and comfort
• impaired water quality 

To earn the Heat Island Effect point for roofs, LEED requires roofing materials having a Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) equal to or greater than 29 for roofs with a pitch greater than 2:12; or equal to or greater than 78 for roofs less than or equal to a 2:12 pitch for a minimum of 75% of the roof surface.

The KEC is using PAC-CLAD Tite-Loc Plus standing seam aluminum metal roofing.  The color selection is Zinc  which has an SRI value of 30.

Additionally the PAC-CLAD Tite-Loc Plus material has a 26% post-consumer and 7% pre-consumer recycled content which contributes to the recycled content LEED point.

Using the PAC-CLAD Tite-Loc Plus in Zinc finish has indirect affects on other points as well.  For example a roof that reflects more of the suns heat will create less cooling load in the summer months and therefore result in less energy consumption and will then help optimize energy performance for the MEP systems.  You can find additional helpful information at the manufacturer's website.