5 Ways To Make Your Roof Energy Efficient
While the main job of your home’s roof is to offer protection from the elements of Mother Nature, it is also greatly responsible for your home’s energy efficiency. Thus, if you don’t pay attention to certain aspects of your roof, you could find yourself paying higher energy prices throughout the year. If you don’t want to do this, then it’s time to maximize your roof’s energy efficiency. To do so, here are five things you may want to try to make your roof energy efficient.
Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials
If it is time for your home to get a new roof, this is the perfect time to make the switch to roofing materials that have higher levels of energy efficiency. While asphalt shingles can do a good job at this, more people are opting instead for metal roofing. Featuring a reflective coating, metal roofing does not absorb large amounts of heat from the sun, which helps to reduce the energy costs you would have for cooling your home.
Some reasons to switch to energy-efficient roofing materials include:
1. They help keep your home cooler in the summer, reducing the need for air conditioning.
2. They last longer than traditional roofing materials.
3. They are more environmentally friendly because they can be recycled.
4. They can reduce your home’s energy consumption by up to 40%.
5. Many energy-efficient roofing materials come with a warranty.
Attic Insulation
When you are consulting with roofing professionals, like Tillotson Enterprise Inc, about your roof’s energy efficiency, you will learn that insulating your attic can help minimize energy consumption year-round. By having your attic properly insulated, it will create a barrier that reduces the heat transfer between the interior and exterior of your home, ultimately reducing the need for heating and cooling.
What are the types of attic insulation materials
There are many types of attic insulation, but the most common are fiberglass batts, mineral wool batts, cellulose insulation, and spray foam insulation.
What is the cost of attic insulation?
The cost of attic insulation can vary depending on the type and amount of insulation you choose to have installed. Generally, fiberglass batts are one of the more affordable options, while spray foam insulation is one of the most expensive. However, the long-term savings you will see from having your attic insulated will likely outweigh the initial cost.
Shingle Color
If you are selecting shingles for your home’s roof, consider light-colored shingles instead of traditional dark shingles. Lighter shingles will absorb far less heat, helping your home stay much cooler on hot days. Dark-colored shingles absorb a tremendous amount of heat, raising your home’s interior temperature, and causing you to run your A/C system much more often.
Proper Ventilation
A great way to increase energy efficiency for your roof is to make sure it has the proper ventilation since this will allow for the proper airflow between the attic and your home’s exterior. To do so, have vents installed along low points of your roof, while also having vents on higher spots to let rising heat escape. Professionals such as a roof repair contractor in Denver will know if your attic is properly vented and can give you tips on where to place the vent.
Who can you call to have a vent installed?
If you need help having vents installed on your roof, you can contact a roofing professional. They will be able to install the proper number and type of vents needed to ensure your roof is properly ventilated. You can also opt to call a home improvement company. Just be sure they are licensed and bonded in case there were to be any mishaps.
Solar Shingles
Finally, consider making the switch to solar shingles. Though they cost more than most roofing materials, they are made small enough so that they look similar to traditional roofing shingles. Consider the most energy-efficient roofing option as this can be a great investment for your home.
Benefits to Solar Shingles
Standard benefits:
– You will reduce your reliance on the grid
– You may be eligible for tax credits or rebates (Talk to your CPA first)
– They can increase the value of your home
– They are durable and long-lasting
Emotional benefits:
– Feel good about using sustainable energy
– Reduce your carbon footprint
Drawbacks of Solar Shingles
– They are more expensive than traditional roofing materials
– They require more maintenance
– They may not be eligible for the same tax credits or rebates as traditional solar panels (talk to your CPA)
No matter which of these suggestions you try, there is no doubt you will soon have a great-looking roof and have your roof energy efficient, saving you more money year-round on your energy bill.
