An energy efficient roof can help your home in so many ways, but there’s a few things to consider when choosing the right roof for you. Below is everything you should know.
Modern home owners are looking for more ways to make their home energy efficient. There’s so many things you can do, from recycling to reducing your HVAC usage, but did you know that your roof can be energy efficient?
If you’re due to replace your roof, read this guide to energy efficient roofs. They’re more attainable than you would think.
What Makes An Energy Efficient Roof?
A roof is energy efficient when it can reflect sunlight and heat back into the atmosphere. With many roofs, you’ll see that they absorb the heat and take into the attic, where it seeps into the rest of the home. It’s not ideal, as you’ll then need to run your AC higher in order to remove this hot air from your home.
If a roof is energy efficient though, it’ll reflect that heat instead in the warmer months. This means you’ll spend less on energy in the summer, ensuring that you use less energy. That’s why they’re so popular now, as they save home owners a lot of money in the long run.
Insulating A Roof
It’s just not what’s on top of the roof that makes it energy efficient, though. You’ll also need to consider how it’s insulated. In the colder months, you want to keep heat inside your home. As you know, heat rises. It makes its way to the attic, where it can be lost through the roof.
If it’s properly insulated though, then you won’t lose that heat. You’ll be able to use much less energy to heat your home, making it even more energy efficient.
Which Roofing Types Are Most Energy Efficient?
The type of roof you choose will have a large effect on its energy efficiency. Which roofing style should you choose?
Shingles:
Shingles are a common roofing style, as they’re affordable and come in all kinds of shapes and styles. Asphalt shingles are the standard, as they’re available in many colors and are more affordable than most. They’re good as they allow for air circulation in the home, making it easier to heat and cool as needed.
Asphalt shingles are prone to coming loose in the wind and rain though, and can be prone to algae.
The other option is shaker shingles. The wooden shingles are chosen by lots of home owners for their aesthetic appeal. They look good when put on the roof, and only look better as the wood matures.
They’re also a good option for energy efficiency too, which many don’t realize. You will have more maintenance to do if you do use these shingles, though.
Slate:
Slate roofing is another popular option due to its looks. On a roof, it looks fantastic and of course will last for a lifetime. If you’re looking for a long lasting option, this is it.
Slate is energy efficient as it’s so dense, it keeps heat in your home. The problem with slate, though, is that it is an expensive option. If you’re willing to spend the money though, it could be for you.
Tile:
Tile is another option that many home owners love. It looks great, and you can buy it in all kinds of colors and styles. It’s the best option for homes in warmer climates, as it’s designed to reflect heat back.
However, it’s not as insulating as other roofing styles, so it’s better if you’re trying to keep heat out, rather than in your home.
Metal:
Metal roofing was something that was only used in commercial buildings, but now is used increasingly for homes. With more attractive metal roofing options out there, people are choosing to use it for their homes. There are lots of advantages to them.
The roofing comes in sheets, so it’s easy and quick to fit together. You can easily put waterproof membranes under it, to keep water and moisture out. They’re highly fire rated too, making them one of the most fire safe roofing types out there. Finally, they’re lightweight and help reflect light, making them very energy efficient.
They’re a great option, but be aware that like all roofing types, they come with some drawbacks. Single sections are harder to replace, and they can become dented if hit with hail or debris. If you’re dedicated to making your home energy efficient though, a metal roof is the best option for you.
What To Consider When Choosing A Roof
Now you know what types of roof are more energy efficient, you’ll need to choose the right one. The one you choose makes all the difference to your home, and your energy bills. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing:
Price:
Firstly, you’ll need to work out what your budget is for your new roof. If you’re on a tight budget, a shingled roof is going to be a better option than slate, for example. When considering this, do keep in mind that you should save money on energy in the long run, so factor that into your costs.
Insulation:
Will you need to re-insulate your attic? Some homes have insulation that’s insufficient or damaged. If that’s the case, you’ll want to have this done to get the most out of your new roof.
Color:
The color of your roof is more important than you know. Darker colors absorb heat, while lighter colors reflect it. With this in mind, pick a color that’s going to work for you.
Longevity:
When picking a roof, you do need to consider how long the roof will last. A hardier roof, such as a metal one, will last much longer than a shingled roof. If a roof lasts longer, it creates less waste, as it doesn’t need to be replaced as quickly.
Conclusion
It’s easy to find an energy efficient roof that fits your needs and budget. When you have it installed, you’ll see that you’ll save so much money and energy in your home. Now is the time to consider the right energy efficient roof for you.
