When it comes to energy efficiency, your roof is one of the most important features of your home. The wrong roofing materials and improper installation can lead to heat gain during the summer and loss of interior heat during the winter.
If you’re going to repair or replace your roof, it’s vital that you evaluate roofing materials and use proper installation techniques to optimize your home’s energy efficiency.
Roofing Materials for Superior Energy Efficiency
Not all roofing materials are made equal when it comes to enhancing energy efficiency. Ideally, you want to choose a roof system/type that create a strong barrier between your home’s interior and the outdoors. This prevents energy losses and helps inhibits the effects of exterior environmental factors.
Experts recommend these roofing materials for superior energy efficiency:
- Metal roofing – Not only does metal inherently absorb less heat than shingles, but it also naturally reflects heat away. This dramatically reduces summertime heat gain, helping you slash cooling costs.
- Clay and slate roofing – Both of these materials boost energy efficiency by promoting natural airflow on the roof’s surface, which keeps your home cooler. Slate roofing is the more durable option, as clay can shatter in a heavy hailstorm.
If you’re still drawn to the relative affordability of roof shingles, one thing you should do is apply a special reflective coating. Without a reflective coasting, asphalt shingles will absorb upwards of 75 percent of the heat that strikes them – and most of that heat will end up penetrating your home. By contract, shingles treated with a coating reflect about 80% of the heat they’re exposed to, boosting home energy efficiency in all seasons.
Installation Techniques for an Energy-Efficient Roof
Beyond ensuring that your roofing materials are properly installed, fully sealed and protected with reflective coatings, you can also benefit by adding roof insulation and building a radiant barrier in your attic. Both insulation and radiant barriers inhibit heat transfer, helping you dramatically reduce heating and cooling costs.
Professional roof installation is the best way to ensure your roof performs at peak energy efficiency. Shop around for a local, licensed & insured quality roofing contractor with experience and expertise in the type of roofing material you decide to go with!
We Can Help!
At All Roofing Solutions, we offer affordable services, from roof repair to complete replacement, to customers throughout Delaware and southeastern Pennsylvania. We’re a family-owned business with 15 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing. We are passionate about providing great service and excellent workmanship!
To get your free estimate, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania. Don’t forget to ask about our discount of $400 off any complete roofing job!
Don’t hesitate – fall is the best time to handle all your roofing and re-roofing needs!