The right roofing materials, insulation, and ventilation can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency. Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading an existing roof, selecting energy-efficient materials can lower your utility bills and carbon footprint. These materials can also enhance interior comfort by making it easier to maintain temperatures.
Consider a Cool Roof
If you need to replace your roof, consider a cool roof. This type of roof is able to reflect considerably more sunlight than a conventional one. By reflecting light away from your home, the interior should remain cool during warm and sunny summer days. During the summer, a conventional roof can reach between 120 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit. With a more reflective roof, you can reduce the temperature of the materials by over 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s possible to install cool roofs on residential homes and commercial buildings. This type of installation offers many advantages. For example, it should reduce your energy bills by lowering your air conditioning needs. If you don’t need to run your air conditioner as often, you could downsize to a smaller one that offers better cooling efficiency.
Decreasing the temperature of your roof during the summer might also extend the lifespan of the materials. Some of the materials for a cool roof come with rebates as well. If you want to install a cool roof on your home, it’s a good idea to consider the color. White roofing materials can reflect up to 90% of sunlight. You can also pair darker materials with special pigments and coatings that reflect infrared radiation. These coatings can reflect up to 60% of sunlight.
Potential Roofing Materials
From asphalt shingles to clay tiles, many roofing materials can improve your home’s efficiency. Consider the pros and cons of each to decide which material is right for your home.
Asphalt Shingles
The most common roofing material on the market is asphalt. For many years, asphalt shingles were heat-absorbent and non-reflective. However, some modern shingles use solar-reflecting granules that have high reflectance values. If you have an older roof that’s made with asphalt shingles, you can reduce your carbon footprint and utility bills with an upgrade.
There are many reasons to choose this material. For example, asphalt shingles are more affordable than other materials. However, more efficient shingles might come with a higher price. During the installation process, only a small amount of preparation is necessary to fit the material to your roof. Keep in mind that asphalt shingles pair well with any architectural style.
A potential drawback to using asphalt shingles is that they aren’t as efficient as other materials. They’re also vulnerable to high winds. When installing asphalt shingles, you may need to wait until the outdoor temperature rises. Installing an asphalt roof during the winter can damage the shingles.
Tile Roofing
Tile roofs usually offer high energy efficiency. However, there are numerous types of tile roofs, each of which has a different heat reflectivity rating. If you select a material that doesn’t offer as much efficiency, you can add a reflective coating even after the installation process occurs.
While some tile roofs absorb a lot of heat, the air can flow under the materials, which allows them to release heat. A well-maintained tile roof can last for more than 100 years. Materials like concrete and clay can withstand high winds and hail. Since tile isn’t a synthetic material, it’s better for the environment. If you want a material that reduces your carbon footprint, tile is a good option.
The installation process involves measuring tiles, laying them down in a specific pattern, and sealing any gaps. Even though most types of tiling provide high durability, some of them can break from a heavy impact. While you can use tiles on any roof, they are most suitable for steep-sloped ones.
Types of Tile Roofs
Along with clay and concrete, there are numerous materials that you can use to make a tile roof. Some metal roofs are made with tiles of copper, zinc, steel, or aluminum. Clay tiles last for a long time but come with a higher cost. Concrete tiles weigh less than clay and are available in many colors and styles.
If you choose slate for your tile roof, this material is highly resistant to pests, fire, and weather. It’s also aesthetically pleasing and can provide your home with a more natural appearance.
Composite tiles use polyethylene materials to replicate the appearance of concrete or clay tiles. The main advantage of a composite roof is that it doesn’t break easily. A tiled appearance is also possible with solar panels. With photovoltaic tiles, you can significantly reduce your home’s electricity consumption.
Metal Roofing
Residential homes and commercial buildings can also take advantage of metal roofing, which is the most efficient option. Metal roofs don’t require much maintenance. They can also last for over 50 years. The reason why metal is an energy-efficient roofing material is because it’s highly reflective. Even after you install a metal roof on your home, you can add a reflective coating for higher efficiency.
The longevity of a metal roof depends on the specific material you choose. For example, steel and aluminum can last for up to 50 years. Copper offers the most durability and may last for more than 70 years. Consider the weather conditions in your area when estimating the lifespan of your roof.
Unlike other materials, metal roofs have high resistance to fading, curling, and cracking. They also have considerable fire and wind resistance.
Potential Drawbacks to Metal Roofs
While metal roofs are highly beneficial and efficient, they have a few downsides. For example, the upfront costs are often higher. Steel and aluminum are more affordable than zinc and copper. When estimating costs, consider the need for flashing and underlayment.
The potential for noise is also high, which is why it’s a good idea to pair your roof with ample insulation. You can expect the noise to be at its loudest during a hailstorm or thunderstorm. The pitch of your roof can also impact how loud everything is. Steeper roofs are usually quieter.
Best Roof Colors
Even if you don’t select a cool roof for your home, lighter materials can reflect more heat and sunlight than darker ones. Along with white materials, consider light brown and gray options. If you have a black or dark gray roof, you’ll experience a high amount of heat absorption, which can make it challenging to maintain temperatures during the summer. The color of your roofing material isn’t as important if your property receives an ample amount of shade from nearby trees.
Are you looking to upgrade to an energy-efficient roof? At The Roof Detective, we offer comprehensive roof solutions to homeowners and local businesses in Columbus, OH. Our slogan is “Get the truth about your roof.” We strive to meet the needs of our customers and provide quality craftsmanship during every roofing project.
You’ll receive transparent communication throughout every stage of the installation process. Our team also offers roofing inspection and repair services to keep existing roofs in good shape. Call The Roof Detective today to schedule a roof replacement for your Columbus home.
