When it comes to making your home energy-efficient, you may think about things like replacing old windows and upgrading your HVAC system. But did you know that the roof of your home can also help reduce energy consumption? Keep reading to learn how the right roof can improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Ways Your Roof Can Save You Energy
A properly-installed and well-insulated roof can help keep your home’s temperature stable. The following are some of its features that play a significant role in keeping your home’s energy costs low:
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Radiant Barrier
A radiant barrier is a thin layer of highly reflective material, usually aluminum, that blocks the sun’s heat. This, in turn, keeps the attic and other parts of your house from reaching hotter temperatures in the summer months. Many roofing companies can install a radiant barrier on your new or existing roof, which will dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your home.
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Ventilation
The right amount of ventilation in your home is essential to maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce energy bills. Without it, the attic can become too hot or even moisture-filled, leading to mold growth, structural damage and higher energy costs.
There are several types of roof vents, such as static vents (also known as mushroom vents), turbine vents, power fans, off-ridge/off-eave/gable vents and more. A skilled roofing company can install the appropriate type of intake and exhaust vents for your home’s needs to ensure adequate air flow in and out of the attic.
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Insulation
Proper insulation is important if you want to keep your home’s temperature even and keep your energy costs low. The most common type of insulation used on roofs is fiberglass batt, which can be installed directly between the rafters or on top of existing roof sheathing. Spray foam insulation is another option. Once it is put in place, it expands and fills even the smallest spaces in your attic.
Insulation makes it harder for air to get into your home and stops warm or cool air from escaping through the attic. This makes it easier to keep your home at the right temperature while using less energy to heat or cool it.
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Shingle Color
The color of the shingles you choose for your roof can make a significant difference in the energy efficiency of your home. Roofs with lighter-colored shingles reflect sunlight and absorb less heat, thereby reducing air-conditioning usage in warmer months. In Florida, light gray or beige shingles are recommended, as these colors stay cooler than darker shades even when exposed to direct sunlight.
What to Do if Your Roof Is No Longer Energy-Efficient
If your roof is more than ten years old, it is possible that it is no longer energy-efficient and costs you a lot on your energy bills. Warning signs include “balding” or buckling shingles, uncomfortable temperatures in the attic, and inadequate insulation. Once you notice any of these, it’s time to schedule an inspection with your trusted residential roof repair contractor. They will examine your roof’s current condition and determine the types of upgrades that will help in maintaining your home’s energy efficiency.
In addition to the radiant barrier, ventilation and insulation discussed above, there are several other ways you can make your roof more energy-efficient. Investing in asphalt shingles with reflective properties is one example. Known as cool roofing, these products come with solar-reflecting granules to help decrease the amount of heat transferred into your home. These shingles can help make your home more comfortable, and is worth considering if you are planning to replace your old roof soon.
Another way to boost your home’s energy efficiency via your roof is to invest in solar panels. GAF, in fact, has the GAF Solar Energy roof, with its solar panels installed directly on the decking of the roofing system for that low-profile appearance and water-shedding capabilities. If you’re interested in taking on this investment, be sure to work with a GAF-certified residential roof repair contractor.
What Are the Other Benefits of Getting a New Roof?
Aside from energy savings, investing in a new roof has many other advantages that can benefit your entire home.
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Improved Protection
A quality roofing system helps protect your home from the elements. The right type of shingles and adequate ventilation ensure the attic stays dry throughout the year, while improved insulation enhances indoor air quality and prevents structural damage. Furthermore, selecting products with ratings for wind resistance means the system can work even better when exposed to strong winds and severe thunderstorms.
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Increased Property Value and Curb Appeal
Getting a new roof can increase your home’s resale value and make it more attractive to potential buyers. In fact, many home buyers look for residential properties that are well-maintained and energy-efficient, both of which are hallmarks of a recently replaced roof. This feature alone can help you get top dollar for your home should you decide to sell it in the future. Not only is a well-maintained roof aesthetically pleasing, but it also sends the message that you take excellent care of your property.
Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor
To make sure you get the results you want and maximize the energy savings potential of your new roof, it’s best to hire a licensed contractor with the knowledge and skills to complete the installation. Professional installers are also well-versed with the local climate conditions and have access to high-quality materials and specialized tools. With these, you can rest assured your new roof can withstand whatever type of weather.
For your residential roof repair and replacement needs, turn to [company_name]. Our expert team of consultants, installers and customer-service professionals are ready to help you repair, replace or enhance your roofing system to best protect your investment for years to come. Having taken care of customers all over South Florida for years, we tailor our services to our surroundings, allowing us to continue solidifying our place as a roofing authority in the local area. To learn more about what we can do for you, give us a call today at (941) 217-2411, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation inspection and estimate.
