Why You Should Design an Energy-Efficient Roof

There are countless benefits of installing an energy-efficient roof.

For one, it can dramatically reduce your heating and cooling bills. It can extend the life of your roof – excessive heat, in particular, does a lot of damage to your roof.

This kind of roof will also make your home more comfortable to live in. You’ll reduce your footprint on the environment and of course, add lots of value to your home. That’s good to know, especially if you plan on selling your home at any point in the near future.

How to Design an Energy-Efficient Roof

When planning your new roof, there are a few factors to keep in mind to help make your roof as energy-efficient as possible.

For one, take a look at the performance ratings. There are a few measures that are used, including solar reflectance (which refers to how much of the sun’s energy is reflected by the roof) and thermal emittance (which measures how well the roof releases the heat that it does absorb).

Also, take a look at Energy Star savings. These are advertised on practically every package of roofing material you can buy. This will give you a good idea of how much money you can save by installing energy-efficient roofing materials.

Remember that your new roof might come with a higher price tag – but the cost savings will be evident in the long run. Some people claim that energy-efficient roofs, particularly “cool roofs” that are designed to withstand the heat, last longer than traditional products.

Best Types of Roofs for Cold Climates

When the mercury drops, these types of roofs tend to withstand the deep freeze best.

Slate Tile

Slate is not only attractive – it’s also durable. It’s the top pick for cold climates because it remains unscathed even after heavy snowfall or thick layers of ice.

Because these roofs have a high density, they serve as excellent insulators for the home, too.

Metal Roof

Metal is another great choice for colder climates. It is lightweight and smooth, making it easy for ice and snow to slide right off. It’s easy to install snow guards on this kind of roof, too.

Metal can be a bit tricky to install in order to maintain the proper temperature so your house stays warm all winter. However, when done correctly, your heating bills can be dramatically lower.

Shingles

Shingles are a classic choice  – and while they shouldn’t be your first go-to (they can crack in harsh climates), they are durable and affordable. Most types of shingles offer up to 30 years of protection in chilly seasons.

For the most “cold-hardy” shingles, choose those that are heavyweight versions. These offer about four times more energy-saving benefits.

Best Types of Roofs for Hot Climates

And when the mercury rises, turn to these four materials for a cool roofing system that never breaks a sweat.

Metal

Metal again! This type of roof does quite well with hot weather, especially if it is enhanced with reflective paint or coating. Not to mention that it’s fire-resistant!

Metal has other things going for it, too. It withstands strong winds and hail with ease – since everything tends to be in one piece, it holds its own against heavy gusts a bit better. Metal is one of the most energy-efficient materials, leading to up to 25% less energy used.

Finally, it’s versatile. There are metal roofing design schemes that work for just about everyone and every style of home.

Slate

Slate is made of stone, so it also offers decent protection against heat. It maintains roof temperatures relatively consistently and is a good choice for areas that have roofing regulations due to lack of rain.

Clay

Clay shingles have a gorgeous aesthetic, but they’re also thermal- and fire-resistant. They are eco-friendly and offer the ideal level of roof temperature maintenance.

EPDM Installation

Also known as rubber roofing, EPDM is both easy to install and lightweight. It needs no reinforcement, since it’s lightweight, and has minimal seams – something that helps to lock in energy while also reducing the likelihood of damage or leaking.

Although the material is black (which might make you assume it will absorb heat), this material isn’t easily damaged by UV rays. This makes it a top contender for hot, sunny weather.

Save Energy With the Right Energy-Efficient Roof

If you’re looking to make your home more energy-efficient, installing a new roof is a great place to start. Thanks to the latest advancements in roofing technology, there are now a variety of energy-efficient roofs that can help keep your home comfortable all year long – and save you money on your energy bills.

Not sure where to start? Check out our list of tips for choosing an energy-efficient roof for your home. And if you’re ready to get started, contact Ashton McGee Restoration Group.

We’re up to date on all the latest and greatest technology in energy-efficient roofs. We’re happy to answer any questions you have and to get your roofing upgrade scheduled.

Keep your cool all summer long – and leave the details to Ashton McGee, the best residential roofer in Minnesota. Call us – We got this, y’all!