What Type of Roof Keeps A House Cooler?
Washington roofing contractors talk about energy-efficient roofing supply and roofing types.
When discussing the ins and outs of energy efficiency, people tend to think about lightbulbs, energy star appliances, even insulation, but one area of the home that is rarely talked about in the realm of energy efficiency is the roof. The roof is one of the areas of the home that can make a huge difference in energy savings with the proper materials. Consider that an energy-efficient roof can make as much as a 30% difference per month in energy costs. That is 30% per month, that’s a huge difference.
Least Efficient: Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common form of roof covering in the United States. Unfortunately, they also perform very poorly when it comes to energy efficiency. Asphalt tends to absorb heat rather than reflect it. Asphalt holds the heat in, and its emissivity is low, meaning it cools off very slowly. Heat is transferred to the attic and a great deal of energy is needed to keep the upper part of the house cool. An asphalt roof needs to be replaced every 15 to 20 years, so if you do need to replace your roof with these traditional shingles, look into the newer ones that have a reflective coating that helps increase energy efficiency. Unfortunately this is not something that can be applied to roofing retroactively.
More Efficient: Tile Roofing
Clay and concrete tiles are a more efficient option than asphalt and in general last much longer. Because of the curved design of clay tiles, air can flow freely between the tile layers and help to cool the roof. Tiles have a unique appearance that enhances a home’s curb appeal and they can last a lifetime. They are expensive and heavy and may not be as efficient as a homeowner would desire them to be, but here are a few of the energy advantages of clay and concrete tiles:
- Long life span (100 years)
- Tiles can be individually replaced
- Airflow promotes emissivity
- Reflective coating is available
- Said coating can be applied to an existing tile roof
If your home already has a tile roof, and you are looking for a way to increase energy efficiency, talk to a reputable roofing company about the reflective coating option.
Most Efficient: Metal Roofing
The most energy efficient choice for a residential building is a metal roof. If you are ready for a roof repair or roof replacement, this is definitely an option to consider. Not only is metal roofing reflective, it also has high emissivity, so it cools off quickly. Here are a few more reasons to choose metal roofing:
- Lifespan: Metal roofs last up to 100 years without the need for roofing replacement. If you get a metal roof it should last a lifetime.
- Repair: Roof leak repair is easy for a metal roof and pieces can be recycled.
- Emissivity: Metal roofing is highly reflective and cools down quickly.
- Pays for Itself: The energy savings from a metal roof will be enough that the roof will pay for itself very quickly.
About Cobalt Exteriors, Inc.
If you are looking for anything from windows to siding to roof maintenance and repair, Cobalt Exteriors, Inc. is the company to call. They have been providing excellent workmanship in Woodinville, WA and the surrounding areas for more than 30 years. Call today for a free quote.
