There is more to choosing the right roofing option than added curb appeal and weather protection. The material you select also influences the energy efficiency of your home. It means it affects how much you spend on heating and cooling each month.
A trusted local roofing contractor explains how your roof can help you save energy.
The Basics of Heat Transfer
Understanding how heat transfers from the outdoors to your living space will help you better understand how your roof affects your home’s overall energy efficiency. Heat transfer happens in three ways which are convection, conduction and radiation. Conduction occurs when heat moves through a solid material, like a wall or door. Convection is when heat moves through liquids or gases. Finally, radiation is when energy passes directly from one object to another without a medium.
Conduction
Conduction occurs when one material comes into contact with another and exchange energy. The most common example of this phenomenon is the heat that transfers to a pot from an ignited stove.
Convection
Convection is when heat moves through liquid or gases in a circular motion, typically moving from warm areas toward colder areas. It happens when cold air sinks at the bottom of your home while warm air rises to the top.
Radiation
In radiation, energy moves from one object to another without needing another medium, such as air or water molecules. It simply moves through space through infrared waves, like when sunlight reaches you. This type of energy transfer can occur inside your home through a radiator and outside from the sun.
Factors That Affect Insulation Levels and Efficiency for Your Roof
Roofing Material
Today, you can choose from a wide range of roofing options for your home, such as wood, metal, slate, tile and asphalt shingles. Some materials offer better insulation and weather protection than others. Knowing which is ideal for your humble abode and local climate will help lower your utility costs. If unsure which material to choose, you can consult a reputable local roofing contractor.
Roof Style
You want to select a roof style that provides sufficient insulation and air sealing to create an effective heat shield around your home. Pitched roofs with low slopes and flat roofs with decking systems are known for keeping excess moisture and air out. Moreover, when deciding on a roof style, you should consider the structure of your home and local weather conditions. For instance, low-slope or flat roofs are often not recommend for areas where heavy snow and rain are common.
Additional features
Did have additional features installed during your roof replacement project like attic fans, solar panels and reflective coatings? These extras can help reduce heat loss at certain times of the day and due to weather extremes.
The Role of Insulation in Protecting Against Heat Loss or Gain
Insulation is essential for preventing heat loss and gain. It helps your home stay at consistent temperatures by keeping cool air inside during summer and preventing warm air from escaping in winter. With sufficient insulation, you won’t have to rely as much on your heating and cooling system, reducing your energy consumption and utility bills. Because it keeps your attic from overheating, roofing components will not deteriorate as fast. It means you can expect savings on roof repair costs.
Your choice of insulation matters and affects your home’s energy efficiency. Spray foam, cellulose and fiberglass are among the most popular types of insulation used in residential structures. They trap air within walls or cavities. Insulation reduces the likelihood of condensation and moisture accumulation in your attic or basement, preventing mold growth and improving indoor comfort. You can determine if you need to improve your home’s insulation by hiring an experienced professional for inspection.
Make the Most of Your Roof’s Energy-Saving Benefits
Seal Doors, Windows and Attic Access Points
Heat loss usually occurs through leaky doors and windows. Even if you choose the highest quality and most efficient roofing material, your energy costs might still increase if these parts of your home are drafty. They will make your living space difficult to cool and heat, resulting in higher utility costs.
Be sure to seal window and door frames properly to eliminate air leaks. If they are damaged or old, consider replacing them with a more durable material. Don’t forget about attic access points, such as vents and pull-down stairs, because they can also contribute to energy loss.
Install Radiant Barriers or Reflective Coatings
Radiant barriers or reflective coatings can increase the insulative capabilities of your roof. They reduce the solar heat that reaches inside your home. These products often come in aluminum and excel at deflecting heat from the sun, helping keep your interior cool during the warmer months.
Replace Your Old Roof
Is your roof at least two decades old?Are there curling, buckling or missing shingles? These are common signs it’s time to start considering replacing it with a more energy-efficient material. Sometimes, there are indications inside your home that you need a new roof. Mold growth and water stains indoors usually indicate your roof is leaking and in need of repairs or replacement.
Roof replacement can drastically change the look of your home and reduce your energy consumption. If you are thinking about selling your property in a few years, it can help increase its value and curb appeal. When choosing your new roof, be sure to consider your location. It is essential to hire an experienced contractor for its installation. Also, ask your roofer about warranties to ensure your investment stays protected against defects and poor installation.
Choose a reliable company for your home exterior needs like Summit Roofing & Restoration. You can always count on us for quality and prompt roof repair and replacement services. We only work with leading manufacturers in the industry to bring you the best products backed with comprehensive warranties. Superior workmanship and excellent customer services are things you can always expect from our team. Call us at (901) 676-7449 or fill out our online form to get a free quote.