A roof is always a substantial investment. So, if you install a new roof, you’ll want to get the most out of it. And while conscientious roofers will advise on the subject, it is always best to know as much as possible before committing to such a major renovation project. To this end, here is how a new roof can help reduce your energy bills and how to know what kind of a roof you need!
The pros of proper ventilation
One of the ways in which a new roof can help reduce your energy bills is by having proper ventilation. Hot air builds up under a roof on hot days. The hot air can make your attic as warm as an oven over time, making it extremely hard to cool down your home efficiently. You can overcome this problem by installing intake vents along the lowest points of the roof. Most often, this is done in the soffit beneath the eaves. At the same time, exhaust vents are positioned high up on the roof. With the proper ventilation, the cold air can enter your attic, warm up, rise, and exit through the exhaust vents. The buildup of heat can even lead to roof damage, so it is very much a good idea to have vents installed even if it requires you to prepare your home for a roof replacement. You will be grateful you installed the vents in the long run.
The benefits of better insulation
Insulation is meant to keep hot air out of your home during summer and keep warm air trapped inside during winter. If you want to ensure you can minimize the effects of the environment on your home, then you need proper insulation on your roof. Of course, there is the option of trying to add insulation to your attic without having to re-roof your home. However, for maximum efficiency and effect, you do need to build your roof from scratch. Which does mean you need to look into renting storage during renovation for things you want safe and which were in your attic. Once your items are safely stored, make sure to communicate to your roofers what your intentions are, and they will help you make the best possible alterations. Properly installed insulation will ensure that even if your roof overheats, the consequences for your attic will be minimal!
The advantages of the right color roofs
The colors of your shingles contribute to how a new roof can help reduce your energy bills. Of course, the right color for you depends a lot on your local climate. If you live in a cold area where you struggle to heat your home, you want to have black shingles on your roof. The logic is the same as why you wouldn’t want to wear black clothing during hot summer days. The black color absorbs heat and very quickly warms up itself. On the other hand, if you live in a warm area, you should have white shingles installed. They have the opposite effect as black ones. This way, you can save on AC costs and battle the weather conditions that trouble you the most. Of course, one of the most common problems with residential roofs is overheating, so it may be best to prioritize white shingles.
The appeal of a ‘roof garden’
A relatively new trend is installing a ‘green’ residential roof. While green roofs were not uncommon in commercial buildings with flat roofs, their inclusion in traditional homes is doing wonders for how a new roof can help reduce your energy bills. A ‘roof garden’ consists of grass, bushes, and similarly robust plants grown in specialized roof areas. However, they do not just help with tempering your roof’s temperature! They also absorb rainwater and even mitigate the effects of urban environments. Your roof’s temperature would typically increase due to all the asphalt and reflective city surfaces. However, roof gardens can prevent this. The storage experts from zippyshelllouisiana.com also note that this helps regulate the temperature of your attic in a way that makes it more suitable for storing items sensitive to heat changes, humidity, or moisture in the air. Installing a roof garden means your attic’s functionality will be enhanced, too!
The importance of picking the suitable roofing material
The development of roofing materials has advanced a lot over the years. The inner composition and design of shingles have improved so much that newer roofs significantly outstrip old ones in performance. Of course, just like the color we mentioned before, the material you opt for depends greatly on your local weather. You can opt for a reflective metal roof with exceptional heat tolerance. Or you can go for a traditional wooden roof, which will breathe much better. You should consult professional roofers in your area before you make a decision when it comes to your ideal roofing material. Naturally, there is also the question of cost. Some materials may have slightly worse performance and longevity. But they are much easier to install. And you will even have a much easier time repairing your roof or replacing your shingles if you choose them, which is why professional advice is crucial.
The potential of a ‘radiant barrier’
The final way in which a new roof can help reduce your energy bills is through the installation of a radiant barrier. A radiant barrier is a coating that actively reflects heat away from your attic. Naturally, this is another way to reduce heat buildup. Typically, you can apply a radiant barrier during a re-roofing. This is because the barrier is affixed to the roof’s deck, also known as sheathing. Unfortunately, this does mean that, just like most of our previous advice, you cannot go through with the installation of a radiant barrier without replacing your current roof. Of course, the upside of this is that you can take the chance to put into practice our previous advice. With an optimal roof, you can save tons on your energy bills!
Final word
Knowing how a new roof can help reduce your energy bills, you can maximize the benefits of your home investment. You will be able to build a roof that best fits your hometown and its weather. With a single investment, you will ensure long-time returns and practically earn back all your money through smaller energy bills.
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