What Roofing Materials Create Energy Efficient Roofing Systems?
Originally posted on https://mycoastalwindows.com/energy-efficient-roofing-systems/
Originally posted on YouTube by Coastal Windows & Exteriors
Q: I’m thinking about roof replacement but I also need to increase my home’s energy efficiency. Can a new roof help lower utility bills, and what energy efficient roofing systems are important for an efficient home?
A: While window replacement is one of the best ways to lower utility bills, homeowners often forget that roof replacement can lower energy bills as well.
The roof is a designed to work as a system to:
- Protect the home from the elements.
- Prevent ice dams in the winter.
- Save energy and money on your energy bills for a lifetime.
The Components of a Roofing System: Roofing Materials List
The diagram below shows the parts of energy efficient roofing systems along with roofing materials that can impact home performance.
Roofing Shingles
The shingles are on the first line of defense against the elements. Without durable and lifetime shingles in place, rain, snow, and wind will easily make its way into the attic space. When the attic becomes too hot or too cold, it quickly causes utility bills to rise by causing the HVAC system to over perform.
The color of the shingles can also make a difference on energy bills. According to Energy Star, Americans spend $40 billion per year on air conditioning. It accounts for 1/6th of all the electricity generating in the country. Shingles with anti-reflecting properties can decrease energy bills in the summer between 10% to 15%. Choosing a lighter color shingle can help reflect heat during the hottest months.
Despite your choice of shingle color, this barrier will block out too elements that can otherwise increase energy bills or damage the home.
Roof deck protection
This product helps to further seal the home’s envelope while adding a second layer of protection from the elements. Most importantly, it works to block water infiltration that can cause the roof to fail sooner than later.
A failing roof can lead to higher energy bills. Excess water can damage attic insulation and rot out areas of the roof, which provides a pathway for energy to easily escape. With quality roof deck protection, wind-driven rains and strong storms won’t negatively impact your roofing or energy bills down the road.
Ventilation
Roof ventilation is an essential component of energy efficient roofing systems. When it comes to all of the roofing materials, ventilation might make the biggest impact on your monthly energy bills.
The goal is to keep the attic close to the outdoor temperature. When airflow is not reaching the attic space, it can easily overheat in the summer. Adequate ventilation consisting of intake and outtake vents circulates air and keeps the HVAC system from working too hard to cool the home.
During the winter, attic ventilation helps keep the roof cool to prevent ice dams. While ice dams might not reflect on utility bills, it will certainly cost you money if it damages the roof or the gutter system.
Home Advisor warns that too much ventilation can cause problems such as leaking or even blowouts during a hurricane. The right amount of ventilation is calculated by a ratio which is 1:300. This means for every 300 square feet of living space, you need 1 square foot of ventilation.
The following video provides more information on the importance of attic ventilation in the home:
Originally posted on YouTube by Coastal Windows & Exteriors
The Importance of Professional Roof Replacement
Professional roofing installation is one of the keys to maximizing energy savings with energy efficient roofing systems. When you’re serious about roof replacement and getting the best value possible, this is how professional roof installation plays a role:
- Professional roofing contractors spot areas in the roof or attic that may lead to rising energy bills or high repair costs. For example, rotting wood beams in the attic are a prime example of a leak in the roof or condensation buildup. Rotting carpentry framing and wood beams compromise the home’s structural integrity.
- Homeowners can receive the best return on investment when working with an experience roofing contractor and quality materials. The ROI for roof replacement is 72% in New England.
- Roofing contractors can offer green roofing products that benefit energy savings and the environment. Examples include products that use recycled materials, anti-reflective properties, and a zero-waste-to-landfill initiative.
- Enjoy a lifetime of performance with a superior roofing warranty.
Choose Coastal Windows & Exteriors for Roof Replacement and Energy Efficient Roofing Systems
CWE offers top-of-the-line roof replacement in MA, Southern New Hampshire, and Maine. Discover more about our energy efficient roofing systems by contacting us at [email protected] and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more energy saving tips.