When replacing your roof, there are plenty of important things to consider. However, perhaps the most important consideration is how energy efficient the roof type is. There are several popular roofing materials, all at different price points, in different styles and with differing levels of energy efficiency.
In this article, we will be going over the most common types of roofing materials, as well as dive deeper into the most energy-efficient roofing materials and how you can save money year round with a “cool roof”.
Energy efficient roofing, also known as ‘cool roofing’ offers you both financial and environmental benefits. Energy efficient roofing helps reduce your home’s cooling needs by helping to deflect the sun’s energy, which in turn keeps your house cooler naturally and your energy bills lower.
The Most Popular Roofing Options
Composition shingles
Composition asphalt shingles are one of the most popular and widely available roofing materials. Composition shingles are made of a backing (like fiberglass or cellulose), asphalt and mineral granules. They are generally more expensive than other types of roofing materials, but they are excellent quality.
Metal roofing shingles
Metal roofing shingles come in a variety of materials, including: steel, aluminum and copper. It also comes in several different forms such as sheeting and tiles.
Wood shingles
Wood shingles are made from cypress, redwood, pine or western red cedar. They offer a classic aesthetic and are a good choice for more steeply-pitched roofs. However, on the downside wood shingles can be susceptible to fire and pests.
Slate roofing
Slate roofing is made from real stone and is one of the most durable roofing materials. It comes in several shades of slate to suit almost any home and style. However, it is worth noting a slate roof is quite heavy, so your roofing frames need to be designed to support the overall weight. It is also one of the most expensive roofing options on the market.
Keep an Eye on Energy Star Rating
Now that we know more about the more common roofing materials, we need to be sure to keep an eye on the Energy Star rating. The Energy Star program helps you to know how energy efficient a product is before you purchase it. Only roofing types that are highly reflective are given the Energy Star label.
Why? Well, reflective roofs can reflect enough of the sun’s rays to lower the temperature on the surface of your roof. This results in lowering the burden on your air conditioning system.
Pro tip: try to pick your roofing material and color based on where you live. Light-colored roofs reflect heat and are good in warmer climates, while dark-colored roofs absorb heat and are better in cooler climates.
Invest in a Cool Roof
The most energy efficient type of roof is a cool roof, which is designed to reflect more sunlight than a conventional roof, absorbing less solar energy. This lowers the temperature of your home (similar to how light colored clothing keeps you cooler in hot weather!)
Conventional roofs can reach temperatures of 150°F or more on a sunny summer’s day. However, under the same conditions a reflective roof could stay more than 50°F cooler. This can save you in energy and money, as well as improve the overall comfort of your home year round.
Need Help Choosing Your New Roof? We Can Help.
A new roof, especially if it is a cool roof, will save you money on energy bills throughout the year. And, when you add adequate insulation throughout the rest of your home, you will certainly get the most bang for your buck.
With properly installed insulation and a cool roof, you will find you need to use your heaters and fireplaces less in winter, and cool air during the summer. Need help finding the best roof for your home? Get in touch today and a WoW home improvement contractor can help you via an in-home consultation.
