How a Roof Can Reduce Energy Costs

Category: Energy Efficiency • May 19, 2021

 

For most homeowners, the roof doesn’t demand much attention. Not until something goes wrong, that is, like a storm that causes damage or once it shows signs of aging. Yet, by paying closer attention to your roof, you can help prevent costly damage while realizing energy and utility savings.

Here are three such ways.

Shingle Color

When out in the sun, dark-colored objects naturally absorb more heat that those that are light-colored. The same holds true for your roof. The darker the color, the more heat it will absorb. When you’re ready to replace your roof, consider lighter-colored shingles that will help reduce the amount of heat transfer to the underside of the roof deck and attic below.

Attic Insulation

Maintaining an adequate amount of attic insulation extends the life of a roof. It’s also the main factor in determining just how energy-efficient your roof might be. Insulation creates a barrier that reduces thermal transfer between a hot or cold attic and conditioned air in the main living areas of a home.

Attic Ventilation

While proper insulation reduces thermal transfer, proper attic ventilation in the form of intake and exhaust vents keeps extreme heat from building up, thus protecting roof decking from warping which, in turn, extends the life of the shingles. Otherwise, trapped hot air can pass through the insulation to the living area and force the central air conditioning system to work harder, resulting in higher utility costs and more wear and tear on cooling equipment.

How does attic ventilation work? Intake vents, positioned along the lowest points of the roof, draw in fresh air. As cooler air enters the intake vents, it warms and rises to the top of the attic where it exits through the exhaust vents. This natural air circulation keeps the attic cooler.

Whether it’s time to replace your roof, modify it, or make needed repairs, count on Zaman Roofing to take energy efficiency into account and help you save money in the process. Contact us today for a free quote.