The roof of your home does more than simply supply shelter. Your roof can also determine whether or not your home is energy efficient.
If you are looking to replace your current roof with one that is more energy-efficient, there are many different residential roofs to choose from.
When installing a roof, you might have many questions. That makes perfect sense because choosing a roof depends on a variety of factors.
You will need to choose a roof based on the climate you live in, how you prefer it to look, and how energy efficient you want it to be.
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Why Choose Energy Efficient Roofing?
If you are looking to replace your existing roof with an energy-efficient roof, you will lower your energy costs. Savings are known to be anywhere from 7% to 15%.
By saving energy, you will not only have lower heating and cooling costs, but you can also make a positive impact on the environment.
Excessive heat causes rapid degradation of your roof. When you install an energy-efficient roof, you also extend your roof life.
Interestingly enough, some utility companies offer rebates when you install an energy-efficient roof. Some roofing projects even qualify for up to a 30% Federal tax credit.
American’s spend around $40 billion annually on cooling costs. Instead of asking “why should I choose an energy-efficient roof?”, you should be asking yourself, “why would I not!”
Variations of Residential Roofs
There are many different options when it comes to energy-efficient residential roofs. Similar to how you might purchase a washing machine or oven with an energy efficiency rating, the same goes for roofing materials.
Roofing materials can earn the Energy Star badge from the U.S. Department of Energy, which means they meet a standard for environmental friendliness and energy use.
Common types of energy-efficient shingles and roofing include:
- Shake shingles
- Asphalt shingles
- Metal roofing
- Slate roofing
- Tile roofing
Each type of roof shingles not only looks different but also has different features that are more effective based on the climate they are in.
Some roofing materials are better in colder weather to retain heat, while others are better in colder weather. If you are ever unsure of what the best roofing is for your property, then you can find a reputable roofing company here, that will help you with the project from start to finish.
Darker colors are known to absorb heat, while lighter colors reflect them. It is important to determine the type of roofing that will work best on your home.
Shake Shingles
Known to be very durable, shake shingles can withstand strong winds as well as storms. They generally repel damage and allow for incredible air circulation in a home.
Shake shingles are also aesthetically pleasing, even as they grow older.
Based on their appearance alone, many people would choose these types of shingles.
The only negative aspect to shake shingles is that they are high maintenance. Wood rot and mildew are common in areas with high levels of humidity and precipitation.
Asphalt Shingles
Known to be lower maintenance, asphalt shingles are also known to be the most efficient type of roof material available on the market.
One of the greatest aspects of asphalt is the huge range of colors and designs available.
Asphalt shingles are not as durable as shake shingles, and unfortunately, they can become more easily damaged with high winds or in storms.
Algae growth is also a concern but there are coatings that can help to prevent it.
Metal Roofing
Although you may have seen metal roofing used in commercial roofing projects, metal roofing is a very popular option for homes as well.
One reasoning for this is that metal roofing accommodates a low budget and has a very quick installation process. Metal roofing is also long-lasting and comes in many different patterns and colors.
Typically, when looking at metal roofing, you have the option between metal panels and metal tile.
Panels are large sheets, while tiles appear similar to shingles. This makes metal tile a good comparison to slake or shake styles.
Metal roofing is also fire resistant and lightweight. It is reflective which helps to keep cooling costs down.
On the other hand, metal roofing is easily dented upon impact, and can often expand and contract with different temperature changes.
Slate Roofing
For a long-lasting roof, slate is the option to go for. Slate roofs are known to last for over 30 years and, due to its density, make your home incredibly insulated.
This is perfect for homes with climates that brave through tough winters.
Tile Roofing
For a home in warm and dry climates, tile roofing is a visually pleasing energy-efficient option.
The downside to tile roofing is its tendency to absorb moisture, as well as reflect sunlight. This makes it a less than popular choice for those in wet climates.
Ask the Experts
If you are still struggling to find a roofing company to complete your project, look no further. Contact Integrity Building & Roofing, Denver roofing professionals, to provide you with an efficient and quality roofing service.
