Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials and Cool Roofs
Cool roofs are one type of energy-efficient roofing. According to the U.S. According to the Department of Energy, an average roof can reach 150 degrees or more on a hot summer day. Much of that heat is then transferred to your home’s interior through the attic. However, cool roofs can lower the surface temperature by as much as 50 degrees. This results in significant improvements in energy efficiency.
Energy-efficient or cool roofing reflects sunlight and absorbs less heat than other materials. You can achieve this effect by using cool-colored asphalt shingles or with specialized coatings. Some examples include roof membranes and reflective paints.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is popular for many reasons. It is both attractive and durable. When you install a metal roof on your home, you can expect it to last for several decades.
Many metal roofing manufacturers have several colors or specially coated options to choose from. These tend to be light colors that are more likely to reflect sunlight; however, there is quite a bit of variety. Colors with special pigments and mineral granules that reflect sunlight are popular choices for cool roofs, although they are not as reflective as white or light colors.
The downside to metal roofing is that it is relatively expensive to install, and it has the same or less life than high quality roofing shingles, when properly installed.
Shingles
Asphalt shingles use a fiberglass web filled with asphalt and coated with granules. Shingles are among the most affordable new roof options and offer the best overall value among all roofing materials. They are attractive and available in many different colors and styles resembling wood shakes or slate tiles. No matter what style you choose, many asphalt shingles come with cool options.
Going with a white or light-colored shingle is the easiest way to increase the energy efficiency of a new roof. If you prefer a darker look, choose materials such as GAF Timberline HDZ® RS shingles which use an EcoDark granule technology that meets some of the strictest cool roof standards.
Specialty Roofs
While asphalt shingles and metal are the most common roofing materials used, there are other energy-efficient options – but be warned that they come at super-premium price points, and may be difficult to service. Some to consider for your new roof include:
- Clay tiles: Natural clay is a very energy-efficient option for cool roofs that uses natural materials. You can increase the reflectiveness of glazed tiles by applying special polymers during or after installation.
- Green (living) roofs: A very environmentally friendly option, living roofs use a waterproof membrane that supports soil and vegetation. The roof structure and decking must be adequate to support the additional weight, which often requires a construction project as most homes are not built to support this option.
- Solar roofs: If you are considering incorporating solar panels into your home design, solar shingles may be the way to go. These specially designed shingles are miniature solar panels that take the place of some of your roofing material. They typically cover a portion of the roof, with asphalt shingles on the rest.
- Wood shakes: Another naturally cool option, wood shakes and shingles are attractive and durable, but are among the most expensive roofing materials because of their complex and labor-intensive installation.
No matter what type of roof you choose, be sure to work with a contractor who has experience with that specific material for proper installation. They can also help you determine the correct amount and type of attic insulation to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Metal Roof vs. Shingles
Some things to consider when comparing metal roof vs. shingles include:
- Appearance: You may prefer the look of one material over the other. The variety of available shingles can fit almost any architectural style.
- Cost: As a general rule, shingles are more affordable than metal roofing. Specialty roofing materials can have a significant impact on project costs.
- Roof slope: Standing seam metal is a great choice for low-slope roofs where you cannot use asphalt shingles.
Both asphalt shingles and metal roofing products come in attractive and durable options. Metal roofs typically have a slightly longer service life than asphalt shingles; however, newer shingle products are closing that gap.
Learn What Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials Are Right for Your Home
If you are shopping for a new roof, talk to your roofing contractor about what energy-efficient roofing materials are available and suitable for your home. This can help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money by reducing summer cooling costs. Contact our roofing contractors at Modern Exterior to learn more about energy-efficient roofing solutions.
