Energy efficiency is an important topic among home and business owners as they find ways to save money and mitigate negative environmental impacts on the world around us. New technology from energy saving windows, light bulbs, and new HVAC systems are popular in order to save money and reduce energy use.
Roofing companies recognize the need to contribute environmentally and economically by installing roofs that save their customers money and improve energy efficiency. So, what makes a roof energy efficient? Let’s explore some of the best roofing designs and materials that will optimize energy efficiency.
Efficient Roofing Design and Materials
Metal Roofing
Known for its longevity, metal roofing is also a great choice when it comes to energy efficiency. Rather than absorbing heat, like many other roofing materials, metal roofs reflect heat away from buildings. Metal roofs well insulate a building which means HVAC systems do not have to work as hard, thus reducing energy costs.
In the past, metal roofing was not considered by some because of the industrial aesthetic it provides. Today, metal roof materials can be designed to look like traditional roofs, making it a great option for a pleasing design and energy efficient material.
Roofing Tiles
Tiles come in different materials including ceramic, porcelain, concrete, slate, glass, and asphalt. Tiles are installed individually, creating natural airspace which makes them more energy efficient by reducing the amount of heat reaching your attic. The most energy efficient tiles include ceramic, slate, and concrete. All three of these materials reflect sunlight and absorb less heat, making them a great option to improve energy efficiency.
Solar Roofing
While the cost upfront is steep, solar tiles can save a lot of money and energy in the long run. Solar tiles absorb energy and convert it into electricity for use around your home or business and they keep heat out of your home. Optimal energy efficient roofing can be found in solar roofing tiles or panels.
Cool Roofing
Cool roofing is a great option for new roofs, but it can also be used to improve the energy efficiency of existing roofs. Working particularly well in warmer climates, cool roofing involves coating a rooftop with a reflective coating to reflect heat and reduce the amount of heat absorbed. This option helps reduce energy costs by decreasing air conditioning needs, electricity bills, and overall roof temperature which can also extend the life of your roof.
Consider Insulation and Ventilation
Energy efficiency does not stop at roofing material. Ventilation and insulation play an important role in maximizing energy efficiency in modern roofing design. The goal of ventilation is to maintain proper airflow throughout your business or home.
When a building is not properly ventilated, the attic space will feel extremely hot in the summer months and extremely cold during winter. Insulation works to keep the heat in your home during winter and keep the heat out in the summer months. Ventilation and insulation work together to maximize the roof’s effectiveness against the elements in order to improve energy efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Modern roofing designs and materials play a major role in improving energy efficiency. Choosing an efficient roofing material and properly venting and insulating your property will help improve energy efficiency. Making these choices may seem overwhelming but choosing the right roofing contractor is key to optimizing energy efficiency for your home or business.