If you’re interested in saving money on your energy bills, a few solutions are available. Insulation is a common suggestion as well as airtight windows for those worried about energy efficiency; however, another option you may not have considered is a new roof.
How can a new roof save you money? The answer lies in how energy is typically wasted through conduction and convection. In a property that’s not insulated sufficiently, around 35% of heat loss is through the walls, 25% through the roof, and 40% in other ways, such as doors, windows, and the floor.
Thankfully, most modern properties are well insulated. And if you’ve checked off insulated walls, double-glazed windows, and carpets throughout, then you’ll need to look for other clues. Your roof could be the answer.
Outdated Roofing Wastes Energy
Outdated or damaged roofing could be contributing to a significant amount of heat loss. As your roof ages, it breaks down due to natural wear and tear and damage caused by the elements. If the damage to the roof enables moisture to get into your property, then in addition to increased bills caused by heat or cooling loss, you’ll have other expensive issues to deal with in the form of wood rot or mold.
Replacing your old roof with a new one can prevent heat loss and make the property more energy-efficient. But can a new roof really save you money?
In most cases, the answer is yes; updating an old or damaged roof will lead to a significant reduction in your energy bills. Over the lifetime of the roof, this will save you money.
How Worn Roofing Wastes Energy
Running air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter uses energy. Drafts, humidity changes, and poor insulation can fluctuate the temperature in your home drastically, making your HVAC work even harder to get your home to your preferred temperature.
It’s not as simple as just telling the roofers to throw on a new roof. When it comes to energy savings, new roof materials are great contributors.
Important roof characteristics to take into account include:
- Ventilation: Your home needs proper airflow between the attic and outdoors. Poor ventilation can trap hot air, making your home too hot and increasing your air conditioning bills.
- Solar reflection: Good solar reflection can reduce the surface temperature of the roof by as much as 30% and also decrease the amount of heat inside the house in the summer, reducing air conditioning costs.
- Energy Star Ratings: Energy Star is an international standard for energy efficiency. Roofing with a good Energy Star rating has been tested and proven to lessen energy bills by reducing heat transfer.
- Materials: Newer shingles are typically more wind resistant. If you live in an area with high winds, consult your roofer about which type of shingle is best for your area.
- Shingle Color: Dark roofing materials are a good choice in cold climates because they absorb heat from the sun, keeping your home warm. Lighter colors reflect heat, making them a good choice in warmer, sunnier climates.
Concrete or clay tile roofing can be a good choice in terms of energy efficiency. These materials absorb solar energy and are also airtight, meaning they’re resistant to drafts, leaving you in control of ventilation. Composite materials can also be a good choice, being durable and long-lasting.
If you’re not sure what roofing materials make the most sense, it’s best to talk to a local roofing expert. Their knowledge of the climate and demands of the local area are helpful when choosing the best materials for your property.
Roof Replacement from Thompson Creek
At Thompson Creek, we specialize in roof replacements. If you would like to know more about our services or are interested in having an old or damaged roof replaced, contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.