Energy conservation is a great concern in every sector, and the building industry is not left behind. All homeowners today look for options that will maximize energy conservation to help them reduce the costs associated with this area such as air conditioning. Installing energy saving materials is one way to accomplish this goal. According to a research study, installing the right materials could cut your energy costs by up to 30 percent.
The roof is a principal component of a house, which affects both the heating and cooling of the entire building. In cities, roof temperatures can hit up to 175 degrees, which makes the air conditioning machines to work extra hard to cool your home. Against that backdrop, it’s advisable to use energy saving roofing materials to help reduce the cost and to contribute toward a green environment.
The Cool Roof
Cool roofs reflect rays from the sun instead of absorbing them. The ability to reflect instead of absorbing can be achieved through the color of the roofing material, treated tiles, or sheet coverings. A cool roof material can reflect more than 65% of the sun’s rays according to this report.
All the same, the best way to get a cool roof is to choose a material with a light color. This works on the universal principle that dark colors absorb more heat than light colors. Therefore, a roof with a light color will be cooler than that with a dark shade.
Insulation Adds Value
In addition to choosing a roofing material with a light color, you should consider insulation of the space under the roof. This can cool the house even regardless of the materials on the roof. This technology, together with energy-efficient roofing materials, you can maximize your savings on energy costs.
Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials
If you’re considering maximum energy efficiency, think of the following materials:
• Green Roofs
They are sometimes referred to as “Living roofs.” These roofs employ greenery, which may be either grass or plants to protect the house from the effect of sunlight. In the end, they reduce the temperature of the roof, just like a garden. Besides, they add beauty to the overall design of the building. A reliable roofer Manassas VA can help you choose the right green materials for your building. In the end, you can improve energy efficiency and create a beautiful outdoor space.
• Clay Tiles and Slate
Both clay tiles and slate can be treated with suitable coatings to reflect the sun’s rays, resulting in reduced roof temperatures. However, if you’re choosing this type of roofing material, you should understand your climatic conditions as well. In colder climates where hailstorms are rampant, these materials are not recommended as they can shatter under such conditions. Seek advice from a professional roofer Manassas VA.
Other materials you could consider for a cooler, energy-efficient house include sprayed polyurethane foam, thermoplastic Olefin, and some varieties of metals. These materials provide a good level of reliability and durability that can help you achieve your energy saving goals.