How to improve the efficiency of your roof? In addition to being a critical structural component of your property, the roof is vital for more comfortable indoor temperatures, extending roof life and keeping the bills down.
Here is how you can boost the energy efficiency of your roof.
1. Insulation
The next time you schedule roof maintenance or replacement, pay special attention to the insulation. Not only should you check the integrity of your insulation, you should also ask about better insulation options. The right insulation can also extend the life of your roof besides reducing energy bills.
But how does it extend roof life? Good insulation keeps much of the heat out in order to avoid extremely torrid conditions in the attic. Keeping the temperature under control can keep roofing from deteriorating too quickly.
2. Ventilation
Ventilation can also extend the life of your roof by keeping temperatures under control. Without ventilation, the attic will heat up to high temperatures and thus degrade roofing material. In the absence of adequate air circulation, mold and fungus could build up in your attic. From here it could spread across the home and cause health problems. Not only will mold and fungus damage your attic, it will also deteriorate your roof. Ventilation can help you to avoid such problems.
3. Solar Reflecting Material
You should inquire from your roofer about the best solar reflecting materials for your roof. Not only will your roof remain intact for a longer period of time, your home will also be cooler during the summer months.
Shingles are now available with special solar reflective coating so that the base material is protected from the sun’s damaging rays.
4. Radiant Barrier
You can also make your roof more energy efficient through the use of a radiation barrier. This barrier is installed under the roof to minimize solar radiation infiltration through its highly reflective silver surface. A higher proportion of the solar rays are reflected so that your roof, attic and entire home remains cooler. The resultant lower temperature will help your roof to last longer.
5. Alternative Materials
You could even think about alternative materials for your next roofing project to give top priority to energy efficiency. Besides conventional shingle, clay and metal are now available for roofing. These newer materials are available in all sorts of attractive finishes and are very sturdy and durable. Metal for instance, can have a reflective coating to deflect most of the solar rays and to remain in pristine condition for a longer time span.
Bottom Line
A wide variety of options are now available to you for greater energy efficiency for your roof.
You should talk to your roofing contractor to find out which options will suit you best and fit your budget.
