As the cost of energy continues to rise more homeowners are looking for ways to save money by reducing energy costs. Homeowners are realizing that the choice of roofing materials has a large impact on their monthly energy bill. So what are some of the better options for energy-efficient roofing? Roofcorp will explore some of these options to help you decide what will work for your home.
Energy Efficient Roofing
Energy-Star Rated Materials
Energy Star is a program created by the Environmental Protection Agency in the US to highlight and promote materials that are superior at conserving energy. In the case of roofing materials most Energy Star certifications have to do with the slope and amount of solar and heat reflectivity of a roof. The more reflective a material is, the more likely it is to be Energy Star certified. When talking with your roofing contractor simply look for the Energy Star logo or ask them to use certified materials. Several of the larger roofing material manufacturers produce these materials. GAF, Tamko and CertainTeed all carry energy efficient products. Energy-efficient products are now on the same price level as traditional materials.
Reflective Material & Color
A big impact on the roofs energy efficiency lies in its ability to reflect heat or absorb heat based on the climate. When roofs reflect heat there is less energy your home has to cool back down. They can use reflective materials that are embedded in the shingle itself or it can be simple as the color itself. In warmer environments this means choosing a lighter colored material and darker colors in colder environments to absorb the heat.
Solar Panels
Solar panels and solar shingles are starting to become more popular in the Western states and other areas with high amounts of sunshine. The materials are starting to become cheaper and the government is encouraging their use by giving homeowners with solar energy materials substantial tax credits. The initial installation of these materials is quite high but can save money over the life of the roof.
Simply talk to a roofing contractor to figure out the best energy efficient options for your home and start saving money today!
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