If you’re considering installing a new roof, you may be wondering how much it will help your home’s energy efficiency. The short answer is yes, it should, especially if your roof is older. Your older roof is likely built with outdated roofing materials. New material is much more efficient.
With that said, the answer to this question is not as straightforward. For example, if the old roof was in good condition and only needed minor repairs (e.g., a few shingles), then adding insulation underneath the roof would do more for your home’s energy efficiency than installing a new roof alone.
In contrast, an older house with significant leaks or damage might see more benefit from replacing the entire roof than just repairing or adding to its existing one because of all of the air that can escape through gaps between shingles or around nails as well as through. An older house will likely have old and worn-out insulation, which is a huge factor in its efficiency.
Here are some ways your roof can increase your home’s energy efficiency:
Get New Insulation
The insulation under your roof is the #1 thing that translates into energy savings for that roof. The best do this at the same time you’re doing your re-roofing project. This is because your roofers have easy access to your attic and can easily place new insulation up there while the roof is being replaced.
Uninsulated attic spaces can allow solar radiation to pass through, which can then heat up the rest of your house. This in turn causes your home’s AC unit to work harder than it should be.
Improve Your Ventalation
Insulation serves as a barrier between the living space and the attic structure, but the roof itself can become hot during the summer months. Without proper ventilation, excessive heat in the attic can warp roof decking and shorten the shingle’s life.
With proper ventilation, the natural airflow circulation process occurs. Cool air enters the ceiling vents, gets warmed up as it travels through, and rises to the top of the attic, where it exits through exhaust vents.
When you get a new roof, we’ll also make sure your ventilation is done properly.
Picking a Lighter Shingle Color
Dark colors absorb more heat. Think about how hot black asphalt is or black leather in a car. It can get HOT, especially when compared to a lighter color concrete or car.
The same goes with your shingle color. Dark-colored roofs absorb more heat than light-colored roofs, meaning they will always transfer more heat to the underside of the roof deck and attic.
Getting a New Roof To Help Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
As you can see, there are many reasons why a new roof (and insulation at the same time) can help your home’s efficiency. Janney Roofing, your Orlando and Tampa Roofer are here to help you through the process and answer any questions you may have!