The scoop on energy-efficient, cool roofing
With the soaring fuel prices, homeowners are beginning to consider the idea of investing in energy-saving home improvements to save on the ever-increasing energy bills.
From newer Energy Star-Rated HVAC units and appliances to energy-efficient windows, homeowners are in search of the projects that will bring them the most bang for the buck.
And that brings us to today’s topic. Energy-efficient roofing.
A lot of energy waste can happen through your attic and roof, especially if your HVAC ducts run through the attic. A properly insulated and air sealed attic, with insulated and properly sealed ducts, will decrease energy loss substantially. If your roof shingles, however, are outdated and not energy-efficient your attic and home are still subject to scorching temperatures during the summer and freezing cold during the winter.
Let’s first understand what constitutes energy-efficient roofing according to the U.S. Department of Energy, the ENERGY STAR program, and the Cool Roofing Rating Council
Understanding the Cool Roof Technology
For many years, the materials used to make roof shingles tended to absorb heat from the sun. Heated shingles led to scorching hot attics, uncomfortable and hard-to-cool homes, and high energy bills.
Modern energy-efficient shingles are built with specific granules designed to reflect heat instead of absorbing it and to release whatever heat it does absorb. Both solar reflectance and thermal emittance are measured on a scale of 0 to 1. The higher the rating the better the performance of the roofing material.
Energy savings
The Cool Roof Rating Council estimates that a cool roof can save homeowners from 7% to 15% in cooling costs. According to ENERGY STAR, a cool roof can reduce peak cooling demand by 10 to 15%.
To receive an ENERGY STAR rating, a cool roof product must meet rigorous criteria in terms of solar reflectance, upon installation and three years later.
Choosing a Cool Roof Product
If you are looking to replace your existing roof with Cool Roofing, or if you want to add Cool Roofing to your new construction here in Connecticut, look no further. Superior Remodelers roofing technicians are trained and certified experts, ready to help you make a choice that will fit your needs and your budget and will pay for itself in energy savings over time!
Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation and estimate
