October 21

Energy Efficient Roofing

With increasing energy costs, it’s essential to consider energy-efficiency roofing when it’s time for a replacement. If your roof is several years old, it was likely built with outdated roofing materials and techniques. Roofing technology continues to evolve, and changes in materials, design, and installation techniques have improved. Energy-efficient roofing options are available that can significantly reduce monthly utility bills.

What Effect Does Your Roof Have On Energy Costs?

High energy bills can result from numerous factors, including leaky doors and windows, poorly insulated basements, and outdated roofs.

As your roof ages and becomes less effective at protecting your home from the elements, it’s not unusual to see an increase in heating and cooling costs. Temperature and humidity levels from the outside can creep inside and alter your indoor climate.

What Helps Make a Roof More Energy Efficient?

Roof Ventilation

Ventilation is incorporated into roofs to facilitate appropriate airflow between the outside and the attic. If your roof isn’t correctly vented, hot air can become trapped inside the attic, raising the temperature of your entire home. This puts a significant demand on your home’s HVAC system, substantially increasing your monthly energy bills.

Attic Insulation

Along with adequate ventilation, attics need the right type and amount of insulation. If it’s been a while since you’ve looked in your attic, have a professional contractor check to ensure your insulation is in good condition and that the attic access door is properly sealed. They can also check your attic for signs of moisture, pests, leaks, or other problems.

Solar Reflection

The better your roof reflects solar light, the more energy-efficient it will be. This is especially important in hot sunny climates. If your roof cannot reflect sunlight away from your home, shingles will absorb heat and increase the temperature inside your attic. Roofs with significant solar reflection can reduce surface temperature by up to 30%.

Shingle Color

Most of us realize that darker-colored clothing absorbs heat on a hot sunny day, but did you know dark shingles may do the same? The color of your shingles will likely impact your home’s comfort and overall energy usage. Choosing a roof color involves several considerations, including your region and the prevailing climate. Darker shingles enhance cold-weather homes, while lighter roof colors help reflect sunlight in hot sunny climates.

New Technologies

Like everything we use, shingles have benefited from updated technological breakthroughs. Older roofing materials aren’t as effective or efficient as modern materials. Modern shingles are more effective at reflecting solar energy into the atmosphere rather than absorbing and transferring it into your home. Some shingles are designed to withstand gusts of up to 130 miles per hour, keeping the worst winds from damaging your home. Investing in energy-efficient roofing protects your home from the elements while lowering your monthly energy bills.

How to Choose the Right Roof for Your Home

Your Home’s Location

The first thing to consider is the location of your home. Certain roofing materials are better suited for warm climates, while others are better suited for colder climates. For homes in milder areas, dark shingles and shingles composed of heat-absorbing materials are ideal. In warmer regions, the reverse is true. Light-colored shingles and materials that reflect sunlight are your best choice for conserving energy.

Types of Materials to Consider

The type of shingle you pick for your roof replacement is essential. Shingles are available in various materials, colors, and designs. The most common residential roofing choices are:

  • Asphalt
  • Metal
  • Wood
  • Clay
  • Slate

The energy efficiency of roofing materials varies. Certain materials may make more sense for your roofing job than others, depending on your local climate and home renovation budget. Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for homeowners because they are affordable and easy to install. Advances in technology have improved the durability and energy efficiency of asphalt shingles. There are also many styles and colors, making asphalt roofing an excellent choice for homes in the Midwest.

Your Roofing Contractor

Even the best shingles won’t protect your home and family if your roof replacement is not handled correctly. Many contractors try to do it all, but when you need your roof repaired or replaced, it’s essential to work with an experienced roofing company. You’ll be able to vet their work with local customers, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other trusted sites. A reputable roofing contractor will be licensed and insured and happy to share reviews and customer references with you.

Call a Trusted Local Roofing Company

Since 1999, Brian Dawson Roofing has installed residential and commercial roofing systems throughout the greater St. Louis region. Because all of our work is done under warranty and fully insured, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your new roof is dependable and long-lasting.

Contact us online or at (636) 733-6435 to schedule a free inspection and consultation. Our experienced professionals will arrive on time, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to detect leaks and other problems your roof may have. Our mission is to provide quality roofing services and top-notch customer service, all at a competitive price.


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