TERESA MADALENO When it comes to energy efficiency many business operators and homeowners think about equipment, such as heating and air conditioning. Few think about the roof but it too can save you money if it is optimized properly.
If you are one of the many people who have never thought about your money disappearing through the roof, consider some of the following energy efficient tips.
- Colour makes a difference – roofs that are lighter in colour save energy by reflecting light and heat away rather than absorbing it. Studies suggest that the albedo effect, as it is called, can provide significant energy savings. In many areas of the world, dark-coloured roofs are more on trend, but light-coloured roofs should be given serious consideration. Some people, who can’t afford the expense of replacing their entire roof, opt to cover their existing dark roof with a light-coloured coating. According to experts at Washington State University, roof coatings have the potential to reduce the surface temperature on a roof by between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit or 28 to 44 degrees Celsius.
- The right material – there are a lot of roofing options, including metal, wood, asphalt, concrete, tile, and metal. While clay and metal tend to cost more, they can save you money in the long-term. They are more energy efficient in all types of climates. In recent years, metal roofs have become more popular from a cosmetic point of view. They can be pre-painted or granular coated and reflect solar energy.
- Remember insulation – when a roof is poorly insulated, it will need more air conditioning in the summer and more heat in the winter. To help avoid this problem, most energy experts will suggest a minimum of 6 inches of insulation. The type of insulation you use will largely depend on where you live. Foam, cellulose or fiberglass, are the options. Having the insulation professionally installed to avoid issues, such as mold and mildew growth is also a wise idea.