Ways Your Roof Can Save You Money on Your Next Energy Bill

Because many homeowners can’t see their roofs all too well, they tend to forget about them. It is only when a major leak is evident, or when shingles fly off, that they consider contacting a roofer to come out and take a look. However, this mindset can be more costly than routine roof maintenance. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. If it is properly maintained, it keeps rain, wind and cold at bay. If it is not, it might let the elements in and your cool or hot air out. If you’re looking for ways to save money on your next energy bill, consider having one of the following three roofing upgrades done:

Shingle Replacement  

If you’ve ever worn a black shirt on a hot day, you know what it’s like to have the sun beating off your back and using you as a portable solar panel. The same thing happens to your roof. If your shingles are black or dark in color, the sun uses them as solar panels, but instead of converting that heat to energy, your roof transfers it to your roof deck and attic, resulting in an increased internal temperature. Talk to a roofing contractor about lighter colored shingle and how they can prevent heat transfer, reduce energy output and save you money.

 

Insulation

Not only can new attic insulation extend the life of your roof, but also, it can greatly reduce your energy bill. A professional roofer will tell you that new insulation offers the most cost savings benefits of any roofing repairs. This is because insulation controls the amount of thermal transfer between an attic and the temperature controlled environment below.

 

Ventilation

Without proper ventilation, your attic may absorb heat from your roof and not have anywhere to emit it to. To release some of that heat, your attic might push it down into your living space, thereby forcing your AC unit to work harder. Intake vents can draw fresh air into your attic and push old air out.

 

If you’re looking for ways to reduce your energy bill, talk to a professional roofer about the upgrades mentioned above.