If your energy bills seem to break the bank each month, then it may be time to get a new roof. Roofers in Des Moines can solve some of your energy woes by helping you select a roof that will lower your energy usage. For example, traditional roofs are typically black, which attract a lot of sunlight and heat. However, many consumers are discovering that cool-color or white roofs are better choices for saving money, especially in warmer climates.
Stay Cool and Save Money
Roofers often state that cool colored roofs reflect and emit the sun’s heat back into the atmosphere. Therefore, this type of reflection and thermal emission enables homeowners to keep cooler during the summertime. In turn, the costs of cooling the home are also reduced. Dark-colored roofs tend to attract extra heat, which makes it difficult for folks to keep up with air conditioning expenses, especially in hotter areas.
Lower Your Annual Costs for Air Conditioning
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing a cool-color roof or white roof enables consumers to lower their annual air conditioning costs by up to 15-percent. That amount is associated with installing a modern roof on a single-story building. Another benefit of cool colored roofs is decreased electricity usage. This kind of decrease not only lowers utility costs but also helps to prevent power outages. Cool colored roofs also lower the effect of the heat island in city locales.
Add Insulation and Reduce Utility Usage
Roofers suggest that homeowners include insulation when a new roof is installed. Adding this upgrade also lowers energy consumption. Choose an insulating material with high thermal performance, which functions effectively in both cold and hot climates. By installing insulation below the membranes of a roof, you can cut down on energy costs and keep your energy consumption in check.
If you are in the market for a new roof, make sure that the color and material will reduce the other operating costs involved with home ownership. You want your roof to not only look attractive but to enhance your home’s level of comfort while lowering utility costs. Selecting the right roof will mitigate future expenses and intense utility costs.
