For homeowners, temperature extremes in summer and winter often mean a marked increase in energy costs. But with utility prices rising and weather conditions fluctuating from year to year, high energy consumption may be a serious drain on your finances. In response to these changes, home energy efficiency systems have increased in popularity. And one of the most important aspects of this field to consider is energy-efficient roofing.

While many energy-efficient roofing systems have a relatively high price tag, they can provide plenty of cost and energy savings in the long-term. Roofing materials, ventilation and insulation all contribute to your home’s ability to keep your property temperature-controlled without breaking the bank. But how can you determine which materials are best for your home, as well as what costs you’ll have to budget around? That’s where our team at WestBank Roofing comes in. With over 50 years of experience repairing and installing roofing systems across Southeast Louisiana, we can ensure that your home gets the upgrades it needs to keep you comfortable in any weather.

What Is Energy Efficiency?

In brief, energy efficiency means utilizing less energy in order to achieve the same task. This, in turn, improves system inefficiencies and lowers energy costs. In roofing, energy efficiency is typically achieved through the use of specific materials, coatings and other components which keep hot or cold outdoor air from leaking in or out. Additionally, energy-efficient materials reduce the strain on your home’s heating and cooling systems, improving their lifespan. 

In climates like Southeast Louisiana’s, where heat and humidity are common, well-maintained and energy-efficient roofing systems are particularly important. Outdoor heat infiltrating your building, for example, can warm the air passing through your ductwork, lessening the impact of your cooling system. Additionally, excess humidity can lead to issues including mold and mildew growth. And too much strain on your air conditioner may cause it to break down, leaving your home uncomfortable and potentially unsafe, depending on the temperature.

Types of Energy-Efficient Roofing

Thankfully, when it comes to deciding between energy-efficient roofing materials and systems, homeowners aren’t strapped for choice. Some common forms of energy-efficient roofing include:

1. Metal roofing

Known for their durability and high solar reflectivity, metal roofing is an ideal—if not inexpensive—choice for roofs in hot climates. Typically taking the form of panels or tiles, metal roofing can be made out of materials including copper, zinc, steel and aluminum. Additionally, metal roofing may come in a variety of colors, allowing them to match most any house style as well as boosting their cool-roofing properties.

1. Green roofs

This system is also known as a living roof, and for good reason—it refers to a partial or complete layer of vegetation planted on top of your property. Green roofs may be either extensive (roofs which utilize drought-tolerant ground cover such as grasses and sedums) or intensive (roofs which utilize larger plants, from leafy and colorful gardens to small trees). In regards to energy efficiency, green roofs often excel at home insulation, keeping outdoor temperatures from seeping into your building. However, it is important to note that these roofs can come with a high price tag. Not only does the vegetative layer need to be installed, but your roof should be reinforced in order to reliably support the added weight. 

1. Tiling

Whether clay, synthetic, slate or another material, tiles and shingles are often an excellent choice for heat-prone climates. Particularly when painted with reflective coatings, these materials cast back sunlight and release trapped heat, ensuring that your home stays cool and comfortable. Additionally, the variety of available materials and colors gives homeowners a range of options to choose from. However, these materials—save for synthetic shingles—tend to be relatively heavy, often requiring additional structural support. 

1. Solar shingles

This roofing material is composed of small, tile-shaped solar panels which can be installed on their own or on top of existing shingles. They are relatively lightweight and durable, and are designed to look similar to more traditional roofing materials. And while they may generate less energy than solar panels, solar shingles can still produce a decent amount of output. This, in turn, may lower both your energy costs and environmental impact.

1. Asphalt

A common and cost-effective roofing material, asphalt shingles are both durable and relatively long-lasting, with a lifespan of around 25 years. While their energy efficiency may vary, light-colored granules or specialized coatings can improve their ability to reflect sunlight and release heat. 

Understanding the Importance of Roof Insulation and Ventilation

Of course, roofing materials aren’t the only component that plays a part in your roof’s energy efficiency. Insulation and ventilation, though they may have a tendency to be overlooked, are equally necessary. While insulation may be provided by roofing materials, it’s important to add actual insulation to your attic as well. This material is typically installed in spaces such as between ceiling joists—that is, the horizontal beams which stretch across your ceiling, distributing the weight of the roof and any additional equipment along the vertical columns underneath. Properly placed and uncompromised insulation keeps temperature-controlled air inside your home and prevents outside air from infiltrating your building, allowing your heating and cooling systems to function smoothly. It is often made from materials including fiberglass, mineral wool, spray foam and cellulose—that is, fiber insulation typically made out of paper products such as newspaper and cardboard. 

Attic ventilation allows air to circulate through the upper part of your building, drawing cool, fresh air inside through intake vents while pushing out heat and moisture via exhaust vents. These ventilation systems may take one of two forms: active or passive. Active ventilation, as the name suggests, utilizes moving parts to pull air through your attic. This type of ventilation includes attic fans and roof turbines, among other systems. Passive ventilation, on the other hand, has no moving parts. Instead, it relies on natural forces such as convection—that is, the rising of hot air and the sinking of cool air. This type of ventilation includes systems such as soffit and fascia vents, ridge vents and gable vents.

Reduce Your Home’s Energy Consumption with WestBank Roofing

While a new roof installation may seem like an unnecessary expense, in today’s world, you can’t afford not to think about energy efficiency. Inefficient roofs can retain heat and moisture, potentially leading to compromised roofing, heating and cooling systems. Over time, this can lead to increased costs in the form of both repair and utility bills. Energy-efficient roofing, on the other hand, actually lowers utility costs, saving you money in the long run. And while it can be difficult to know which roofing material is best for your home, you don’t have to make this decision alone. Our team at WestBank Roofing can offer our expert advice in order to help you find a system which suits both your preferences and the needs of your property.

Want to learn more about energy-efficient roofing, or looking to plan a roof replacement? Contact WestBank Roofing via phone or email today.