Saving money and energy is a concern for many homeowners, and one often overlooked aspect of this is the roof. A well-maintained and energy-efficient roof can reduce cooling and heating costs, while also increasing the lifespan of the roof. In this article, we will explore four key elements of an energy-efficient roof and other tips to help lower your bills and reduce energy consumption in the home.
You can significantly reduce your energy bills by paying attention to these four elements of an energy-efficient roof, as well as lengthen the lifespan of your roof.
Until something major happens, like a storm causing damage or a home inspection revealing previously hidden issues, we rarely think about our roof. However, even without a crisis, a roof can reduce energy costs greatly. Take advantage of all the ways in which your roof can help you save. If you install a new roof or repair an existing one, you can reduce your cooling and heating costs by keeping certain factors in mind.
Re-roofing a building should take roof efficiency into account. Roofing replacement can cost thousands of dollars, so homeowners put it off. You may still be able to improve the energy efficiency of your existing roof by upgrading the attic insulation.
Attic vents are vital to the health of a roof, even after improving attic insulation. During summer months, insulation can cause the attic to become extremely hot. Roof decking can warp and shingles can diminish in life due to lack of ventilation. The air-conditioning system may need to work harder because it can pass through the insulation. An afternoon spent in the sun can make the surface of a black car blistering hot. As a result, dark roofs absorb more heat from the sun, which transfers more heat to the attic and roof deck.
Heat transfer from the roof to the attic can be reduced by using radiant barriers. Instead of painting the roof deck with silver paint, Eldredge says, "The coating helps reflect the heat away from the attic." It means less heat from the sun. It is often necessary to replace the roof deck before applying a radiant barrier during roof repairs. Together with any or all of the other practices listed here, radiant barriers can reduce your energy footprint.
Please take note of a few following energy-saving tips for spring and summer. During the day, protect your windows with window coverings to prevent heat loss. Window treatments and coverings can improve your home's energy efficiency.
Choose a temperature that is comfortable for you and that offers humidity control, if necessary. You will spend less on cooling if the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors is smaller. You should keep your house warmer than usual when you are away, and lower the temperature when you return home and need to cool it. Automating this process and maintaining comfort is possible with a programmable thermostat.
Your air conditioner should not be turned on at a colder temperature than normal at first. There is no benefit to this method of cooling your home faster, as it could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expenditures. Leave the room with the ceiling fans turned off. It is important to remember that fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.
Heat and humidity can be removed from your home by using the bathroom fan when you shower or take a bath. You might also benefit from spot ventilation in your laundry room. Don't just vent bathroom and kitchen fans to the attic, but to the outside as well. Ventilating fans with ENERGY STAR ratings are available.
For operating and maintaining your air conditioner, evaporative cooler, or heat pump, you should keep lamps and TV's away from your room air-conditioning thermostat. The thermostat detects heat from these appliances, which can lead to the air conditioner running longer than it should. Make sure you vacuum your air intake vents regularly to prevent dust buildup. Keep your registers free of furniture and other objects that could obstruct airflow.
Make sure your home doesn't leak warm air through cracks and openings. Find out how you can air-seal your home, whether it's brand new or already built. Make sure doors and windows are sealed with caulk or weatherstripping. The appropriate caulk should be selected and applied
It is recommended that you set your water heater at no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid scalding. Saving money and energy is also possible with the lower setting.
Approximately 18% of the energy consumed in your home is used to heat water.
Taking steps to make your roof more energy-efficient can have a significant impact on your energy bills and the environment. From upgrading attic insulation to using radiant barriers, there are many options to consider when looking to improve your roof's energy efficiency. Additionally, making small changes to your daily routine, such as using window coverings and maintaining air conditioning units, can further reduce energy consumption in the home. By being mindful of these energy-saving tips, homeowners can save money and contribute to a more sustainable future. The experts at Herring Residential will happily come out for a free estimate and offer recommendations based on the inspection to help ensure your roof is operating at maximum efficiency for the ups and downs of spring temps and the intense heat of the upcoming summer.