Reflective Roofing: Energy Efficiency Through the Roof

Published by: Cynthia Freeney
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

When many people think of energy efficiency, they think of power sources, turning off the lights, using less gas, maybe the utilization of solar panels for a single home or a wind farm for an entire community. Savvier homeowners might even consider better appliances, and energy efficient retrofits like heat pumps, tank less water heaters, insulation and air sealing.

What not too many people know is that energy efficiency can come in the form of new roofing materials. Because of the way the air moves inside a home, the roof is a fundamental part of the building envelope when energy efficiency is concerned. Heated air raises and escapes through the roof during winter, and a heated roof during the summer can make a home much harder to cool.

A new roof is a major investment, but don’t let the prospect take its toll on your mind. New roofing materials are more resilient, durable and the energy savings alone will help you pay for the project overtime. The right roof can save you an astronomical amount of money in utility bills. Energy Star rated roofs may also qualify for a Tax Credit of 30%, up to $1,500 USD

Energy Star rated roofs are mainly made with reflective materials: metal or modified bitumen. Rather then absorbing sunlight like conventional shingles. There are also Energy Star labeled reflective coatings that can be applied to some types of roofing material but they do not qualify for Tax Credits.

Visit the Energy Star website for more information on energy efficient roofing and Tax Credit qualified roofing materials.

If you live in Connecticut, trust the HRAC certified roofing contractors to help you chose and install your new, energy efficient roof.

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