If you want to cut down your utility bills, have you considered more energy-efficient roofing options? An energy-efficient roof could help your property effectively reflect UV rays while insulating your home to reduce the load on your heating and cooling systems.
Highly efficient roofs reduce heat absorption while locking your cool air in to reduce energy costs, but how can you make an informed choice? After all, it’s a large investment.
Gotcha Covered Contracting covers all of the most popular options for energy-efficient roofs in Pittsburg, PA. Read on to learn more, or give the team a call at (724) 581-8147 when you’re ready to upgrade your existing roof!
Why Choose an Energy-Efficient Roof?
Energy-efficient roofs provide numerous benefits. These systems may cost a bit more than traditional roofs, but you can also potentially enjoy the following perks:
- Lower monthly energy costs.
- Improved insulation for better interior comfort.
- A lower carbon footprint for improved sustainability.
- Increased longevity, as some materials can last over 100 years.
- Better protection against rain and fire.
- Lightweight installations.
- Easier upkeep over time.
- Enhanced style as energy-efficient materials can help your home stand out.
- An increased property value.
The Best Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials
You have numerous energy-efficient roofing options on hand, each with varying advantages and disadvantages.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofing contains recyclable copper, aluminum, zinc, or steel, making it sustainable. The thin, lightweight material does an excellent job reflecting UV rays to keep your home cool during hot summer days, despite the darker color. In the winter, metal roofs absorb this heat to help your home stay warm.
Because of this dual action, metal roofs rank as one of the most energy-efficient options on the market. Metal roofs also provide excellent ventilation (the thin material optimizes airflow). Depending on upkeep, your metal roofing can last up to 70 years and come in all different colors and configurations.
The primary downside to metal is its susceptibility to dents during hail storms. Aside from this, metal offers ideal fire and water resistance.
Slate
Slate is a natural, recyclable, and sustainable material that offers highly insulative properties as roofing. A slate roof can help you keep hot air out, lock cool air in, or keep your heating inside, depending on the time of year. Slate roofs can last 100 years or longer when well maintained.
Some of the downsides to slate include the higher costs, extreme weight, and potential for cracks. While slate may not offer quite the same reflective properties as metal, these dense, cool roofs won’t dent. However, the weight can create complicated installations, and the material may crack during extreme storms (this is rare!).
Composite Shingles
Composite shingles are a relatively new roofing material containing a synthetic blend of eco-friendly recycled materials, including plastics, asphalt, and sand. Your composite roofing system can mimic the appearance of natural materials like slate or Spanish tile for amazing aesthetic versatility.
Composite shingles also go through specific engineering during the manufacturing process to be more energy-efficient than typical asphalt shingles. The final finish can reflect or absorb heat, depending on the time of year. The primary downsides to composite shingles include the cost and the slightly shorter estimated lifespan.
Rubber Membranes
You may have heard about rubber membrane roofs, including EPDM and TPO systems. These materials on a roof offer ideal weatherproofing, particularly for flat-roofed buildings.
The rubber, lightweight system also includes thick insulation and reflective abilities for excellent energy efficiency in a commercial setting. Rubber roofs may not be the most attractive, but they’re highly affordable, durable, and efficient.
Reap the Energy-Saving Benefits Today
Now you know all about your energy-efficient roofing options. Why not call Gotcha Covered Contracting today at (724) 581-8147 to request a quote?
