Whether you’re searching for an energy efficient roof for a newly-built home, or looking to replace the roofing system you have with energy efficient roofing materials - you’ll discover that there are many different types of residential roofs that will help you reduce home energy consumption. The first step to take into account are factors like your climate, aesthetic, and budget.
There are many different roofing materials appropriate for residential properties. Each is uniquely fit for different climates: some for dry, hot weather and others for cool or wet weather.
Some of the most popular roofing types include:
Asphalt shingles
Tile roofing
Shake shingles
Metal roofing
Slate roofing
Things to Consider: Solar Reflectance
One of the largest factors that determines whether a roofing material is energy efficient is the Solar reflectance and emittance. This means that the roofing material reflects energy from the sun and releases it back into the surrounding air. By doing this, the top floors of a home are kept cool and less energy is required in cooling a home. Color will also affect the energy efficiency of a roof. The darker the color, the more heat will be absorbed. The lighter color roofing material, the more energy efficient it is.
Shake Shingles, Asphalt Shingles, or Metal Roofing?
The three most popular options on the market for roofing are shake shingles, asphalt shingles, and metal roofing. They are favored for different reasons: