If you own your home, it’s inevitable that you are going to have to replace your roof at some point. While no one looks forward to investing the time and money into this project, choosing the right materials can have added benefits, like reducing the amount of energy your home uses, and therefore reducing your utility bills. Green improvements have become more affordable and more widely available than ever as people are realizing the positive effect that these steps have on their wallets as well as on the environment. Below are a few energy-saving tips you’ll want to consider before replacing your roof.

Cool roofing materials can significantly reduce the amount of the sun’s heat that your roof absorbs. The way these materials work is simple: you already know that wearing lighter colors in the summertime keeps you cooler than wearing all black; so why top your home with dark shingles? Using lighter colored shingles can keep your roof up to 60 degrees cooler in the summer months, thus requiring less energy to cool your home. If you are planning to redo your roof anyway, opt for lighter shingles. Even if you’re not ready to replace your roof just yet, you can benefit from cool roof coating, a light colored, breathable, reflective sealant that you simply apply as you would paint or tar. It’s an inexpensive way to cut down on your home’s energy intake.

Insulation is always a good thing when it comes to your roof. If you roof is not well insulated, it can cause you to waste huge amounts of money and energy heating and cooling the inside of your house. Moreover, if you plan to finish your attic, a poorly insulated roof will render that space virtually unbearable to live in for most of the year. Conversely, good roof insulation can buy you a lot more time with the heater and air conditioner turned off. Research online to find out which kind of insulation is best for your home and your part of the country, as this can vary. Some types of insulation to consider are home foam insulation, cellulose, and the more common fiberglass. You may also benefit from radiant barrier insulation, which reflects heat. Make sure your insulation is properly installed to avoid unwanted moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold, mildew, and even rot.

Once again, if you are already planning to replace your roof, of if your are building a new house, you might as well get the most bang for your buck with green roofing materials. Just beware of “green washed” products, which are packaged to take advantage of the green trend, but do not offer any of the benefits of truly sustainable and energy efficient products. To avoid being taken for a ride, first know your home’s climate and conditions. Wood shingles don’t last as long as asphalt shingles, no matter what the weather is like, so naturally, these are less sustainable. Metal, tile, asphalt, and concrete hold up much longer and their lifespan can be increased with an additional reflective coating that will also keep your roof cooler.

Creative Energy Exteriors is Central Virginia\’s leading replacement roofing servicing Richmond, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Williamsburg and surrounding areas.

http://www.creativeenergyexteriors.com/ is Central Virginia\’s leading http://www.creativeenergyexteriors.com/roofing.html replacement roofing servicing Richmond, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Williamsburg and surrounding areas.

Author Bio: Creative Energy Exteriors is Central Virginia\’s leading replacement roofing servicing Richmond, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg, Williamsburg and surrounding areas.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: Home, Repair, Environment, Construction, Advise, Tips, Green