The quality of your residential roofing material can affect the rate at which energy is lost; and this means that a weak roof can lead to additional cooling expenses. Energy-efficient roofs are designed to keep the house cool during the hot seasons, so that you don’t have to constantly use the A/C. By comparison, conventional Oakland roofing materials, like asphalt shingles, aren’t as effective at keeping the heat out during summer.

Wood and asphalt shingles reflect very little sun. Instead, much of the sun’s heat is absorbed by the sheathing under the roofing material and into the attic, and then transferred to the rest of the house. This causes the A/C to work harder to counter this heating process, which raises utility bills significantly.

Energy-efficient material can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s heat (based on climate, the direction of the sun in relation to your house, and the type of material used). These three roofing materials are the top energy reflectors and perfect for maintaining cool temperatures during the warm seasons:

Residential Roofing 101: Energy Efficient Roofing Materials

1. Tile

Concrete and clay tile roofs are particularly effective at shielding extreme temperatures and they provide great thermal protection and ventilation through the small air gaps between the tiles. To enhance energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal, tiles can also be painted. Keep in mind that the color will determine to some extent the roof’s ability to reflect heat.

2. Metal

Metal roofs reflect most of the sun’s heat particularly when other coating materials have been used to enhance to energy efficiency. To get the best out of metal roofs, go for steel and/or aluminum, or speak to a representative here at Ben’s Roofing to get more information. You may be able to save as much as 30% on average since metal roofing is typically less expensive than other roofing materials, plus it ensures the safety of your family since it’s a fire-retardant roofing material.

3. Energy Star

The Energy Star Rating is the gold standard of roofing materials and it’s used to measure different materials’ ability to minimize the roof’s surface temperature (and consequently, a home’s energy use.) Expert advice is recommended when shopping for residential roofing materials

Contact Us Today for Energy Efficient San Francisco Roofing

Ben’s Roofing is a Bay Area roofing contractor with technicians that can guide you in selecting roofing materials that are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Contact us to discuss your roofing concerns and we’ll be happy to provide you with effective solutions. Energy-efficient roofing offers plenty of benefits to your family such as reduced energy waste, lower electric bills, and peace of mind that the next Bay Area storm won’t cause any more roof leaks or damage. Contact us today at (510) 690-8570 or via our online contact form.