Make Your Roof Cool with Energy-Efficient Options

May 20, 2024

There are plenty of ways to “green” your home, including using LED lighting or a smart thermostat. But don’t forget about your roof, one of the biggest resources that allow you to save energy.

“Ninety percent of roofs built in the United States use dark materials that absorb heat,” said Wendy Cline, co-owner of J & B Construction. “Energy-efficient roofs, or cool roofs, release the sun’s energy instead of absorbing it into your home.”

Because of direct sunlight, roofs can get up to 100 degrees warmer than the air temperature. With a heat-absorbing roof, this heat enters your attic and the rest of your house, making your HVAC system work overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature.

During your next roofing replacement, consider these energy-efficient options that can save you hundreds of dollars in utility bills annually:

Asphalt Solar Shingles

“Because asphalt is an increasingly affordable material, many roofs are made of asphalt shingles,” said Wendy. “But the current asphalt shingles on your home probably aren’t as energy efficient as they could be.”

If you choose to install asphalt shingles in your next roof, ask about cool roofing shingles or solar-reflecting granules that are designed to reduce heat absorption and prolong the life of your roof.

Metal Roofing

“If you have a metal roof, you already know you have one of the most durable —and one of the most energy-efficient — options available,” Wendy said.

Metal roofing is made from 30-60 percent recyclable material and metal is 100 percent recyclable. In addition, metal roofing is hot to the touch as you can feel the sun’s energy coming off the roof. Even the overlapping panels provide an extra coat or protection against the sun.

Roof Coatings

If you aren’t quite ready for a full roof replacement but still want to reap the benefits of energy-efficient roofing, coating a metal or flat roof might be your best option. The coating gives the roof a higher efficiency rating.

“Effective roof coating lowers the temperature of your roof’s surface,” said Wendy. “Additionally, many kinds of roof coatings are designed to be reflective, further cooling a coated roof.”

Whether you choose to install asphalt with solar shingles, a new metal roof, or a coating to your current roof, the average household can save anywhere from $300-$400 on utility bills per year with energy-efficient roofing. Besides savings, other benefits include:

An extension of the life of the roof, including low maintenance costs.
Comfortable living spaces without increasing the power of your HVAC system.
A reduction in electricity demand and power plant emissions that helps cool buildings.

For all things roofing, J & B Construction, southeastern Wisconsin’s most trusted roofing company, has you covered. If you’re ready for a replacement roof, contact us today.

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Enjoy Peace Of Mind

The only complaint I have is when I have J&B do my roof in another 30 years or so, is Dave their sales man (a great guy) would not guaranty I could get the same great crew I had this time. They did a fantastic job. Much better than the last roofing company did. A nice bunch of guys. Did a very nice job cleaning up. I'd give them 10 stars but 5 is the limit. If you need a roof done this is the company you want to do it. One more point I need to make. The guys that did the chimney flashing are artists. I went up on the roof when they were done and was very pleased with not only the roofing job but the sculptured sheet metal work. It's kind of a shame it's on the roof and not hanging on the family room wall :). You get the point. Hire em. You'll like em.

Dave H

We live in a historic designated neighborhood and recently had our 30 year wood shingle roof replaced with another wood roof and new gutters. From Day 1 of the project to the final day, the entire team was responsive, professional, and very competent. When some minor changes were proposed by us they quickly and effortlessly complied. After going through this experience with J&B, I would highly recommend them to anyone considering a roof and gutter replacement, whether it be a simple or complicated project.

John Lamb

J & B did an amazing job from start to finish. The initial meeting at my home took place exactly at the time that was agreed upon and Scott was thorough in his explanations and transparent about costs. When the time came to begin the project, the team that showed up was friendly, professional and timely in getting the project done. The cleanup afterward was such that it looked like they hadn't been there at all. The roof looks great, there were no surprises and Scott came by to inspect the work and explain the warranty upon job completion. I would highly recommend them.

Kenneth Simons