If you're considering options for a new roof, you may be thinking about how the roof will affect the temperatures in your attic and home. Some roofing materials help your home stay cooler in the summer, and this can keep your electricity bill lower. Here are some considerations when choosing a roofing material that helps with climate control.

Dark Colors Absorb Heat

You probably wear light-colored clothing in the summer. One reason white and other light colors are considered summer wear is because light colors reflect the sun and help you feel cooler. Dark colors absorb heat from the sun and make you feel hotter. You might notice this in your car seats, too. Dark seats feel hotter when you get in the car.

Colors affect your roof the same way. White or light-colored roofing materials reflect the sun and dark colors absorb it and make your attic hotter. If you want help keeping your home cool in the summer, you might choose a light-colored roof. If you want help keeping your home warmer in the winter, you might choose a dark-colored roof.

Reflective Materials Reduce Solar Warming

Different roofing materials affect how hot your attic gets, too. Metal is a naturally reflective material that helps your home stay cooler. Asphalt shingles aren't normally reflective. However, you can buy cool shingles that are coated with reflective granules to reduce the solar warming of your home.

Concrete and clay tiles are efficient at reducing solar warming due to the combined effects of reflectivity, passive ventilation, and the ability to release heat. That's why tile roofs are popular in hot climates.

Insulation And Ventilation Are Important, Too

If you want a dark color for your new roof, you don't have to worry a lot about it heating your home as much if your attic has plenty of ventilation and it is insulated properly. Insulation and ventilation can protect your living space from solar warming caused by your roof.

If you have an older home, you may want a roofer to calculate the amount of ventilation your attic needs to make sure your attic is in accordance with modern standards. More ventilation can be added if it's needed. You'll also want to make sure your attic has enough insulation, and if not, add more. Insulation and ventilation are important no matter what color or type of roofing you install.

A roofer can help you choose energy-efficient roofing if you're open to the type and color for your new roof so you don't have to waste money on power bills because your roof gets your home too hot.

Reach out to a local roofing contractor to get more tips.

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