What Type of Roof Is Most Energy Efficient?

When we talk about energy, people are becoming overly cautious in its use. Why? Because we need energy, whatever form it is, in our daily life. Making something energy efficient is a goal to reduce the amount of energy for it to last.

With globalisation and advancement of life, our energy resources have been almost used up. So even our homes have to be energy efficient to achieve a considerable rate of temperature and live comfortably. All forms of energy, from gas to electricity, are getting costly. Choosing a roof that is energy efficient is a great relief in paying for the bills. 

Insulating our roofs gives us the privilege to use materials that comply with environmental friendliness. We need a roof for our homes, that is energy efficient. But how can we achieve that? Are all roofs built today energy efficient? Which roof type is the most practical to use?

Getting an energy-efficient roof

Those living in hotter climates need a roof that is highly energy efficient. Homes, where warm weather resides, are required to keep the heat away because it can be costly to use air conditioning regularly. Getting the right roof type will make a difference eventually.

If you’re shifting to a roof that is energy efficient, there are a variety of roofs to choose from, whether residential or commercial buildings. Of if you have a newly built home, you can decide beforehand the roof type that will lower your cost on energy consumption. To decide on the best roofing type for your home, you will have to know several factors that will affect your choice.

Types of roof tiles and their energy efficiency features

Metal

The average lifespan of metal roofs is 50 years above. When it comes to energy efficiency, metal is useful in diverting the heat away. While the exposed part receives all the heat from the sun, its underneath surface remains cool because almost all the heat has been reflected away from the surface. Easy to install, little maintenance, ships quickly due to its lightweight feature, and long-lasting, a metal roof can be your choice of roofing.

Clay and concrete

Concrete tiles can also last for more than 50 years. But what’s good to know about this roofing material is they are highly resistant to heat and can withstand all kinds of weather. Concrete tiles never get hot because they don’t absorb heat that much, leaving no reason for heat to enter the interior of a home or building. To reinforce energy efficiency on concrete, sun-blocking coats can be painted over them to achieve a reflective surface.

Clay tiles are durable and sustainable. They are easy to replace, and they offer a maximised cool roofing solution for their energy efficiency compliance. The properties of clay and concrete account for their non-combustible characteristic, even exposed to an ultimate source of heat.

Slate

Considered for its longevity, the slate can last for 75 years up, or even a lifetime. With its stunning and naturally historic and elegant appeal, the slate roof is an energy-compliant material, which is best for dry and warm climates. Its eco-friendliness points to its intense durability against fire and water. Slate tiles have been the popular choice for roofing systems for centuries, because of its natural-based material. As a mineral product, slate can be recycled after its life, which makes it sustainable.

Wood tiles (shake)

Made out of split logs, shake or wood tiles are an eco-friendly roofing material and highly sustainable. They have an average lifespan of 30 years. However, as they are susceptible to rot, leaks, and mold, the upkeep will cost you more. Despite their natural and rustic appeal, wood roofing must be kept in good condition every two years.

Asphalt

Regarded for their traditional look, asphalt roofing materials are not easily sustainable, but they seal the roof from moisture. They are made from chemicals and crude oil and be in liquid in the form of tar, which when applied, is hot but cools when it hardens. Asphalt roofs can last for 20 years but can be costly for its yearly maintenance. Recyclability of asphalt is weak as it takes around 300 years for the material to decompose.

Ask our roofers

Have further questions on roof selection? Ask our experienced roofers and industry experts and get informed decisions whether you embark on roof repair or replacement. Roofers Birmingham has all the answer you need, give us a call.