Toledo Roofers: Article About Roofing Material
Reflective ceramic tiles are made from clay that is embedded with pigments that help to reflect sunlight. After their firing, the tiles are then glazed with an additional reflective coating to enhance their durability and energy efficiency.
Toledo roofing contractors answer a FAQ: How much energy can be saved by putting a reflective coating on the roof?Homeowners may find that their summer cooling costs decrease by about 20 percent after the addition of a reflective roof coating. The house will not heat up as much, which reduces the burden on the cooling system. The efficient roofing can be combined with other changes like adding insulation, thermal curtains and regular air conditioner maintenance.
When a house is being built or needs a new roof, homeowners will be faced with many decisions. The increase in energy rates has led many property owners to choose more efficient materials. Using reflective coatings on the roof is an option that experienced local Toledo roofers offer to any homeowner seeking to lower their summertime cooling costs while also adding value and beauty to their homes.
Reflective ceramic tiles are an up and coming roofing option gaining popularity across the nation. These tiles resemble slate but are lighter in color. The exterior surface of each tile is specially coated to reflect the sun's light back into the atmosphere. This is contrary to the way that black asphalt shingles absorb the sun's energy. The deflected energy makes it easier for homeowners to keep their homes cool during the hot and humid summer months of the year.
Another great option for reflective roofing is a radiant barrier. These thin films are made from reflective material and adhered to the roof's underlay. When paired with tiles or shingles, the radiant barrier stops the sun's heat and light energy from penetrating into the home's attic space. The barrier deflects the heat back into the environment. Barriers also help to boost indoor comfort during the winter, as they keep the warmer air inside the home and stop it from escaping out through the home's upper level.
The roofing experts from Johnson Roofing of Toledo would be happy to answer any question you have about roof repair or residential roofing.
Homeowners could also consider installing metal roofs, which are naturally reflective. All metals, from corrugated tin to galvanized steel and copper, can help a homeowner save about 20 percent on their summer cooling costs. Metal roofs have a long lifespan, averaging 30 years for galvanized steel and 50 years or longer for copper. The metal can be covered with a polymeric coating for added effectiveness at heat dissipation. During the installation process, several layers of insulation will be placed between the roof's decking and the sheets of metal. These also help to stop outdoor air from gaining access to the home's living spaces.
The easiest and least expensive way to add reflectivity to a rooftop is through the use of white coatings or paint. These can be applied to a wide range of roofing materials, including cedar shakes, slate and others. For materials that are difficult to paint, such as asphalt shingles, homeowners could select the lightest color available rather than traditional black. The lighter the color of the rooftop, the less heat it will absorb.
