You know how brutal those Atlanta summers can be. As the temperatures rise, so do your energy bills from constantly cranking the AC to keep your home comfortable. But did you know your roof could be partly to blame for your sky-high summer utility costs because it is not made of energy-efficient roofing materials?
If you have an old, outdated roof, it’s likely doing a poor job insulating your home and keeping the heat out. The good news is that several innovative new roofing technologies are designed specifically for hot southern climates that can help lower your energy usage and monthly bills.
This article explores some of the most energy-efficient roofing options for Atlanta homes. By upgrading your home’s roof, you can transform your attic and upper floor into an energy-efficient comfort zone and save on cooling costs all summer.
Green Roofs
If hot Atlanta summers have you sweating just thinking about your energy bills, it may be time to consider a green roof. Green roofs, or living roofs, involve growing vegetation on the roof surface. The plants and growing medium provide an extra insulation layer, reducing heat gain in the building below.
A green roof can lower surface temperatures by up to 90°F compared to a conventional roof, keeping your attic and living spaces cooler. The vegetation also helps absorb carbon dioxide and pollutants, improving air quality. Some studies show residential green roofs can reduce cooling costs by up to 25% in warm weather.
Installing a green roof does come at a higher upfront cost, but rebates and incentives may be available. And a green roof should last at least 40-50 years, twice as long as a typical roof. Maintenance requirements are also minimal once established.
There are two main types of green roofs to consider for homes:
- Extensive green roofs have a shallow layer of lightweight growing medium and hardy, drought-tolerant plants like sedum, requiring little maintenance. They can be installed on roofs with slopes up to 30 degrees.
- Intensive green roofs have a deeper layer of soil that can support a wider variety of plants, shrubs, and even trees. However, they require more maintenance and typically can only be used on roofs with slopes less than 15 degrees.
A green roof could be the solution if you want to make your home more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. You’ll enjoy lower utility bills, improved comfort, and the satisfaction of doing your part for the environment. Why not give your roof a garden and see how it can blossom?
Radiant Barriers
Radiant barriers can lower your attic temperature by up to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. This means the air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to keep your home comfortable, saving you money and energy. The most common types of radiant barriers are foil-faced panels or foil sheets that you install under the roof decking or in the attic. The shiny, reflective surface faces toward the attic floor, reflecting heat toward the roof.
Radiant barriers provide the most benefit when installed in attics with ventilation, as they work best when heat is reflected out of the attic space. They are also more effective when installed with an air space on at least one side of the material, such as under the roof decking. For the best results, consider combining a radiant barrier with additional attic insulation for improved efficiency.
Installing a radiant barrier is a DIY-friendly project for many homeowners. However, consider hiring an insulation contractor for a larger attic or if you want professional help determining the best solution for your needs. They can ensure the barrier is installed properly so you reap the maximum energy savings and cooling benefits during Atlanta’s long, hot summers.
Energy-Efficient Shingles
Energy-efficient roofing shingles are a great option to lower energy bills during Atlanta’s hot summers. These shingles utilize special granules that reflect more of the sun’s rays, reducing heat absorption into your attic and living space below.
The two most common types are reflective shingles and cool shingles. Reflective shingles have a higher solar reflectance, bouncing more sunlight away from the roof. Popular brands like CertainTeed’s Landmark Solaris or GAF’s Timberline Ultra HD Reflector Series offer reflective shingles in various styles.
Cool shingles are coated in special pigments that absorb less heat. Owens Corning’s Duration Premium Cool Shingles and Tamko’s Heritage Premium Shingles are two well-known cool shingle options. These tend to cost a bit more upfront but can lower attic temperatures by up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly reducing cooling costs.
Besides energy efficiency, these specialized shingles offer other benefits. Their reflective and heat-reducing properties can help extend the life of your HVAC system. The cooler attic also prevents damage to insulation, wiring, and framing. Many brands provide Class A fire resistance and long warranties of up to 50 years for maximum protection.
Thermal Mass Roofing
Thermal mass roofing materials are excellent for keeping indoor temperatures comfortable during Atlanta’s hot and humid summers. Made of dense substances like concrete, clay, and stone, these roofing types absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night. This helps prevent extreme temperature swings inside your home.
Clay and concrete roof tiles have been used for centuries and offer timeless style, durability, and energy efficiency. Their high density allows them to absorb and retain large amounts of heat, regulating indoor temps. Homeowners in the American South have relied on these roofing materials for generations to stay cool without high energy bills.
Tiles come in various colors and profiles to suit your home’s architecture. While clay and concrete tiles tend to cost more upfront compared to asphalt shingles, their longevity of 50-100 years means lower costs in the long run. They are also eco-friendly, made from natural materials, and fully recyclable.
By choosing a thermal mass roofing material for your Atlanta home, you can rely less on energy-hungry cooling systems during the hot summer months. Your roof will absorb the sun’s heat so your AC unit doesn’t have to, allowing you to save on energy costs and do your part for the environment.
Contact Our Atlanta Roofing Contractors for a Free Quote
Once you’ve decided on an energy-efficient roofing material for your Atlanta home, it’s time to hire reputable roofing contractors to properly install it. For the best roofing options and professional installation, contact our Atlanta Roofing Contractors at 404-737-7179.
With years of experience, our roofing contractors are experts in residential re-roofing and new roof installation. While we provide premium roofing materials and workmanship, our prices are affordable and competitive.
Our roofing contractors aim to provide the best value through honest, transparent estimates and reliable service. Call us at 404-737-7179 or request an estimate on our website.