Whatever your opinions are about climate change, there’s no denying that weather in our state and around the world is growing more extreme. What does that mean for you and your home this summer season?
Think About This:
• The median age of a home in the United States is 37 years. That’s getting up there when it comes to dealing with today’s unpredictable weather.
• Ninety-nine percent of homes in the U.S. leak and consume WAY TOO much energy according to Energy Star which contributes to carbon pollution.
• Ninety percent of the American homes have dark-colored roofs — that goes for most roofs around the world, too. In full sun the surface of a dark roof can be 100º F over the surrounding air temperature and can reach temps as high as 190º F. (With temps like that, you could probably fry an egg on your singles, but we wouldn’t want to recommend it).
This means an older, darker roof can increase demands on your AC, deliver higher utility bills, and make your home less comfortable. The broader picture is older, darker roofs can drain overburdened power grids when electricity demands are highest and increase air pollution due to intensifying the “heat island effect.”
What Can I Do About This That Makes a Difference?
Start by installing a “cool roof.” A cool roof is a roofing system that provides high solar reflectance while reducing heat transfer to your home. Historically, cool roofs were either white or a light color, but today, new residential cool roofing products have been developed to achieve quality levels of solar reflection even in dark, rich hues.
A Cool Roof Can (according to the EPA):
1. Reduce the energy use of your home. A cool roof reflects heat, so less heat transfers into your home. A cooler home means less energy is needed for air conditioning, reducing the cost of keeping your home comfortable. (And you get lower energy bills.)
2. By reducing the amount of energy your home consumes, a cool roof lowers the need for energy production that is associated with air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. (So you can breathe easier.)
3. Helps reduce and doesn’t add to the “heat island effect.” Cool roofs will reflect heat, not retain it, thus helping improve air quality. (After all, this is not your favorite island to experience.)
4. Improve health and comfort. A cool roof keeps the inside of homes cooler, with or without air conditioning, which helps prevent heat-related illnesses. (No one enjoys sweating buckets in their home.)
BONUS: A cool roof can enhance your roof’s durability and extend its life. (How cool is that?)
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Considering a cool roof for your home? At Xtreme Exteriors, we stay current with the latest home exteriors products available and can help you find affordable cool roof products that will satisfy your taste and your home’s design.