Can A Metal Roof Keep Your Home Cool During Summer?
There are a lot of myths about metal roofs that aren't true, and one of those is that a metal roof will make your home hotter. In fact, the opposite is the case — a metal roof will actually help to keep you cool during the summer while keeping your utility costs down.
Unlike asphalt roofing materials, which are incredibly heat absorbent, metal is reflective and sends the sun's rays away from your house, helping to keep the inside cool even as it gets hotter outside. Metal roofing can help to reduce energy costs by as much as 40%. Since less heat will make it into your home, you'll need to use your air conditioning less, helping you to save money.
Not only can this reduced use of your HVAC system benefit the environment, but metal roofing is also made of as much as 95% recycled materials and will be recyclable at the end of its lifespan. Another thing worth knowing before you buy a metal roof is that it'll last a very long time. Metal roofing can last as long as 70 years, so it's a great choice for both sustainability and convenience.
Getting the most from a metal roof
If you want to maximize the benefits of a metal roof, there are a few things to consider. Keep in mind that the coating of the metal roof and its color can affect how well it reflects heat. Manufacturers offer various coatings that will improve the reflectivity of a metal roof, enabling it to do an even better job of maintaining your home's temperature. You'll also find that metal roofs with lighter colors such as silver and beige reflect sunlight more easily than those with darker colors do. Choose a lighter color for your metal roof if you want to ensure that heat reflects well and that you get the most benefit from it.
Remember that there are many ways to moderate the temperatures in your home and reduce your reliance on your HVAC system, so consider looking for other ways to reduce your energy costs at home in addition to installing a metal roof. Improving home insulation in the attic, adding trees and landscaping for more shade, and sealing gaps in doors and windows can help to prevent heat transfer and keep your home as cool as possible during the summer.