Does Your Roof Affect the Temperature of Your House?

There are lots of ways that your roof can affect your house, but did you know that your roof can even change the temperature of your home?

That’s right! 

When choosing your new roof, you should also take temperature into account. If you live in a hot area, there are certain things you might want to avoid.

First things first, the color of your roof can majorly impact the temperature of your house. The darker your roof is, the hotter your house will be. Darker roofs absorb more heat, and the wood beneath the surface of the roof will be much hotter. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a dark colored roof, but it does mean that you should take into account where you are living, and the typical temperatures in that area. If you live in a very cold area, a darker roof can actually help keep your home warmer. However, if you live in a hot area where it is always boiling, then a lighter roof is your best bet.

The next thing to consider is ventilation of the inner roof/ attic. The better the ventilation, the more that the temperature can easily shift. This makes your home cooler in the summer and hotter in the winter.

Now, let’s look at roofing materials. Even the very material you pick for your roof can have an effect on the temperature of your home. Asphalt shingles only reflect about thirty percent of light, meaning that they absorb more heat and keep your house warmer in the winter. If you live in a cold area, asphalt shingles are probably your best bet. However, if you live in a very hot area, you might consider a metal roof. Why is this? Metal roofs reflect the most light away from your home, keeping the interior of your house much cooler and more comfortable in the summer. Take your time to learn about the different roofing materials and how they affect your home.

Finally, if you ever have any questions, just give us or your local roofing company a call to learn more!