People who have lived in Central Texas their entire lives are sometimes surprised to learn that there are places with consistently mild temperatures all year. For example, consider the normal average temperatures in San Diego, California. August, which is typically the hottest month, has an average high of approximately 76 degrees Fahrenheit. The coolest month is usually December, which has an average high of less than 65 degrees. With a climate like that, homeowners do not need to give much thought to their roofing choices. However, the situation in the Austin area is very different. Texas roofing must stand up to heavy rains, harsh sunlight, hail, and summer temperatures that can approach or exceed 100 degrees. When the temperatures rise, so do the energy bills as homeowners try to keep the interior of their homes comfortably cool. What many do not realize is how much a roof can affect the interior temperatures.
How Does a Roof Affect Interior Temperatures?
Your roof is an entire system of components that can have a drastic impact on how cool your interior spaces remain. The main elements that affect your interior temperature are attic ventilation, insulation, and roof covering. Also, there are other ways to keep your roof cooler that can help you lower the temperature in your living spaces.
How Does Attic Ventilation Affect Interior Temperatures?
Without proper ventilation, heat and moisture can be trapped in your attic. Although the rule is that heat rises, when it is trapped in your attic, it will transfer through the attic floor and any cracks or openings, ultimately reaching the areas that you are trying to cool. The trapped moisture can allow mold and mildew to flourish in your attic, and the spores could spread throughout your home. Ask a reputable Austin roofing company for an inspection to determine whether your attic is adequately ventilated.
How Does Insulation Affect Interior Temperatures?
Insulation plays a vital role in preventing the transfer of air between the attic and the living areas. To check whether you have adequate insulation, look at the floor of your attic. If you can see the floor joists, there is an excellent chance that you need additional insulation. Some licensed roofing companies also install attic insulation, so contact an expert to determine precisely how much insulation you need to add.
How Does the Roof Covering Affect Interior Temperatures?
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roof covering in the United States. The color of your shingles can affect how much heat your roof absorbs. Lighter colors reflect more sunlight, so less heat makes it into your attic. However, manufacturers are now producing lines of shingles that have reflective granules, and this can be helpful if you want a darker color. Metal roofs tend to do a better job of keeping your roof cool than asphalt shingles, and there are roof coatings that the factory can apply that will enhance a metal roof’s reflectivity.
What Other Ways Are There to Keep a Roof Cooler?
A roof mist cooling system, also known as an evaporative cooling system, uses sensors to monitor the roof’s temperature and moisture. As needed, the system sprays the roof with a tiny amount of water, and the evaporation process cools the roof. Although used primarily on commercial roofs, some can be used on a home with certain roof coverings. If you have a flat roof, a rooftop garden can provide shade to reduce the temperature of the roof, and transpiration and evaporation can enhance the cooling properties. Lastly, trees can be planted at an appropriate distance to provide shade.
Contact Alpha Roofing for More Information
Alpha Roofing would be happy to conduct a free roofing inspection to determine the best options for keeping your specific roof cooler. We are a well-respected, highly qualified roofing company based in Round Rock. Our roofing services include installing metal roofs, asphalt shingles, flat roofs, skylights, and flashing. We also offer roof and chimney repair, moss and debris removal, and preventive roofing maintenance plans. We have a spotless reputation that is based on our outstanding workmanship and superior service. You can request a free quote by filling out the online form or calling 512-777-1086.