How Roof Colors Affect Energy

The color of your roof is what makes it stand out. The right choice can be beautiful, eye-catching and appealing. What you might not know is that it also affects your energy bill. As an exterior remodeling contractor, we’d like to explain to you how your roof’s color affects your energy efficiency.

Color and Energy

Color is perceived thanks to light. Different spectrums affect the color and shade made visible. For example, an object that reflects all spectrums appears white. Meanwhile, an object that absorbs all spectrums appears black. That’s why people say not to wear a black top during a hot day. According to this theory, you’d be absorbing a lot of the light.

In the same manner, roofing shingles also are affected by the color. Lighter shingles have been proven to keep homes cooler during the summer days. Meanwhile, darker roofs absorb more solar heat and make the rooms hotter. This is known in residential roofing service as “the albedo effect.”

Cooling the Roof

Taking these principles into mind, one key to reducing energy savings is by changing the color. While many homeowners opt to change the material itself, that’s not always necessary. Scientists have found that lighter colors lead to significant changes in the energy bill.

Still, it’s not only the color that can make a difference. The key to a good roof is a well-insulated layer, too. Working together, a well-insulated roof with a cool color can be great for your home. For example, we recommend getting light blue or white for a well-insulated roof. The lighter color reflects more light, while the insulation diffuses heat better.

Timberland Exteriors has many years of experience in home improvement. We have helped clients with our different roofing and siding services, including roof replacement and redesign and hail storm damage restoration.

Contact us if you’d like to learn more about our services and products. We serve Detroit Lakes, MN and many other areas in Minnesota.