How Can Roofing Companies in Long Island Enhance Energy Efficiency?

For homeowners in Long Island, roof repairs or full roof replacement inevitably becomes necessary over time due to weathering elements. While investing in a refreshed roof system, did you know you can also optimize energy savings? Roofing companies in Long Island recommend selecting materials and designs purposefully boosting efficiency.

Let’s explore how upgraded roof installation by Long Island roofers can better insulate your home, reducing cooling bills in summer and heating costs during freezing winters.

Install Cool Roofing Systems

Traditional dark shingles absorb and trap heat from sunlight rather than deflecting it. This raises attic temperatures that then warm up living spaces through the ceiling. Roofing Services Long Island pros say switching to highly reflective “cool roof” systems minimizes this heat absorption.

Installing cool roofing systems is an effective way to increase energy efficiency and comfort in buildings. Cool roofs are made of highly reflective materials that minimize the amount of sunlight absorbed, allowing less heat to transmit into the building.

To install a cool roof, first make sure the roof structure and decking are in good condition and can support the additional weight of the new roofing system.

• Clean the roof surface thoroughly and make any needed repairs before applying the new roof.
• Use a high solar reflectance and high thermal emittance membrane or coating specially designed for cool roofs.
• Apply according to the manufacturer's instructions, using roofing nails, adhesive, or other fasteners as needed to securely anchor the roofing system.
• Install the new roofing in sections, overlapping and sealing each section properly.
• Ensure there is adequate drainage and slope for water runoff. Protect the new roof while the sealants cure before allowing foot traffic or placing other loads on it.

Properly installed cool roofs can lower roof surface temperature by up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, decreasing cooling costs and extending the life of HVAC systems.

Once installed, cool roofing should be properly maintained to preserve energy efficiency benefits over time. This includes cleaning the roof regularly to prevent dirt buildup and algae growth, as well as periodically checking for leaks, damage, or loss of reflectivity.

Proper maintenance ensures optimum performance and longevity of the cool roof, providing lasting savings on energy bills and a cooler, more comfortable indoor environment.

Types of cool roofing materials include:

• White roof shingles: The light color reflects solar rays rather than getting hot
• Aluminum coatings: Top finishes contain heat-reflective metallic particles
• Single-ply membranes: White rubber/plastic sheets better resist temperature rise

Such reflective surfaces can lower roof temperatures by up to 50-60°F versus traditional materials! This keeps attics cooler so less heat permeates down into the rooms below.

Insulate Attic Spaces

If refreshing the roof surface, Long Island roofers recommend also beefing up attic insulation. Heat and cold easily penetrate through thin, inadequate attic insulation. Dense materials like spray foam or fiberglass batts create a protective barrier.

Before installing new insulation, gaps around chimneys or piping should be sealed first. This prevents the formation of thermal bridges where outside air sneaks through. Finally, adding baffles maintains airflow preventing moisture buildup against sheathing.

With denser insulation regulating attic temperatures, HVAC runs less frequently lowering home energy bills.

Install Roof Vents

Another tip from Roof Replacement Long Island companies installing smart roof vent systems when re-shingling. Special ridge and turbine vents use convection to suck hot air out from attics. This ventilation releases heat buildup preventing it from warming up interior ceilings.

Powered smart vents go one step further with built-in thermostats and motors.

These automatically open or close variably based on attic temperatures. Such self-regulation ensures optimal hot air exhaust while preventing excess cold air intake during winter. This maintains comfortable living spaces year-round.

Incorporate Solar Options

For the ultimate in clean energy savings, Long Island roofing companies can incorporate solar panels or shingles as part of roof upgrades. Systems get mounted facing correct angles to maximize sun exposure for solar harvesting.

Though solar power systems involve hefty upfront investment, subsidies and tax credits help offset costs. Once installed, the free electricity generated for decades essentially pays you back over time!

Some key benefits beyond utility savings include:

Zero emissions clean energy preventing 17 tons of carbon pollution over the system's lifetime

• Enhanced resale value from sought-after green energy features
• Backup power protection from grid outages
• Solar roof upgrades enable self-reliant energy along with eco-friendly insulation perks.

Seek Specialist Recommendations

Given such technology innovations, professional roofers in Long Island guide homeowners seeking the optimal new roof system meeting efficiency needs. After inspecting your home’s size, roof pitch, attic layout, etc. they advise:

• Reflective coatings vs. membranes for cool roofs
• Insulation R-values suiting your climate
• Vent types provide the best airflow
• Solar modules matching household consumption

This custom planning yields the right implementation maximizing energy and cost savings for your property.

Signs of a Roofing Company Prioritizing Energy Efficiency

While evaluating Roof Installation Long Island companies for your project, seek out these signs of specialization in green solutions:

Eco-Certified Products

• Cool roofing materials rated by EPA’s Energy Star program
• Insulation products certified by the Insulation Manufacturers Association
• High-efficiency roof vents and fans qualify for rebates

Onsite Solar Design Experience

• Certified solar installers on staff
• Extensive shingle or tile-integrated solar array projects
• Knowledge of local subsidies, permits, etc. to advise homeowners

Energy Auditing and Modeling

• Thermal imaging inspections detecting insulation gaps, moisture
• Software modeling of home energy use before/after roof upgrades
• Quantitative savings estimates for materials proposed

Memberships Promoting Sustainability

• U.S. Green Building Council participating contractors
• Signatories to EPA’s Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
• State solar industry associations like the Long Island Solar Energy Industries Association (LISEIA)

When preparing for essential roof replacement or restoration, look for providers dedicated to maximizing roof performance in insulation, ventilation, and renewable capabilities. Home upgrades feel even more rewarding when they also boost environmental paybacks for years ahead!

Final Thought

Does your current roof call for replacement due to age or damage risks? Partner with sustainability-focused Universal Roofing NY for reliable cool roof installation in Long Island. Their certified solar experts and energy-efficient material options deliver guaranteed high performance protecting your home. Contact Universal Roofing today for quotes on expert roofing driving energy savings! For more information, visit our website.