If you pay gas or electric bills, you know how expensive they are. Heating and lighting your home can be a huge burden, especially during the long, hot summer months and the cold winter months. But did you know your choices for your siding, windows, and roof can reduce energy consumption?
Contractors now have more building materials to choose from than ever. There are so many options. These include materials that help insulate homes without relying on climate control.
Depending on the circumstances, these renovations can be a big cost upfront. But there are also plenty of affordable options. What’s more, they will save you thousands of dollars in future utilities costs. So, what should you consider when making your home more energy efficient? Here is what you should know.
How Do These Measures Save Energy?
You have probably heard of energy-efficient methods like solar panels and cool roofs. But the truth is that you don’t have to go that big to improve your home’s energy consumption. The right roof, siding, and windows insulate your house so that you spend less money and use less energy.
How The Right Roof Saves Energy
One study shows that 90% of US homes have roofs made with materials that absorb rather than deflect heat. That is a huge number!
Have you ever been inside an attic on a summer day? With the wrong roof materials, houses absorb much more heat. In fact, the roof can get up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit — much hotter than the actual outdoor temperature.
But installing a more energy-efficient roof does not even have to be expensive or complicated. It comes down to a few simple things that will drastically decrease your home’s energy consumption.
Insulation
One of the major causes of heat retention in roofs is poor insulation. In fact, some experts say that it is the top factor in helping regulate your home’s temperature. Properly installed insulation can make all of the difference between an overheated house and a cool, airy one.
There is another benefit to better insulation: it will help your roof last longer. No one wants to replace their roof until it is absolutely necessary. But properly insulating your home will help deflect heat away from your roof, reducing the wear and tear on materials.
Shingles
Another simple way to cool your home down? Choosing the right shingles. Certain materials and shapes are much more efficient at deflecting heat. This, in turn, protects your roof from degrading due to high temperatures.
This even goes down to the choice of color in your shingles. Darker colors absorb more heat, making them a poor option for homes that need to stay cool.
How The Right Siding Saves Energy
Most people do not think a lot about siding options for their homes. But when it is time to replace your siding, your choice can make a big difference in your energy bills.
As with roofing, energy-efficient siding comes down to choosing the right materials. You will encounter a lot of options, from natural wood to vinyl and even fiber cement. Each of these materials has distinct pros and cons. But when it comes to energy efficiency, there are a few standouts.
Vinyl siding is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its affordability and durability. It is also an excellent insulator and easily deflects excess heat. Steel siding can also be a great choice if it’s paired with interior insulation. Metal is too thin to insulate well on its own, but it is highly effective at deflecting heat and light that could make your home hotter.
These are not the only energy-efficient siding options, but they are among the most popular for many reasons. A professional contractor can help you know which materials are best for your home and climate.
How The Right Windows Can Help
There was a time when windows were pretty much the only way to regulate the temperature in a home. We don’t rely on them as much these days. Still, you might be surprised by the difference the right windows can make.
Here’s the good news: there are tons of window options. Homeowners have a variety of materials and styles to choose from, many of which are budget-friendly. You might think that the glass thickness is one of the most important factors in an energy-efficient window. The truth? It’s just one of several pieces of the puzzle.
A double-pane window is a good choice for increased insulation, especially if it is made with low-E glass. This refers to a material’s ability to deflect UV rays and heat while allowing natural light inside.
Another important factor is the window frame. Different materials are available, some of which are more effective insulators than others. These help deflect heat rather than absorb it into the walls.
Here are a few options for window frames:
- Vinyl — A budget-friendly and effective heat deflector.
- Wood — This is an eco-friendly option that naturally insulates well.
- Aluminum — This is often an affordable option but does not typically insulate as well as some other materials.
- Wood-Clad — A combination of wood and either vinyl or aluminum that helps protect against heat transfer.
Window insulation is also important. This depends on both the type and thickness of the glass as well as the way the window seals.
Casement windows, for example, offer a tight seal that reduces heat transfer. Proper installation without gaps will also improve the insulating power of your windows.
Making The Right Choice For Your Home
Here is another piece of good news. When it comes to making your home more energy efficient, the process does not have to be expensive or complicated. It all comes down to using the right materials and, of course, expert installation.
A great contractor can help you make the best choice for your home, whether you are replacing your windows, siding, or roof. Contact DeG Contracting in Chesterfield, MO, by calling our team at 636-928-7663 for a free estimate or to book a consultation about renovating your home.
