A significant consideration when upgrading to a metal roof is whether the roof makes your house hotter. This article seeks to clarify whether that is true or not.
The short answer is no. Metal roofs do not make your house hotter compared to other roofing materials. A distinct feature of metal roofs is that they have low thermal mass, which means they reflect more light and heat than they absorb. Metal roofing actually keeps your home cooler during the warm summer months and increases the home’s energy efficiency.
Good metal roofing Calabogie services ensure that the metal roof is installed correctly and your home doesn’t become hotter. The retention of heat for your metal roof is dependent on the covering material and construction of the roof.
The heat absorbance of metal depends on factors such as:
Type of Finish
Metal heats up on the surface when exposed to the sun. However, the degree of heat retention is dependent on the finish of the material. Different coatings and finishes ensure that the metal reflects sunlight keeping the house cooler even in direct sunlight.
Colour Choice
The colour of the metal roof will have a big effect on the heat absorption properties of the roof. Dark colours absorb more heat compared to light colours. Therefore, the surface temperature of a dark-coloured metal roof is higher compared to light-coloured roofs.
Mass and Sun Exposure
The metal roof will become hotter in more direct sunlight. The roof will cool as the sun goes down until it reaches the same temperature as the surrounding air. The heavier and greater the mass of the roof, the longer it takes to cool. Lightweight roofs lose heat faster, and which makes lighter metal roofing options in Calabogie a better choice.
How metal roofs improve the energy efficiency in a home
Focusing on the quality of materials and technicians’ skill in installing metal roofing ensures energy efficiency. Other factors that determine the energy efficiency of your metal roofing include:
Reflective Surface
Compared to wood, asphalt shingles, concrete, and tiles roofs that absorb heat and transfer heat into the home, metal roofs have a low thermal mass reflecting heat and light. Reflective coatings increase the reflectivity of the metal roofing and keep the home cooler.
Efficient Ventilation
Working with an expert company for metal roofing in Calabogie ensures that your metal roof is installed with efficient ventilation. Installing ridge vents and soffits will allow proper circulation of air out of the attic space to keep the home cool in summers and free of moisture during winter.
Choosing metal roofing
Metal roofing is perfect for homeowners seeking to improve energy efficiency. If you are considering replacing your roof with metal roofing, we recommend McKay Roofing to do the job because their technicians are highly trained in the installation, inspection and repair of metal roofs in Calabogie. Serving the Ottawa Valley for over 40 years, they offer high-quality services combined with good materials at competitive rates.