So, when was the last time you thought about your roof insulation? If you’re like most people, the answer would be “Well…uh…never.” We’d like to turn that around.
The biggest reason to consider your roof insulation is that your roofing system protects your family, your belongings and the entire rest of your home. That’s a huge investment that your roof is being tasked with to keep warm and dry.
That protective layer wedged between the surface of your roof and the roof deck helps reduce the transfer of heat. And no matter where you live, you want to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. This is where your roof insulation comes into play. It keeps the heat inside when you need it and outside when you don’t.
Protection
Your roof insulation adds a layer of protection, not only from heat transfer but also from the elements. Your roof is exposed to the outside environment more than any other system of your home. Weather and sun exposure can cause wear and tear on your roof which in turn can break down insulation and cause other damage.
Saves Energy
Approximately 25 to 30 percent of any building’s heat loss is through the roof. With an efficient roof insulation system, this cuts down on that loss and reduces energy expenditure to keep your home efficiently temperature-maintained.
Insulation’s energy effectiveness is determined by heat flow resistance which is measured in its R-Value. The higher the R-Value, the greater its resistance to that flow of heat. Consequently, an under-insulated home will suffer heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
Saves Money
Studies have shown that having effective roof insulation can save as much as 20 percent on your energy bills and reduce your costs of heating or cooling your home by over 40 percent. Less energy expense means lower energy costs. Instead of paying it to the power company, you keep it in your bank account.
Smaller Carbon Footprint
Studies have found that having the benefit of more efficient insulation can help reduce CO2 emissions and leave a smaller carbon footprint.
Stalls Leaks
Insulation can act as a prevention tool if your roof has started to leak. The moisture that is moving into your home via the leak will be caught and slowed by insulation. But it’s important to note that any leak, no matter how slow will eventually cause damage.
Inhibits the Growth of Molds
Because insulation manages temperature and moisture inside the home, it can inhibit the growth of unhealthy molds and mildew.
Improving Your Roof Insulation
In order to know if you need more insulation, Energy Star recommends performing a touch test on ceilings. In cold weather, the ceiling will feel cool to the touch. The EPA has published information to help you determine how much insulation your home needs. If you find that your insulation is insufficient, you can do several things:
● Increase insulation in your attic – if the level of insulation is below attic floor joists, additional insulation may be needed.
● Use air sealing
● Check for air leaks
● Insulate and seal the attic entryway
● Install air barriers along the eaves of your attic
● Insulate ductwork in the attic
● Install attic fans
Having a properly insulated roof is just part of ensuring its longevity and ability to protect your home, your family and your belongings well into the future.
Have roofing questions? Call your professional San Jose roofing contractors at Falcon Roofing for the answers and solutions to all your roofing needs.
SAN JOSE