Getting a new roof is an important time in the life of any homeowner. A new roof will protect your home from the elements for many years. What many people may not realize, however, is that this is also a good time to consider enhancing your roof by adding several helpful features. This article looks at some key enhancements to consider when installing a new roof.
Ridge Vents
If you're looking to improve your roof ventilation when installing a new roof, ridge vents are a great way to do it. Ridge vents, which work well with gable roofs but less well with hip roofs, allow hot air to leave the attic, which prevents your attic from becoming too hot. The improved airflow from the ridge vents can possibly help with your utility bills because hot air will not become trapped in your home.
Also, the improved ventilation helps to prevent mold and mildew from gaining a foothold inside the attic. If mold and mildew are able to thrive in your attic, your roof could be compromised due to wood rot and decay. For this reason, installing ridge vents could extend the lifespan of your roof.
Energy Efficient Shingles
Installing a new roof is also an excellent time to upgrade your shingles. The type of shingle you select for your new roof could have a huge impact on the energy efficiency of your home. For example, light-colored asphalt shingles reflect more heat than dark-colored shingles. So, if you choose light-colored shingles, your home should stay cooler in the summer, reducing your air conditioning expenses.
Also, you should consider shingles made with special granules that reflect more sunlight than standard asphalt shingles. These shingles will keep your roof from getting too hot and have earned an Energy Star rating from the Environmental Protection Agency.
Skylight
Another cool idea is to have the roofers install a skylight at the same time as they are putting on the new roof. A skylight is a terrific way to add natural light to a finished attic, says the Bob Vila website. For example, if you have a finished attic that you are using as a home office or a guest bedroom, adding a skylight not only makes the space brighter during the day, but it also increases the room's visual appeal. One caveat is that skylights work best in houses with stick-framed roofs rather than a roof that is supported by trusses.
To learn more about how to enhance your roof, contact one of the professional roofers in your city.
