Home Envelope Improvements
Energy efficiency is an important consideration for homeowners because the average household spends about half of its energy budget on heating and cooling the home. The home envelope, which includes the components of the exterior of the structure, plays a huge role in heat transfer. By addressing problems with the roof, walls, windows and doors, it is possible to reduce the heat gain of the interior during the summer and heat loss during the winter. Toms River roofing professionals are helpful for dealing with the upper part of the envelope.
The roofing material can be important for managing heat levels. A cool roof is designed to minimize heat transfer by using colors or materials that will result in a lower roof temperature. The attic can also be complemented with a reflective barrier to deal with the heat that does move from the roof into the attic. Those who use both measures can make a major dent in energy costs.
As a part of the roofing system, the attic’s condition is also important for those interested in saving energy and money. Insulation can minimize heat transfer, and people with older homes may find that their existing material is insufficient. If the floor joists are visible, more insulation can be added.
A roofing contractor may be helpful in recommending the best R-value for the situation. Although more insulation might be appropriate, it is important to avoid overfilling the attic with insulation. Proper ventilation is necessary for protecting the structural features of the roof.
Windows can be a problem in terms of heat transfer, but those designed with enhanced energy features can make a difference in various rooms within the home. Multiple panes with gasses in between can insulate effectively. Specialty windows from companies such as Pella are designed with blinds in between the glass layers, which provides for shade during sunny conditions. For those unable to replace windows, treatments such as protective sheets can be applied to reflect sunlight. Caulking around windowpanes is also important, but old caulk can deteriorate. It is important to evaluate the caulk periodically to identify leaky spots.
In dealing with home envelope improvements, there are various approaches available. With more knowledge and experience, a homeowner may be comfortable in handling most of their improvements without professional insight. Roofing projects on the exterior of the home should be handled professionally to ensure that there aren’t holes left that could later result in leaks. The roofing experts at Fortified Roofing of Toms River NJ can answer your questions about skylights or new roofs.
Common roofing term explained by Fortified Roofing of Toms River NJ:
R-value
This value represents the resistance of insulation to the movement of heat through the material. In an uninsulated attic, material of up to R60 can be used. With several inches of existing insulation, a lower value can be selected to supplement the material already in place.
Question answered by Toms River roofing company Fortified Roofing:
Why is attic ventilation beneficial?
The movement of air into the attic might seem to work against the effort to keep conditions in the home comfortable. However, the air in this space helps to moderate the roof’s temperature. If the attic becomes too hot, the roofing materials can be damaged, which can reduce the lifespan of the system. During the winter months, a hot attic can contribute to ice dams on the top of the roof, which can lead to water damage.
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If you would like to ask a question regarding roofers, a new roof installation, roof leak repairs, skylight options or gutters and downspouts please contact Fortified Roofing today!
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