Roofs are one of the most important parts of our homes, but we rarely think about them. You might take for granted a strong and reliable roof that’s doing what it should. As soon as something goes wrong with our roofs, however, it can cause panic. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your roof is working as intended. Moreover, many homeowners might not realize that a new roof can help lower their energy bills.

At ARMORVUE Home Exteriors, in Northwood, OH, we serve northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan with roofing, siding, replacement windows, and other home improvement services. Let’s explore more about energy-efficient roofing with help from the team at ARMORVUE Home Exteriors.

Why Get a New Roof?

Roofing helps keep our homes protected from heavy winds, long rainy seasons, or snowy winters. The last thing you want to worry about is water dripping from the ceiling every time it rains. What’s even more frustrating is that small crevices and cracks in old roofing can be hard to identify, leaving you to either keep dealing with the problem or spend lots of money trying to find and repair the issue.

Aside from more extreme conditions, even just the heat and cold can have a big impact on your energy bill. Nearly half of the money you spend on your energy bills goes toward simply heating and cooling your home. As such, an older, less energy-efficient roof is going to cost you in ways that you may not realize. Installing a new roof may have a significant upfront cost, but you’ll wind up saving more on your energy bill month after month.

Why Are New Roofs More Energy Efficient?

Advances in the roofing industry have made roofs more energy-efficient than ever. This is partially due to companies using more energy-efficient materials. Whereas older roofs absorb heat from the sun’s rays, the materials used today are designed to reflect these rays away from your house. Not only does this keep heat from overwhelming your attic or upper floor space but it also helps extend the life of the roof itself.

Conversely, as the weather gets colder, your roof is your best line of defense against heat escaping from your home. As your heating system pushes air through your vents into your rooms, any roof damage could allow that warmth to escape. Roofing companies today will also consider your climate when helping you choose the features you’ll need. Even the color has an impact, as darker roofs will help keep heat in, which is better for cooler climates.

Should You Get a New Roof?

When is it time to get a new roof? There are certain things to look for.

Curling Shingles

Curling shingles are one of the first signs that roof replacement may be in your future. Whether they are curling from the edges or in the middle, shingles that don’t sit flat are prone to letting water in, which can cause bigger problems in the future. If you notice a lot of them, having a roofing specialist come out to inspect your roof is a smart idea.

Missing or Broken Shingles

If you notice a lot of shingles are cracked or not there at all, you’ll need a new roof soon. All it will take is one big storm to cause damage to your home’s interior.

Granules in the Gutters

Roofs will generally come with granules on top for sun protection. Early on, you may notice some of these granules coming off, which is normal. However, if your roof is over 10 years old and you notice loose granules, it’s time to consider replacement.

Light in Your Attic

While a small amount of light entering your attic is expected in certain areas, if you see a significant amount of light coming through, there’s a problem. This means there are cracks or crevices in your roof that need to be addressed.

Moss or Algae Growth

The buildup of moss or algae on shingles can be cause for concern. This can create a damp surface that is prone to water damage. It’s not advised that homeowners try to scrape it away either, as this can create bigger problems.

Age

If your roof is over 20 years old, it may be time to consider a new one. While many roofs can last up to 30 years and beyond, if you see any of the above signs and your roof is decades old, roof replacement is a great option. You can have a beautiful new roof without having to worry about it degrading.

Look to the Team at ARMORVUE Home Exteriors

Getting a new roof is a big decision, but with energy-efficient roofing installation options from ARMORVUE Home Exteriors, homeowners can feel more than confident in the result. Plus, they can save up to 20% on their energy bills. Our convenient location can be reached from anywhere in Toledo, Ohio, and we use the latest and greatest materials to help improve energy efficiency. Our reputation and competitive prices have made us a household name, and we strive to answer any questions you have throughout the entire process.

We even provide special offers and financing options to make installation affordable. If you have any questions or are interested in having a free in-home consultation, contact us or call us at (419) 825-4700 today.