When it comes to colors and temperature, most people understand that dark clothing will make you feel warmer, whereas lighter-colored clothing will help you feel cooler. If you live in Florida, then you know this is all too true!
This is because some colors reflect the sun’s rays, and others absorb them. Pretty simple explanation, right? While most people apply this concept when it comes to clothing, you may also wonder if color has the same effect on houses — particularly, your roof.
How Roof Color Affects Energy Efficiency
When it comes to sun exposure, it’s a no-brainer that the roof is the most exposed part of your house. If you have a dark-colored roof, it will absorb heat from the sun. The heat will make its way into the attic, and it won’t end there. Eventually, it will move into your house and cause the indoor temperature to rise. This means blasting the AC so you can cool off.
With a lighter roof, the sun’s rays will be reflected. As a result, less heat will find its way into the home’s interior, so your home will be cooler, even during the hottest part of the day.
If you’re like most Florida homeowners (including us!), then you have your AC running about 10 months out of the year. A lighter colored roof will produce significant savings on your electric bill because you won’t have to turn down the temperature so much to stay comfortable. The less your AC runs, the more money you’ll save — not just on your electric bill, but on your HVAC, too, since it won’t need replacement as soon.
What’s the Most Cost-Effective Roofing Option?
For the most part, we recommend staying away from darker roofs, and sticking with lighter, reflective colors like gray, blue, or white. We experience extreme heat during the year, and if you want to save the most money on your electric bill, it’d be best to avoid a dark roof.
Get a Roof You Love for Your Home or Business in Jacksonville, FL
Are you interested in making your roof more energy-efficient? Get in touch with us today to schedule a free inspection. After inspection, we’ll share our honest assessment, give you a replacement cost, and answer any questions you may have (like which color could save you the most money!).
We offer the highest quality residential and commercial roofing services to businesses and homeowners in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Nocatee, Ponte Vedra, and many other surrounding areas in Northeast FL.