How Your Asphalt Roof Contributes to Your Home's Energy Efficiency

When we talk about home energy efficiency, our minds often jump to things like energy-efficient windows, smart thermostats, and upgraded insulation. After all, they are all major money (and energy) savers, helping to keep your home exactly the temperature you want, not matter the season, reducing energy costs significantly.

While those are certainly important players in keeping your State College home comfortable and your energy bills manageable, there's an unsung hero working tirelessly above your head: your roof. Specifically, a well-installed and maintained asphalt roof, especially one handled by the professionals at Stoltzfus Bros Construction, plays a surprisingly significant role in your home's overall energy performance.

Now, you might be thinking, "How can a bunch of shingles make a difference in my heating and cooling costs?" It's a fair question. The truth is, a properly functioning asphalt roofing system, particularly when installed with attention to detail in areas like ventilation and the right type of shingles, can have a noticeable impact on your energy consumption in communities from State College and Bellefonte to Boalsburg and beyond.

Think about the intense summer sun beating down on your roof in Lemont or the frigid winter winds whipping through Mill Hall. Your roof is the first line of defense against these temperature extremes. If it's not doing its job efficiently, your HVAC system has to work harder to keep your indoor temperature comfortable, leading to higher energy bills.

Here's how a quality asphalt roof, installed and optimized by Stoltzfus Bros Construction, contributes to better energy efficiency:

1. Ventilation is Key (The Roof's Breathing System): One of the most crucial aspects of an energy-efficient roof is proper ventilation. A well-ventilated attic allows hot, stagnant air to escape in the summer and helps prevent moisture buildup in the winter. Stoltzfus Bros Construction understands the importance of balanced ventilation, ensuring the right combination of intake and exhaust vents are installed to create a natural airflow. This reduces heat buildup in the summer, lessening the strain on your air conditioner, and helps prevent ice dams and moisture issues in the winter, protecting your insulation and the roof structure itself.

2. The Role of Insulation (Working Hand-in-Hand with Your Roof): While your roof itself isn't insulation, it works in tandem with the insulation in your attic. A properly installed roof helps to create a more stable environment for your insulation to do its job effectively. If your roof is compromised, allowing drafts or moisture in, it can reduce the R-value of your insulation, making your heating and cooling systems less efficient. Stoltzfus Bros Construction can assess your overall roofing system to ensure it's working in harmony with your insulation.

3. Considering Cool Roof Technology (Reflecting the Heat): While all asphalt shingles offer some level of protection, there are specialized "cool roof" asphalt shingles available, often incorporating reflective granules. These shingles are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional shingles. While Stoltzfus Bros Construction primarily focuses on quality asphalt solutions, we can discuss options like Owens Corning shingles with cool roof technology and how they might benefit homeowners in areas like Spring Mills and State College during those hot summer months, potentially leading to noticeable savings on cooling costs.

4. Proper Installation Matters (Maximizing Performance): Even the most energy-efficient shingles won't perform as intended if they're not installed correctly. Stoltzfus Bros Construction prides itself on expert installation, ensuring that all components of your roofing system – from the underlayment to the flashing – are properly installed to maximize energy efficiency and prevent air leaks.

5. Regular Maintenance (Keeping Things Running Smoothly): Just like any other part of your home, your roof needs regular maintenance to perform optimally. Issues like missing shingles or debris buildup can compromise its ability to protect your home and contribute to energy efficiency. Stoltzfus Bros Construction offers maintenance services to keep your roof in top shape, ensuring it continues to contribute to a more energy-efficient home in communities across Central Pennsylvania.

So, the next time you think about ways to save energy in your State College home, don't forget to look up! A well-maintained and properly installed asphalt roof by Stoltzfus Bros Construction is a silent but powerful partner in your efforts to reduce energy consumption and keep your home comfortable year-round, whether you're in Bellefonte, Boalsburg, Mill Hall, Lemont, or Spring Mills.

If you're concerned about your roof's performance or want to explore options for improving your home's energy efficiency through your roofing system, we encourage you to contact us at Stoltzfus Bros Costruction for a consultation. We're here to help you make your home as energy-efficient and comfortable as possible.