When it comes to home improvements, few choices make as much long-term impact as your roof. Beyond protecting your house from the elements, the right roof can also reduce energy use, lower monthly bills, and even help the environment. Aside from solar panels, seamless steel is by far the best material you can choose for an energy efficient roof. Please keep reading to learn the reasons why this is and why it matters for long-term comfort and sustainability.
What Makes a Roof Energy Efficient, Anyway?
An energy-efficient roof does more than keep out rain and snow. It’s designed to control heat transfer to lessen how much energy your HVAC system needs to keep your home comfortable. This efficiency comes from a combination of factors, including:
- Reflectivity, which is the ability to reflect sunlight away from the roof.
- Emissivity, which is how well the roof releases absorbed heat.
- And ventilation and insulation compatibility, which keeps indoor temperatures stable year-round.
Together, these features prevent your roof from becoming a heat trap, which saves you energy and money.
Why Steel Roofing Is the Most Energy Efficient Choice
While several roofing materials can be considered energy efficient, steel roofing is incomparable when it comes to heat reflection. Traditional asphalt roofs can reach temperatures of 150 degrees or more in summer temperatures, while cool roofs, such as those made from seamless steel, can be up to 50 degrees cooler.
In addition to steel’s inherent ability to reflect light and heat, our roofing is further equipped with Cool-Roof Technology, a patented coating that enhances those deflecting abilities. All of the solid colors used by ABC Seamless of Nebraska meet or exceed Energy Star® standards, and they are made from a minimum of 25 percent recycled materials.
Does An Energy Efficient Roof Qualify for Tax Credits?
Yes! Homeowners who install energy-efficient roofing may qualify for federal or state tax credits. Programs like the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit often include roofing materials that meet Energy Star® standards. While availability can change year to year, these incentives make upgrading to a steel roof even more worthwhile. Always check the latest IRS guidelines or consult with a tax professional to confirm eligibility.
Does Roof Color Affect An Energy Efficient Roof?
Color plays an important role in energy efficiency. Generally, lighter colors, such as white, beige, or light gray, reflect more sunlight, keeping your home cooler in warm climates. Darker colors tend to absorb heat, which may be useful in colder regions but less efficient in hotter ones.
Fortunately, steel combined with our cool roof coatings will help boost efficiency no matter the color you choose. That means even a darker steel roof will outperform traditional roofing materials when it comes to reflecting heat.
How An Energy Efficient Roof Lowers Your Energy Bills
An energy efficient roof translates directly to lower utility bills for you in both summer and winter:
- In summer: A reflective steel roof prevents heat from building up in your attic, meaning your air conditioner doesn’t have to work overtime.
- In winter: Better insulation compatibility also helps hold indoor warmth, which reduces heating costs.
- Year-round: Less strain on your HVAC system can extend its lifespan, saving you from costly repairs or early replacements.
Over time, these savings add up. The US Department of Energy estimates you can save up to $0.64 per square foot by installing an energy efficient roof. This amounts to $1280 for a 2000 square foot home.
Environmental Benefits of Steel Roofing For Your Energy Efficient Roof
An energy-efficient roof doesn’t just save money, it also helps the planet. Steel roofing is one of the most sustainable roofing materials available because:
- It’s made with a high percentage of recycled materials (up to 95% in some cases).
- It’s 100% recyclable at the end of its life, unlike asphalt shingles that pile up in landfills.
- It lasts more than twice as long as asphalt, meaning you won’t need multiple replacements over time.
- Seamless steel is precisely measured and cut on site so there is no “trim” waste, as with asphalt and other materials.
- Steel is lightweight, so it requires less energy to transport that traditional roofing materials.
- Its reflective properties reduce the urban heat island effect (UHI), a phenomenon where cities and suburban areas become significantly warmer than nearby rural areas. This is mainly due to the concentration of dark, heat-absorbing surfaces such as asphalt roads, concrete, and traditional roofing materials.
By choosing a steel roof, you’re making an eco-friendly choice that benefits both your home and the environment.
Steel Roofing In Omaha, Lincoln, And Grand Island
An energy-efficient roof is more than just a home upgrade, it’s a long-term investment in comfort, savings, and sustainability. And when it comes to efficiency, durability, and eco-friendliness, seamless steel roofing is second to none. Steel roofs from ABC Seamless of Nebraska deliver the performance you need while giving you peace of mind that you’ve made the right choice for your family and the planet. Call or go online today to get a free quote and discuss your project with us.
