Thursday, December 28, 2017

Consult With An Atlanta Roofer To Save Money

By Andrew B. Spates


Ensuring that a building has the proper amount of insulation is one of the most effective ways to control energy costs. Without enough insulation, a building may lose heat through the walls and roof causing energy bills to skyrocket out of control. With help from a qualified Atlanta roofer, any residential or commercial property owner can save money on heating and cooling year round.

When running the air conditioner during the summer, hot air from outside naturally flows inside where the air is cooler. During the winter, the opposite occurs as heated air from inside flows into the attic, garage, and other unheated spaces. Insulation acts as a physical barrier to block the flow of hot air.

All insulation products are rated by an industry standard known as the R-value. Insulation with a higher R-value has greater thermal resistance. The type of material, its thickness, and its density are what determines the insulation's R-value.

The Department of Energy sets R-value standards for buildings depending on their geographical location. Buildings in regions with extreme temperatures require a higher R-value to achieve maximum energy efficiency. Buildings in regions with milder climates require insulation with a lower R-value.

The attic is usually the least energy efficient zone in any building because there is no system to heat or cool it and it frequently lacks sufficient ventilation. The attic in the winter will be approximately the same temperature as the outdoor air. During the summer, it can be up to 40 degrees hotter than outdoors. Installing the right insulation can reduce the heat loss.

Any professional roofer can inspect a building's existing insulation to determine its R-value. The DOE occasionally changes the standards based on climate data. This means an older building, which had the proper R-value at the time, does not comply with current standards. Installing additional insulation will raise the R-value and result in lower energy bills year round.

Building owners can consult with a local roofer and schedule an appointment for an inspection. If more insulation is needed, the roofer will review the different types available and help the consumer choose the best option. Cellulose, foam, and fiberglass are the three most common types of insulation found in attics. Each has its own unique properties, which the roofer can outline so the consumer can make an informed decision. Adding the proper amount of insulation will immediately lower energy costs while extending the life of the building's heating and air conditioning system.




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