When most homeowners think about improving energy efficiency, they focus on windows, doors, and insulation. However, the roof plays one of the biggest roles in how efficiently a home uses and retains energy. Because it’s directly exposed to sunlight, rain, and temperature changes, your roof can either protect your home from energy loss, or contribute to it. If you’re wondering how to make your home more energy efficient through roofing upgrades, there are several effective strategies to consider. Our roofing professionals at Becker’s have all the answers you’re looking for.

Energy-Saving Roofing Improvements to Consider

Choose an Energy-Efficient Roofing Material

Your choice of roofing material has a major impact on how well your home manages heat. Traditional asphalt shingles tend to absorb and retain a lot of solar heat, which can make your attic, and by extension, your entire home, hotter in the summer. In contrast, reflective or “cool roof” materials help deflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.

Some of the most energy-efficient roofing materials include:

• Metal roofing: Metal reflects much of the sun’s energy and cools down quickly after sunset. Many metal roofs also come with reflective coatings that further enhance efficiency.
• Cool asphalt shingles: These shingles are specially designed with reflective granules that minimize heat absorption while maintaining a traditional appearance.
• Clay or concrete tiles: Their natural thermal properties help keep homes cooler in hot climates by reflecting solar energy and allowing air to circulate beneath the tiles.

Improve Roof Insulation

Even the best roofing material won’t perform well without proper insulation underneath it. Inadequate or damaged insulation allows heat to escape in the winter and enter in the summer, forcing your HVAC system to work harder.

Adding or upgrading insulation in your attic is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve energy efficiency. Insulation materials such as fiberglass batts, spray foam, or blown-in cellulose can create a thermal barrier that prevents heat transfer between your living spaces and the outdoors.

When installing insulation, it’s also important to ensure your attic is properly sealed. Any gaps or leaks around vents, pipes, or light fixtures can allow air to escape, reducing the effectiveness of your insulation.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Many homeowners overlook ventilation when thinking about energy efficiency, but it’s a key component of a healthy roofing system. Without adequate ventilation, heat and moisture can build up in the attic, increasing indoor temperatures and potentially damaging roofing materials over time.

A well-designed ventilation system allows hot air to escape through ridge or roof vents while drawing in cooler air from soffit vents. This natural circulation reduces heat buildup in the attic, helping your home stay cooler during summer and preventing ice dams in the winter. The result is improved comfort and reduced strain on your heating and cooling system.

Consider Roof Coating for Flat Roofs

If your roof is still in good shape but lacks energy efficiency, applying a reflective roof coating may be a smart upgrade. These coatings are formulated to reflect UV rays and infrared radiation, reducing the amount of heat your roof absorbs.

Reflective coatings are most commonly used on flat or low-slope roofs but can also be applied to certain sloped roofing materials. Not only can they lower cooling costs, but they also help extend the life of your roof by protecting it from UV damage and thermal expansion.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Skylights

If your home has skylights or roof windows, upgrading to energy-efficient models can make a noticeable difference. Modern skylights are designed with low-emissivity (Low-E) glass and insulated frames that minimize heat transfer. Some models also include venting options that help release hot air during warmer months, improving overall comfort and air circulation.

Make the Most of Your Roof’s Efficiency with Becker’s

Your roof is one of the most powerful tools for improving home energy efficiency, but only if it’s properly designed, insulated, and maintained. Whether you’re considering a new roof, better attic insulation, or an energy-saving upgrade, Becker’s can help. Our team of roofing and home improvement experts can evaluate your roof’s current condition and recommend solutions that enhance comfort, performance, and long-term savings. Contact Becker’s today to discuss your home improvement needs and discover how the right roofing upgrades can make your home more energy efficient.