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2017-12-28

How An Atlanta Roofer Can Help Property Owners 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.

The insulation's density, type of material and thickness determines its level of resistance. The industry measures the resistance by a standard called the R-value. The higher the thermal resistance of an insulation product, the higher its R-value will be.

R-value standards for buildings are determined by the Department of Energy. The most important factor in assigning R-value standards is the climate. A building in a region with a mild climate requires insulation with a lower R-value. Conversely, buildings that experience extreme temperatures require insulation with a higher R-value.

Because attics frequently have poor insulation and are rarely heated or cooled, they lack energy efficiency. When it is cold outside, the attic will be about the same temperature as it is outdoors. When it is hot outside the attic may be between 30 and 40 degrees warmer. Adding the proper amount of insulation reduces heat loss and increases efficiency.

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.

The heating and cooling system does not have to work as hard in a building with the correct amount of insulation. In addition to lowering monthly energy bills, ensuring the insulation meets current standards can extend the lifespan of the heating and cooling system saving the building owner the expense of premature replacement. There are many types of insulation but the three most common are fiberglass, cellulose, and foam. An experienced roofer can outline the advantages and disadvantages of each type to assist the consumer in making an informed purchasing decision.




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