How can my roof help me save on energy costs?
< Back to Genesis Roofing, Inc.'s Roof Information CenterElk® produces two lines of products which can add energy efficiency to your home: EchoTherm™ Radiant Barrier and their Cool Color Series line of shingles.
Elk® EchoTherm™ Radiant Barrier
Elk's Radiant Barrier reduces energy usage by blocking radiant heat transfer between the roof and living areas. In the summer, heat radiates into your house filling up the attic space and the surrounding insulation. When this happens, it is not unusual for your air conditioning system to run day and night. Typical attic insulation only addresses two of the three types of heat transfer—conduction and convection. It does little to prevent radiant heat transfer and can actually make the problem worse (the more insulation there is, the longer the attic will hold the heat). In the winter, the process is reversed, radiant heat escapes and the heater must work overtime to keep your home warm.
Elk's Radiant Barrier fights against this natural process by reflecting more heat and blocking some of the heat transfer, which can save you up to 23% on cooling costs and up to 10% on heating costs. During the Houston areas ever-hotter Summer months, that amount of savings can really add up.
Elk® Cool Color Series
The "cool roof" concept is based on simple science: dark materials absorb more heat than light materials. In roofing terms, that means traditional, dark-colored roofs absorb 85% or more of the solar energy striking them, resulting in high roof temperatures and increased energy required to cool the home. Elk's Cool Color Series line of shingles are made with roofing granules that contain innovative, reflective color pigments. Increased reflectivity decreases the roof's temperature, creating a "cool roof" and potentially lowering the energy needed to cool the home. You can find out more information about the Cool Color Series line of shingles as well as view color choices at the Cool Color Series section of our Shingle Guide.
