Beat the Heat with These 4 Best Roof Shingles for Hot and Humid Climates

As the weather starts to heat up in the US, most areas maintain a welcome balmy temperature, while others may experience heat waves that reach triple digits. Those living in warmer regions need to invest in the best roof for hot climates, which will not only help to increase the longevity of their roof but also increase the energy efficiency and comfort of their space.

Traditional asphalt or wood shingles may not be the best option for you, as these materials may make the house hotter and are often susceptible to heat damage. Other materials, like slate, metal, clay, and rubber, make better heat-reflective shingles.

Metal Roofs

Metal is one of the best heat-reflective roof shingle options. Not only do they excel under extreme temperatures, but they are also considered cool roofing because of their reflective properties. You can increase the energy efficiency of this kind of roof shingle by coating it with highly reflective paint and coating. Metal shingles are also fire resistant and are thus safer to use for scorching environments and areas that are prone to forest fires.

The cost of metal roofing can range between $7 and $10 per square foot, making it a slightly larger investment than asphalt roofs. However, metal roofs can last two to three times longer than the typical asphalt roof, are more energy efficient than the latter, and can have a higher resale value, making them an investment worth making when redoing the roof of your home.

Slate Roof

Slate shingles are made with natural stones that are impervious to the weather, heat, cold, and sun. These properties are why most homeowners expect slate roofs to last over 150 years. Slate roofs are also completely fireproof, making them a great investment for areas prone to forest fires or extreme heat.

Slate roofs also add to the aesthetic value of your home as they are available in several natural colors. However, slate is a weighty material, and the weight of slate tiles can range between 8 to 10 pounds per square foot, which needs to be taken into consideration when choosing this option of heat reflective shingles. Get your home structure professionally evaluated to check if it is strong enough to support the weight of the tiles. Due to the many benefits of slate tiles, the cost is comparatively higher than other types, going up to around $50 to $100 per square foot.

Clay Tile Roofs

Clay roof tiles are impervious to fire, are thermal resistant, and come in rich, earthy colors that add to the aesthetic appeal of your home. These tiles are the perfect choice for those homeowners who prefer rustic architectural elements that also help to beat the heat. Clay tiles help to absorb heat during the day, which it then releases at night, keeping your home cool and comfortable. Being natural products, they are eco-friendly and easy to recycle. However, they are also heavier than traditional forms of roof shingles, which is why you will need to ensure your house structure is strong enough to hold the weight.

Clay tiles cost slightly less than the above-mentioned options, and you can get them for anywhere between $10 and $18 per square foot. For a more modern style, you can add a coat of heat-reflective paint or coating that comes in a range of different colors and styles, so you can find a shade that perfectly matches the aesthetic of your home.

Rubber Roof

Rubber roofing is one of the most affordable options on the list of best roofs for hot climates. These shingles are often made of affordable recycled materials that can mimic the look of slate and cedar but offer high energy efficiency due to their insulating capabilities. With a price point of $4 to $8 per square foot, this option is comparable to asphalt but can help protect your home better from the heat.

Conclusion

Heat-reflective shingles are a growing trend in roofing technology. Along with being designed to reflect heat, sunlight, and harmful UV rays, this kind of roofing increases energy efficiency, which can qualify you for a tax credit. Explore your federal and local rebate programs to see which type of roofing would have the most benefit. Along with a tax credit, you can also save money on your power bills. Heat-reflective roof shingles will insulate your home better, ensuring your air conditioner needs less energy to regulate the heat inside your home. Heat-reflective shingles with reflective coating take longer to degrade, so you do not even have to worry about repainting or redoing your roof for years, making them a good investment. RemodelYourHome can help you plan your roof remodel within your budget and find the best material for your home. Contact us today for more details.

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