We are excited to announce that a long time Master Craftsman of our business is now the proud new owner; please join us in congratulating Earl Swader as the new owner of Handyman Connection of Blue Ash. Earl has previous business ownership already under his belt and is looking forward to continuing to serve the Blue Ash community as the proud owner.
Roofing / July 28, 2025
Rising energy costs make every home upgrade count. A roof upgrade does more than stop leaks. It cuts heat gain and trims cooling expenses. Most homeowners focus on new shingles or basic repair. They often miss smart, energy-saving tweaks. Here are energy-efficient roofing upgrades homeowners overlook.
Reflective coatings send heat back into the sky. They stop sun rays from heating roofing materials. Installation is simple; you just brush or spray a reflective sealant over existing shingles. Many products last five to 10 years, and they cost just a few dollars per square foot. Savings on your energy bill can cover the cost quickly.
In addition, these coatings reduce attic temperature by up to 10 degrees on peak days. Proper application takes one afternoon for an average roof. You can layer them over other upgrades without structural work.
A radiant barrier reflects radiant heat before it hits your attic space. It is installed beneath shingles or metal panels. This New Jersey roofing company can guide you through the selection and installation. The material is thin, lightweight foil or specialty paper. It shines away up to 97% of radiant heat. This keeps your attic cooler by several degrees on hot afternoons. Cooler attics mean less strain on HVAC systems. It’s a low-cost way to boost roof performance.
Solar-reflective shingles use granules engineered to bounce back more of the sun’s rays. They cut surface temperatures by up to 50% on hot days. Most asphalt shingles now come with reflective options. These shingles look much like standard ones, but they lower attic heat and reduce AC runtime.
Premium brands offer class-three or class-four reflectivity ratings. Installation is no harder than regular shingles. Reflective shingles pair well with cool roof coatings for extra benefit. Over time, they shrink energy bills and extend the lifespan of the shingles.
Metal roofs reflect heat but conduct cold and hot easily without insulation. Insulated metal panels sandwich rigid foam between metal sheets. They offer high R-values in a slim profile. Panels lock together, creating a tight seal against air leaks. Additionally, installation is faster than shingle jobs and can proceed in cooler weather.
Panels cost more upfront but last 40 to 70 years. You get durability, storm resistance, and major energy savings. The rigid foam stops heat transfer and cuts utility bills year-round. It’s a modern upgrade many homeowners skip.
Proper ridge vents allow hot air to escape your attic. They work along the roof peak and balance intake vents at the eaves. Improved airflow cuts attic temperature and relieves stress on your cooling system. These vents blend into roof lines and need minimal maintenance.
Be sure to look for continuous ridge vents rather than patchwork styles that underperform. A balanced ventilation system can reduce attic heat by as much as 10 degrees on hot days. Always seal gaps to prevent moisture issues.
A green roof uses vegetation layers atop a waterproof membrane. Plants absorb solar energy and provide natural insulation. They reduce heat islands and manage stormwater runoff. Installation demands structural checks and waterproofing upgrades.
Costs are higher, often five to six times a standard roof, but they can cut winter heat loss and summer heat gain sharply. Maintenance involves weeding and watering, similar to a garden. Many cities offer rebates for green roof installations. Homeowners enjoy improved air quality and a lush rooftop oasis.
Dark flashing and gutters can absorb heat and radiate it back toward the roof. Upgrading to light metallic or white-coated options reduces heat gain on the edges. This simple swap costs little and integrates with most roof styles. It complements reflective shingles or coatings for a complete efficiency package. Be sure to check manufacturer specs for fade resistance. Gutters last longer when they stay cooler in direct sun. Plus, durability improves resistance to rust and UV damage.
Solar attic fans use rooftop-mounted solar panels to power exhaust fans. They draw out hot air without tapping into household electricity. These fans kick in on sunny days when you need cooling most. They lower attic temperature and reduce AC run time. Installation is easy, and plumbing vent pipes can stay in place. You will find models with temperature sensors for automatic operation.
The solar panel requires minimal roof space and adds a backup vent in case of power outages. Check roof pitch and shade patterns for optimal placement. This upgrade can cut cooling energy use by up to 10%.
Energy-efficient roofing upgrades go beyond cosmetic fixes. They save money, improve home comfort, and cut carbon footprint. From reflective coatings to improved ventilation, each upgrade adds real value. Many homeowners miss these options and stick with standard repairs. Take time to assess your roof; minor tweaks pay off fast in lower bills and fewer repairs.
11115 Kenwood Rd.
Blue Ash, OH 45242
© Handyman Connection 2025 | Privacy Policy
(513) 771-3950 
