Energy Efficiency

Hot Roofs Explained

Most homeowners in College Station, TX are aware of normal types of insulation like fiberglass, but are not aware of spray foam insulation.  This newer technology allows the insulation to be applied to the underside of the roof.  Spray foam is comprised of a resin component of polyurethane and other chemicals.  The term hot roof comes from the installation and application of the insulation.  With hot roofs, spray foam is applied directly to the roof sheathing.  This covers the need for ventilation.  Without ventilation the roof is considered a hot roof.

Hot Roofs vs. Traditional Roofs: Ventilation is the Key Difference

A traditional roof commonly houses an attic space.  Instead of the insulation being directly applied to the roof, you tend to see the attic floors with the insulation and some sort of ventilation system like an attic fan.  This allows air to come into the attic from the outside and exit through the top of the roof.  The movement of air keeps your roof cooler and prevents the formation of ice dams during the cold months.

When your College Station roofer sprays an attic with insulating foam you cause the temperature in your attic to rise because ventilation is not present.

Hot Roof Warranties Vary

Several studies have been on done on the thermal effects on shingles from various ventilation systems.  Even though hot roofs raise the temperature of the roofing system by a few degrees, the increased temperature will reduce the lifespan of shingles by 10%.

Major manufacturers have already caught on to this fact.  For example, GAF, a premiere shingle manufacturer, does not offer their top rated warranty on shingles applied to hot roofs.   When deciding on a hot roof, be sure to check your College Station roofer’s installation procedure and warranty coverage to ensure that manufacturer specs are adhered.

Benefits of a Hot Roof

Even though their name suggests higher temperatures and higher electric bills, hot roofs are actually one of the most heat resistant roofing systems available.  The grading of roofing system insulation is done by a specific measurement; R-value.  The R-value is the measurement of the ability to resist heat accumulation.  The larger the R-value the better insulated your home may be.

Hot Roofs actually have the highest R-value because there is no ventilation system.  That means there is no way for air to leak and duct work does not need insulation.  Instead the temperature of the attic acts as a buffer to the outside environment, better maintaining a homeostatic temperature inside the house, regardless of the temperature outside.

Local Municipal Rules Apply

Many municipalities have regulations and special licenses that are required for hot roofs.  Be sure your College Station roofer knows whether or not a hot roof can be installed on your home.   You can also check with your local permit and licensing departments on specific regulations.

Schulte Roofing is a College Station roofing contractor with over 18 years of experience with all roofing systems.  Schulte Roofing understands the complexity of warranty issues with hot roofs and local licensing issues as well.  Additionally, Schulte Roofing offers the “BulletProof Roof ™ Guarantee”, a warranty that even exceeds the manufacturer’s original warranty and covers labor.  This knowledge and experience is what keeps the lowest total cost for homeowners and is central to a company focus of honesty and integrity.  For more information about hot roofs and specific warranty details, contact Schulte Roofing today.