Roof shingle choice for color in Northern Virginia

[vdotmatrix]

We are going solar and thought it a good idea to replace the shingles and was trying to look at all aspects of shingle replacement . The reflectivity or thermal insulation a consideration?

Any ideas?

[Downaski]

Yes, reflectivity and thermal insulation are definitely important factors to consider when replacing shingles, especially if you're going solar. Here's why:

1. Reflectivity: Shingles with high reflectivity, often referred to as "cool" shingles, can reflect more sunlight and reduce heat absorption. This can help keep your home cooler in the summer, potentially lowering your cooling costs and improving the efficiency of your solar panels by keeping them at a lower temperature.
2. Thermal Insulation: Good thermal insulation in your shingles helps keep your home’s temperature stable by reducing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This can also help reduce your heating and cooling costs. Additionally, better insulation can protect your solar panels by minimizing the temperature fluctuations they experience.

When choosing new shingles, look for ones that have a high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) or are Energy Star rated, which indicates good reflectivity and thermal performance. This will not only benefit your energy efficiency but also enhance the overall effectiveness of your solar system.