Recent research shows that the choice of roof material has a significant impact of household energy expenditure through its impact on the internal temperature of the home.

 

According to the Australian Greenhouse Office, 39% of household energy costs come from heating and cooling the home. Designing and constructing a house that maintains a steady temperature without the need for artificial heating and cooling, can dramatically minimise the amount of energy the household consumes, thereby reducing carbon emissions.


Research conducted by the University of Newcastle identified that careful selection of roofing material can have both aesthetic and functional impacts and can assist in creating a comfortable environment for residents all year round while minimising energy consumption.

 

 An investigation into the thermal performance of common roof materials by the Roofing Tile Association of Australia at the University of Newcastle found tiled roofs significantly outperformed metal roofing in reducing cooling energy consumption in hot climates. 
 

The testing (which adjusted roof material colour, solar radiation, roof size and mean air temperature to a common basis and removed the impact of insulation products) revealed that roof tiles saved a huge $803.12 per year on average compared to metal roofing in dark colours.
 

Commenting on the testing Mr Michael Monro (Sales and Marketing Coordinator of Bristile Roofing) said “Controlling the temperature in the home is the key to saving money on your energy bills and roofing material plays a significant role in achieving this. By choosing a trusted roofing material such as roof tiles, homeowners can cut down the amount of heat absorbed into the building thereby reducing their electricity bill by minimising the need for appliances like fans and air-conditioners.”