Hotter summers are driving homeowners to prioritize energy-efficient upgrades, cooling-focused renovations, and sustainable materials to keep their homes comfortable while reducing energy costs.
Summers in America are getting hotter. In March, new heat records were set across 14 states, according to PBS News.
A world that's rapidly warming up means people are finding more effective ways to stay cool, and a good number are looking at where they spend most of their time: the home.
Home improvement is a big trend in the U.S., but homeowners are looking beyond making trendy upgrades. They're investing in changes that enhance the home's energy efficiency while keeping the occupants cooler and more comfortable.
Upgrades Focused on Home Cooling
Electricity expenditure usually spikes in the summer, as homes have to rely on heavy air conditioning use. However, as energy costs keep rising year over year, it's no longer sustainable to just crank up the AC.
Homeowners are investing in smart thermostats to ensure cost-effective use of the AC, but beyond that, they're also making energy-efficient upgrades, such as installing energy-efficient windows. This top-rated Window company in Tampa is renowned for installing aesthetically pleasing vinyl windows that will not only improve your home's visual appeal but also its energy efficiency.
Other energy-efficient upgrades include installing ceiling fans and incorporating ventilated attics. Even switching to solar is a smart home cooling upgrade, as it can provide shade while generating energy.
Re-Roofing Your Home with Cooling in Mind
If the time to reroof your home has come, it's impossible to ignore how the hotter summers will influence your decisions.
If you currently have an energy-inefficient roof, such as one made from wooden shingles, it's a no-brainer that you need to move to a more energy-efficient roofing material, such as metal, which offers the best energy efficiency. Tile and asphalt are also ideal.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a cool roof has better reflective properties than conventional roofs. Since they absorb less solar energy, reflective roofs can stay up to 50F cooler than a conventional roof, which can reach highs of 150F in the summer.
Choosing "Green" Contractors
In the recent past, homeowners primarily considered a contractor's craftsmanship, experience, reputation, and cost of service before hiring them. Today, as summers get hotter, homeowners don't just want contractors who can do the job; they want professionals who are committed to sustainable construction.
A "green" contractor is best placed to give you sound advice on the various energy-efficient upgrades that will suit your home. You'll proceed with the home renovations confident that it's in the hands of a professional who understands that your goal is not just to improve the aesthetics and functionality of your home, but also to improve its cooling efficiency.
Home Improvement Choices with Hot Summers in Mind
Summer has long been a time to enjoy the warmer weather, but as the temperatures get hotter, homes are becoming less comfortable. A summer home improvement project can fix this, but you have to make the right choices. Everything from the design of spaces to the choice of materials and contractors will have an impact on how cool the home gets when summer rolls around.
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