Boise averages over 200 sunny days per year and summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees. Your roof absorbs or reflects that solar energy, and the difference between an efficient and an inefficient roof can show up meaningfully on your utility bill every month from June through September.
How Roofing Affects Energy Use
A dark asphalt shingle roof on a Boise home in July can reach surface temperatures of 150 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit. A reflective roofing material under the same conditions might reach 100 to 120 degrees, significantly reducing heat transfer into the building.
Cool Roof Shingles
Major shingle manufacturers now offer granule blends designed to reflect more solar energy than standard shingles. Owens Corning's Duration Cool and CertainTeed's Landmark Solaris lines carry the ENERGY STAR certification and can qualify for federal energy efficiency tax credits.
Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing naturally reflects more solar energy than asphalt shingles, particularly in lighter colors. For Boise homeowners replacing a roof on a home they plan to stay in long-term, metal's combination of energy efficiency and longevity makes a compelling case.
Idaho Tax Credits and Rebates
Federal energy efficiency tax credits available through the Inflation Reduction Act can provide up to 30% credit on qualifying energy-efficient roofing materials. Idaho Power also offers rebates for qualifying insulation upgrades made in conjunction with roofing work.