Summer Cooling Costs
Summer Cooling Costs | Metal Roofing | Roofing | Pikeville
Summers in Pikeville can turn your attic into an oven, forcing your air conditioner to work overtime and sending utility bills soaring. HEP installs premium metal roofing that reflects harsh solar heat instead of absorbing it, creating a protective shield that keeps indoor temperatures steadier. With specialized coatings and tight-seam installation, our roofs can reduce cooling costs by up to 25%, letting you enjoy crisp, conditioned air without dreading the next power bill.
Beyond comfort and savings, HEP’s metal roofing delivers rugged Appalachian durability and standout style. It shrugs off hail, rain, and high winds, and its vibrant finishes resist fading year after year. Choose a sleek modern panel or a classic standing-seam profile, then relax under a lifetime warranty while your neighbors admire the fresh look. Cooler summers, lower expenses, and a roof that’s built to last—discover why Pikeville homeowners are making the smart move to HEP.
FAQs
How does a metal roof help reduce my summer cooling costs in Pikeville’s humid climate?
Modern metal roofing panels are manufactured with high solar reflectance and thermal emittance. In simple terms, they bounce a large portion of the sun’s heat away from the roof and quickly release any heat they do absorb. In Pikeville, where July temperatures routinely climb into the 80s and 90s with high humidity, this reflectivity can keep attic temperatures 20–30°F cooler than with dark asphalt shingles. A cooler attic means your air-conditioning system runs less often and consumes less electricity, directly lowering your summer utility bills.
Will a metal roof make my house hotter because it’s made of metal?
No. Although metal conducts heat quickly, today’s roofing panels are coated with factory-applied "cool roof" finishes that reflect solar energy before it can transfer into your home. Because the panels shed heat faster than traditional shingles once the sun sets, nighttime cooling is also improved. When paired with proper attic ventilation and insulation, a metal roof will typically keep your interior cooler, not hotter.
What panel color or coating should I choose for maximum energy savings?
Lighter colors such as white, light gray, beige, or light metallics reflect the most sunlight—some coatings achieve solar reflectance values of 0.65 or higher. If you prefer darker tones, look for ENERGY STAR® or CRRC-rated "cool pigments." These specialized paints use infrared-reflective technology to reflect heat even in deeper reds, blues, and charcoals, providing nearly the same energy benefits as lighter shades while expanding your color options.
How much can I expect to save on my summer electric bills after switching to metal roofing?
Savings vary with home size, insulation levels, A/C efficiency, and roof color, but Pikeville homeowners typically report 10–25% lower cooling costs the first summer after installation. Independent studies by Oak Ridge National Laboratory show that cool-coated metal roofs can reduce cooling energy demand by up to 40% in southern climates. Over a 40–50-year metal roof lifespan, those monthly savings can offset a significant portion of the roof’s initial investment.
Can a metal roof be installed over my existing shingles to improve energy efficiency?
Yes. In many cases, a metal roof can be installed on top of one layer of asphalt shingles, provided the existing deck is sound and local codes allow it. Adding a metal roof over shingles creates an insulating air gap between the two layers, further reducing heat transfer into the attic. This approach also avoids the cost and landfill impact of tear-off, making the project faster and more eco-friendly. A site inspection by a qualified roofer will confirm whether your home is a good candidate.
Are there any local or state incentives for energy-efficient metal roofing in Pikeville, KY?
Kentucky’s statewide incentives change periodically, but many ENERGY STAR®–rated metal roofs qualify for federal tax credits covering 10% of material costs (up to $500). Additionally, certain Pike County utility providers—such as Kentucky Power’s Targeted Energy Efficiency program—offer rebates when homeowners install reflective roofs or improve attic insulation in conjunction with a roof replacement. Before your project begins, ask your contractor to provide the roof’s reflectance/emittance ratings and help you complete any required rebate paperwork.