High-Performance Roofs and Attics Require Exceptional Teamwork

They say that "the future arrives first" in California-and its Title 24 codes are indeed propelling America toward a Zero Net Energy future. Designing and building high-performance roofs and attics will take unprecedented teamwork between architects, specifiers, contractors and HVAC professionals.

Here are some of the issues that they’ll jointly be focusing on: 

Energy efficiency – To drive Home Energy Rating System (HERS) scores lower each year, there’s an increased emphasis on installing radiant barrier sheathing to keep solar heat in the roof panel from penetrating into a home’s attic. Products like LP^® TechShield^® Radiant Barrier Sheathing block up to 97 % of the incoming heat, reducing attic temperature by up to 30° F. In addition, more builders are now placing ducts and HVAC equipment inside the home’s conditioned space as a strategy for achieving Zero Net Energy goals.

Proven warranties – Roofing professionals are looking for strong, long-term warranties, like the 20-year transferable limited warranty offered on LP^® TechShield^® Radiant Barrier.

Easy workability – Builders prefer roofing and attic products that install easily, with no additional tools or specialty labor required. 

Moisture control – Moisture can damage a home’s building envelope so more specifiers are choosing products like LP TechShield sheathing, which features patented technology that allows the panel to dry more quickly during construction and allows for moisture evaporation. 

Roofs are one of the largest parts of a home's building envelope, yet they often get less attention than windows and walls. That's why we're seeing closer collaboration between architects, roofing specifiers, builders and HVAC specialists. Designing high-performance roofs and attics will play an essential role in meeting tomorrow's rigorous energy codes.