Color may appear minor, but the difference in efficiency is significant

During the past hurricanes, homeowners did not necessarily have the choice of desired roofing material, as roofing supplies dictated that homeowners install the roofing material they could get. Many were desperate. Bill Moore, co-owner of Legacy Contracting Solutions, a young, customer-service, energy-conscious construction firm focused on residential and commercial roofing, explains how an intelligent choice of materials combined with a properly installed roof can lead to maximum energy efficiency, comfort and long-term savings.

The color of the roof material matters that much? Says who?
Florida Power and Light and the Florida Solar Energy Center instrumented six side-by-side comparisons of roofing materials. Six homes were analyzed with identical floor plans, orientation to the sun and ceiling insulation but with different roofing materials and colors. The 40-page report has a nice 2-page executive summary (contact me and I'll send it to you). But the results are that white metal roofs, white flat tile roofs and white barrel tile roofs had significant energy savings over terra cotta S-tile roofs. Technically, the study proved that roof reflectivity had a significant effect on residential cooling loads.

Not everyone will order a white roof, but information is power. Consumers should be informed and then make their decision. Properly installed roofs last decades; the material chosen today has an impact tomorrow.

So does that mean there are rebates available?
Yes, there are several ways to get money back. Florida Power and Light (FPL) has a Demand Side Management program; look for participating roofing contractors (not all are qualified). In addition, you may qualify for a MySafeFloridaHome grant up to $5,000, but you never know unless you ask about the details. There is also a mitigating insurance report that can reduce your homeowners insurance dramatically with a roof that meets the new 2007 installation guidelines. Legacy Contracting Solutions is a participating contractor in the MySafeFloridaHome program, a roofing contractor and a general contractor, so we can complete the mitigating reports on behalf of our clients. We are also a participating independent contractor in FPLs Demand Side Management program. We've gone the extra mile to bring these services to you. We encourage homeowners to find contractors with valid credentials.

Besides roofing experience and knowledge what is the number one attribute I should look for in a roofing contractor?
Look for roofing contractors that start and finish the job. Many contractors schedule multiple jobs simultaneously and homeowners are left with work-in-progress for weeks. Work with a contractor that sees a job from beginning to end and explains to you why you need what you need. We're experts, we do this every day. But the average homeowner has to work with a roofer every decade or so. The roofing industry has seen technology improvements over the past 5 years.

Legacy Contracting Solutions 561.844.4910, is a full service roofing contractor who delivers real world knowledge and old-fashioned customer service. Legacy educates their homeowners about roofing materials that generate FPL rebates as well as reduce energy consumption. As a My Safe Florida Home contractor, Legacy is able to inspect and sign mitigation reports providing homeowners (what can be) a significant reduction in insurance premiums. Legacy Contracting Solutionsis a member of www.ReferredHomeServices.com, a website of respected, experienced, dependable businesses who meet or exceed RHS's rigorous review process which requires proof of proper licensing, certifications, insurance and ten verified customer references. Referred Home Services, 561-401-4004, www.ReferredHomeServices.com.