Fiberglass shingles are a popular roofing choice known for their durability and cost-effectiveness. These shingles have a fiberglass mat at their core, coated with asphalt and covered in granules that help reflect sunlight. This reflective surface can contribute to better energy efficiency by reducing the amount of heat absorbed into the home. While fiberglass shingles themselves don’t provide insulation, their color and granule composition can impact how much sunlight and heat your roof absorbs. Lighter-colored or specially coated shingles reflect more solar radiation, which can lower attic temperatures and, as a result, reduce cooling costs during hot weather. In contrast, darker shingles tend to absorb more heat and may increase cooling needs. To gauge if your current shingles are doing a good job, you can compare attic temperatures on a sunny day versus outside temperatures or check energy bills for spikes during summer months.
If you’re considering improving your roof’s energy efficiency with fiberglass shingles, it’s safe to do some simple checks yourself. Look for granule loss on the shingles, as missing granules can reduce reflective properties and lead to faster wear. Also, check the roof color—if it's darker, asking a contractor about reflective or “cool” shingles might be worthwhile. If your energy bills remain high despite roofing assessments or if you notice heat buildup and wear on your shingles, it’s time to call a roofer experienced with energy-efficient products. When consulting a contractor, ask if the fiberglass shingles they recommend have energy star ratings or special reflective coatings, and how those products might impact your home’s cooling costs. Additionally, verify how installing these shingles might affect your roof warranty and what maintenance would keep energy efficiency intact over time.