Doug Miller | 2009-07-28 | 10:49:08 AM wrote:

In addition to the good suggestions that you've already received, I'd
like to add this: given the age of the home, it may be due for a new
roof some time soon. Using white shingles, instead of dark gray or
black, can lower attic temperatures by as much as 30 degrees F.

I just had my mother's house re-roofed in New Mexico. White roofs are
traditional there because of the heat.

White shingles are no longer available from any supplier I could find.
New Mexico was apparently one of the few places that bought white
shingles. Everywhere else, people complain that they turn gray with
dust and mildew.

As a side note, I had to use double-laminated ("architectural")
shingles instead of the usual interlocking-T version. The roofer said
the interlocking shingles have been discontinued because they routinely
outperform their warranty; 25-year shingles might last 40 years,
barring hail.

--
Steve Bell
New Life Home Improvement
Arlington, TX USA