Going With A Cool Roof
Roofing with high solar reflectance (SR) and thermal emittance (TE) properties are known as “cooling roofs.” These properties help reduce electricity used for air conditioning by lowering roof temperatures on hot, sunny days. Solar reflectance refers to a material’s ability to reflect the sun’s solar energy back into the atmosphere. Thermal emittance provides a means of quantifying how much of the absorbed heat is rejected for a given material. Both properties are measured from 0 to 1 and the higher the value, the “cooler” the roof. Together, these properties can help roofs absorb less heat and stay up to 50-60°F cooler than conventional materials during peak summer weather.
Benefits of Cooling Roofs
Cool roofs result in net energy savings, especially in areas where electricity prices are high. Energy cost savings can be up to 20%, depending on materials, climate zone and electricity rates.
- Improved occupant comfort
- Reduces air pollution
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
- Cooling Roofs lasts longer than standard roofs
