In the constant quest for energy efficiency and the greatest comfort, cool roofs are becoming a popular answer in areas where reducing energy costs is paramount. Cool roofs come in various types, and their main purpose is to keep structures cooler. This can be accomplished either by deflecting the sun rays, or by preventing their absorption, both of which can quickly heat up a building. With the help of an experienced roofing repair and installation company that understands the properties of thermal transfer, and who knows what type of materials used to build a cooler roof, anyone in a warmer climate can enjoy a more comfortable home, and lower energy bills with the right roof.

What Is A Cool Roof?

Roofing maintenance and installation companies assert that a cool roof is really little more than a roof designed to reflect heat, rather than absorb it. In colder climates, where some heat absorption is not always a bad thing, a standard roof is usually fine. In hotter climates, and areas where it is hot most of the year, a roofing design, or roofing material that prevents the roof from heating up a home, is most beneficial. These roofs, when designed and installed by the most experienced roofing company, reduce thermal transfer into a home. This helps the home stay cooler for a longer period of time, which is why these type of roofs are known as "cool roofs."

Why Install A Cool Roof?

Where the temperatures are exceptionally high for much of the year, and cooling a home is more important than heating it, cool roofs are both popular and important. As people try to keep their homes cool, this type of roofing design can be a real money saver, since utility bills are usually lower. Yet besides the reduction in energy bills, cool roofs also reduce the environmental impact caused by the creation of energy. This makes a cool roof a cleaner, more green option, and a more budget and environmentally friendly choice than simply turning the air conditioning up higher.

Types of Cool Roofs

Following are some of the various types of cool roofs available for use, depending on the structure and area of the United States:

  • Cool Roof Coatings - One of the most common uses for cool roof coatings, or any coating designed to reflect more than it absorbs, is on a flat roof. These coatings prevent UV rays from passing through and into the structure, keeping the interior of a building cooler. There are different types of cool coatings available, each of which is installed differently depending upon the roofing material used, and whether it is used as a top coating on a surface, or a barrier coating under a protective material.
  • Cool Asphalt Shingles - Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular roofing materials available today since they are relatively inexpensive, fairly long-lasting, and durable in many climates. In places where reducing heating costs is a concern, cool shingles that are designed to reflect sunlight are a great choice.
  • Clay and Other Natural Materials - Tiles made of clay or concrete, smooth cement roofs and even slate roofs are naturally cool, simply by the makeup of these materials. They are popular in very warm climates. When installed correctly by an experienced roofing company, these materials are extremely efficient in keeping homes cool, even in the hottest regions. They also have the benefit of being exceptionally long lasting, as well.
  • Green Roofs - While some of these other options may or may not work, another more creative option for a cool roof that is gaining popularity, is a green, living roof. Planting sod, moss, or growing other suitable live foliage on a home’s roof absorbs sunlight without it being transferred into a home. Green roofs are even becoming popular on top of homes and larger buildings in urban areas where reducing energy use is a main concern.

Homeowners who think they can benefit from the installation of a cool roof should contact an experienced roofing maintenance and installation company in their area to discuss the available options. With the many benefits these structures offer, taking the proper steps and opting for a cooler roof is a great way to save money, while saving the environment at the same time!

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