What is a Cool Roof?
A cool roof is designed with highly reflective and emissive materials that keep surfaces 50°F to 60°F cooler than traditional roofing in the summer. This helps reduce energy costs, improve occupant comfort, lower maintenance expenses, extend roof lifespan, and mitigate urban heat islands and related smog.
Cool Roof Solutions from GreenGo Roofing
At GreenGo Roofing, we offer a variety of cool roofing products for both commercial and residential applications. Our focus is on two Title 24 compliant products suitable for flat roofing systems:
- Single-Ply Green Roofs: These are large, pre-manufactured sheets of roofing material that are mechanically fastened over the existing roof and sealed at the seams, providing a durable and efficient cool roof solution.
- Green Roof Coatings: These coatings are applied directly to a clean, leak-free existing roof surface using rollers, sprays, or brushes. They add a reflective layer that enhances the roof’s energy efficiency.
Cool Roof Options for Sloped Roofs
GreenGo Roofing provides cool roof products in clay, concrete tiles, and asphalt shingles for sloped roofs commonly found on residential properties. These materials use special pigments to reflect the sun’s infrared heat, significantly reducing the roof’s temperature. ENERGY STAR® offers a comprehensive list of cool roof products and manufacturers at www.energystar.gov.
How Cool is a Cool Roof?
During peak summer conditions, traditional dark roofs can reach 150°F to 190°F, while cool roofs typically peak at 100°F to 120°F, making them a much cooler and efficient option.
Cost of Cool Roofs Compared to Conventional Roofs
The initial cost of cool roofing materials is generally similar to traditional options. Some are less expensive, while others may cost up to 20% more. However, cool roof coatings can be reapplied every 10 to 15 years, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for costly roof tear-offs. With up to 20% savings on air conditioning, cool roofs are a cost-effective solution for the long term.
Rebates and Incentives for Cool Roofs
In addition to energy savings, some local utility companies in California offer rebates for installing cool roofs. These incentives can help offset the initial installation costs, making cool roofs an even more attractive option.
Compliance with California’s Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards
Cool roofs are recognized as a performance option under Title 24 of California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards. Key sections to reference include Section 10-113 for certification and labeling requirements, Section 118 for prescriptive compliance, and Sections 141, 142, and 151(b) for performance compliance. For more details, visit www.energy.ca.gov/title24/.
Are Cool Roofs Mandatory?
Cool roofs are not mandatory in residential or nonresidential energy standards but offer energy credits under Title 24’s performance compliance approach.
Specifications for Cool Roof Credits Under Title 24 Standards
To qualify for credits under Title 24 Standards, commercial and residential cool roof products must meet specific ASTM standards for solar reflectivity and emittance factors as outlined below:
| ASTM Standard | Tiles | Multiply or Liquid |
| Solar Reflectivity | E903 or E1918 | 0.40+ |
| Emittance Factor | E408 | 0.75+ |
Explore how GreenGo Roofing’s cool roof solutions can enhance your property’s energy efficiency and contribute to a greener environment. Contact us today for more information or a consultation.
