As people become more conscious of the energy efficiency of their homes, reflective roofing is increasingly being utilized. What exactly does reflective roofing or "cool roof" entail? What's its difference from roof coatings and painting the roof with white paint?

Reflective roofing is one type of roofing installation that concentrates on keeping homes cooler than a conventional roof will.

Roofs designed for coolness reflect light and absorb less solar energy, which can lower the temperature of a house's interior.

How Do Cool Roofs Work?

By combining different materials and the aid of a special reflective coating, they reflect more light than traditional roofs. The coatings are available in a range of styles and colors, and therefore the curb appeal does not have to be sacrificed. They also can reduce the temperature of your home considerably.

Like how all roof coatings reflect light, reflective roofs can prolong the lifespan of roofs, too, due to their film coating that absorbs the damage from extreme weather conditions. The result is a roof that is energy efficient and cost-effective.

The coatings offer two major advantages: They possess an extremely high amount of thermal emission, which means they are able to shed heat. In addition, due to reflective solar energy, the coatings redirect sunlight from your house. Together, they make a house cooler.

Benefits of a Reflective Roof

In a way, reflective roofing can reduce your energy costs. However, it's essential to talk to an expert and establish realistic expectations if that's your primary goal.

In addition, reflective roofing can ensure that your roof will last longer. This is because you're providing a layer of protection. Reflective roofing can lower the temperature of a roof, reduce the long-lasting effects of UV radiation, and minimize environmental harm over the long term by taking away the necessity for regular roof repair and replacement.

Roof coatings also offer the benefit of being easy to install. It is important to choose an expert contractor, although the process of installing is quick and not overly loud or demanding. The time required to finish the coating of a roof depends on the size of the roof, but generally, from beginning to end, the work can take almost two days.

What Do Reflective Roofs Cost?

The price of installing reflective roofing depends on how big your house and roof are.

The cost is considered low for adding reflective coatings to an old roof at the cost of as little to 15 cents per square foot, but it is a bit more expensive when applied at the beginning of a roofing replacement. This is because shingles are pre-fabbed with coatings, or homeowners may ask the roofing contractor to incorporate this coating in their price.

Reflective roofing materials can have so many options. Tiles may be glazed, shingles can be treated, wood can be cool-colored, and metal can be coated factory-style. It's essential to talk to a qualified roofer regarding reflective roof designs. It's because even a minor pin-hole in the reflective coating on your roof can affect the strength of the entire roof and lead to further destruction to your roofing.