Have you ever walked barefoot on asphalt in the summer? It burns, right? Now imagine your roof under the same intense sunlight every day — absorbing heat that eventually seeps into your home.
That’s where a cool roof comes in.
If you’ve heard the term but wondered “what is a cool roof?”, you’re in the right place. At State Restoration Services, we’ve installed countless cool roofing systems that help homeowners stay comfortable, save on energy, and reduce wear on their homes.
This article will explain what a cool roof is, how it works, what materials are used, and whether it’s the right choice for your property.
So, What Is a Cool Roof?
A cool roof is a roofing system designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof.
In simple terms, it stays cooler under the sun — reducing the amount of heat that transfers into your home.
While a traditional dark-colored roof can reach temperatures of 150–190°F (65–88°C) on a hot summer day, a cool roof may stay 50°F (10–15°C) cooler under the same conditions.
This temperature difference can have a huge impact on your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and even the lifespan of your roofing materials.
How Does a Cool Roof Work?
Cool roofs use advanced materials and coatings that increase two key properties:
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Solar Reflectance (Albedo) — How much sunlight the roof reflects.
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Thermal Emittance — How well the roof releases absorbed heat.
Together, these properties prevent the roof from becoming a giant heat sponge. Instead of absorbing the sun’s rays, a cool roof reflects them back into the atmosphere.
Example:
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A regular asphalt roof might absorb 85% of sunlight and reflect only 15%.
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A cool roof, on the other hand, can reflect up to 70–90% of sunlight.
That means your attic — and your entire home — stays significantly cooler, especially during the summer months.
Types of Cool Roofs
Cool roofing isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are several different types depending on your building type, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
1. Cool Roof Coatings
Reflective coatings can be applied to many existing roofs to make them “cool.”
They’re usually white or light-colored and come in materials like acrylic, silicone, or polyurethane.
✅ Best for: Flat or low-slope roofs (common in commercial buildings)
✅ Advantages: Affordable, easy to install, and ideal for extending roof life
2. Reflective Shingles
Manufacturers now produce asphalt shingles designed with reflective granules that bounce sunlight away.
✅ Best for: Residential homes with pitched roofs
✅ Advantages: Look like traditional shingles but perform like cool roofs
3. Metal Roofing
Metal is naturally reflective and can be coated with reflective paint or pigments to enhance its cooling power.
✅ Best for: Both homes and commercial buildings
✅ Advantages: Extremely durable, energy-efficient, and available in various styles
4. Single-Ply Membranes
Materials like TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) are highly reflective and commonly used on commercial or flat roofs.
✅ Best for: Large buildings and low-slope roofs
✅ Advantages: Strong UV resistance, waterproofing, and long lifespan
5. Green Roofs
A green (vegetative) roof uses plants and soil as a natural insulator and heat barrier. While not reflective, it keeps buildings cooler by absorbing heat and providing shade.
✅ Best for: Urban buildings and eco-conscious property owners
✅ Advantages: Improves air quality, reduces stormwater runoff, and lasts decades
The Benefits of a Cool Roof
Installing a cool roof offers multiple long-term benefits that go far beyond just staying cooler.
1. Lower Energy Bills
By keeping your home naturally cooler, your air conditioning system doesn’t have to work as hard, which can lower your energy bills by 10–30% during the summer.
2. Increased Comfort
Cool roofs help maintain more consistent indoor temperatures, especially in spaces without air conditioning, like garages or attics.
3. Extended Roof Lifespan
High heat accelerates roof aging by breaking down materials over time. Because cool roofs stay cooler, they often last years longer than traditional ones.
4. Environmental Benefits
Cool roofs reduce the urban heat island effect — the tendency of cities to be hotter than surrounding areas due to dark surfaces and heavy energy use.
Less energy use also means fewer carbon emissions.
5. Rebates and Incentives
Many utility companies and government programs offer rebates or tax credits for installing energy-efficient cool roofing systems.
Is a Cool Roof Right for You?
Cool roofs are a great option, but they’re not ideal for every climate or situation.
Here’s when they work best:
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You live in a hot or sunny climate with long summers.
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Your air conditioning bills are high during warm months.
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You plan to stay in your home long-term and want to save on energy.
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You’re considering roof replacement and want an upgrade that adds value.
However, if you live in a cold northern climate, a cool roof may slightly increase heating costs in winter since it reflects sunlight year-round.
That said, many homeowners still find the energy savings in summer far outweigh the small winter heating difference.
If you’re unsure whether it’s right for your area, our experts at State Restoration Services can inspect your roof and give personalized recommendations.
How to Maintain a Cool Roof
Like any roofing system, maintenance is essential to get the most out of your cool roof.
Here are a few simple tips:
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Clean the surface annually: Dirt and debris can reduce reflectivity.
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Inspect for cracks or leaks: Especially after storms.
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Reapply reflective coatings: Every few years (if applicable).
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Trim nearby trees: To prevent leaves and shade from reducing effectiveness.
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Schedule professional inspections: State Restoration Services offers routine roof checkups to keep your system performing like new.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a cool roof?
A cool roof is a roofing system that reflects more sunlight and absorbs less heat than standard roofing, keeping your home cooler and reducing energy use.
2. How much money can a cool roof save me?
Depending on your location and home size, you could save 10–30% on cooling costs annually.
3. Does a cool roof work in cold climates?
Yes, but its benefits are most noticeable in warmer regions. In cold climates, proper insulation still ensures year-round efficiency.
4. Can I turn my existing roof into a cool roof?
In many cases, yes! A reflective coating or cool roofing material can be applied to your current roof.
5. Do cool roofs come in different colors?
Absolutely. While white is most reflective, manufacturers now offer cool roofing materials in various light shades that still meet reflectivity standards.
6. How long does a cool roof last?
Most cool roofs last 20–40 years, depending on the material and maintenance.
Why Choose State Restoration Services
At State Restoration Services, we specialize in energy-efficient roofing solutions, including cool roofs.
Homeowners choose us because we provide:
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Expert installation and repair by certified professionals
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GAF-certified roofing materials for maximum durability
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Customized solutions based on your climate and budget
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Long-term warranties and maintenance support
Whether you’re replacing your old roof or exploring energy-efficient upgrades, our team will help you find the perfect cool roof system for your home.
Conclusion: Cool Roofs Keep You Comfortable and Save You Money
Now you know the answer to “what is a cool roof.”
It’s more than just a modern trend — it’s a smart, energy-efficient way to protect your home, reduce utility bills, and make a positive environmental impact.
View our residential roofing page for more information, or book free inspection here.
If you’re considering upgrading to a cool roof, contact State Restoration Services today.
We’ll inspect your roof, recommend the best materials, and install a system that keeps your home cooler, safer, and more energy-efficient for years to come.