A cool roofing system is an effective solution for reducing energy use and emissions by reflecting solar heat away from the building. Unlike dark, non-reflective roofs that absorb and transfer heat into the building and surrounding area, cool roofs help maintain a cooler environment. These roofs have been available in the United States for over 25 years and continue to grow in popularity.

Cool roofs are made using technologies like single-ply membranes, modified asphalt systems with cool surfaces, and metal roofing panels. They reflect 50 to 70 percent of solar heat. The benefits are clear: increased insulation effectiveness, improved HVAC efficiency, reduced heat flux, and interior temperatures up to 20 degrees cooler than the outside.