White roofs are the cool choice

By Dani Sheehan. 

Show your customers compelling evidence for how white roofs improve energy efficiency and explore the most suitable cool roofing solutions for their building. 

White roofs have gained significant attention for their ability to improve energy efficiency in buildings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, white or light-colored roofs, also known as cool roofs, can stay more than 50 degrees cooler than traditional roofing options. A blog article by Beacon Building Products provides an overview of the benefits and materials involved in white roofs as a guide to share why building owners and homeowners should consider this energy-saving option.  

Having trouble convincing the building owner to choose a cool color? Just ask them if they’ve ever noticed the difference between walking outside in the heat of summer wearing a black T-shirt versus walking outside in a white T-shirt? You may not feel a huge difference right at first, but the black shirt will hold the heat longer than the white shirt. The same idea applies to buildings. 

Benefits of cool roofs 

Cool roofs provide several benefits, including: 

• Indoor comfort: Areas such covered patios or garages that lack air conditioning can remain cooler, making them more comfortable during the hottest times of the year.  
• Extended roof lifespan: A lower roof temperature can reduce the wear and tear on roofing materials, extending the life of the roof. 
• Energy demand reduction: When more buildings in a community have a white or cool roof, it can lower peak electricity demand, helping to prevent power surges and outages in the area. 

White roofs are particularly advantageous in hot climates where cooling needs are high. However, they might not be as beneficial in colder regions where heat retention is necessary during the winter months. Buildings in snowy areas might face issues with snow and ice accumulation on cool roofs. 

While painting a roof white is a straightforward approach to improving energy efficiency in the same way a white shirt keeps you cool in the summer heat, the choice of materials and the specific needs of the building’s location and design play a critical role in determining the best solution. For customers looking to reduce energy expenses, exploring the full range of cool roof options is essential. 

Read Beacon’s full blog article for a more comprehensive guide to selling and educating your customers on the importance of adopting cool roof technology.