No matter where you live, keeping your home cool is a must, especially in the warmer months. Some buildings enjoy the cooling effects of single-ply membranes from white roofs because they reflect heat away). Cool roofs are often made out of a light-colored material or painted white. In addition to color, homeowners should learn how to choose roof materials that help keep their properties cool.
Terra-Cotta Tiles and Ceramic Roofs
There is a reason terra-cotta tiles and ceramic are popular roofing materials. Not only is terra-cotta an excellent choice for those looking to adopt a Spanish colonial style, but these tiles also have weather-resistant properties because they are made in a kiln at high temperatures. Terra-cotta and ceramic are known to withstand the heat in even the warmest of climates and can last for more than 50 years.
Concrete Tiles and Slab Roofs
Concrete is a great option for people who like the thermal properties of terra-cotta but find it too expensive. The thickness of concrete means it takes longer to heat up, which in turn means it takes longer for the heat to transfer into the home. Slab concrete is an inexpensive but strong solution for roofs.
EPDM Roofing
EPDM membranes, often referred to as rubber roofing, are synthetic rubber-like substances known as ethylene propylene diene monomers. EPDM’s composition makes it really sturdy even under extreme conditions. It can withstand UV radiation without breaking down or cracking. EPDM is commonly praised for the low energy overhead it generates during the manufacturing process. This material is most effective for heat reduction when it is coated with titanium dioxide, which gives EPDM its lighter color.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are popular these days in warm-climate, cosmopolitan cities like Los Angeles and Austin. The story of metal roofing is a long one. It has been used since the days of Ancient Rome. However, metal had a bad rap in the past because it was seen as an inexpensive material. However, this versatile and durable material has made a comeback in recent years. Metal now makes up 11 percent of the roofing industry and is second only to asphalt in terms of popularity. This shift could be due to the change in its perception as a sustainable material.