There are several types of roofing materials that can be considered “cool.” The effectiveness of a roofing material in reflecting sunlight and reducing heat gain is measured by its solar reflectance and thermal emittance. The higher the solar reflectance and thermal emittance values, the cooler the roofing material is considered to be.

Types of Cool Roofing:

1. White roofs: White roofs are roofs that are painted or coated with a white reflective material that reflects sunlight and reduces heat gain. This type of roof is effective in reducing energy costs, as it helps to keep a building cooler and reduces the amount of energy required for heating and cooling.
2. Green roofs: Green roofs, also known as vegetative roofs, are roofs that are covered with vegetation, such as grass, shrubs, or other plants. Green roofs help to reduce heat gain by absorbing and evaporating moisture, and they also provide insulation and other environmental benefits, such as improved air quality and reduced stormwater runoff.
3. Cool metal roofs: Cool metal roofs are roofs made of metal materials, such as aluminum or steel, that have been specially coated or treated to reflect sunlight and reduce heat gain. Cool metal roofs are durable, long-lasting, and provide excellent protection against the elements.
4. Cool membranes: Cool membranes are roofing materials, such as TPO (thermoplastic olefin) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride), that are designed to reflect sunlight and reduce heat gain. Cool membranes are flexible and lightweight, making them easy to install, and they provide a durable and long-lasting roofing solution.
5. Cool shingles: Cool shingles are roofing shingles that have been specially treated or coated to reflect sunlight and reduce heat gain. Cool shingles are available in a variety of colors and styles, and they provide a cost-effective and attractive roofing solution.