Cool Roof Systems

What Are Cool Metal Roofs? 

Cool Roofs utilize coatings with specific reflective properties to help keep surface temperatures lower than traditional or uncoated materials during peak sun hours. For our colors’ reflective properties, check the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) website. 

Benefits of Cool Roof Systems 

A notable advantage of a cool metal roof is sustainability through long-term energy efficiency. Benefits include: 

• Cooling Energy Savings in Southern States: Discover savings with the Oak Ridge National Laboratories (ORNL) Cool Roof Savings Calculator. 

• Urban Heat Island Mitigation: Cool roofing aids mitigation efforts. Visit the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories (LBNL) Heat Island Group Website for details. 

• Energy Code Compliance: Cool roofing is often mandated in energy codes and green building programs, with records maintained by the CRRC. 

Cool Roofing Measurements 

Key metrics for metal roof energy savings are: 

• Solar Reflectance: How well the roof deflects solar energy. 

• Thermal Emissivity: Amount of absorbed energy released. 

• Solar Reflectance Index (SRI): Assesses solar reflection and thermal emission performance. 

Cool Metal Roofing Coatings & Color Options 

Selecting the right steel panel colors enhances energy efficiency. Many colors promote solar reflection. Optimal choices include: 

• Bright White
• White
• Polar White

For more on Union cool roof colors, solar reflectance indexes, or to learn about our roofing, connect with us today!