Summers here get really hot, and it's only a few weeks from the end of spring before the heat starts coming down hard, so it's worth getting your roof ready. The best roofing materials for summer heat are the ones that reflect sunlight and heat and help cut cooling costs. As a bonus, they help the roof last longer too. Here are the best residential roofing materials for summer heat.
Metal roofing
Metal roofs are highly reflective and cut heat absorption well, especially with reflective and insulating coatings. They're also durable and long lasting, which makes them cost effective over time. See our metal roofing service for what that involves.
Cool roof shingles
Cool roof shingles are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional shingles. They come in a range of colors and styles to suit your home. They cost more up front, but that pays off in energy savings and a more comfortable house.
Clay or concrete tiles
Clay and concrete tiles are excellent in hot climates, because they have natural thermal resistance and help keep a home cooler. They're also durable and last for decades with proper maintenance. You may need specialist roofers to handle clay and concrete tile installation or replacement.
Slate roofing
Slate is a natural stone, extremely durable, with excellent heat resistance. It's also fire resistant and adds a lot to the look of a home.
Green roofing
Green roofing, or a living roof, is a layer of vegetation planted over a waterproof membrane. It provides natural insulation, absorbs heat and reduces energy costs.
Synthetic roofing materials
Synthetic materials such as synthetic slate or shake are made to mimic the look of natural materials while giving better heat resistance and durability.
Asphalt shingles with reflective coating
Asphalt shingles with reflective coatings reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs. They're the affordable option for homeowners who want better energy efficiency, and they're what most homes around here use. Our shingle roofing service covers them.
White roofing membranes
White membranes such as PVC or TPO are highly reflective and cut heat absorption a lot. They're most often used on commercial buildings, but they can suit a residential roof too.
Wood shingles or shakes
Wood shingles and shakes aren't as heat resistant as the others, but they can still work in summer heat if they're properly treated and maintained. They give a natural look and can be an eco-friendly option.
Solar panels
Solar panels aren't a roofing material in themselves, but they can be installed on your roof to harness the sun's energy, reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources and help keep the house cooler in summer.
We mostly specialize in asphalt shingle roofs, and we are always ready to install, repair or replace an aging roof. Turn to Howard Roofing & Construction. Call us at (910) 540-7726 or request a free estimate to get started.