Cool Roofing Systems
in Surrey, BC
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Cool Roofing Systems in Surrey
A cool roof isn't a specific material, but rather a type of roofing system designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof.
A cool roof uses materials with high solar reflectance, meaning it reflects a significant portion of the sun's energy instead of absorbing it as heat. This simple principle has several powerful benefits for your property.
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What is Cool Roofing?
A cool roof is a roofing system that is designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. This is achieved by using materials with a high solar reflectance (or albedo). By reflecting solar radiation, a cool roof can stay up to 15-20°C cooler than a traditional dark roof on a hot sunny day.
✔ Reflects More Sunlight: The primary function of a cool roof is to reflect a high percentage of the sun's solar energy. A standard dark roof can absorb over 80% of the solar energy that hits it, converting it into heat that transfers into the building. A cool roof reflects a majority of this energy back into the atmosphere, keeping the roof surface and the building below much cooler.
✔ Reduces Attic & Building Temperatures: By reflecting solar heat, a cool roof significantly lowers the temperature of the roof deck and the attic space beneath it. This dramatically reduces the amount of heat that penetrates into the living or working areas of the building, creating a more comfortable indoor environment, especially on the top floors.
✔ Helps HVAC Efficiency: A cooler building interior means your air conditioning (HVAC) system doesn't have to work as hard or run as long to maintain a comfortable temperature. This reduced load on your HVAC system is the primary driver of energy savings, leading to lower electricity bills throughout the summer months.
Several different materials can be used to achieve a cool roof, depending on the type of building.
Materials Used in Cool Roofs
TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin)
White TPO is one of the most popular and effective cool roofing materials for flat or low-slope commercial roofs. Its bright white surface is inherently highly reflective, and it provides a durable, waterproof, and long-lasting membrane that offers exceptional energy efficiency.
Reflective Shingles
For homeowners who want the traditional look of an asphalt shingle roof, manufacturers now offer cool roof versions. These architectural shingles are coated with special granules that are designed to reflect a higher portion of solar radiation, keeping the roof cooler while still offering a variety of colours.
Reflective Coatings
For existing flat or metal roofs, a reflective coating is a cost-effective way to improve energy efficiency. These liquid-applied coatings are typically white or light-coloured and can be installed over your current roof to transform it into a cool, reflective surface, extending its life and lowering your energy costs.
Best Used On
Several different roofing materials can be used to achieve a cool roof, with the best choice depending on the specific type of building.
Large, flat-roofed commercial and industrial buildings are the most common and effective application for cool roofing. The vast, unbroken surface area of these roofs can absorb an enormous amount of heat. Installing a white TPO or coated cool roof can lead to significant energy savings and improve the comfort of the workspace below.
Residential homes in Surrey, particularly those with large, south-facing roof surfaces that receive intense, direct sun throughout the summer, can benefit greatly from a cool roof. Using reflective shingles can help keep upper-floor bedrooms significantly cooler and reduce the need for constant air conditioning.
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FAQs
Does cool roofing work in cloudy climates like Surrey's?
Yes, it does. While the energy-saving benefits are most pronounced on hot, sunny days, a cool roof is effective even in our climate. The sun emits solar radiation year-round, even on overcast days. A cool roof will always reflect more of this energy than a dark, heat-absorbing roof, helping to prevent excess heat gain and contributing to a more stable and efficient building envelope.
What materials qualify as cool roofing?
Cool roofing products include light-coloured metal panels with high-reflectance coatings, specially formulated asphalt shingles with reflective granules, single-ply membranes (TPO, PVC, EPDM) in white or light shades, and cool roof coatings that can be applied over existing surfaces. Each material is rated by its solar reflectance index (SRI) to indicate its ability to reflect solar heat.
Are there rebates or incentives for installing a cool roof in Surrey?
Yes. Homeowners and businesses may qualify for rebates or incentives through BC Hydro’s Power Smart and local government programs for energy-efficient upgrades. These incentives can offset part of the installation cost for cool roofing materials that meet specified reflectivity and emissivity criteria.
How does cool roofing affect snow and ice accumulation?
Reflective roofing surfaces can reduce snowmelt compared to dark roofs, potentially prolonging snow cover. However, cooler roof temperatures also help prevent ice dams by keeping the roof deck closer to ambient temperature and reducing the freeze–thaw cycle. Proper insulation and ventilation are essential complements to cool roofing in snowy climates.
What maintenance do cool roofs require?
Cool roofs require similar maintenance to their base materials: periodic cleaning of dirt, debris, and biological growth to maintain reflectivity; inspection of seams, flashings, and coatings; and reapplication of protective coatings every 8–12 years for coated systems. Keeping the surface clean ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Request a Cool Roofing Estimate in Surrey
Are you looking for a smart way to lower your energy bills and improve the comfort of your home or commercial building? A cool roof is an excellent investment in energy efficiency and sustainability. Contact Paragon Roofing today to learn more about our cool roofing options and to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate.
