When it comes to roofing, there are a lot of choices to make. One of the most important decisions is whether to go with a
cool roof coating or a black roof. Both have advantages and drawbacks, so how do you decide which is suitable for your home?
In this blog post, we will look at the pros and cons of both types of roofs and help you figure out which one is best for you. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of each option, so you can make an informed decision.
Cool Roofs
Cool roofs have been gaining in popularity in recent years. They are special reflective pigments that are usually white and are designed to reflect sunlight away from your home. They provide a protective coating from UV rays and chemical and water damage to roof surfaces like asphalt shingles, composition, concrete tile, and metal roofs.
They consist of one or more layers of plastic or rubber material with reinforcing fabrics and are surfaced with mineral granules or a smooth finish. Many commercial and industrial businesses use cool roofs, but they can also be used in homes.
Pros
- They provide energy efficiency and can reduce your energy costs in the summer.
- They can extend the life of your roof by protecting it from solar radiation and other damage.
- They provide solar reflectance, which can be more comfortable for you and your family.
- They make your property aesthetically pleasing.
- They increase the value of your property.
- They keep your roof cool.
Cons
- They may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some people would like.
- You will need to re-coat your roof every few years to maintain the reflectivity.
Black Roofs
Dark roofs are the traditional choice for many homeowners. They’re well-known for absorbing a lot of solar heat, which leads to the roof surface becoming extremely hot. They’re generally made of rubber or EPDM roofing and are very common in arid regions. Although it may seem that black roofs are a bad choice, they have some advantages.
Pros
- They’re less expensive than cool roofs.
- They don’t require as much maintenance as cool roofs.
- Black roofs can reflect some heat away from your home.
- Low roof maintenance.
Cons
- The roof surfaces can become extremely hot, making your home uncomfortable in the summer.
- They don’t reflect as much heat away from your home as cool roofs.
- Black roofs can absorb a lot of heat, leading to higher air conditioning bills in the summer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a White or Black Roof
What should you consider when choosing between a white or black roof? Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
The climate – A heat reflective coating may be the better choice if you live in a hot, arid climate. A dark roof may be the better choice if you live in a cooler climate.
Your budget – Black roofs are generally less expensive than cool roofs.
The look of your home – If you want your home to have a more traditional look, a black roof may be the way to go. If you want your home to have a more modern look, a cool roof may be the better choice.
Your energy bills – If you’re concerned about your energy bills, a cool roof may help you save money.
Your comfort – If you’re worried about the heat in your home, a cool roof may be the better choice.
The cool roof is the winner in this cool roof vs. black roof debate. Cool coatings have more pros than cons and can help save you money in the long run. Not to mention, it can also make your home look more modern and stylish.
If you’re considering roof coatings, Tucson Rubberized Coatings can help you with all your cool roof needs! We have most of the popular elastomeric roof coatings. Elastomeric roof coatings (ERCs) are acrylic-based substances that can protect roofs from harsh climate conditions and can be applied directly over an existing roof, depending on its surface condition. ERCs may be used on various flat or low-pitched roof materials, as well as some designed to dry slowly, such as built-up roofs (BURs). Our elastomeric roof coatings include:
Acrylic roof coatings
Acrylic roof coatings, often known as the “original” elastomeric coatings, are typically popular for sloped metal roofs. These roof coatings are popular because they help reflect the sun’s heat away from your home. They’re also durable and can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance.
Silicone roof coatings
Silicone roof coatings are a great choice if you’re looking for a long-lasting roof coating. They can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance and are durable. These coatings are rolled or sprayed as a liquid to fill in cracks, blisters, and seams as a silicone roof coating system. The procedure does not improve the insulation or underlying construction, but provides an additional layer of protection from the weather.
Urethane roof coatings
Urethane coatings are well-known for their excellent adhesion. They will adhere to most common commercial roofing materials, including EPDM, PVC, TPO, and metal. They can also be applied in a wide range of temperatures, making them ideal for use in hotter and cooler climates. Urethane roof coatings are a great choice if you’re looking for a durable roof coating. They can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance and are also very resistant to UV rays.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a cool roof that will save you money in the long run, is more comfortable for your home, and has a modern look – a cool roof is the way to go! However, a black roof may be the better choice if you want a more traditional look for your home. But since black roofs don’t reflect as much heat, you will be paying more money on your energy bills in the end. It is important to factor in all of these items before deciding which roof is best for your home!
Tucson Rubberized Coatings can help with all your cool roof needs and has a variety of elastomeric roof coatings to choose from. Contact us today to learn more about our cool roof coatings and how they can benefit you and your home.
