What is a “Cool Roof” and Why Does California Title 24 Require It?
If you’ve lived in California for any length of time, you’ve likely heard of Title 24. While it sounds like a boring building code, it is actually a powerful tool designed to save you money and reduce the "Urban Heat Island" effect in our local communities.
Understanding Solar Reflectance
A "Cool Roof" is designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. Think of it like wearing a white t-shirt on a sunny day instead of a black one. These roofs are rated by the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) based on two factors:
Solar Reflectance: The ability to reflect sunlight back into the atmosphere.
Thermal Emittance: The ability to radiate absorbed heat away from the building.
Why Title 24 Matters to You
California’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24, Part 6) require that new roofs and many roof replacements meet specific "cool" standards. At Sierra Roofing and Solar, we ensure every project is compliant.
The benefits go beyond just following the law. A compliant cool roof keeps your attic significantly cooler, which means your AC unit doesn't have to work nearly as hard. This extends the life of your HVAC system and slashes your monthly PG&E bill. In a region where summer temperatures regularly hit triple digits, a Cool Roof isn't just a legal requirement—it's a necessity for comfortable living.