Posted on Monday, July 7th, 2025 at 9:00 am
Every summer, the blistering Texas heat seems to arrive earlier and stay later. Extreme heat and UV rays can make your home uncomfortable and increase energy bills. Texas heat can also cause your HVAC system to work overtime to cool your home, leading to failures or roof repairs. Investing in a cool roof is one of the most overlooked ways to increase energy efficiency and keep your home comfortable.
A cool roof can help Texas homeowners reduce the heat their homes absorb. The result? Lower energy costs and protect their investment against the harsh Texas elements. It pays to explore the benefits that cool roofs have to offer.
What Is a Cool Roof?
A cool roof is a roofing system designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. It helps keep buildings cooler, especially during hot Texas summers.
Cool roofs work by utilizing special materials or coatings that reflect solar energy. These materials help reduce roof surface temperatures, lowering indoor cooling costs. A standard roof can reach temperatures of 150°F or more on hot days. Typically, a cool roof can stay up to 50°F cooler, keeping a home more comfortable.
Cool roofs can be customized using a variety of innovative materials and colors. Investing in a cool roof gives homeowners a more comfortable home, additional curb appeal, and a roof that helps protect the environment.
Key Benefits of Cool Roofs
Cool roofs offer Texas homeowners more than the aesthetic benefit of a modern look. The functionality of a cool roof means that families can reap cost-saving and comfort benefits. These roofs offer long-lasting benefits, from energy savings to improved comfort and environmental responsibility. They’re a wise investment for homeowners who want to lower energy bills and extend the life of their roof.
A cool roof is also a responsible environmental choice. Some of the key benefits of choosing a cool roof to combat the Texas heat include:
Lower Energy Bills
The top reason homeowners choose cool roofs is energy savings. A cool roof can reflect sunlight and reduce heat buildup, lowering indoor temperatures.
Your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard, increasing energy efficiency and reducing costs. Homeowners often see significant savings on cooling costs, especially during the summer months.
Keeps You More Comfortable
Cool roofs help keep your home’s interior more comfortable. Rooms, especially on upper floors or under the attic, stay cooler and more livable.
Improved Property Value
Energy-efficient upgrades like cool roofs appeal to buyers, helping increase your home’s resale value. Potential buyers appreciate energy savings and modern, durable roofing materials. Cool roofs may also be available in various colors or materials that add curb appeal to a home.
Extended Roof Lifespan
Excess heat and UV exposure can degrade roofing materials over time. Cool roofs stay at lower temperatures, helping reduce heat stress and preventing cracks, warping, and premature aging. As a result, your roof lasts longer, saving you money on costly repairs and roof replacements.
Rebates
Sometimes, homeowners who move toward a cool roof may take advantage of tax credits, rebates, or utility incentives. These programs can help offset the upfront costs and make the project more affordable.
Environmental Benefits of Cool Roofs
Cool roofs are also a responsible environmental option. Lowering your energy use also reduces your carbon footprint. Cool roofs also help fight the urban heat island effect, where cities stay hotter due to dark rooftops and pavement.
Cool Roof Options Available
If homeowners consider investing in a cool roof to beat the Texas heat, they have several options. Your options will depend on your needs, roof design, and budget. Some of the cool roof material options on the market today include:
Reflective Asphalt Shingles
Traditional asphalt shingles can be produced with special reflective granules to help reduce heat buildup and lower roof surface temperatures. They are a popular choice for residential homes and add a classic look and feel.
Wood Shingles
Naturally, light-colored wood shingles may also be a viable cool roof option.
Tile Roofing
Certain clay or concrete tiles now come in light colors or reflective finishes and offer cool roof benefits. Tile creates a distinctive southwestern or Mediterranean aesthetic.
Cool Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are an aesthetically beautiful option and can be naturally reflective, especially when painted with light colors. They offer durability, energy savings, and a sleek appearance in hot climates. Standing seam, corrugated, coated metal, and pigmented coating options are available.
Roof Coatings
In some situations, a cooling roof coating can be applied to existing roofs to improve reflectivity. White or reflective coatings work for flat roof styles and help extend roof life and reduce cooling costs.
Single-Ply Membranes (TPO and PVC)
TPO and PVC are single-ply membranes. They are another popular option for flat or low-slope roofing styles. These are lightweight and durable materials that effectively reflect sunlight and tend to be cost-effective solutions.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) with Reflective Surfacing
A traditional BUR roof contains multiple layers of roofing fabric and bitumen asphalt or coal tar. This system can be topped with reflective coatings or gravel to add heat protection to traditional flat roof designs. BUR is common for commercial buildings and flat roofs.
There are many cool roof options to fit your style, roof type, and budget. A roofing professional can help you choose the best option for maximum energy savings.
The Pros at RoofsOnly.com Can Help You Select the Perfect Cool Roof
At RoofsOnly.com, we take the time to work with you on your roofing project. From helping you select the right cool roof materials to providing outstanding customer service, we walk you through your project. Our residential roofing professionals can help you protect your home and lower your summer energy bills by focusing on your needs and budget. We have the experience, skills, and connections with roofing material manufacturers to turn your home into a cool home.
If you want to invest in a cool roof, contact us to request an inspection and estimate. Let’s get started on your cool roof project today!
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