How it works
Dark or weathered roofs absorb sunlight and get very hot. A fresh white coating reflects much of that sunlight and releases heat more easily, so the roof surface stays far cooler. Less heat soaking through the roof means rooms below stay cooler and your evaporative cooler or AC works less.
What changes the savings
- Insulation. Homes with little insulation in the roof notice more difference.
- Roof area. Single-story homes with large flat roofs benefit most.
- Cooling type. Both swamp coolers and AC benefit; AC-cooled homes often see clearer bill changes.
- Keeping it white. Dust and age reduce reflectivity, so a clean, fresh coat does best.
What to expect
Savings vary widely from house to house, so we don't promise a number. What owners most often notice is that the top-floor rooms are more comfortable on summer afternoons. Manufactured homes with metal roofs often feel the biggest change — see manufactured home roofs.
Winter
A reflective roof gains a little less winter sun, but in Albuquerque the summer benefit typically outweighs that. Foam also adds insulation year-round.
Bonus: longer roof life
A cooler roof surface expands and contracts less, which is easier on the coating, foam and parapet joints.
Call (505) 886-8732 to price a reflective recoat.
Common questions
Are there rebates for cool roofs?
Programs come and go. Check with your utility and current state programs before you start.
Does a gray roof still help?
Some, but far less than bright white.