ARE METAL ROOFS HOTTER THAN SHINGLES?

No, metal roofs are not hotter than dark shingle roofs made from asphalt or other standard materials such as slate, for example.

That said, metal roofs, just like any other roofing material, will heat up in direct sunlight. But due to the reflective nature of metal, especially in lighter colors, any heat absorption is much more quickly dissipated than in asphalt, slate or ceramic shingles – all of which retain heat over a longer span of time. 

Additionally, most metal roofs are treated with Energy Star finishes which, when coupled with paler colors, can result in surface temperatures up to 50 degrees cooler than shingles. 

WHICH METAL ROOF COLORS ARE THE COOLEST?

Lighter colors tend to be more reflective and are typically the right choice when it comes to picking an energy efficient color for your metal roof. Colors such as pale blue, light green, white, beige and lighter bronze are especially good options if you live in a region that has lots of direct sunlight and a hotter year-round climate.

Additionally, the EPA has an entire list of Energy Star-certified roofing products and information available at https://www.energystar.gov/productfinder/product/certified-roof-products/

WHAT OTHER FACTORS SHOULD I CONSIDER TO KEEP MY HOUSE COOL? 

How hot your home gets from heat hitting your roof has a lot more to do with factors besides just color, finish and material. If your metal roof sits directly over a non temperature controlled room such as an attic, then insulation and ventilation will be an extra important step to ensure that heat is not gathering in a contained space.

Another benefit of proper insulation is that it will prevent your metal roof from becoming too noisy during heavy rain, hail or other inclement weather. 

Lower cooling costs are just one of the benefits of choosing to invest in a quality metal roof over shingles and other older material. Head over to our FAQs page for additional questions related to metal roofing or comment below for answers from our team. We will also use your questions and requests for future posts.