Cool roofs have been gaining popularity in recent years as an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient alternative to traditional roofs. As the demand for cool roofs continues to grow, so too does the number of organizations dedicated to promoting and advancing this technology.
In this article, we will introduce you to the top cool roof industry organizations making a sustainable impact.
Cool Roofs: A Closer Look
Cool roofs are a sustainable roof coating that significantly reduces energy costs and protects roof surfaces. Cool roofs are designed to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles.
By reflecting the sun’s rays, cool roof systems can reduce the temperature of a building’s roof and the amount of heat that enters the building, resulting in lower energy costs for cooling.
Cool roofs can be installed on new or existing roofs by applying a heat-reflective coating or using specially designed-roofing materials.
Cool roof coatings act as a protective coating on top of an existing roof and can extend the life of a roof system by reducing heat-induced wear and tear. They also require less roof maintenance compared to traditional roofing materials.
Top Cool Roof Organizations Making a Sustainable Impact
Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC)
The Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) is a non-profit organization that provides accurate and credible information on the energy performance of roofing products.
The CRRC maintains a third-party rating system that measures and reports roofing materials’ solar reflectance and thermal emittance.
The CRRC also offers a voluntary product certification program, which allows manufacturers to have their cool roofing products independently tested and rated by the council.
Products that meet the CRRC’s criteria are listed in the council’s online database, making it easier for consumers to find and choose cool roofing products that meet their needs.
CRRC’s Rating System
The CRRC’s rating system provides building owners, contractors, and architects with information about the energy efficiency and environmental impact of cool roofing products.
This information can help them make more informed decisions about which products to use based on their energy needs, climate, and budget.
Through its rating system and certification program, the CRRC is helping to promote the use of cool roofing products and advance the adoption of sustainable roofing solutions.
By reducing energy consumption, mitigating the urban heat island effect, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions, cool roofs are helping to create a more sustainable future for our buildings and our planet.
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL)
The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) is a research institution focusing on scientific advancements in energy efficiency and renewable energy.
The LBNL has been instrumental in developing cool roof technologies and is one of the leading organizations conducting research on the benefits of cool roofs.
One of the critical programs offered by LBNL is the Heat Island Group, which researches the urban heat island effect and develops strategies for mitigating its impact.
This includes research on the effectiveness of cool roofing materials, and the development of tools and guidelines to help to building owners, contractors, and policymakers choose the most effective cool roofing solutions for their specific needs.
Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC)
Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) is a non-profit organization that promotes developing and using green roofs and walls in urban environments.
While the primary focus of GRHC is on promoting green roofs and walls, the organization recognizes the complementary role of cool roofs in reducing the urban heat island effect and improving energy efficiency.
By incorporating green and cool roofing solutions, cities can create a more sustainable and livable urban environment.
Energy Star
ENERGY STAR provides a voluntary rating system for cool roofing products based on their solar reflectance and thermal emittance.
This rating system helps consumers and building owners identify and choose cool roofing products that meet or exceed the energy efficiency criteria set by the program.
By promoting cool roofs, ENERGY STAR is helping to advance the use of sustainable and energy-efficient roofing solutions.
By reducing energy consumption and mitigating the urban heat island effect, cool roofs are helping to create a more sustainable future for our buildings and our planet.
US Green Building Council (USGBC)
The US Green Building Council (USGBC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming how buildings are designed, constructed, and operated.
The USGBC has developed the LEED certification system, which recognizes buildings designed and constructed with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.
LEED Rating System
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system is a widely recognized and respected certification program developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to promote sustainable building practices.
The LEED rating system is designed to provide a framework for measuring the sustainability of a building based on a range of criteria, including energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and materials selection.
The USGBC recognizes cool roofs as an essential strategy for reducing the environmental impact of buildings, particularly in urban areas where the urban heat island effect can significantly increase energy consumption and air pollution.
National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)
The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is a trade association representing roofing contractors and suppliers in the United States.
While the NRCA is not explicitly focused on cool roof technologies, they have recognized the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in the roofing industry.
The NRCA has developed educational programs and resources to help its members incorporate sustainable practices into their businesses, including using cool roofs.
Cool Communities
Cool Communities is a program that focuses on reducing the urban heat island effect through various initiatives incorporating cool roofing materials, light-colored roads and parking lots, and strategic tree planting.
These initiatives are designed to reduce energy usage and power plant emissions, improve urban air quality, and minimize landfill waste.
By promoting the use of cool roofing materials, Cool Communities helps to reduce the amount of heat absorbed by buildings and mitigate the urban heat island effect.
Light-colored roads and parking lots also play an important role in reducing the amount of heat absorbed by urban surfaces, while strategic tree planting can provide additional shade and cooling.
Learn More About Cool Roofing Today
Cool roofs are becoming increasingly important in the roofing industry as a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional roofs.
The organizations listed above are at the forefront of promoting and advancing cool roof technologies, helping to create a more sustainable and livable future for all.
Whether you are a building owner, architect, or roofing contractor, these organizations provide valuable resources and information to help you make informed decisions about using cool roofs.