Cool Roofs in Florida: Energy Savings & Best Options (2026)

If you live in Pinellas County or anywhere in Florida, your roof is absorbing more heat than almost any other surface on your property. On a typical July afternoon in Clearwater or St. Petersburg, a standard dark asphalt shingle roof can reach surface temperatures of 150 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit. That heat doesn't just sit on the roof. It radiates downward into your attic, heats up your living spaces, and forces your air conditioning system to run harder, longer, and at greater cost.

A cool roof is designed to fight back against that cycle. By reflecting more of the sun's energy and releasing absorbed heat more efficiently, cool roofs keep your home significantly cooler without changing anything about your HVAC system. The result? Lower energy bills, a more comfortable interior, and a roof that lasts longer because it endures less thermal stress.

This guide covers everything Florida homeowners need to know about cool roofs in 2026, from the science behind solar reflectance to the best roofing materials for maximizing cooling performance in our climate.

What Makes a Roof "Cool"? The Science Explained

A cool roof is not a specific product or brand. It is any roofing system that delivers higher-than-average performance in two measurable properties: solar reflectance and thermal emittance. Together, these two values determine how much heat your roof transfers into your home versus how much it sends back into the atmosphere.

Solar Reflectance (SR)

Solar reflectance measures the fraction of solar energy that a roof surface bounces back instead of absorbing. It is expressed as a decimal from 0 to 1.0, where 0 means the surface absorbs all sunlight and 1.0 means it reflects everything. A fresh white TPO membrane might have a solar reflectance of 0.85 (reflecting 85% of solar energy), while a standard dark asphalt shingle typically reflects only 0.05 to 0.15 (5 to 15%).

In practical terms, for every 0.10 increase in solar reflectance, you can expect roughly a 2 to 4 percent reduction in cooling energy consumption. That might sound small on paper, but across an entire Florida summer with 8 to 10 months of cooling demand, those percentages add up quickly.

Thermal Emittance (TE)

Thermal emittance measures how efficiently a roof surface radiates absorbed heat as infrared energy. Like solar reflectance, it is measured on a 0 to 1.0 scale. Most non-metallic roofing materials have naturally high thermal emittance values of 0.85 to 0.95, meaning they release heat well. Bare metal surfaces, on the other hand, often have thermal emittance values as low as 0.10 to 0.25, which is why uncoated metal roofs can feel extremely hot despite being somewhat reflective.

This is an important distinction. A bare aluminum roof reflects a fair amount of sunlight, but whatever heat it does absorb tends to stay trapped because bare metal emits poorly. A factory-coated metal roof with a Kynar 500 or similar finish solves this problem by combining high reflectance with high emittance.

Solar Reflectance Index (SRI)

The Solar Reflectance Index combines both measurements into a single, easy-to-compare number. SRI is calculated using a standard formula from ASTM E1980 and is expressed on a scale where a standard black surface (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) has an SRI of 0, and a standard white surface (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90) has an SRI of 100. Some highly reflective materials actually exceed 100 on this scale.

SRI is the most useful single number for comparing cool roof performance across different materials because it accounts for both reflection and heat release. When evaluating roofing options for your Pinellas County home, SRI should be one of your primary comparison metrics.

Why Cool Roofs Matter More in Florida Than Anywhere Else

Florida's climate creates a perfect storm of conditions that amplify the benefits of cool roofing. Understanding why location matters so much helps explain why investing in cool roof technology delivers a stronger return on investment here than in cooler climates.

Florida Climate Data That Drives the Case

Pinellas County receives approximately 245 to 255 sunny days per year, with an average of 2,900 to 3,000 hours of direct sunshine annually. The region's latitude (approximately 27.8 degrees North) means the sun angle is steep during summer months, delivering intense solar radiation directly onto roof surfaces for 10 to 12 hours per day from May through September.

Average summer high temperatures in St. Petersburg and Clearwater range from 89 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit, but the real story is the duration of the cooling season. Unlike northern states where air conditioning runs for 3 to 4 months, Florida homes typically run cooling systems for 8 to 10 months per year. Some homes in Pinellas County run AC year-round. That extended cooling season means every degree of roof surface temperature reduction translates to more total energy saved.

According to the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC), residential cooling accounts for roughly 30 to 40 percent of total household electricity consumption in the state. Nationally, that figure is closer to 15 percent. This means any improvement to your home's cooling load, including the roof, has double the percentage impact on your overall energy bill compared to a home in Pennsylvania or Ohio.

The Urban Heat Island Effect in Tampa Bay

The urban heat island (UHI) effect is a well-documented phenomenon where developed areas become significantly warmer than surrounding rural or natural landscapes. Concrete, asphalt, and dark roofs absorb solar radiation during the day and release it slowly at night, keeping urban areas 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than nearby undeveloped land.

The Tampa Bay metropolitan area, including all of Pinellas County, experiences measurable UHI effects. Studies have shown that urban areas of St. Petersburg can be 3 to 7 degrees warmer than the beaches and natural areas just a few miles away, particularly during evening hours. This elevated ambient temperature means your air conditioning starts from a higher baseline, consuming more energy even during nighttime hours.

Cool roofs directly combat the urban heat island effect. When thousands of buildings in a region adopt cool roofing, the cumulative reduction in heat radiating from rooftops lowers ambient air temperatures for the entire area. This is why municipalities and energy codes increasingly incentivize cool roof adoption, as the benefits extend beyond individual buildings.

Energy Star Requirements and CRRC Ratings

Two certification systems dominate the cool roof industry: Energy Star (administered by the EPA) and the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC). Understanding both helps you verify product claims and ensure you are getting genuine cool roof performance.

Energy Star Roof Products

To earn the Energy Star label, roofing products must meet minimum solar reflectance thresholds that vary by roof slope:

• Low-slope roofs (2:12 pitch or less): Initial solar reflectance of 0.65 or higher, and maintained reflectance of 0.50 or higher after 3 years of weathering
• Steep-slope roofs (above 2:12 pitch): Initial solar reflectance of 0.25 or higher, and maintained reflectance of 0.15 or higher after 3 years

The steep-slope threshold is deliberately lower because the angle of the roof naturally reduces solar heat gain compared to flat surfaces. However, for Florida homeowners seeking maximum energy savings, you should aim well above these minimums. Products with initial SR values of 0.40 or higher for shingles and 0.70 or higher for flat roofing will deliver noticeably better performance than those barely meeting the threshold.

CRRC Rated Products

The Cool Roof Rating Council provides independent, third-party verification of roof product reflectance and emittance values. CRRC ratings are considered the gold standard because they are tested in certified laboratories, not just reported by manufacturers. Products listed in the CRRC Rated Products Directory include both initial and aged values, giving you a realistic picture of long-term performance.

When shopping for cool roof materials in Pinellas County, always verify claims against the CRRC directory at coolroofs.org. Some manufacturers advertise impressive initial reflectance numbers, but the aged values (measured after 3 years of real-world exposure) can be significantly lower. In Florida, where UV exposure and biological growth (algae, mold) are aggressive, aged values matter more than initial values.

Florida Energy Code Compliance

The Florida Building Code Energy Conservation section (7th Edition, 2023, and the upcoming 2026 updates) includes provisions for cool roof credits. Under the prescriptive compliance path, selecting a roof with an SRI meeting or exceeding the code thresholds can earn you trade-off credits that allow flexibility in other areas, such as window performance or insulation R-values. This is particularly valuable for older Pinellas County homes undergoing roof replacement, where upgrading wall insulation or windows might be impractical.

For steep-slope residential roofs, the Florida code sets a baseline assumption of SRI 16. Installing a product with a higher SRI generates credits that offset requirements elsewhere in the building envelope. Consult with your contractor and a certified energy rater to maximize these trade-off opportunities during your next roof replacement.

Best Cool Roof Materials by Type

Not all cool roof materials are created equal. The best choice for your home depends on roof slope, structural capacity, aesthetic preferences, and budget. Here is a detailed breakdown of every major category, with specific product performance data.

White TPO Membrane (Best for Flat and Low-Slope Roofs)

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) membrane in white is the undisputed champion of cool roof performance for flat and low-slope applications. Fresh white TPO typically achieves a solar reflectance of 0.80 to 0.88 and thermal emittance of 0.90 to 0.95, giving it an SRI of 100 or above.

Even after 3 years of Florida weathering, quality white TPO products from manufacturers like Carlisle, Firestone, or GAF maintain aged reflectance values of 0.60 to 0.72, well above Energy Star minimums. The heat-welded seam construction also makes TPO highly resistant to the heavy rains common in Pinellas County, as the seams are actually stronger than the membrane itself.

For commercial buildings, multi-family properties, and homes with flat roof sections in the St. Petersburg and Clearwater area, white TPO delivers the highest cooling benefit per dollar spent. Installed costs range from $5.50 to $9.00 per square foot, with projected cooling energy savings of 20 to 30 percent for flat roof applications.

Kynar-Coated Standing Seam Metal (Best for Steep-Slope Residential)

For traditional steep-slope homes in Pinellas County, standing seam metal roofing with a Kynar 500 or Hylar 5000 fluoropolymer finish offers the best combination of cool roof performance and all-around roofing excellence. Light-colored Kynar finishes in white, light stone, or light gray achieve solar reflectance values of 0.55 to 0.70 and thermal emittance of 0.85 to 0.90, yielding SRI values of 70 to 90.

The fluoropolymer chemistry in Kynar coatings is specifically engineered to resist UV degradation, chalking, and color fading, meaning the cool roof properties are maintained for decades rather than years. Many Kynar-coated metal products have aged CRRC reflectance values within 5 to 10 percent of their initial ratings, far better retention than most other roofing materials.

Beyond cool roof performance, standing seam metal delivers 140 to 170+ mph wind ratings (critical for Pinellas County hurricane exposure), a lifespan of 40 to 70 years, and significant insurance premium reductions of 15 to 35 percent. When you factor in energy savings, insurance savings, and reduced replacement frequency, Kynar-coated metal often has the lowest total cost of ownership of any roofing material in Florida.

Light-Colored Architectural Shingles (Budget Cool Roof Option)

Standard asphalt shingles have historically been poor cool roof performers, with dark colors reflecting as little as 5 percent of solar energy. However, major manufacturers have developed "cool color" shingle lines that embed specially engineered reflective granules into the shingle surface. These products achieve moderate cool roof performance while maintaining a traditional appearance.

Products like GAF Timberline Cool Series, CertainTeed Landmark Solaris, and Owens Corning Duration Cool use granule technology to boost solar reflectance to 0.25 to 0.40 for light colors, roughly double or triple the reflectance of standard shingles in the same color. The SRI for these products typically falls in the 25 to 45 range, a meaningful improvement over conventional shingles even though it lags behind metal or TPO.

The main advantage of cool shingles is accessibility. At $4.50 to $7.00 per square foot installed, they cost little to no premium over standard architectural shingles. For Pinellas County homeowners who want some cool roof benefit without the cost of a metal roof conversion, light-colored cool shingles are a practical middle ground.

Roof Coatings (Retrofit Cool Roof Solution)

If your existing roof is in decent structural condition but you want cool roof benefits without a full replacement, elastomeric roof coatings are the most cost-effective retrofit option. White acrylic, silicone, or polyurethane coatings applied over existing roofing materials can boost solar reflectance from whatever the current value is up to 0.70 to 0.85, depending on the coating product.

Silicone coatings are particularly well-suited to Florida conditions because they resist ponding water (important for flat roofs) and maintain their reflectance properties better than acrylic coatings in high-UV environments. Quality silicone coatings maintain aged reflectance values of 0.55 to 0.65 after three years, while acrylics may drop to 0.40 to 0.50.

Coating costs range from $2.00 to $5.00 per square foot, making this the lowest-cost path to cool roof performance. However, coatings are not a permanent solution. Most require reapplication every 10 to 15 years, and they work best on flat or low-slope surfaces. They are also not a substitute for structural roof repair, as they cannot fix underlying damage from leaks, rot, or hurricane impact.

Concrete and Clay Tile

Tile roofing is extremely common in Pinellas County and throughout Florida, particularly on Mediterranean, Spanish, and coastal-style homes. The cool roof performance of tile varies enormously depending on color and finish. Light-colored or white concrete tiles can achieve SR values of 0.40 to 0.75 and SRI values of 50 to 90. Dark terra cotta or brown tiles, on the other hand, may have SR values as low as 0.15 to 0.25.

One advantage tile has over other materials is a natural air gap between the tile surface and the roof deck. This ventilated space provides additional thermal buffering beyond what reflectance alone delivers. Even medium-colored tiles benefit from this convective cooling effect, though the advantage is smaller than what a truly reflective surface provides.

If you are choosing tile for your Pinellas County home, select the lightest color that works with your home's architecture. The difference in energy performance between a white concrete tile and a dark brown one is substantial, often equivalent to several thousand dollars over the life of the roof.

Complete Cool Roof Comparison Table

The following table compares all major roofing materials available in Pinellas County by their cool roof performance metrics. Values represent typical ranges for new products; aged values will be lower.

Cost vs. Cooling Savings: The Florida Math

The financial case for cool roofs is stronger in Florida than anywhere else in the continental United States. Here is a detailed cost-benefit analysis using real energy data from Pinellas County.

Baseline Energy Costs

The average Pinellas County household spends approximately $2,400 to $3,600 per year on electricity, with cooling accounting for 30 to 40 percent of that total. That puts baseline cooling costs at roughly $720 to $1,440 per year for a typical single-family home. Larger homes, older homes with poor insulation, or homes with aging HVAC systems often fall at the higher end of that range.

Duke Energy and Tampa Electric (TECO), the primary utility providers serving Pinellas County, charge residential rates that have been trending upward and averaged approximately $0.13 to $0.15 per kilowatt-hour in 2025. With Florida electricity rates climbing due to grid infrastructure investments and fuel costs, the value of energy savings only increases over time.

Projected Savings by Roof Type

Based on research from the Florida Solar Energy Center, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, here are realistic cooling energy reduction percentages for Florida homes upgrading from a standard dark roof:

• White TPO or PVC (flat roof): 20 to 30 percent AC reduction, saving $144 to $432 per year
• White or light Kynar metal (steep slope): 18 to 25 percent AC reduction, saving $130 to $360 per year
• White elastomeric coating over existing roof: 15 to 25 percent AC reduction, saving $108 to $360 per year
• Cool color shingles (light): 8 to 15 percent AC reduction, saving $58 to $216 per year
• Light concrete tile: 12 to 20 percent AC reduction, saving $86 to $288 per year

Cumulative Savings Over Roof Lifespan

The true value of a cool roof becomes clear when you calculate cumulative savings over the product lifespan. A white Kynar-coated standing seam metal roof with a 50-year expected lifespan, saving $200 per year in cooling costs (a conservative mid-range estimate), delivers $10,000 in energy savings alone. Factor in the 15 to 35 percent insurance discount that metal roofs command in Florida, and total savings easily reach $25,000 to $40,000 over the roof's life.

Even the more modest cool color shingles, saving perhaps $100 to $150 per year over a 25-year lifespan, deliver $2,500 to $3,750 in total cooling savings for essentially zero additional cost over standard shingles. That makes cool shingles one of the simplest no-brainer upgrades available to Pinellas County homeowners.

Payback Period Analysis

For homeowners comparing cool roof options, payback period is often the deciding factor. Here is how different approaches stack up:

• Cool shingles vs. standard shingles: Immediate payback because there is minimal or zero cost premium
• Elastomeric coating over existing roof: 3 to 7 year payback (coating cost of $2,000 to $6,000 recovered through energy savings)
• White TPO vs. dark single-ply: 2 to 4 year payback on the cool roof premium (TPO costs the same as dark membranes, so the premium is effectively zero for new installations)
• Light Kynar metal vs. dark shingles: 8 to 14 year payback on cost premium through combined energy and insurance savings

Florida-Specific Considerations for Cool Roofs

While the physics of cool roofs are universal, several Florida-specific factors affect performance and product selection in ways that differ from other regions.

Algae, Mold, and Biological Growth

Florida's heat and humidity create ideal conditions for algae (Gloeocapsa magma), moss, and mold growth on roof surfaces. These biological organisms are often dark-colored, which means they progressively reduce the solar reflectance of your cool roof over time. A white roof that starts at 0.85 SR can drop to 0.50 or lower within a few years if biological growth is not managed.

For shingle roofs, choose products with copper or zinc granules (marketed as algae-resistant) to slow biological colonization. For metal roofs, Kynar finishes naturally resist biological growth better than most alternatives. For flat roofs, periodic cleaning every 2 to 3 years helps maintain reflectance. Some roof coating products now include biocidal additives that slow algae growth, which is worth considering for Pinellas County applications.

Hurricane and Wind Considerations

Cool roof performance is irrelevant if the roof blows off during a hurricane. In Pinellas County, which falls within the Wind-Borne Debris Region under the Florida Building Code, all roofing installations must meet stringent wind resistance requirements. Fortunately, the highest-performing cool roof materials also tend to be among the most wind-resistant.

Standing seam metal with concealed fasteners achieves some of the highest wind ratings in the industry (140 to 170+ mph), and TPO membrane with mechanically attached or fully adhered installation methods meets Florida's High Velocity Hurricane Zone requirements when properly specified. Cool color shingles are available from manufacturers like GAF and CertainTeed in product lines (Timberline HDZ, Landmark Pro) that carry 130+ mph wind warranties.

Salt Air and Coastal Exposure

Pinellas County is essentially a peninsula surrounded by Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, which means salt air exposure is a concern for nearly every property in the county. Salt accelerates corrosion on metal surfaces, potentially affecting both the performance and lifespan of metal cool roofs.

For coastal Pinellas County properties within 3,000 feet of saltwater, use aluminum or zinc-aluminum alloy (Galvalume) substrates with PVDF (Kynar) coatings rather than bare steel. White or light TPO is also an excellent coastal choice because it is completely unaffected by salt air corrosion. Tile is naturally salt-resistant and performs well in coastal environments with minimal maintenance.

Reflectance Degradation Over Time

All cool roof materials experience some reduction in solar reflectance over time due to weathering, dirt accumulation, and biological growth. In Florida, this degradation tends to be faster than in drier climates because of the combination of heavy rain (which splashes dirt), high humidity (which promotes biological growth), and intense UV radiation.

When evaluating products, pay close attention to the CRRC aged values rather than initial values. A product that starts at 0.85 SR but drops to 0.45 after three years is a worse long-term performer than one that starts at 0.75 but maintains 0.65 over the same period. Quality Kynar metal finishes and premium TPO membranes consistently show the best reflectance retention in Florida conditions.

Cool Roofs and Home Value in Pinellas County

Beyond direct energy savings, cool roofs affect home value and marketability in several ways that are particularly relevant in the Pinellas County real estate market.

First, Florida home insurance has become increasingly expensive and difficult to obtain. Insurers are actively rewarding homes with newer, more resilient roofs. A home with a reflective metal roof is generally easier to insure and commands lower premiums than one with aging dark shingles. This insurance advantage directly affects carrying costs and buyer appeal.

Second, buyers in the Tampa Bay area are increasingly aware of energy efficiency as a selling point. A documented reduction in energy costs through cool roof technology makes your home more attractive to budget-conscious buyers, particularly in the current environment of rising utility rates.

Third, Florida law (Section 163.04, Florida Statutes) protects homeowners' rights to install energy-efficient roofing even in communities with HOA restrictions. If your HOA tries to block a light-colored or white roof on aesthetic grounds, Florida law provides protections for energy-saving installations, though it is always best to work cooperatively with your HOA when possible.

How to Choose the Right Cool Roof for Your Pinellas County Home

With all the data and options laid out, here is a practical decision framework for selecting a cool roof based on your specific situation.

Choose White TPO or PVC If:

• Your building has a flat or low-slope roof (2:12 pitch or less)
• Maximum energy savings are your top priority
• You own a commercial property or multi-family building
• The roof is not visible from the street (these products are functional, not decorative)

Choose Light Kynar Metal If:

• You want the best all-around cool roof for a steep-slope home
• Hurricane resistance is a top concern
• You plan to stay in the home long enough to recoup the higher upfront cost (8+ years)
• Insurance savings and longevity matter as much as energy savings
• Explore options at our standing seam metal roof guide

Choose Cool Color Shingles If:

• Budget is the primary constraint
• Your HOA restricts roof color to non-white options
• You want improved cool roof performance with zero additional cost
• You are replacing an existing shingle roof and want a simple upgrade
• Compare all shingle options in our best roofing material for Florida guide

Choose Elastomeric Coating If:

• Your existing flat roof is structurally sound but nearing end of warranty
• You want cool roof benefits without a full roof replacement
• Budget is limited and you want the lowest cost path to energy savings
• Your current roof has 5 to 10 years of remaining life and you want to maximize its performance

Installation and Contractor Considerations

Proper installation is just as important as product selection for cool roof performance. A poorly installed high-SRI product will underperform a correctly installed mid-range option. Here are key considerations for Pinellas County homeowners.

Always verify that your contractor is licensed in the State of Florida (check at myfloridalicense.com) and carries both liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. For cool roof installations, look for contractors who carry manufacturer certifications for the specific product you are installing. GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, and manufacturer-certified metal roof installers have completed training that addresses the specific requirements of their products.

Ensure your contractor pulls all required permits through Pinellas County or your local municipality. Building permits trigger inspections that verify wind resistance compliance and proper installation techniques. Skipping permits to save money or time is never worth the risk, particularly in a hurricane-prone county where improperly installed roofing can cause catastrophic damage.

Request documentation of the CRRC rating for the specific product being installed, and keep this paperwork with your home records. You may need it for insurance claims, energy audits, or resale documentation. Your contractor should also provide manufacturer warranty registration, which is separate from the contractor's workmanship warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cool roof and how does it work in Florida?

A cool roof is any roofing system designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than a standard roof. Cool roofs work through two measurable properties: solar reflectance (how much sunlight bounces off the surface) and thermal emittance (how efficiently the roof radiates absorbed heat back into the atmosphere). In Florida, where roofs can reach 150 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit on summer afternoons, a cool roof typically stays 50 to 60 degrees cooler than a conventional dark roof, reducing air conditioning costs by 15 to 25 percent.

What is the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) and why does it matter?

The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) is a composite metric that combines solar reflectance and thermal emittance into a single number on a scale of 0 to 100+. A standard black roof has an SRI near 0, while a bright white roof can score above 100. For Florida Energy Code compliance, steep-slope roofs need a minimum initial SRI of 16, though values above 70 are recommended for maximum energy savings. The higher the SRI, the cooler the roof stays and the less your air conditioner works.

Do cool roofs qualify for energy credits or rebates in Florida?

Yes. Cool roofs can help qualify for Florida Energy Code compliance credits under Section R303.1.1, which allows trade-offs for higher-performing building components. Some utility companies in the Pinellas County and Tampa Bay area offer rebates for Energy Star rated roofing. Additionally, certain cool roof products may contribute toward LEED credits and federal energy efficiency tax incentives when paired with other qualifying improvements.

What is the best cool roof material for homes in Pinellas County?

For Pinellas County homes, white standing seam metal with Kynar 500 finish offers the best combination of cool roof performance (SRI 80+), hurricane resistance (140 to 170 mph wind rating), and longevity (40 to 70 years). For flat or low-slope commercial roofs, white TPO membrane is the most cost-effective cool roof option with SRI values above 100. For homeowners who prefer a traditional shingle appearance, light-colored architectural shingles with cool roof granules offer moderate SRI values of 25 to 40.

How much can a cool roof save on energy bills in Florida?

In Florida, a cool roof typically reduces air conditioning energy use by 15 to 25 percent, depending on the roof material, home insulation, and HVAC efficiency. For an average Pinellas County home spending $200 to $300 per month on electricity during summer, that translates to $30 to $75 per month in cooling savings. Over a 25-year roof lifespan, cumulative energy savings range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.

Does roof color really make a difference in Florida energy costs?

Absolutely. A dark-colored roof in Florida can reach surface temperatures of 150 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit, while a white or light-colored cool roof might only reach 100 to 120 degrees under the same conditions. That 50+ degree difference directly impacts attic temperatures, which in turn affects how hard your air conditioner must work. Studies by the Florida Solar Energy Center have shown that roof color is one of the single largest factors affecting residential cooling loads in the state.

The Bottom Line on Cool Roofs in Florida

Cool roofing technology is not a luxury or a gimmick in Florida. It is one of the most impactful energy efficiency investments you can make for your Pinellas County home. The combination of our intense sun exposure, extended cooling season, rising electricity rates, and increasingly expensive insurance premiums makes the financial case for cool roofs stronger here than virtually anywhere else in the country.

Whether you choose a premium standing seam metal roof with Kynar coating, a cost-effective white TPO membrane, a practical elastomeric coating retrofit, or simply opt for light-colored cool shingles on your next roof replacement, you are making a decision that pays dividends every month through lower energy bills, every year through reduced maintenance, and every decade through extended roof life.

Start by checking the CRRC Rated Products Directory for verified performance data, consult with a licensed Pinellas County roofing contractor who understands cool roof systems, and take advantage of any available energy code credits or utility rebates. Your roof is the largest surface on your home exposed to the Florida sun. Making it work for you instead of against you is simply smart homeownership.