Approximately $40 billion is spent annually in the United States to cool buildings, one-sixth of all energy consumed. Most traditional roofing materials stay 'hot', absorbing 70% or more of the solar energy striking them. Energy-efficient roofing systems, often referred to as 'cool roofs', absorb less than 35% of this solar energy staying 50 to 60 degrees cooler during peak summer conditions than traditional dark roof materials. Cool roofs reflect the sun's radiant energy before it penetrates the building envelope helping to dramatically reduce cooling costs.

Insulation utilization and geographic location are important factors in calculating the potential annual cost and energy savings.

In addition to reducing the building?s heat load, cool roofs play a role in heat island reduction. Urban areas often become heat islands in the summer time with temperatures rising 4 or more degrees above the surrounding areas. The rise in temperature contributes to increased smog and poor air quality levels.

Four types of roofing materials can be used to achieve energy star efficiency standards: metal, tile, roofing membranes, and reflective coatings.