This Just In: Asphalt Out. Green Roofs In.

When you live in an area of the country such as Southern California you have to account for the heat. Just like regions up in the mountains have to adjust baking times on cookies, Pasadena residents need to adjust the materials on their roofs. So say goodbye to asphalt roof and dress the top of your home in one of these cool new styles of roof.

We all know what a rooftop garden is but have you ever heard of a living roof? Also known as a green roof, it is composed of a waterproof membrane that is filled with soil and plants. The oxygen released from the plants helps purify the air surrounding your roof and the vegetation keep the roof cool.

White flat tile roofs and white metal roofs help to keep your home cool the same way wearing white pants is cooler than wearing black pants. The white reflects the heat which helps keep your roof cool.

Nizam Husaini of JB Wholesale Roofing Supplies talked about the changing trends in roofing; “The environmental laws that are passing for the cool roof are becoming tougher and tougher and eventually we will all have to follow them. Unfortunately, the research and ingredients used to make these cool roof products that reflect heat are more expensive but hopefully will pay off with energy savings.”

Another roofing material that can be used for cool roofs is solar roofing or photovoltaic systems. The website www.howstuffworks.com said “Photovoltaic or PV roof shingles capture and redirect solar power into electricity.” This type of roofing is good for the environmentally conscious individual because it keeps the roof cooler and uses solar power for electricity.

Concrete is making a comeback with cool colored concrete tile. The cool shades will reflect more heat than darker shades; Terra cotta and clay roofs also help to keep your roof cool and are a great choice when you want to use natural materials.

Choosing the right cool roof material for your roof can be a challenge. For more advice, talk to a professional at JB Wholesale Roofing & Building Supplies. You can visit them at www.jbroofing.com. They are located at 1095 South Fair Oaks Avenue in Pasadena. You can reach them directly at (626) 799-0440.