Cool roofs and roof coatings in Fresno are both about reflecting sunlight instead of absorbing it. California’s Energy Code, known as Title 24, requires cool roofing in many situations, and Fresno, in Climate Zone 13, is one of the places where it applies. Call (559) 383-9418 to get connected with local roofing help for compliant roof replacements, cool roof upgrades, and coating projects.
What Is a Cool Roof?
The California Energy Code describes a cool roof as roofing material with high solar reflectance and high thermal emittance, or exceptionally high reflectance with lower emittance, that reduces heat gain through the roof. In plain terms, a cool roof reflects more sunlight and releases absorbed heat more readily than a standard dark roof. The result is a cooler roof surface in summer, less heat entering the attic, and in many buildings a lower cooling load.
When Title 24 Cool Roof Rules Apply in Fresno
Fresno is in California Climate Zone 13. Cool roofing requirements generally apply to new construction and to reroofing projects that replace a significant portion of the roof, commonly described as 50 percent or more of the roof area, with different thresholds for some roof types. For steep-slope residential roofs in zones including Fresno’s, summaries of the 2022 code describe a minimum aged solar reflectance of about 0.20 and thermal emittance of about 0.75, or an equivalent Solar Reflectance Index of 16. For low-slope roofs, the requirement is higher, about 0.63 aged reflectance and 0.75 emittance, or an SRI of about 75, with some tradeoff options. Nonresidential low-slope roofs are covered in all climate zones. The California Energy Commission updates the code on a three-year cycle, and the 2025 version applies to permits filed on or after January 1, 2026, so verify the current requirements with the City or County building department and your roofer.
Aged Reflectance, Not Just New Reflectance
Title 24 uses aged values, measured after about three years of weathering, because dirt and wear reduce reflectance over time. The Cool Roof Rating Council maintains a product directory with initial and aged ratings, and permit reviewers commonly check products against that list. Ask your roofer for the specific product and color you will install, and check that it appears in the directory with the values the code needs. Using a product that is not rated can cause a failed inspection and expensive rework.
Cool Roof Options by Roof Type
| Roof Type | Cool Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Composition shingle | Cool-roof rated shingle lines, available in many colors | Check the specific line and color in the CRRC directory |
| Tile | Cool-rated clay and concrete tile, some with special pigments | Rules can differ when existing tile is re-laid versus new tile installed |
| Metal | Reflective coil coatings, including cool colors | Gloss and coating chemistry matter for reflectance and durability |
| TPO and PVC | White and light-gray membranes | Common for low-slope and commercial roofs |
| Modified bitumen or built-up | Reflective cap sheets or coatings | Surfacing is critical to meeting reflectance |
| Existing sound roofs | Reflective coating systems | Only suitable if the roof is dry, sound, and compatible |
Roof Coatings: What They Are
A roof coating is a liquid-applied layer that cures into a protective, often reflective surface. Common types include acrylic elastomeric coatings, silicone coatings, and polyurethane coatings, and they are used on low-slope roofs, metal roofs, and spray foam roofs. A coating can restore reflectivity, seal minor cracks, and extend the life of a sound roof. It is not a cure for a failing roof with wet insulation, widespread blistering, or open seams, which need repair or replacement first.
Coating Types Compared
| Coating | Strengths | Cautions |
|---|---|---|
| Acrylic elastomeric | Reflective, widely used, cost effective | Not ideal where water ponds for long periods |
| Silicone | Handles ponding water well, durable, reflective | Dirt can stick, and recoating options can be limited |
| Polyurethane | Tough, good impact and traffic resistance | Often used with a UV-resistant top coat |
| Metal roof coatings | Seal seams and fasteners, add reflectance | Surface preparation and primer are critical |
Preparation Decides the Result
A coating is only as good as the surface beneath it. Roofs should be cleaned, repaired, and primed as needed, seams and penetrations reinforced, and the roof tested for moisture. Applying coating over wet or contaminated surfaces causes failures. The thickness applied matters too, and manufacturers specify a required dry thickness for warranty and performance. Ask the contractor how the thickness will be measured and what warranty the manufacturer offers for your system.
Does a Cool Roof Save Energy?
Cool roofs reduce heat entering buildings, and the effect is strongest on low-slope roofs and in buildings with poorly insulated ceilings and ducts in the attic. In a home with good insulation and a well-ventilated attic, the savings are real but moderate. The benefit depends on the building, the roof, and how you use cooling. Cool roofs can also lengthen roof life by reducing thermal stress. Ask your roofer for realistic expectations instead of broad promises, and see attic ventilation.
Cool Roof Installation Process
Determine what applies
Roof area, slope, project type, and permit date are reviewed against current Title 24 requirements.
Select a rated product
A specific product and color are chosen from the Cool Roof Rating Council directory.
Permit and plan
The permit is filed with product documentation, and insulation or other compliance details are addressed.
Install or coat
The roof is installed or prepared and coated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Inspection and records
The roof passes inspection, and product data, labels, and warranties are kept for your records.
Solar Panels and Cool Roof Rules
Installing solar panels does not automatically exempt a roof from cool roof requirements, and the exact treatment can depend on the project and the code edition. If you plan to install solar, coordinate the roof work and the panel installation so that reroofing and panel mounting are sequenced properly. See roof prep for solar.
Incentives and Programs
Utilities, state programs, and local agencies have at times offered information or incentives related to cool roofs and energy upgrades, but programs change frequently. Ask your electric utility and your roofer what is currently available and what documentation is required, and do not assume any program applies to your project until you confirm it in writing.
Cleaning and Keeping a Roof Reflective
Dirt, dust, and organic growth reduce reflectance over time, which is why aged values matter. Periodic cleaning with a method recommended by the manufacturer, and keeping gutters and valleys clear, helps maintain performance. Avoid harsh pressure washing on shingles and some coatings. Recoating a coating system after its service life restores reflectivity and protection.
Cost Factors
Costs depend on the roof type and size, the product and warranty, how much surface preparation and repair are needed, the number of penetrations, and access. Coatings usually cost less than replacement, but only when the roof is a good candidate. Scope and pricing should be written, including the product, thickness, and warranty terms.
Cool Roofing Across Fresno and the Valley
Cool roof and coating help is available across Fresno and nearby communities, including Woodward Park, Downtown Fresno, Clovis, Selma, and Madera. See all service areas, or return to the overview of roofing in Fresno.