Cool Roof Coatings: Your Key to Meeting California’s Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards and Saving Money

California’s Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards represent one of the most progressive energy codes in the nation, and understanding cool roof coating regulations is crucial for homeowners planning roofing projects. California’s Energy Code in Title 24, Part 6 of the Building Standards Code regulates state building energy efficiency requirements for residential and nonresidential buildings, with the 2025 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (Title 24, Part 6 or Energy Code), effective January 1, 2026, containing requirements for the thermal emittance, three-year aged reflectance, and Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of roofing materials used in new construction and re-roofing projects.

Understanding Cool Roof Coating Requirements

Cool roof coatings are specialized reflective materials designed to meet California’s stringent energy efficiency standards. Cool roofs reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofs. Title 24 specifies minimum performance values for aged solar reflectance and thermal emittance, which together determine the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI). These coatings work by reflecting solar energy away from your roof surface and efficiently releasing any absorbed heat.

The requirements apply to new construction, additions, and alterations (including roof recoverings) on nonresidential (including motel and hotels and relocatable public school buildings), multifamily buildings, and single-family residential buildings. The requirements vary based on climate zone, building type, roof square footage, and roof slope (low or steep).

When Do Cool Roof Regulations Apply?

Understanding when these regulations trigger is essential for planning your roofing project. The 2022 Title 24 standards (effective January 1, 2023) include specific requirements for cool roofs based on building type, climate zone, and roof slope. These requirements apply to new construction, additions, and alterations where more than 50% of the roof is being replaced or recovered.

For Bay Area residents, including those in Alameda County, the regulations are particularly relevant. Requirements for cool roofs in the Bay Area are limited to parts of Alameda, Contra Costa, and Solano Counties (Climate Zone 12) and apply to new construction and additions ≥300 ft² and for alterations that replace over 50% of the roof surface.

Climate Zone Requirements and SRI Standards

California is divided into 16 distinct climate zones, each with specific requirements. For zones 1-9 and 16, there are no cool roof requirements. In climate zones 10-15, there are several options for compliance with the energy efficiency requirements. With respect to asphalt shingles, they must meet or exceed an SRI of 16 for all new construction applications and reroof applications when greater than 50% of the roof is removed. These criteria apply to all residential and commercial buildings.

The Solar Reflectance Index is a critical measurement that combines both reflectance and thermal emittance properties. These two values are often combined into a single Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) score, which provides an overall measure of a roof’s “coolness” on a scale of 0 to 100.

CRRC Certification: The Gold Standard

All cool roof products must meet strict certification requirements. Any roofing product used for compliance must be rated by the CRRC (see section 10-113 of the Energy Code). The Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) is an independent, non-profit organization that maintains a third-party rating program, which rates and publishes a roof product’s radiative properties (solar reflectance and thermal emittance). Once a product is rated, the results are published on their online Rated Products Directory, which is a great resource to check to see whether roofing products comply with Title 24 or other codes and standards.

Types of Cool Roof Coatings

Various coating options can help achieve Title 24 compliance. EPDM single-ply roof membranes are typically black and must be coated to add the reflectivity to qualify as a cool roof. As with all cool roof systems, the reflectivity of the surface layer is what makes it a cool roof. Cool surface layer options include: reflective Dolomite gravel added into the final flood coat of asphalt applied to the surface layer; application of a Title 24 compliant mineral surfaced cap sheet; or an application of a reflective cool coating onto the surface layer.

Combined with an ENERGY STAR® approved Cool Roof Coating, Spray Foam Roofs are Title 24 compliant cool roofs. Additionally, paint coating applied either by the manufacturer or on site can increase a metal roof’s solar reflectance and thermal emittance, elevating the metal roof to cool roof status.

Benefits Beyond Compliance

Meeting Title 24 requirements offers substantial benefits beyond regulatory compliance. By reflecting more sunlight and reducing heat absorption, a cool roof keeps your attic and home cooler, which can significantly reduce the load on your air conditioning system during hot summer months. A cooler home is a more comfortable home, with more consistent indoor temperatures throughout the day.

Extreme heat is a primary cause of shingle deterioration. By reducing the roof’s surface temperature, a cool roof can help slow this aging process and potentially extend the life of the materials.

Working with Professional Contractors

Given the complexity of Title 24 requirements, working with experienced professionals is essential. Companies like DoPro Construction, a leading roofing company based in Walnut Creek, understand the intricacies of California’s energy codes. DoPro Construction is a leading roofing company based in Walnut Creek, CA, specializing in roof repair, replacement, and home remodeling services. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, they serve clients throughout the SF Bay area.

For homeowners seeking reliable roofing Alameda County, CA services, professional contractors bring essential expertise in navigating local building codes and ensuring proper installation of compliant cool roof systems. DoPro Construction brings over 40 years of combined experience to every project in Muir and throughout Contra Costa County. We understand the unique challenges of Bay Area construction, from navigating local building codes to working within the tight timelines that busy homeowners need.

Alternative Compliance Paths

California’s Title 24 provides flexibility through alternative compliance methods. Title 24 provides alternative ways to comply with the energy code without installing a cool roof. These are often called “trade-off” options. A cool roof is not required if your home meets one of the following conditions: You have at least R-38 ceiling insulation.

Additional attic/roof insulation, installation of a radiant barrier, or “cool” roofing are the three options for compliance in certain climate zones.

Planning Your Cool Roof Project

Successful Title 24 compliance requires careful planning and proper documentation. Order CRRC certificates before installation and keep copies on-site. Many roofing manufacturers provide these certificates on their websites or through the CRRC directory at coolroofs.org.

Understanding California’s cool roof coating regulations and Title 24 requirements is essential for any roofing project in the state. While the regulations may seem complex, they ultimately benefit homeowners through reduced energy costs, improved comfort, and increased property values. Working with experienced professionals who understand these requirements ensures your project meets all regulatory standards while maximizing the long-term benefits of your investment.

Whether you’re planning new construction, a major roof replacement, or exploring energy-efficient upgrades, cool roof coatings represent a proven solution for meeting California’s progressive energy efficiency standards while enhancing your home’s performance and value.