Cool Roofs
by Justin Thomas, Virginia 
on 10. 9.05
The EPA says over 90% of the roofs in the United States are dark colored. A dark roof absorbs heat, leading to more need for cooling or air conditioning. The alternative is a "cool roof" — a roof that does two important things: it reflects solar energy, and it also radiates heat away after it is absorbed. The EPA has a list of cool roof products that will help keep your building's cooling costs under control. Of course, one other alternative is to use a "green roof", which is even better than a cool roof. Pictured here is San Jose's West Valley Library, which uses cool roof technology.
Thirsty for more? Check out these related articles:
- 5 Green Improvements That Will Add Value to Your Home
- 10 Reasons to Really Love Trees (as if You Didn't Already)
- Emeril's Grass Fed Beef Carpaccio With Shaved Celery Blue Cheese and Herb Quiche
- Ed Begley, Jr., on Denim Recycling, Solar Cars, and More
- How to Go Green: Alternative Energy
- L is for Shaker Lemon Pie with Blueberries
Comments ()
