Reflect more sunlight
Solar reflectance describes the fraction of incoming sunlight a surface reflects. Reflective granules can reduce the energy the roof absorbs.
Designed for the sunshine. Chosen for your home.
Less absorbed sunlight.
More to consider.
Cool-roof shingles use reflective granules to help limit solar heat gain while preserving the look of an architectural shingle roof.
For a sun-exposed Central Texas home already due for replacement, they deserve a place in the comparison. We help you weigh the roof condition, product options and complete installation scope before you choose.
Discuss your roofRelease absorbed heat
Thermal emittance describes how readily a surface releases heat as infrared radiation. It works alongside reflectance.
Consider the whole home
Lower roof heat gain can reduce cooling demand. Insulation and air sealing still matter, and winter heating effects belong in an annual assessment.
The right expectation
A cooler roof surface is not
a guaranteed cooler room.
Comfort problems can involve ducts, insulation, air leakage or HVAC performance. A reflective shingle is one part of the building—not a substitute for finding the cause of an uncomfortable room.
Read the EPA’s explanationLook beyond the color name
Compare the rating.
Then compare the roof.
Ask for the exact manufacturer, product, color and active CRRC listing. A directory rating measures radiative properties; it is not an endorsement, a local stock guarantee or proof that a particular code requirement is met.
| What to compare | Why it belongs in your decision |
|---|---|
| Solar reflectance | Compare both initial and three-year aged values for the exact color. |
| Thermal emittance & SRI | SRI combines reflectance and emittance into a calculated index. It is not a percentage of energy savings. |
| Impact & wind performance | Check separate ratings, installation requirements and warranty exclusions. |
| Appearance & availability | Review physical samples, HOA requirements, matching accessories and local lead times. |
| Complete installed scope | Compare decking, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, tear-off and cleanup—not just the shingle price. |
A product example to explore
GAF Timberline HDZ® RS uses reflective granule technology and offers rich color blends. Manufacturer information is a starting point: confirm the exact color’s rating, local availability, accessories and written terms for your property.
View GAF’s current product informationProduct example, subject to local availability. This is not a promise of stock, certification or a specific warranty.
Texas Professional Roofing
From a roofing question
to a written plan.
Review your starting point
Tell us about the roof’s age, known repairs, sunlight exposure and your goals. We assess roofing conditions and discuss whether repair, replacement or further investigation is the practical next step.
Compare suitable options
Discuss standard and reflective shingles, color preferences, HOA constraints, roof slope and local availability. Request the exact product information behind each option.
Define the complete system
Review deck condition, underlayment, leak-prone details, flashing and ventilation. Installation must follow the selected manufacturer’s instructions and applicable local requirements.
Agree on scope and handover
Get the proposed work, exclusions, concealed-damage process and payment terms in writing. Confirm completion records, cleanup and the warranties that apply to the agreed installation.
Spend with a clear purpose
Ask what the upgrade costs.
Not what it promises.
Compare two otherwise equivalent written scopes. Separate the reflective-material upgrade from repairs the roof already needs. Avoid a payback estimate built on an assumed household saving.
For a home with heavy shade or strong existing insulation, the energy benefit may be smaller. An independent home-energy assessment can help put roofing alongside other efficiency improvements.
Explore budget & payment planningClear answers before you decide
Cool-roof shingle questions.
What are cool-roof shingles?
Asphalt shingles with reflective surface granules designed to reflect more sunlight than conventional alternatives. Compare the exact product and color; appearance alone does not establish performance.
Will cool shingles lower my electricity bill?
They can reduce solar heat gain and cooling demand. Your result depends on shade, insulation, air sealing, attic design, HVAC efficiency, weather and energy prices. We do not promise a percentage saving or payback period.
Does a cool roof have to be white?
No. Reflective granule technologies can offer darker colors. Available colors and ratings vary by product, and local supply must be confirmed before specifying a roof.
Are reflective shingles also hail resistant?
Reflectivity and impact resistance measure different characteristics. Review the exact product’s impact classification, wind requirements and warranty separately. No shingle is hail-proof.
Can I turn my existing shingles into a cool roof with paint?
Do not assume a coating is suitable for asphalt shingles. Compatibility, moisture behavior and warranty conditions require manufacturer guidance. Our cool-shingle consultation focuses on specifying suitable factory-made shingles for replacement or new construction.
Should I replace a sound roof just for energy savings?
Start with the roof’s condition and your broader energy goals. If the roof has useful life remaining, compare insulation, air sealing and HVAC assessment before committing to early replacement.
Are ENERGY STAR roof labels or tax credits current?
ENERGY STAR ended its roof-products specification on June 1, 2022. Do not rely on old roof-label or tax-credit advertising. Check any current incentive directly with the program administrator before including it in your budget.
Austin & Central Texas
A roof that suits your home.
A decision you understand.
Start with an inspection conversation. Ask us to include reflective shingle options in your roofing plan.
Request a cool-roof consultationCall (512) 910-4110Research reviewed September 13, 2026. Further reading: EPA: Cool roofs · CRRC: Product ratings · ENERGY STAR: Roof program status.
Related services: Roof replacement · Shingle options · Roof maintenance.