If you’re adding a finished roof deck to your residential or commercial property, you’ll likely be faced with tons of different options and materials, each with its own unique benefits. If you’re searching for an eco-friendly rooftop option, there are two primary options: cool roofs and green roofs.

Cool roofs are created using Cool Roof pavers or porcelain deck tiles made with raw, ultra-white materials that reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them. This reduces heat transfer and keeps both your rooftop and the building below cooler and more energy efficient.

Green roofs, on the other hand, are rooftops that consist of vibrant plant life. Using green roof plant trays, you can incorporate trees, flowers, shrubs and all kinds of greenery to help absorb the sunlight before it can enter the building. This, just as with a cool roof, keeps the property cooler and more energy efficient.

So, with two cost-effective and eco-friendly rooftop materials to choose from, which one is right for you? Below, we’ll review the pros and cons for both, including their energy- and cost-saving benefits for property owners.

Benefits

Green roofs and cool roofs provide several benefits, both environmental and economic.

Green roofs, also known as living roofs, can provide insulation to your rooftop by covering it with vegetation, which absorbs the sun’s rays. Through this heat absorption, green roofs can also reduce a building’s energy consumption, as they keep buildings organically cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning in the summer. They also absorb rainwater and reduce the volume of stormwater runoff, which lessens the demand on local storm drains. In addition, they reduce air pollution and create habitats for wildlife, making them a beloved choice for sustainable construction.

Cool roofs, on the other hand, are designed to reflect sunlight rather than absorb it, thanks to their ultra-white materials. Through heat-reflective technology, Cool Roof pavers reduce heat absorption and heat transfer to the building below, resulting in lower energy costs. They’re also less prone to damage from UV rays and extreme temperatures, so they tend to last longer than traditional roofs.

Considerations

While there are dozens of significant benefits to having a green roof or a cool roof, there are also factors to consider before making your decision.

When it comes to green roofs, you’ll need to account for the cost of an irrigation system. In certain climates, this could become extremely costly and use significant resources to keep the vegetation alive year-round. You may also need to weed and fertilize the area depending on the vegetation installed on your roof plant trays.

As for cool roofs, you’ll need to consider whether your location makes cool roofs a worthwhile investment. Many colder parts of the country require more heating than cooling, reducing the environmental and economic benefits of a cool roof. If you live in the northernmost part of the country, a green roof may be more cost-effective and beneficial than a cool roof for this reason.

Climate Control

An oft-overlooked aspect of installing a green roof or a cool roof is the local moisture content. Because warm, humid air migrates upward, your cool roof can see adverse effects if not designed and installed correctly.

If you’re located in a warm, moist climate, cool roofs can be susceptible to algae and mold growth. Luckily, there are special coatings and chemicals that can prevent this growth, as well as options to control moisture.

In cold climates, cool roofs often fall below the dew point for longer periods than darker roofs. This is because their reflectivity — the same phenomenon that keeps the roof cool — can make it more susceptible to condensation and moisture. To rectify this issue, you can incorporate a vapor barrier or additional insulation. Opting for a green roof instead of a cool roof can also be beneficial if you live in a particularly cold area.

Cost Savings

Many homeowners believe that cool roofs and green roofs are more expensive than traditional roof decks, causing them to cross these options off their list. However, this is rarely the case. The installation cost of a cool roof, especially when using Tile Tech Cool Roof pavers, is not necessarily more expensive than a non-cool roof deck.

Additionally, cool roofs and green roofs offer long-term cost savings through their energy conservation, making them a cost-effective option for many homeowners. Your city and/or state may also offer rebates and other incentives to offset your roof deck’s cost since both types of roof deck materials are eco-friendly and examples of sustainable construction.

If you’re looking to utilize rooftop space for your residential or commercial project, choose a paver product uniquely suited to eco-friendly roof decks. With superior durability and undeniable beauty, all of Tile Tech’s roof deck paver products will improve the appearance and functionality of your outdoor space. To find out more about our paving systems or rooftop installations, give us a call today at 888-380-5575 or contact us online. We would be happy to supply you with a free catalog, product sample or quote for your next project.