To protect the roof and to extend its life Asphaltic coatings are traditionally used. These coatings include alumination (silver coating) and solvent clay-based coatings.

Albedo is the reflecting power of a surface. Many of today’s modern coatings are now highly reflective (“High Albedo or Cool Roof Coatings”) and not only increase the roof life span but protect from weathering, UV degradation, and reduce energy consumption. Cool roof coatings include Acrylic, Silicone, Hypalon, Butyl and Polyurea.

The popularity of reflective coatings and Green Roofs has grown as many municipalities now require high albedo coatings to reduce what is referred to as the urban heat island effect. Urban heat islands are caused by dark surfaces that absorb more heat from the sun combined with the lack of vegetation to provide shade. Temperatures in urban heat island areas can be 6-8 degrees hotter than surrounding areas and the higher temperatures can increase a buildings energy costs and raise pollution levels in the affected area.