Save Money on Cooling with a White Roof

We've mentioned that painting your roof white is a positive step for the environment and your pocketbook in the past, but the New York Times goes in depth, explaining just how much you're likely to save.

Photo by Christopher Dick.

Studies show that white roofs reduce air-conditioning costs by 20 percent or more in hot, sunny weather. Lower energy consumption also means fewer of the carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to global warming.

What is more, a white roof can cost as little as 15 percent more than its dark counterpart, depending on the materials used, while slashing electricity bills.

If anecdotal evidence is more your style, the article discusses a Sacramento family who used to come home in the summer and "the house would be 115 degrees." After adding "a shiny plasticized white covering" to their roof, they now "come home on days when it's over 100 degrees outside, and the house is at 80 degrees."


Sounds pretty good so far. Energy Secretary Steven Chu discusses the matter on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart (around 6:25) if you'd like to hear a little more about the matter.

In the meantime, we're curious: Any homeowners out there have a white roof? Anyone thinking of installing one? Share your experience in the comments.