Poor roofing decisions create multiple points of energy loss. First, certain roofing materials either absorb or repel solar gain, directly influencing indoor temperatures. Insufficient insulation accelerates unwanted heat transfer, forcing HVAC systems to work harder. In addition, roofing design—including shape and color—affects solar heat absorption and radiation. Collectively, these factors increase energy consumption, shorten equipment lifespans, and raise operational costs. Inadequate materials such as poorly insulated metal roofs or improperly installed bitumen layers worsen these issues, leading to higher energy bills, lower energy star ratings, and an increased carbon footprint.

Roofing material is crucial to energy efficiency because different materials offer unique thermal properties. Cool roofs made with reflective coatings or light-colored materials reduce heat absorption, lowering seasonal cooling costs. In contrast, dark roofs absorb more heat and increase cooling loads. Studies show that roofs with high solar reflectance can reduce cooling energy use by up to 20% in commercial settings. Materials like slate, metal, and tile vary in durability and insulation performance; for example, metal roofs paired with insulated underlayment can reduce heat gain, whereas low-grade bitumen on flat roofs may cause moisture ingress and mold, further degrading energy performance.