California’s Title 24 energy code includes “cool roof” provisions that can apply when you replace a roof, not just on new construction. The goal is a roof surface that reflects more sunlight and releases absorbed heat, which lowers cooling load and attic temperatures.
How it typically shakes out in our market:
- Low-slope / flat roofs (common on Eichlers, mid-century, and commercial buildings) have the strictest reflectance and emittance minimums. We spec a compliant TPO or cap sheet that meets them.
- Steep-slope residential (most pitched homes) has more flexibility — there are compliance paths using cool-roof-rated shingles/tile, or trade-offs via added insulation or radiant barrier. Many standard architectural shingles now carry a CRRC cool-roof rating.
- Documentation matters. The inspector wants CRRC-rated product data and, on some jobs, a CF-1R/CF-2R form. Missing paperwork is a common reason a re-roof fails final inspection.
We treat Title 24 as part of pulling the permit — we select rated materials and file the compliance documents so your final inspection passes the first time. Want to know exactly what applies to your roof? Call (415) 410-7917.
Related services and local pages
- Roof Replacement
- Commercial & Residential Roofing
- Roofing Permits in the Bay Area — How We Handle Yours
- Find your city: Service Areas — Bay Area Roofing
Official sources
- California Energy Commission: Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24)
- Cool Roof Rating Council: rated roofing products
Rules and maps change; confirm requirements for your address with your city or county building department.
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