Cool Roof

Roofing terms · plain-language definition, with its source

Roofing terms · definition

A roof with high solar reflectance and emittance that lowers roof temperature and cooling costs; rated by the Cool Roof Rating Council.

Source: U.S. DOE — Cool Roofs

Where this comes up on this site

  • Coping

    The protective cap on top of a parapet wall that sheds water off both sides. Failed coping is a major parapet leak source.

  • Condensation / Attic Moisture

    Moisture-laden house air condensing on cold roof decking, causing mold and rot. A ventilation and air-sealing problem, not always a roof…

  • Counter Flashing

    Flashing set into a masonry joint (chimney/parapet) that laps over step or base flashing to seal the top edge.

  • Closed Valley

    A valley where shingles are woven or cut over the center. Common and economical but more leak-sensitive than an open metal valley.

  • Cover Board

    A rigid board over insulation on a low-slope roof providing a durable substrate for the membrane and better impact resistance.

  • Clay / Concrete Tile

    Heavy, very durable tile roofing common in warm climates; requires engineered structural support for the weight.

  • Cricket / Saddle

    A small peaked structure built behind a chimney or wide penetration to divert water around it. Code-required above a chimney width thresh…

  • Chimney Flashing

    The system of base, step, and counter flashing plus a cricket that waterproofs a chimney. One of the most failure-prone roof details.

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