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Historically, most roofs in the Charleston area were earth-toned or black, as they are in many other cities. But in recent years, more and more homeowners have been switching things up and opting for white-colored roofs instead. This not only creates an eye-catching aesthetic, but it actually provides a number of benefits for these homes.
Below, we’ll explain more about the white roof trend in Charleston and share some of the pros and cons of this choice, so you can determine if a white roof is right for your home.
What Are White Roofs (a.k.a. Cool Roofs)?
In essence, white roofs are exactly what they sound like – roofs that are white in color. However, many homeowners and roofing contractors will use the term “white roof” to refer to “nearly white” colors, such as cream or light gray. Some even use the term “cool roof” instead of white roof, given that many of these roofs are not, technically, white.
Importantly, you choose from several types of white- or light-colored roofing materials, including traditional shingles and metal panels.
The Benefits of White Roofs: Why Are They Becoming More Popular?
There are a few different reasons behind the rising popularity of white roofs, but the primary reason is that they reflect more of the sun’s rays. This manifests in several important ways, including the following:
- Improved Energy Efficiency: By reflecting some of the sun’s rays, white roofs help to keep roof and attic temperatures lower, which helps to reduce the demands placed on your HVAC, which in turn reduces cooling costs during the summer.
- Better Interior Comfort: White roofs not only keep your roof and attic cooler, but they also keep the living space inside your home cooler too. This means that it’ll be easier to maintain comfortable temperatures inside during the hot summer months.
- Increased Roof Longevity: An interesting and often-overlooked benefit of white roofs is that they don’t heat up and cool off as much as dark-colored roofs (something roofing contractors call “thermal cycling”). Generally speaking, the less thermal cycling a roof experiences, the longer it’ll last.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Because white roofs reflect a lot of the sun’s rays, they help to keep the entire area cooler and reduce the urban heat island effect. In other words, white roofs don’t help to just keep your home cooler; they also keep the entire area slightly cooler.
It’s also important to note that many homeowners also find white or light-colored roofs to be aesthetically pleasing. They can make the other colors of your home “pop,” and they’ll even help your home appear slightly larger.
The Potential Drawbacks of White Roofs in Charleston, SC
Obviously, white roofs aren’t ideal for all circumstances. If they were, every house would have a white-colored roof. A few of the potential drawbacks they present include:
- Unusual Aesthetics: White roofs don’t always match the architectural styles traditionally common in the Charleston area, and some people simply don’t like the way white roofs look.
- Discoloration Potential: While many homeowners love the look of a bright white (or light-colored) roof, many light-colored roofs will fade or become discolored over time as dirt, algae, and mildew build up.
- Higher Costs: Like other unusually colored roof materials, white shingles and metal panels are often slightly more expensive at the outset, though this varies from one manufacturer to the next.
In addition to these potential drawbacks, it’s also worth noting that the benefits of white colored roofs won’t apply to every home in Charleston.
For example, homes on shaded lots won’t enjoy the same kind of energy savings as homes that receive hours of sun exposure. Similarly, they may not be a good choice for homes that experience high winter heating bills, as they’ll reduce the amount of warmth the house gains from the sun.
Is a White Roof Right for Your Home?
White roofs certainly provide a number of benefits to some homes, but it’s important to consider whether your specific home is a good candidate for sun-reflecting roof materials. A few things you’ll want to consider when making this decision include:
- How much sun exposure does your roof receive? If your roof receives a lot of direct sunlight, a white roof may provide a significant reduction in your cooling costs. But if your home is shaded by trees or the primary roof surfaces aren’t oriented toward the south, the cost savings may not justify the choice.
- How long do you plan to stay in your home? White-colored roofs aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, so you may want to opt for a more traditional color if you’re planning on selling your home in the next few years. But if you plan to stay where you are for a while, it’s worth considering a light-colored roof.
- Does your HOA regulate roof colors? Many HOAs mandate that roof materials must be a traditional color, such as black, gray, or brown. And because the fines for not complying with HOA regulations can be steep, you’ll always want to check the rules first.
- Are you willing to maintain the roof properly? White roofs can start to look dingy if you don’t have them maintained frequently. This is typically a job that’s best left to professionals, so you’ll want to factor in the ongoing expenses associated with professional maintenance.
- What is your roof replacement budget? White roofing materials are often slightly more expensive than traditional colors, so you’ll want to consider your budget. If you’re already close to your financial limits, it may be wise to avoid tacking on the increased costs.
- What does your roofing contractor think? In addition to the questions and considerations listed above, it’s always a good idea to ask for your roofing contractor’s opinion. He or she has a ton of experience with roof color selection and can share important insights for your specific situation.
White Roofs in Charleston: FAQ
Still have questions about white roofs in Charleston? We’ve rounded up some of the most common questions we hear from our clients and answered them below!
What are the drawbacks of white roofs?
Do they make white metal roofing?
How much hotter is it on a white roof?
Is it better to have a white roof or a black roof?
What color roof keeps a house the coolest?
Willow Ash Roofing: Your Contractor for All Roof Colors!
No matter what color roof you decide is perfect for your house, the professionals at Willow Ash Roofing are ready to turn your vision into reality! We can even help provide some advice about whether or not a white roof would work well in your situation, and outline some of the specific benefits and drawbacks you’re likely to experience.
Contact us today and see why so many Charleston-area homeowners have trusted Willow Ash Roofing for all of their roof repair and replacement needs!
If you are interested in getting your roof replaced for a lighter color, or need any repairs on your current roof, contact us today! We are more than happy to answer any questions and find the best fit for your home.
Willow Ash Roofing
(843) 557-7663
1204 Palm Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC 29451
