LA's Cool Roof Rule Explained in Plain English
If you are getting a new roof in Los Angeles, you may hear that it has to be a cool roof. Many homeowners worry this means a bright white roof. It usually does not. This guide explains the rule in simple words, when it applies and how to choose a roof you will actually like. Need a quote? We offer same-day estimates.
- Rule basics
- When it applies
- Color choices
- Updated October 2026
What Counts as a Cool Roof
A cool roof is a roof made to stay cooler in the sun than a standard roof. It does this in two ways:
- Solar reflectance: how much sunlight the surface bounces away.
- Thermal emittance: how quickly it lets go of the heat it does take in.
For California code, products are tested and labeled by the Cool Roof Rating Council. Some rules also use a combined score called the Solar Reflectance Index. In practice, your roofer checks the product's rating to make sure it meets the code for your project.
When the Cool Roof Rule Applies to Your Home
For homes in Los Angeles, the rule is mainly tied to how much of the roof you replace.
- When more than half of a home's roof is replaced, the new roofing product generally must be a rated cool roof.
- Roof repairs and small replacements are generally not covered by the rule.
- Areas covered by building-integrated solar products are treated differently.
- The state energy code also lists some exceptions for certain homes, so details matter.
Your permit paperwork will show what is required. Read our guide on Los Angeles re-roof permits for how that process works.
Cool Roof Options for Each Type of Roof
Many products come in rated colors that look like a normal roof.
| Roof type | Cool roof option | Looks like |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles | Cool-rated shingle lines and colors | Grays, tans and earth tones |
| Clay or concrete tile | Rated tile colors | Classic tile in lighter shades |
| Flat roofs | White TPO or reflective cap sheets | Bright white or light gray |
| Metal roofs | Cool-rated factory finishes | Many paint colors |
| Older flat roofs | Rated reflective coatings | White or light colors |
For shingle examples, see Malarkey and GAF, which both list rated colors.
Why a Cool Roof Is Worth It Beyond the Code
- Upstairs rooms often feel noticeably cooler on hot afternoons.
- Your air conditioner may run less in summer.
- Roof materials that run cooler can age more slowly in strong sun.
- Reflective roofs help cool down the whole neighborhood.
Utility rebate programs come and go, so check with your power company before you start. Ready to compare options? Visit our Title 24 cool roof installation page.
Common Cool Roof Mistakes to Avoid
- Picking a color before checking if it is rated. Many lines only rate certain colors.
- Assuming any light color counts. The product must be tested and labeled.
- Forgetting about flat sections. They often need a reflective surface too.
- Losing the product labels. Inspectors may want to see them.
A good roofer checks all of this before ordering. If you are also planning solar, read our roof and solar timeline guide.
Cool Roof Services, Guides and Areas
Services and brands that meet cool roof rules, related guides and nearby areas.
Related roofing services
More roofing guides
Brands and nearby areas
Have more questions? Read our roofing tips and guides, learn about our team or send us a message.
Cool Roof Rule Questions
Short answers about the Los Angeles cool roof requirement.
Does a cool roof have to be bright white?
No. Many cool-rated shingles, tiles and metal finishes come in grays, tans and other normal roof colors.
Does the cool roof rule apply to roof repairs?
Generally no. It is mainly tied to replacing more than half of a home's roof, not small repairs.
How can I tell if a roofing product is cool-rated?
Look for the Cool Roof Rating Council label and rating. Your roofer should list the rated product on the estimate.
Will a cool roof lower my electric bill?
Many homes use less cooling energy with a cool roof, especially rooms right under the roof. Savings depend on insulation and how you cool your home.
Get Cool Roof Options That Fit Your Home
Tell us about your roof. We will show you rated products in colors you like and handle the paperwork for inspection.