Roofing in extreme heat
The Central Valley experiences some of the most extreme heat in California. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and UV exposure is intense year-round. These conditions degrade roofing materials faster than moderate climates, making material selection critical.
How each material performs
Concrete and clay tile are the gold standard for hot climates. They provide natural thermal mass, reflect heat, and last 50-100 years. Most California homes built in the last 30 years use tile for this reason.
Metal roofing with reflective coatings can reduce cooling costs by 10-25 percent. Standing seam metal handles thermal expansion well and lasts 40-70 years.
Cool-rated asphalt shingles use reflective granules to meet California Title 24 requirements. They cost less than tile or metal but have shorter lifespans (20-30 years). Owens Corning Duration Cool and GAF Timberline Cool Series are popular options in our area.
TPO and white membrane roofs are ideal for flat and low-slope commercial buildings. They reflect up to 90 percent of solar radiation and significantly reduce cooling costs.
Title 24 requirements
California's Title 24 energy code requires "cool roof" products on most new installations and re-roofs. In the Central Valley (Climate Zone 12), this means roofing materials must meet minimum solar reflectance and thermal emittance standards. All materials DeHart installs are Title 24 compliant.
Our recommendation
For most Central Valley homes, we recommend either tile (for longevity) or cool-rated architectural shingles (for value). For commercial buildings, TPO or reflective coatings are the best options. Schedule a free inspection and we will recommend the best material for your specific roof.