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Best Roof Design for Tropical Climate - Keep Cool in the Summer

Written by Posted On Thursday, 25 October 2018 08:46

Palm trees and warm temperatures are what tourists often think about tropical regions such as Puerto Rico, Hawaii, or Florida. But for local people, living in these areas mean that they have to go through aggressive winds and storms, hot humidity, and excessive heat. To protect against these extreme conditions, it is essential to building a solid roof which can endure and last long. To help you weigh different options, we’ll show you a guide of the best roof design for tropical climate.

1. Rubber or EPDM Roofing

Also known as EPDM membranes, this type of roof is made of a synthetic rubber-like material which is exceptionally sturdy and durable in extreme conditions. It is especially effective at reducing heat when it is coated with a layer of titanium dioxide. With a lighter color, rubber roofing can reflect UV radiation, heat, and light the surface back to the air. However, this reflection might have possibly dangerous side effects for the local environment.

2. Ceramic and Terracotta Roofing

Terracotta is a popular roofing option in many tropical areas with a unique and distinctive look. However, the main reason why most people choose this material lies in its weather-resistant properties. Thanks to the baking process in a kiln, these tiles can stand up the excessive heat for at least 50 years.

The curved shape of these tiles also makes a huge difference as it allows air to flow below the surface, thus keeping interior areas and roofs cooler. The only drawbacks for this option might be the material costs and its weight. Clay tiles might weigh around 2 to 4 times as much as traditional asphalt roofs.

3. Slab and Concrete Roofs

Slab and concrete can be a great option for those homeowners who don’t have enough money for terracotta tiles. At a more affordable price, this material comes with an ideal thickness to absorb the heat and UV radiation. However, it is much heavier than other roof designs.

Just like terracotta tiles, slab roofs are often into wave patterns, which can improve air circulation between the roof surface and the decking. Jasper Roof  states that this has the ultimate impact on reducing cooling cost and heat transfer.

4. Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are increasingly becoming a popular choice thanks to their unmatched durability, stylish design, and heat-resistant properties. Copper, steel, and aluminum roofing designs are often produced from recycled materials, make them eco-friendly options. Also, this type of roof often comes with an integral airspace between the decking and the metal panels, which can block heat transference and cool the interior space.

5. Green Roofs

A roof covered in plants and moss seems like a strange idea, but it can provide many practical benefits beyond its beauty. A green roof, which typically consists of plant-life suspended over a membrane, can absorb heat and reduce heat loss, making it a great option for both cold and hot climates. Also, it can release a significant amount of oxygen back to the air and make a populated area fresher and more comfortable.

What Kind of Roof Should I Choose?

Although the idea of living in a place with tropical climates is nice, there are many things to consider when it comes to maintaining your home in these areas. One of the most crucial aspects that people who live in tropical climates have to consider for their homes are their roofs. These roofs are important since they have to face adverse weather conditions and hot summer heat. This article went over different ways to achieve the best roof design for tropical climates so that you can be rest assured that you have made the best choice for your roof. 

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Rocky Degrenia

Small business owner; all types of flooring. #1 Rated Flooring Installer in Phoenix, AZ. Over 6 decades of experience and education. Residential and Commercial. Family man, father of three teenage girls.

www.knightflooringaz.com/

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