Los Angeles Cool Roof Requirements for Commercial Roofs
If you're replacing a commercial roof in Los Angeles, there's a good chance it has to be a cool roof. California's energy code sets reflectance requirements for many reroofs, and the City of Los Angeles has its own cool-roof rules for some building types. Here's what applies, how products are rated, and what to confirm before you sign.
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Call (323) 551-9034Request an inspectionNo obligation. Photo report included.Cool Roofs in Brief
- A cool roof reflects more sunlight and releases absorbed heat, keeping the roof surface and building cooler.
- California's energy code can require cool-roof products when a significant portion of a roof is replaced, depending on building type, slope and climate zone.
- Roofing products are rated by the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) for reflectance and emittance.
- Exceptions exist, for example for certain roof types and areas covered by solar.
- Your contractor and the permit process confirm which requirements apply to your project.
The rules in plain terms
California Energy Code
Title 24, Part 6 sets cool-roof requirements for many nonresidential and residential reroofs, based on roof slope, climate zone and how much of the roof is replaced.
City of Los Angeles
The City of Los Angeles has adopted its own cool-roof requirements for certain building types. Requirements depend on the project and building.
Product ratings
Products used for compliance are tested and labeled by the Cool Roof Rating Council, with ratings for solar reflectance and thermal emittance.
Exceptions
Exceptions can apply, such as roof areas under solar panels or certain heavier roof types. Your permit documents show which apply.
What this means for your project
Ask early
Ask your contractor whether cool-roof requirements apply before you choose a system or color.
Pick a rated product
White or light-colored TPO, PVC and many coatings carry CRRC ratings that meet common requirements.
Confirm on the permit
Compliance is documented through the permit and energy compliance forms.
Keep the records
Keep product data and permit records for future sale, insurance and refinancing.
Cool-roof options
Reflective single-ply membranes like TPO and PVC, and reflective roof coatings, are the most common ways commercial buildings meet cool-roof requirements. For a full reroof, see commercial roof replacement.
Work with commercial roofing contractors in Los Angeles who handle the energy compliance paperwork as part of the permit. Our Los Angeles commercial roofing proposals state the product’s CRRC rating.
This page is general information, not legal or code advice. Requirements change and depend on the project; confirm current rules with the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety or your local building department.
Frequently asked questions
Do commercial roofs in Los Angeles have to be cool roofs?
Many reroofs and new roofs must meet cool-roof requirements under California's energy code and local rules, depending on building type, slope, climate zone and the scope of work.
What is a CRRC rating?
The Cool Roof Rating Council tests and labels roofing products for solar reflectance and thermal emittance, the two measures used for cool-roof compliance.
Do roof coatings count as cool roofs?
Many reflective coatings carry CRRC ratings and can be used for compliance where they meet the requirements.
Are there exceptions to cool-roof requirements?
Yes. For example, roof areas covered by solar panels and some heavier roof types can be exempt. Your permit documents show which apply.
Related services and guides
Any commercial roofer in Los Angeles quoting a reroof should tell you whether cool-roof rules apply before you choose a color or system.
Get a Cool-Roof Compliant Proposal
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