Your air conditioner never seems to shut off in the summer, and your energy bill keeps climbing. In California, the solution isn’t just better AC—it’s better roofs. That’s why the state created Title 24, a set of energy standards designed to keep homes and businesses cooler, more comfortable, and more affordable.
What is California’s Title 24?
Title 24 is part of the California Building Standards Code. First established in 1978 and updated regularly, it sets statewide rules for how homes and commercial buildings should be built or remodeled to use less energy, stay comfortable, and reduce environmental impact.
The Benefits of Cool Roofs
Cool roofs reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofing, helping to reduce surface and indoor temperatures. This is especially important in densely populated areas, like San Diego, where hotter conditions amplify the heat. By reducing rooftop and indoor heat, cool roofs can:
- Cut energy bills
- Lower indoor temperatures
- Extend roof life
- Reduce reliance on fossil fuels
- Help prevent heat-related health risks
Research backs this up.
In Philadelphia, adding cool roofs and insulation to residential buildings without air conditioning reduced ceiling surface temperatures by almost 5°F and indoor temperatures by more than 2°F on hot days—big differences when outdoor temperatures reached 90°F.
In Chelsea, MA, researchers learned that a school with a cool roof lowered surrounding land temperatures by about 4.5°F, showing how these systems can benefit not just individual buildings, but entire neighborhoods.
These examples from other states show that cool roofs deliver measurable benefits in reducing energy usage. If they work in localities with less intense sun, the potential impact in California, where hot summers and higher energy demands are the norm, is even greater. That’s why the state has integrated cool roof requirements into Title 24.
Title 24 Roof Insulation Requirements
Reflective roofs are only part of California’s energy strategy. Title 24 also requires specific levels of roof insulation to ensure heating and cooling are maintained.
- Existing Homes: When you put on a new roof or remodel an attic, insulation must be included as part of the project.
- New Homes: New construction requires higher levels of insulation to meet today’s energy-efficient standards.
- Commercial & Multi-Family: The rules are even stricter, often requiring thicker layers of continuous insulation above the roof deck.
Even if your project only meets the minimum requirements, adding extra insulation is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. It helps lower utility bills, creates a cooler, more comfortable environment during heat waves, and puts less strain on the HVAC system.
Casas Roof & Title 24 Compliance
Understanding these energy standards can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to worry about the details. At Casas Roof, we make it simple by using only Title 24-compliant and Energy Star-certified materials on every project. That means your roof automatically meets California’s strict efficiency requirements while delivering year-round comfort and long-term savings.
When you choose Casas Roof, you’re choosing quality craftsmanship, durable materials, and a team committed to excellent customer service. Whether you need a repair or a replacement, we’ll guide you through the process and build a roofing system that’s built to last.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Roof
We’re proud to help San Diego upgrade to roofs that are both durable and eco-friendly. Ready to see how a Title 24-compliant roof can benefit your home or business? Schedule your free inspection with Casas Roof.
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