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What Color Roof Coating Should I Use?
Those who own houses that have built-up coated style roofs (Tucson, Oro Valley, Green Valley, Vail, Catalina Foothills, Sahuarita, Marana) may have options on what color roof coating to use on their roofs. There are three different colors: white, tan, and silver. Some areas around Tucson allow for any color roof coating while others such as Catalina Foothills usually only want tan coatings applied. Here are some pros and cons of the different colors of roof coating that should help when asking what color you should use on your roof.
White Elastomeric Cool Coating
White coating is also called “cool coating” because of the high reflective value of the coating. In fact, the actual term “cool roof” can be applied to any roof that reflects more than 65% of the solar radiation. Reflective value is very important in the Arizona heat because it shows the value that something will reflect the solar energy put off by the sun instead of absorbing the heat. The technical value is called “Solar Reflectance Index” or SRI. If a coating has a higher reflective value (SRI), the less heat will make it into your home from the roof. White coating generally has the highest reflective value of all the coatings but not all the coatings reflect the same. Tucson Rubberized 7000 coating, which we feel is currently the best coating on the market, has an 87% reflective value. This means it reflects 87% of the solar energy.
With high reflective values, white is always the best coating to use to in the Arizona sun. These coatings will keep your home cooler during the high summer temperatures in southern Arizona. We always recommend white cool coating for home owners if they can use that color.
Tan Elastomeric Cool Coating
In the Tucson Area, roof contractors are asked to apply “Desert Tan” cool coating because some HOAs require this color. Areas where houses are built on hills that leave the homes looking down on the roofs of other homes usually have HOA requirements to apply Desert Tan coating. This is because home owners don’t want to have the white reflective coatings flashing back at them while they are enjoying their own desert views. New home builds often put Desert Tan coatings on the roofs because of the way it looks. Tan coatings are not as reflective as white coatings. They do look better because they fit into the tan desert hues we have in the Tucson area.
Silver Oil-Based Roof Coating
Many years ago it was thought that the aluminum coatings would have a significant reflective value. Unfortunately, they don’t reflect as much as one might think. These roof coatings are made from oil-based black materials with an added aluminum pigment. According to Henry’s, their basic aluminum roof coating has only a 53% reflective rating when applied. This means that white coatings have nearly 30% more reflectivity! Contractors often use aluminum roof coatings because they are oil based and can be applied directly to oil-based roof underlayment. Aluminum coatings are not as thick as white or tan coatings, but they do well as first applications on new roofs.
Desert Sky Roofing can apply any of the three roof coating colors, but we usually lean toward white because of its high reflectivity of solar energy. Tan is a close second and obviously must be applied in some areas around Tucson. Aluminum coatings should be avoided because they provide very little protection for reflecting heat. Remember, any roof coating that reflects more than 65% of the solar energy can be called a “cool roof” product. Aluminum coating is not a “cool roof” coating. If you would like Desert Sky Roofing roof inspection pros to come out and inspect your roof, give us a call and we can inspect your roof and talk over which coating best fits your roof.
If you’re a Tucson homeowner in need of shingle roof replacement, getting a detailed and honest estimate is a crucial first step. Not all roofing contractors are the same — and not all roofs are, either. The Arizona heat, monsoon winds, and sun exposure make it essential to choose a roofing company that understands local conditions and uses the right materials. Asking the right questions helps you feel confident in your roofing contractor and ensures your roof repairs or full replacement will be done correctly.
Below are seven smart questions you should ask your estimator or Tucson roofing company before hiring a roofing company in Tucson:
Is the company licensed, bonded, and insured?
This should be the first question you ask any roofing contractor. Arizona law requires roofing companies to be licensed, bonded, and insured. A licensed contractor has met state requirements and carries the appropriate insurance in case something goes wrong. If your estimator or roofing company can’t provide their ROC number and proof of insurance, that’s a red flag. Hiring a properly licensed roofing company protects you from liability and ensures the job is done to professional standards.
What warranties do they offer on materials and labor?
Warranties are a key part of any roofing job. You’ll want to know how long the shingles are warrantied by the manufacturer and whether the roofing company backs up their own workmanship. For example, laminated (architectural) shingles — which are now the standard since three-tab shingles are no longer available in Arizona — often come with extended warranties and superior wind resistance. Be sure to get all warranties in writing, and ask your roofer estimator to walk you through what’s covered.
What type of underlayment do they use?
The underlayment is a critical component that sits beneath your shingles and adds an extra layer of protection against leaks. In Arizona’s intense climate, a high-quality synthetic underlayment is best. It resists heat, doesn’t absorb moisture like felt paper, and holds up better over time. A reliable roofing company will always include synthetic underlayment in their shingle replacement process. If your estimator doesn’t mention it — ask.
How long does the shingle replacement process take?
Time matters, especially if you’re trying to schedule around monsoon season or HOA approvals. Ask how long the shingle roof replacement will take from start to finish, including tear-off, installation, and cleanup. Most shingle roof replacements can be completed in one to three days depending on the size of the home, weather conditions, and any needed wood repairs. A professional roofing contractor should provide a clear timeline in your estimate.
Will they inspect and replace damaged wood decking if necessary?
Removing old shingles often reveals damage underneath. It’s important that your roofing contractor inspects the wood decking and replaces any rotted or warped sections. A proper estimate should outline that any necessary decking repairs will be included, and the estimator should explain how those costs will be handled if they arise. Skipping this step can compromise the entire roofing system.
Would ridge vents be a good option for your roof?
In Tucson, keeping your attic cool reduces heat transfer into your home and helps your roof last longer. Ask your estimator about installing ridge vents or upgrading any existing attic ventilation. Proper ventilation helps reduce moisture and heat buildup, improves energy efficiency, and is often overlooked by less experienced roofers. A well ventilated roof will last you longer.
What brand of shingles does the roofing company recommend?
While most roofing contractors, including Desert Sky Roofing, can install all major shingle brands, the estimator should be able to recommend a brand or line that performs best in Southern Arizona’s climate. Laminated shingles with a high wind rating are ideal for Tucson homes due to their durability and impact resistance. Your estimator should explain the differences clearly and offer a color and style selection that matches your home.
At Desert Sky Roofing, we use only laminated architectural shingles, high-quality synthetic underlayment, and we take the time to do the job right — no shortcuts. If you’re considering a shingle replacement in Tucson, give us a call for a free inspection.
✅ We’re offering $300 off all full roof replacement jobs.
Let us show you why we’re one of Tucson’s highest-rated roofing companies for roof repairs and replacements. You ask the smart questions — we’ll provide the honest answers.