I recently described what the “Dark Roof Lobby” is doing to a friend, who responded with the only – and sane – response. “Are these people insane? That’s like burning down your house and dancing in the ashes.”
Have you heard of the “Dark Roof” Lobby? No? Read on…
Hot Roofs Vs. Cool Roofs
Cities across the country will soon be grappling again with something called the urban heat island effect. Urban areas will experience significantly higher temperatures than rural areas because of human activities and infrastructure.
One major source of those higher temperatures: dark-colored roofs. Think of the “tar beaches” of NYC apartment buildings. Like concrete and asphalt, dark roofs absorb and retain heat during the day – as anyone living on the top floor knows – and release heat slowly at night, leading to higher overall temperatures.
Reflective, light-colored roofs can lower building temperatures, improve energy efficiency, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They’re a cheap and effective way of dealing with the problem.
But another problem has arisen. It’s called the Dark Roof lobby and it’s working hard to block policies that support cool roofs. What they’re doing is not cool. Not cool at all.
The Emergence of the “Dark Roof” Lobby
Would you be surprised to learn that one of the motives behind cool roofs is money? Yup. Some manufacturers of traditional dark roofing material have conspired to oppose regulations requiring reflective roofing.
Lobbyists have also questioned the efficacy of cool roofs and emphasized potential costs to homeowners and builders – even though multiple studies have confirmed that cool roofs can significantly reduce indoor temperatures and energy bills, especially in hot climates.
Atlanta’s Cool Roof Initiative
Atlanta’s been kicking out the jams when it comes to implementing cool roof policies. In June 2025, the Atlanta City Council required new constructions and major roof replacements to use cool roofing materials. Council member Liliana Bakhtiari introduced the proposal. Achieving 80% coverage with cool roofs could reduce Atlanta’s overall temperature by 2.5°F.
What It Means In The Real World
Resistance from the dark roof lobby is part of the ongoing tension between industry interests and environmental sustainability. Upfront costs of cool roofs may be higher but the long-term savings in energy bills and public health benefits pay off in the long run.
And remember: things aren’t cooling down. We’re experiencing record-breaking temperatures more and more frequently thanks to the ways we’ve screwed up the environment. Cool roofs aren’t just nice – they’re necessary. Just like increasing urban greenery and using reflective pavements. Every eco-conscious decision has an impact.
Conclusion
The battle over roofing materials reflects larger dynamics at play in the fight against climate change. As evidence mounts on the benefits of cool roofs, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public should recognize and counteract efforts that hinder progress.
Do the right thing, folks. Keep it cool. Even if Dark Roof lobbyists get hot under the collar.
