What Are Heat Reflective Roof Tiles?

Heat reflective roof tiles are engineered to reflect a large portion of solar radiation instead of absorbing it. Traditional roof materials, such as cement, clay, or metal sheets, absorb heat during the day and transfer it into the building. By late afternoon, the indoor environment starts feeling too hot.

Reflective tiles work differently. Their surface finish and materials are designed to bounce sunlight away, significantly lowering the roof’s surface temperature. Because of this effect, they are often referred to as cool roof tiles, since they naturally keep the building cooler especially when paired with  other  energy saving tips.

Benefits of Heat Reflective Roof Tiles

The advantages of installing reflective tiles extend beyond just a cooler home. They provide multiple benefits that matter in both the short and long term.

Lower Indoor Temperature

By reflecting sunlight, these tiles keep the roof surface cooler. The result is an indoor temperature reduction of 4–6°C compared to conventional roofing. In peak summer, this difference is significant enough to make daily living more comfortable.

Reduced Electricity Consumption

With less heat entering the home, cooling appliances work more efficiently. Over time, this leads to significant electricity savings. In most cases, the cost of installing heat reflective roof tiles is recovered within two to three summers through lower energy expenses.

Increased Roof Life

Continuous heating and cooling cycles weaken concrete roofs, leading to cracks and structural wear. Reflective tiles protect the roof by reducing thermal stress, extending its lifespan and lowering maintenance costs.

Low Maintenance Requirements

Unlike complex mechanical systems, reflective tiles do not require regular servicing. Occasional cleaning is enough to keep them effective, making them a practical, low-hassle solution for homeowners.

Environmentally Responsible

With India’s energy production still heavily dependent on fossil fuels, reducing electricity use also means reducing carbon emissions. By adopting reflective tiles, households contribute to a more sustainable environment while enjoying immediate personal benefits.

Best Heat Reflective Roof Tiles for Indian Homes in 2025

Choosing the right roofing material can make a big difference in how comfortable and energy-efficient your house feels. With the rising popularity of heat reflective roof tiles, many trusted Indian brands now offer specialized products designed to fight extreme summer heat. Below are some of the best options available in 2025.

• Johnson Endura Cool Roof Tiles

Johnson’s Endura range includes Cool Roof (SRI) and Cool Top Tiles, designed for terraces and exteriors. They reflect sunlight, lower roof temperature, and help reduce indoor heat. Strong and durable, they are also suitable for walkable terraces.

• Somany Cool Tiles

Another strong option is Somany’s Temp Shield tiles. They are designed to reflect solar, UV, and infrared heat, reducing the amount of heat that enters your home. They protect roofs from cracks caused by extreme heat.

• Kajaria Cool Roof Tiles

Kajaria Ceramics is one of India’s largest tile manufacturers, with nationwide availability and a wide product portfolio. Their cool roof tiles are designed to reflect sunlight, reduce heat absorption, and make indoor spaces more comfortable during peak summers. Kajaria combines durability with modern designs, making them a reliable option for both independent homes and large residential projects.

• Orientbell Cool Tiles

Orientbell uses a special zirconium-based glaze that reflects more solar heat. These tiles are available in roof-appropriate finishes and combine functionality with modern designs, making them suitable for urban residential projects.

• Rocotile Cool Roof Tiles

Rocotile, based in Chennai, focuses specifically on roof cooling solutions. Their tiles are widely sed in homes, schools, and commercial buildings in South India. They are valued for their reliability, reflectivity, and easy availability.

• Tapco Cool Roof Tiles

For homeowners looking for a clay-based solution, Tapco tiles are a good choice. Made from natural white clay with ceramic coating, they reflect heat effectively to ensure high solar reflectance and thermal performance. They also give rooftops a neat, attractive finish while helping homeowners save on energy costs in hot climates.

• Antony Cool Tiles

Antony Cool Tiles are designed to reflect both solar and thermal heat. They are an affordable option for homes in Tamil Nadu and nearby states. These tiles come in multiple sizes and are known for providing good grip on terrace floors.

• WhiteFeet Cool Roof Tiles

WhiteFeet tiles focus on achieving a high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) for measurable cooling performance. They are commonly used in eco-friendly housing projects and are marketed as a solution for households aiming for energy savings and sustainability.

Things to Check Before Buying

When selecting reflective tiles, homeowners should test tiles for  more than just price:

• Reflectivity rating: The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) indicates how effectively a tile reflects solar heat. Higher values offer better results.
• Material quality: Tiles made with ceramic or advanced coatings generally perform better and last longer.
• Manufacturer reliability: Always choose brands that provide warranties and are known for consistent product quality.
• Design and appearance: Modern tiles are available in different textures and patterns, so performance does not have to come at the cost of aesthetics.

Final Word

At present, every homeowner has to think about two things: how to stay comfortable in rising heat and how to manage long-term costs. Heat reflective roof tiles answer both. They are practical, proven, and future-ready. The upfront cost is minor compared to the years of comfort and savings you’ll gain.

Do you know what goes well with housing solutions? uPVC doors and windows by Greenfortune. To explore more click here.