Modern cities are shaped by urban canyons — narrow streets bordered by tall buildings. These environments trap heat, slow air circulation, and intensify the urban heat island effect. While walls and pavements receive much attention, roofing materials and designs play an equally critical role in heat transfer within these dense urban corridors.
The Science of Heat Transfer in Urban Canyons
Heat within city streets moves through three main mechanisms:
Conduction – Heat absorbed by roofs transfers through walls and materials.
Convection – Warm air rising from heated rooftops influences airflow in narrow streets.
Radiation – Roof surfaces emit or reflect heat into the canyon below.
The balance of these processes determines whether a street remains bearably warm or dangerously hot.
How Roofing Choices Influence Heat
Roof Color & Reflectivity
Dark, non-reflective shingles absorb more solar radiation and release it into urban canyons at night.
Light-colored or reflective roofing reduces surface temperature, cutting nighttime heat radiation.
Roof Geometry
Flat roofs trap more heat and radiate it directly downward into streets.
Steep roofs, like in A-frame cottages, disperse heat more effectively.
Material Thermal Mass
Heavy tiles store heat during the day and release it slowly at night.
Lightweight shingles, such as asphalt 3-tab shingles, cool more quickly.
Green & Solar Roofs
Vegetated roofs reduce radiant heat and improve canyon air quality.
Solar roof tiles convert sunlight into electricity, reducing heat release.
Real-World Impacts
Lower Street Temperatures – Cool roofs mitigate the urban heat island effect.
Improved Air Quality – Cooler canyon spaces reduce smog and stagnant air.
Energy Efficiency – Buildings with heat-smart roofing demand less air conditioning.
Public Comfort – Shaded, cooler urban canyons make streets more livable for pedestrians.
Roofing Solutions from Scaffs India
At Scaffs India, we design roofing systems that balance style, durability, and thermal performance — essential for both urban and rural contexts.
Our range includes:
Premium Designer Shingles – Beautiful and effective in reducing heat absorption.
Architectural Shingles – Multi-layered for superior protection and temperature control.
Borja Tech Tiles – European-engineered tiles optimized for energy performance.
Roofing Projects – Explore real examples where design meets sustainability.
Contact Scaffs India
Roofing is not only about protecting homes — it’s about shaping the climate of entire neighborhoods. By choosing the right roofing solution, you can keep your home cool while reducing heat across your community.
Visit our contact page to explore roofing designs that make cities more liv