Is a ventilated concrete roof really energy efficient?

There are a number of factors that contribute to a product's energy efficiency. One factor is the resistance to the migration of heat or cold through the system. Concrete roof tiles are poor conductors of heat and cold so the temperature has a natural tendency to remain in the tile. Over the course of the day, the roof tiles absorb heat from the sun. Without ventilation, this heat would eventually be transferred directly to the attic. Ventilation, on the other hand, circulates heat from the cooler bottom of the roof up to the ridge. Gambale roof tile have a strong 3 dimensional profile, a lot of air is able to flow between the underside of the tile and the roof deck. This creates an opportunity for excessive heat or cold to be redirected away from the attic. Another factor in the product's energy efficiency is how much heat is reflected away before it gets into the attic space (see LRV below). A white tile roof will be much more energy efficient than a black one. The Florida Soar ...  more