Oppressive heat can make summers in all parts of the South quite uncomfortable. But in urban areas like Atlanta, add to the mix a phenomenon known as the Heat Island Effect, and summer can become downright miserable.

What is the Heat Island Effect?  It's the phenomenon of urban areas being much hotter than surrounding rural areas because instead of trees and grass cities have concrete, asphalt and idling cars. The average annual difference in temperature between city and country is slightly more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can be much worse in big cities down South.   Daily temperatures in urban areas likes Atlanta can soar as much as 22 degrees higher than the temperatures in surrounding rural areas.

To combat the Heat Island Effect, the Environmental Protection Agency suggests city dwellers plant more vegetation and greenery around their homes to provide shade and to help improve the air quality through the plants’ natural filtering.  The EPA also recommends homeowners consider choosing environmentally friendly roofing materials when making the next investment in a new roof.

If you're considering a new roof or need to have yours inspected, find a highly-rated Atlanta roofing contractor by combing through the consumer reviews on Angie’s List.

For more eco-friendly roofing tips, check out Angie's List's Go Green Roofing Options which includes info on solar panels and what to ask your roofers about the materials they are using.