True or False: The color of a roofing material impacts its surface temperature more significantly than the insulation underneath.

The statement is true because the color of a roofing material plays a critical role in determining its surface temperature due to the principles of solar energy absorption and reflection. Lighter-colored materials tend to reflect more sunlight and, as a consequence, can stay cooler, while darker materials absorb more heat and can reach significantly higher temperatures. This phenomenon is particularly evident in urban environments where darker roofs can contribute to heat islands, increasing ambient temperatures.

While insulation underneath is essential for regulating heat transfer and maintaining energy efficiency within a building, the direct effect of the roofing material's color on its surface temperature is often more pronounced. For instance, regardless of the insulation characteristics, a black roof can become much hotter than a white roof under the same conditions due to the color's effect on light absorption.

The influence of color on surface temperature remains consistent, independent of the day’s heat or specific colors, making the assertion accurate in a general sense.