The effect of warming the planet using certain construction materials is both real and pervasive. Can we trust the global warming facts coming from meteorological stations that went from rural surroundings to urban development? Hard to say, but studies continue to seek answers as to how raising the reflectivity of the sun’s rays may lower the temperature.
The idea of boosting reflectivity is not a new one. New York initiated new white roof rules as part of their building codes back in 2012. Los Angeles introduced a program of painting asphalt light gray to reduce road-top temperatures.
More studies have been conducted around the world contributing to the accumulating evidence showing how raising the percentages of cooling can be so transformative as to save lives. One Colorado researcher found that the effort could reduce the heat island effect by at least one third.
It is possible to consider local radiative management when it comes to your own buildings and the resultant effect it can have on the occupants without upsetting the global climate.
Painting Your Roof is Problem Solving at its Best
Light, reflective surfaces are known to make a dynamic impact on cooling the air temperature both in the city as well as in the countryside. A cool roof, one that is designed to reflect more sunlight while absorbing less heat than a standard roof, can be achieved using highly reflective paint.
It is no different than avoiding dark fabrics when you are going to be in the sun on warmer days. You are not as uncomfortable from feeling over heated and sweating from the radiant heat. With a building, a lighter colored roof has many benefits such as:
- Low-cost energy bills since the A/C demand is reduced
- Increased comfort indoors, particularly in such spaces as garages, covered patios or other areas that are not air-conditioned
- Decreased roof temperature
Depending on the size of your building or whether a given number of buildings in a community also have them, you can realize environmental benefits with a cool roof including a reduction in:
- The urban heat island temperature, or the local air temperature
- The peak demand on electricity – this helps cease rolling blackouts
- Power plant emissions, which helps reduce carbon dioxide, nitrous oxides, sulfur dioxide and mercury in the atmosphere
Cool roof paint is white or has special reflective pigments. A coating of cool roof paint can shield the roof from UV rays and help prevent chemical damage. Call us today to learn more about how we can get you started saving on expenses while providing a more comfortable indoor atmosphere for yourself and your occupants. We bring our advanced training and expertise to convert your energy consumption into energy savings. Let us help you now by calling 408-295-2182.