In this climate of ever increasing energy bills, many people are always on the lookout for passive solutions. A passive energy solution works with nature to provide an answer to a heating or cooling problem. In Southern California, it can be hot at virtually any time of the year. It is not that unusual to even have the air conditioning on in winter on certain days. One solution that is starting to attract a lot of attention is installing a reflective roof to lower the temperature in the home. What is a reflective roof, how does it work, is it a technology that is affordable and is it environmentally friendly?
What is a Reflective Roof?
A reflective roof is also known as a cool roof, and it is used to reduce the temperature in your home. It works by reflecting the heat of the sun away from the roof of the home. It can be a useful option for cooling upper floors or an attic in the home. It could also be helpful in areas where installing air conditioning is difficult or cost prohibitive. There is no need to replace your existing roof as a reflective roof is installed over an existing one. Almost any roof can become a reflective roof, and a cooling professional will be able to assess if the roof is suitable.
How Does a Reflective Roof Work?
The existing roof of the home is covered with a reflective thick white paint. This paint is a specialist product that is designed to protect against the ultraviolet rays of the sun. The paint has waterproofing properties, and it has restorative features. Reflective paint is not the only solution available, there are some other methods, such as reflective tiles, membrane sheet coverings, and reflective roof shingles.
Are Cool Roofs Affordable?
Like any new technology, there is an initial outlay with prices that can vary a great deal depending on your locality and other factors. A reflective paint solution can be available from as little as $0.75 per square foot. A membrane sheet option can be had from only $1.50 per square foot. Of course, these are the cheapest options available and as such, they are lower quality than more expensive products. One area that some people may overlook is the longevity of these cool roof solutions. Reflective roofs absorb less heat and as such, they are far less prone to sun related damage. In the medium to long term, this will translate into lower repair bills for the roof as well as reduced energy bills.
Is A Cool Roof Environmentally Friendly?
A cool roof is a very environmentally friendly way to cool your home because you will not need to use the air conditioning system as often. Using your air conditioning system less will lower the power requirements in your community, reducing power plant emissions and helping to prevent power outages. Another benefit for the surrounding environment is that the reflection of sunlight will lower ambient temperatures in your local area.