Reflective Roof Coatings

[Timn8ter]

Reflective roof coatings, also known as albedo coatings, are products applied to roofs to reduce solar heat. Because they can reduce surface temperatures by up to 45ºC, these products also have a big impact on cooling costs. Reflective roof coatings can save homeowners a minimum of 25% in energy usage.

Another advantage of reflective roof coatings is that they contain UV-blocking pigments. UV rays age a roof considerably, meaning the use of reflective roof coatings can extend the roof's life by up to 15 years. Since roof maintenance accounts for more than 80% of a building's total maintenance cost, any product that can extend roof life will result in substantial savings.

Reflective roof coatings act like mirrors, reflecting the sun's radiant energy. To rate the level of reflectiveness of different products, manufacturers have come up with a classifying system. High-albedo products such as bright-white paint are the most effective, with a solar reflectance of 85%.

Some of the materials used as roof coatings include: elastomeric, polyurethane, and acrylic paints; single-ply roofing sheets made of rubber, plastic, or PVC; clay or concrete tiles; and metal, available in both natural and dark-colored sheets. Some materials can be easily applied with a roller, as in the case of paints, while others, such as PVC sheets, require the use of caulk or heat sealing done by a professional. If cost is a consideration, white titanium dioxide paint and aluminum sheets are the best choices. They are inexpensive, easy to apply, and require little maintenance.