roof and cooling

Controlling heat gains at the roof and ceiling level is extremely important in cooling strategies. Heat gains at the top of the house can be responsible for up to 50% of the home’s cooling demands.

Reflective insulation and reflective coatings are key elements to get roof cooling. But there are other elements to take into account, depending on climate…

Roof cooling in temperate and cold climates

Roof cooling strategies in cold and temperate climates involve attic insulation, reflective membranes-materials and the colors… The specifics depend on the type of roof.

In cold climates, reflective insulation is rather dispensable. It’s more cost effective to install higher levels of common insulation: fiberglass, sprayed foam, cellulose, mineral wool.

Roof cooling in hot climates

Most roof cooling strategies in hot climates involve lots of reflective insulation and adequate roof ventilation. In hotter climates (tropical and hot humid) fly roofs should also be considered. In hot dry climates, you may also consider evaporative cooling at the roof level.

The roof color is also important. For cooling purposes, bet in roofs with white and light colors. They are much more energy-efficient

Ventilation in hot climates

Roof ventilation is crucial in most cooling strategies, namely in hot climates. Ensuring it in the attic space is a basic.

Attic ventilation

Attic insulation is particularly important in strategies for cold and temperate climates. See: Attic insulation

Membranes and coating

Consider roof coatings and membranes for roof cooling in temperate and cold climates. They are easy to install and a cheap way to reduce roof overheating and high air-conditioning costs. See: Roof coating and membranes

Membranes and coatings can help in hot climates, but the most effective roof cooling strategies use reflective insulation surfaces. These type of insulation (often known as radiant barriers or RFL: Reflective Foil Laminates) is, in most cases, a shiny aluminum foil laminated onto paper or plastic.

See, for more details: Reflective insulation

Overhangs

Overhangs are an important element for cooling. Pay attention to them, whatever your climate.

See also: Metal and ceramic roofs.

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