Reflective/ Aluminum Roof Coating

What is reflective roof coating and what are the benefits?

Reflective roof coating is protective coating that can be applied to roofs to keep a home cool without having to use as much air conditioning which can account for one-sixth of our electric bills.  In the particularly hot summer months our costs can become astronomical.

Reflective roof coating is also called aluminum coating, since the materials used have high albedo, or ability to reflect the sunlight.

Reflective roof coatings have other benefits as well: they can increase efficiency in some air conditioning and ventilation units on the roof and because UV radiation expedites roof ageing, they also slow roof decay. These special coatings work by reflecting the sun's light and releasing absorbed heat.

Reflective roof coating is most effective for flat roofs because flat roofs usually absorb more energy than slanted roofs. The effectiveness also varies with the thickness and color of the coating, with lighter colors and thicker coatings being significantly more effective. In fact, bright white reflective coatings can have a solar reflectance of 85 percent and cut a roof's cooling load up to 70 percent.

Reflective roof coatings can be made from various materials. Paint-on coatings include acrylic paints, polyurethane, and elastomeric. These types of coatings do not require professional installation. Single-ply reflective sheets made from plastic, PVC, or rubber are effective, as are reflective roof tiles made from concrete, clay, or metal. In terms of total cost (raw price, installation fees, and maintenance fees), white titanium dioxide paint and aluminum sheets are the best choice. However, elastomeric and acrylic coatings reflect a higher fraction of solar energy. Longevity of the material used should also be considered.

No matter which materials are used, most homeowners who employ reflective roof coating experience cooler indoor temperatures and lower cooling costs.

For a free estimate and to prepare your roof for the summer months contact Boyd Construction Co Inc today!