What Is Heat-Reflecting Paint?
Heat-reflecting paint increases the solar reflectance of a building’s exterior walls, roof, and asphalt surfaces. When applied, this type of paint reflects sunlight at a high rate, thereby reducing temperature increases and preventing equipment deterioration.
Using heat-reflecting paint on a house enhances energy efficiency and can lead to savings on utility costs. Studies have shown that applying this paint to a roof can reduce indoor temperatures by about 1.8°C.
Distinct from heat-reflecting paint is “heat-insulating paint.” While heat-reflecting paint improves solar reflectance, insulating paint reduces thermal conductivity, making it effective against both heat and cold.
Uses of Heat-Reflecting Paints
Also known as high solar reflectance paint, heat-reflecting paint is utilized to reduce indoor air temperature by reflecting the sun’s heat. Its main applications include roofing, exterior walls, waterproof surfaces, and several other areas.
1. For Roofs / Exterior Walls
Roof and exterior wall-specific heat-reflecting paints are typically made from resins like urethane. Applying these paints to roofs and exterior walls helps to keep indoor temperatures cooler and also extends the lifespan of these surfaces.
2. For Waterproof Surfaces
Heat-reflecting paint is also used on flat roofs and balconies, where many of these paints also offer waterproofing properties.
3. Other Applications
Beyond roofs and walls, heat-reflecting paints are used in various settings, such as corridors and parking lots, to mitigate temperature rises. They are particularly beneficial in areas with intense summer sunlight. Roof types that benefit from these paints include straight-tiled roofs, metal roofs, vaulted structures, and high-rise buildings, which are more vulnerable to solar heat gain. In the agricultural sector, they are utilized in temperature-sensitive areas like warehouses for storing crops and grains and material storage spaces.