It is getting tougher and more costly to beat the heat in india as the summers get longer and hotter, especially in towns that are crowded with metal and concrete. Not all households can afford air conditioners, particularly those with modest incomes. Because of this, a very straightforward concept—painting rooftops white—is becoming popular across the nation.
This method, known as "cool roofing," may seem too simple to do, yet it helps keep homes a few degrees cooler without consuming any electricity. It's low-tech, reasonably priced, and has a significant impact.
So, what exactly is a cool roof?
Consider this: Wearing black on a sunny day makes you feel hotter, doesn't it? The reason for this is that darker hues tend to absorb more heat. Now picture the same thing happening to your roof. The temperature of a typical concrete or metal roof might reach 65°C or higher. But a roof painted white? It can drop by up to 28°C.
Without a single fan, cool roofs drastically reduce indoor temperatures by reflecting sunlight rather than absorbing it. Source of image: BBC
That's what a cool roof is all about. Rooftops that have been painted with a specific white or reflective paint reflect sunlight rather than absorbing it. The outcome? Even without fans or air conditioners operating all day, there are cooler chambers underground.
What's the big deal?
Even a 2–5°C dip indoors can make a big difference for families living in compact or poorly ventilated homes. Cool roofs are assisting with the following:
The most obvious advantage is lower interior temperatures. During the hottest hours, homes become substantially more comfortable.
Lower electricity costs: More money is saved when fans and coolers are not needed.
Improved comfort and sleep: Locals say they sleep better and are less tired.
Impact on the environment: Lower electricity use also translates into lower emissions. Both the environment and your house will benefit from it.
The 'urban heat island' effect: Compared to rural areas, cities tend to trap more heat. Some of that heat is reflected off of white rooftops.
This method, known as "cool roofing," may seem too simple to do, yet it helps keep homes a few degrees cooler without consuming any electricity. It's low-tech, reasonably priced, and has a significant impact.
So, what exactly is a cool roof?
Consider this: Wearing black on a sunny day makes you feel hotter, doesn't it? The reason for this is that darker hues tend to absorb more heat. Now picture the same thing happening to your roof. The temperature of a typical concrete or metal roof might reach 65°C or higher. But a roof painted white? It can drop by up to 28°C.
Without a single fan, cool roofs drastically reduce indoor temperatures by reflecting sunlight rather than absorbing it. Source of image: BBC
That's what a cool roof is all about. Rooftops that have been painted with a specific white or reflective paint reflect sunlight rather than absorbing it. The outcome? Even without fans or air conditioners operating all day, there are cooler chambers underground.
What's the big deal?
Even a 2–5°C dip indoors can make a big difference for families living in compact or poorly ventilated homes. Cool roofs are assisting with the following:
The most obvious advantage is lower interior temperatures. During the hottest hours, homes become substantially more comfortable.
Lower electricity costs: More money is saved when fans and coolers are not needed.
Improved comfort and sleep: Locals say they sleep better and are less tired.
Impact on the environment: Lower electricity use also translates into lower emissions. Both the environment and your house will benefit from it.
The 'urban heat island' effect: Compared to rural areas, cities tend to trap more heat. Some of that heat is reflected off of white rooftops.
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