The Reflective Roof Coatings Institute shared the results of its 3-year solar reflectance field study June 22, 2011, at the Mid-Year Technical Meeting in Orlando, Fla. This study measured the impact of various factors on the loss of solar reflectance of roof coatings over time. RRCI’s purpose for this study was to measure impact of roof substrate type and texture, roof coating chemistry and roof coating thickness on roof coating solar reflectance with aging.
As a result of this 3-year field study the RRCI has recommended to the Cool Roof Rating Council that aluminum test panels continue as the substrate of choice for testing field-applied roof coatings solar reflectance change over time. In addition the RRCI is recommending the CRRC reduce the testing exposure time for field-applied coatings from 3 year duration to one year of exposure.
RRCI’s conclusions from this 3-year field study beyond those stated above conclude that the substrate textures and chemistry demonstrated a relatively small effect on new and aged solar reflectance. Furthermore neither substrate texture or substrate chemistry or the combining influence of both factors produce aged SR values less than the current Energy Star and California Energy Commission accepted minimums.
For more information on the field study, please visit the RRCI website at www.therrci.org. Contact RRCI Headquarters with any questions at 816.221.1297.
RRCI’s mission is to promote the benefits of reflective roof coatings in extending the life of roof systems while reducing energy consumption and demand for the building envelope. RRCI supports the highest standards in product promotion, application training and product performance within the reflective roof coating industry, as well as promote the development and research of data relating to the application, performance and value of reflective roof coatings. It is the goal of RRCI to advance the best interests of the reflective roof coatings industry through industry meetings, papers and liaisons with allied roofing associations.
