How Does Metal Roofing Act As A Reflector?

"Cool colors on metal, especially white, automatically reflect light just like clothing. White or light colored clothing keeps you cooler because it reflects light. If you wear a dark shirt it absorbs light and therefore heat. New technology has come out in our industry with paint pigments. The people who manufacture the pigment that goes into the paint are using what is called cool pigment. We are starting to rollover our entire paint line to adopt in these cool pigments. This means even when you have a dark color like black, the pigment in that black will reflect the infrared rays and therefore will not be absorbed. These rays and their heat are reflected into the ambient air temperature and not your attic, so it keeps your house cooler and reduces the work of your air conditioner." The thermal qualities of metal also make a house warmer in the winter by reflecting heat from the underside of the roof back into the home.

One of the new technologies in infrared reflecting paint pigments is a patented ceramic particle created by the Shepherd Color Company that is added to paint making any color light reflective, including black. These special pigments, called ARCTIC pigments, also qualify the roofs for an Energy Star label. Besides lowering energy costs associated with cooling systems, these roofs also protect attics and the underside of roofing by reducing the likelihood of the formation of condensation, which can corrode a number of surfaces over time. These new paints are also being used on walls, in attics, and on household appliances. They work by acting as refractors of light in the paint. With the advancement of paint and color technology, the possibility of color fading on metal roofs has also been reduced.

Metal roofing is energy efficient and environmentally friendly in other ways as well. The manufacturing process of metal roofing does not require the chemicals used in asphalt and composite shingles or other roofing materials, and because metal roofing lasts longer it eliminates the landfill space taken up by discarded shingles made from other materials. Metal roofing can also be recycled or manufactured from recycled material. Since metal is a natural resource, this is a very important factor.

If an energy efficient home is your goal, there are several other things you can do besides considering installing a metal roof. Your existing roof can be lined on the underside with an aluminum foil product that will help reflect heat and lower energy costs. You can use ceiling fans to circulate air and reduce the need for air conditioning. Installing a programmable thermostat is also a way to reduce unnecessary cooling costs because it allows you to raise the temperature when you are away from your home or sleeping. Planting trees strategically placed for shade is another good way to make your home more energy efficient. Painting the outside of your home a light color and making sure all opening and gaps are caulked are more good suggestions.