Part 1

Why go light for home exteriors?  Cool it off!

Choosing light colours for the outside of our homes helps reduce heat absorption. This is important as our temperatures climb due to climate change.

Think of the white buildings of Greece –  roofing, siding and trim. White cools because it reflects the sun.  A white roof helps reduce the heat in our attics making it easier to keep our homes cool in summer (and additionally, reduces thaw/freeze in winter, and may add snow cover insulation).

A local homeowner reported that their dark green asphalt roof had summer attic temperatures up to 52C when the outside temperature was 35C. After installing a white metal roof, the attic temperature was the same as outside.

Now their home is warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer thanks to their white roof and R62 insulation in the attic.

Choosing lighter colours helps moderate temps in our homes and when more homes do it, the neighbourhood benefits.

Find more great information at greenvalues.cnt.org

Submitted by EK Climate Hub.

Article Share