Solar Reflective Coating

Solaflect solar reflective coatings, from RIW Limited, have been providing solar protection to roof membranes for over 25 years. The Solaflect range was specifically designed to improve the life span and efficiency of roofing membranes. Solaflect solar reflective coating is suitable for application to asphalt, bitumen, single ply, metal decking, felt and asbestos cement roofing systems, in both horizontal and pitched roof applications.

Passive Air Conditioning

Tests carried out by Cardiff University have shown that Solaflect solar reflective coating achieves an 85% solar reflectivity, throughout the solar spectrum. The Solaflect coating reduces roof level temperatures and subsequent thermal movement, so preventing damage to the roof membrane and structure. The reduced roof surface temperatures obtained as a result of using the Solaflect can also lower temperatures in the living or factory space below.

This reduces air conditioning costs or at least offers a more pleasant working environment. Tests carried out on a roof in California showed a reduction in roof temperatures from 135oF to 80oF after application of the Solafect solar reflective coating product. This reduced energy consumption by 50%.

Problems

In common with other roof types, a flat roof will have a shorter useful life if it is not properly protected with a solar reflective coating or finish. These coatings will reduce temperature fluctuation caused by solar heat gain. The use of a solar reflective coating will also reduce UV light attack, preventing ageing and loss of elasticity.

Physical and chemical attack from industrial or environmental contamination can also be prevented by application of these kind of coatings. When choosing a solar reflective coating, care should be taken to ensure that the coating selected does not damage the roof membrane. Aluminium coatings can attack the surfaces they are protecting and emulsion base coatings can breakdown where surface water accumulates.

The Solaflect range of solar reflective coatings has neither of these technical problems and provides long lasting, safe solar reflective properties.