Cool pavements—reflective coatings or additives applied to concrete and asphalt—could have an unfortunate byproduct.
New research conducted in Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley examined the impact of pavements that had been mixed with a reflective additive. The finding: reflected energy from sunlight can make people walking on the pavement significantly hotter.
According to a researcher’s sensors, on a hot, dry day, a pedestrian could feel more than 7 degrees warmer on a “cool pavement,” compared to how he or she would feel on a standard blacktop. The standard dark pavement stores some of the energy and converts it into heat, while the cool pavement reflects more energy.
Studies support the notion that reflective surfaces can reduce the heat island effect by a few degrees in urban areas, but at least in the brightest times of the day, they can make people walking on them feel hotter. Since 2015, Los Angeles has covered about 50 city blocks in reflective coatings and seals, and plans to continue with this initiative.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Apr 28, 2021
Building-integrated solar power turns buildings into power plants
Multiple alternatives could replace or complement rack-mounted PV arrays.
Codes and Standards | Apr 27, 2021
Ten real estate groups sign on to New York State’s high-rise decarbonization challenge
Each signee commits to carbon neutrality in one or more high-rise buildings it owns.
Codes and Standards | Apr 26, 2021
Dozens of companies, organizations call for Congress to double Energy Star funding
Despite broad support, program’s budget has steadily declined in recent years.
Codes and Standards | Apr 22, 2021
Alabama fire chiefs oppose proposal to change school building code oversight
Bill would move code compliance control from state to local boards.
Codes and Standards | Apr 21, 2021
After dry winter, California ramps up wildfire prevention efforts
State to spend half a billion dollars on projects including making buildings more fire resistant.
Codes and Standards | Apr 20, 2021
U.S. electric grid is halfway to zero carbon
Other sectors including buildings lag power industry.
Codes and Standards | Apr 19, 2021
Failed landmark preservation effort in Chicago provides lessons for planners
Gentrification fears heightened among Pilsen neighborhood residents doomed ambitious preservation plan.
Codes and Standards | Apr 14, 2021
New Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment standard debuts in 2021
Will affect 250,000 commercial real estate deals a year.
Codes and Standards | Apr 13, 2021
British Columbia moves to accelerate mass timber construction
Province funds demonstration projects as part of economic recovery.
Codes and Standards | Apr 12, 2021
WoodWorks and Think Wood release first Mass Timber Design Manual
Interactive collection of information on mass timber products, design best practices, taller wood construction and sustainability.