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 | Oct 7, 2019
New seismic standard to evaluate, retrofit existing structural steel buildings open for review
AISC seeks input through Nov. 4.
Codes and Standards | Sep 27, 2019
Open source tool allows comparison of embodied carbon emissions from construction materials
Enables carbon-smart choices during material specification and procurement.
Codes and Standards | Sep 27, 2019
AIA declaration: Climate change requires ‘holistic approach’
Must address interdependencies among people, buildings, infrastructure, and the environment.
Codes and Standards | Sep 26, 2019
San Jose’s new building energy code is the most stringent among large cities
New regulations aim to make zero-emission electric buildings the norm.
Codes and Standards | Sep 26, 2019
Building support for climate action depends on linking it to health, economic benefits
USGBC report finds most people don’t think environmental problems significant enough to prioritize action.
Codes and Standards | Sep 20, 2019
OSHA has a new chief for its construction directorate
Former Army medical staffer Scott Ketcham has extensive OSHA experience.
Codes and Standards | Sep 20, 2019
American Wood Council updates free Connection Calculator
Tool includes cross-laminated timber connection provisions and post-frame ring shank nails.
Codes and Standards | Sep 19, 2019
Virtual reconnaissance of Bahamas finds some structures performed well during Dorian
Amid devastation, lives likely saved by resilient buildings.
Codes and Standards | Sep 19, 2019
Obama-era Waters of the U.S. rule revoked
New rule expected to define protected waterways more narrowly.
Codes and Standards | Sep 17, 2019
California will enact rent cap bill limiting rent increases to 5% plus inflation
Applies to apartments built at least 15 years ago.