Cool roofs are required on most new non-residential buildings in California, but the regulation may be worsening smog.
Cool roofs combat the urban heat island effect by reflecting heat back into the atmosphere. But they also reflect more ultra-violet (UV) light back into the atmosphere, creating more favorable conditions for the chemical reaction that forms ozone or smog.
Southern California would violate federal particulate matter standards for an additional two days a year if cool roofs are widely adopted throughout the region, according to a study by the state’s South Coast Air Quality Management District. Smog would also worsen, especially in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
Nevertheless, a researcher for the air quality district said the benefits of cool roofs including lower energy bills, reduced energy consumption, and fewer people suffering from heat-related illnesses would likely outweigh the drawbacks.
Related Stories
Lighting | Apr 5, 2016
Lighting requirements for high-rise dwellings proposed for energy standard
The requirements would effectively eliminate incandescent and halogen bulbs.
Steel Buildings | Apr 4, 2016
AISI publishes Cold-Formed Steel Framing Design Guide, 2016 Edition
Updates 2007 edition; includes five comprehensive design examples.
Data Centers | Apr 1, 2016
ASHRAE releases publication on the impact of IT equipment on data center design
The book offers advice for designing structures in the fast-changing data center industry.
Codes and Standards | Mar 28, 2016
Occupant egress simulations that impact codes fall short, researchers say
Building evacuations in emergencies are too dangerous as a result.
School Construction | Mar 28, 2016
National report on school buildings reports $46 billion annual funding shortfall
Millions of students said to be learning in obsolete facilities.
Codes and Standards | Mar 25, 2016
ASHRAE grants fund human thermal comfort database project
Aim is to help better understand thermal comfort in residential and commercial buildings.
Codes and Standards | Mar 25, 2016
OSHA finalizes new silica dust regulations
Construction industry has until June 2017 to comply.
Wood | Mar 23, 2016
APA updates Engineered Wood Construction Guide
Provides recommendations on engineered wood construction systems.
Codes and Standards | Mar 23, 2016
Affordable housing advocates differ on micro-apartment policy
New York’s luxury micro units could be first step to developing affordable units.
Codes and Standards | Mar 21, 2016
GRESB launches Health and Well-being Module for real estate industry
Optional supplement to environmental, social, and governance assessment.