White roofs can be more effective at reducing the urban heat-island effect than darker roofs and roofs covered with plants, according to a report by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. White roofs also cost less.
The report, Economic Comparison of White, Green, and Black Flat Roofs In the United States,says that white roofs are three times more effective than green roofs at “cooling the globe.” Researchers analyzed 22 commercial flat roof projects in the U.S. and performed a 50-year life cycle cost analysis.
They assumed a 20-year service life for black roofs and white roofs, and 40 years for green roofs. White roofs save $25 per square meter compared to black roofs and green roofs cost $71 per square meter more compared to black roofs, the report says.
Green roofs provide benefits that white roofs do not offer, however, such as controlling runoff and curbing air pollution.
Related Stories
Roofing | May 16, 2016
New guide focused on increasing energy and structural performance with raised-heel trusses
Higher trusses simplify attic ventilation, leave more space for insulation.
Codes and Standards | May 11, 2016
Current California seismic codes provide safety, resiliency, but needed upgrades present challenge
Los Angeles requires seismic retrofits, but other cities do not.
Codes and Standards | May 10, 2016
Apple spars with Cupertino, Calif., mayor over strained city infrastructure
Apple’s new ‘spaceship’ campus project prompts questions about whether the company should pay more to offset traffic woes.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
Safety Stand-Down yields proposals to boost construction safety
One example: Gilbane encourages safety harnesses for all working above 6 feet.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2016
EcoDistricts unveils sustainable neighborhood framework
Focus is on equity, resilience, and climate protection.
School Construction | May 3, 2016
Florida clamps down on school construction spending
Critics fear rules will hamper ability to build schools with desired features.
Resiliency | May 2, 2016
Connecticut to develop new code standards for resiliency
Expected more frequent severe weather events due to climate change prompts review.
Contractors | Apr 29, 2016
OSHA issues advisory to protect workers from Zika virus
Construction industry workers considered at high risk.
Codes and Standards | Apr 28, 2016
New research finds 30 measures to significantly cut energy use
ASHRAE’s prescription cuts across all building types and climates.
Codes and Standards | Apr 27, 2016
Florida gives developers more time to install first responder radio signal systems
Expensive upgrades can be postponed for several years.
