Cool Roof Coatings & Paints Checklist
This checklist ensures you cover the basics and start with a clear understanding of your needs before choosing a cool roof coating or paint. A comprehensive cool roof coating checklist ensures that the chosen solution aligns with the users and building’s needs, performs effectively, and provides long-term value. Super Therm® covers all the considerations needed by clients to deliver key performance requirements. By addressing every aspect of selection, installation, maintenance, and performance monitoring, the checklist helps validate that the roof delivers measurable benefits such as energy savings, comfort, durability, and sustainability.
- Roof colour: Light or white roofs have a higher solar reflectance, which means they absorb less light converted to heat from the sun. Colour doesn’t block the sun’s infrared heat.
- Thermal emittance: The ratio or how well a cool roof releases the heat it absorbs. This is especially important in warm and sunny climates, however the heat released is still absorbed to the underside.
- Heat Block ratio: What is the difference between the ambient temperature and the inside roof surface temperature.
Difference between Solar Reflective Paint and Thermal Insulation Coatings
Solar Reflective Paint:
- Function: Reflects sunlight (visible and some infrared rays) to reduce heat absorption.
- Key Property: High solar reflectance, which keeps the roof cooler by bouncing sunlight away.
- Primary Use: Effective for surfaces exposed to direct sunlight, mainly in hot climates.
- Limitation: Effectiveness diminishes over time due to dirt or discoloration, and it doesn’t block heat transfer if sunlight penetrates.
Thermal Insulation Coating:
- Function: Blocks heat transfer by addressing all forms of heat (visible light, infrared, and conductive heat).
- Key Property: Contains advanced compounds (e.g., ceramics) that prevent heat from being absorbed and transferred.
- Primary Use: Provides year-round insulation, working in hot and cold climates.
- Advantage: Works regardless of dirt or wear, as it blocks heat rather than just reflecting light.
Solar reflective paint focuses on bouncing sunlight off the surface, while thermal insulation coatings like Super Therm® reduce heat transfer substantially, offering more comprehensive and durable thermal protection.
Cool Roof Checklist
1. Identifying Your Needs for Cool Roofs
1. Identifying Your Needs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Climate: | ||
| Is your climate hot, cold, or mixed? | ||
| Do you need cooling for summer or heating for winter? | ||
| Goals: | ||
| Do you want to reduce energy bills? | ||
| Are you looking to improve indoor comfort? | ||
| Is extending your roof's lifespan important to you? | ||
| Are you aiming to lower your environmental impact? | ||
| Roof Type: | ||
| Is your roof flat, sloped, metal, or made of metal, tiles or concrete? | ||
| Budget: | ||
| Can you afford the upfront cost of a cool roof? | ||
| Are you considering long-term savings on energy and maintenance? | ||
| Building Use: | ||
| Is the building residential, commercial, industrial, or non-heated (e.g., warehouse)? | ||
| Do you need comfort or durability for specific uses? | ||
| Sustainability and Health: | ||
| Do you have sustainability goals, like reducing your carbon footprint? | ||
| Are there safety requirements, such as food processing standards? |
2. Ensuring Proper Product Selection for Cool Roofs
2. Ensuring Proper Product Selection for Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Performance: | ||
| Does the product reflect sunlight and block heat effectively? | ||
| Does it include advanced features like infrared heat blocking (e.g., Super Therm®)? | ||
| Durability: | ||
| Is the product designed to last 15-25 years with minimal maintenance? | ||
| Can it withstand UV exposure, weather extremes, and environmental stress? | ||
| Compatibility: | ||
| Is it suitable for your roof type (flat, sloped, metal, tiles, fibreglass, shingles)? | ||
| Can it be applied to both new and existing roofs? | ||
| Sustainability: | ||
| Is the product environmentally friendly, with low VOC content? | ||
| Does it support your energy efficiency or carbon reduction goals? | ||
| Safety: | ||
| Does it meet local or international standards (e.g., USDA-approved for food-related use | ||
| Is it suitable for specific applications, like incidental food contact or potable water? | ||
| Ease of Application: | ||
| Can it be applied easily, with proper preparation and minimal disruption? | ||
| Does it require certified professionals for installation? | ||
| Aesthetics: | ||
| Does it offer colours or finishes that complement your building design? | ||
| Will it maintain its appearance over time, even with dirt or weather exposure? | ||
| Proven Results: | ||
| Has the product been tested and validated in different climates and applications? | ||
| Are there case studies or testimonials demonstrating its effectiveness? | ||
| Are there independent ASTM testing results? | ||
| Is the product ISO tested or have quality standards? |
3. Evaluating Specific Benefits for Cool Roofs
3. Evaluating Specific Benefits
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Heat Blocking: | ||
| Does it block infrared heat, as well as visible and UV radiation? Valid ASTM Testing? | ||
| Energy Efficiency: | ||
| Does it significantly reduce cooling demand and lower energy bills? | ||
| Can it help achieve carbon reduction and sustainability goals? | ||
| Durability: | ||
| Is the paint or coating long-lasting, with a lifespan of 15-25 years? | ||
| Can it withstand extreme weather, UV rays, and environmental stress? | ||
| Versatility: | ||
| Is it compatible with various roof types (metal, shingles, tiles, concrete, and flat roofs)? | ||
| Can it also be applied to walls, HVAC ducts, and storage tanks etc? | ||
| Additional Benefits: | ||
| Does it provide sound reduction for acoustic insulation? | ||
| Does it prevent moisture penetration, offering corrosion protection for metal surfaces? | ||
| Is it fire-resistant, enhancing building safety? | ||
| Eco-Friendliness: | ||
| Is it water-based with low VOC content, making it environmentally safe? | ||
| Does its lightweight application (0.25 mm dry) simplify installation? | ||
| Safety and Compliance: | ||
| Is it USDA-approved for incidental food contact in food processing environments? | ||
| Can it be used in potable water environments after proper curing? | ||
| Proven Track Record: | ||
| Has it been tested and validated globally, with success in various climates and industries? | ||
| Are there documented case studies showcasing its performance and cost-saving benefits? |
4. Installation and Application for Cool Roofs
4. Installation and Application for Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Surface Preparation: | ||
| Is the roof surface cleaned of dirt, grease, and debris? | ||
| Has the surface been properly primed (if required) for optimal adhesion? | ||
| Product Application: | ||
| Is the coating applied to the recommended thickness (e.g., 0.25 mm or 250 microns dry for Super Therm®)? | ||
| Are the application methods (e.g., spray, roller, or brush) aligned with manufacturer guidelines? | ||
| Is the product evenly applied to avoid gaps or inconsistencies? | ||
| Environmental Conditions: | ||
| Are the temperature and humidity levels suitable for application (as per product guidelines)? | ||
| Is the weather forecast clear of rain or extreme conditions during and shortly after application? | ||
| Professional Expertise: | ||
| Is the application performed by certified professionals or experienced installers? | ||
| Are workers trained in safety protocols for handling and applying cool roof coatings? | ||
| Curing Time: | ||
| Is the product allowed sufficient time to cure as recommended (e.g., 21 days for potable water use)? | ||
| Is the curing process protected from debris, moisture, or harsh weather? | ||
| Compatibility: | ||
| Does the coating adhere well to the existing roof material (metal, tiles, asphalt, concrete, etc.)? | ||
| Is the roof inspected for cracks, leaks, or damage prior to application? | ||
| Inspection and Quality Assurance: | ||
| Is a post-application inspection conducted to ensure even coverage and proper thickness? | ||
| Are any touch-ups or corrections made as needed? | ||
| Documentation: | ||
| Are application details (thickness, conditions, and installer information) documented for warranty purposes? | ||
| Is a maintenance schedule provided for long-term performance? |
5. Maintenance and Longevity for Cool Roofs
5. Maintenance and Longevity for Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Regular Cleaning: | ||
| Is the roof cleaned periodically to remove dirt, debris, and algae? | ||
| Are gentle cleaning methods (e.g., soft washing) used to avoid damaging the coating? | ||
| Inspection Schedule: | ||
| Are visual inspections conducted at least twice a year or after extreme weather events? | ||
| Are inspections focused on identifying cracks, peeling, fading, or damage to the coating? | ||
| Re-Coating and Repairs: | ||
| Are small cracks or damaged areas repaired promptly to prevent further degradation? | ||
| Is recoating considered when the reflectivity or thermal performance starts to decline (e.g., every 10–15 years)? | ||
| Environmental Protection: | ||
| Are nearby trees trimmed to minimise debris and shading that could affect performance? | ||
| Are gutters and drainage systems kept clear to avoid water pooling on the roof? | ||
| Monitoring Performance: | ||
| Are interior temperatures and energy savings periodically assessed to ensure continued efficiency? | ||
| Are HVAC system operations monitored to verify reduced cooling demand? | ||
| Adapting to Climate Changes: | ||
| Is the roof inspected for performance in extreme weather conditions (heatwaves, storms, or snow)? | ||
| Are additional protective measures (like insulation or secondary coatings) considered for changing environmental needs? | ||
| Warranty and Compliance: | ||
| Are maintenance activities documented to comply with warranty requirements? | ||
| Is the coating inspected periodically by certified professionals to maintain warranties? | ||
| Long-Term Planning: | ||
| Is there a plan for periodic maintenance and reapplication to maximise the roof’s lifespan (e.g., 15–25 years for Super Therm®)? | ||
| Are costs for repairs and upgrades included in the building’s long-term budget? |
6. Maximising Energy Efficiency for Cool Roofs
6. Maximising Energy Efficiency for Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Proper Installation: | ||
| Is the roof coating applied to the recommended thickness for optimal performance? | ||
| Are installation and curing conditions (temperature, weather) optimal? | ||
| High-Performance Coatings: | ||
| Does the product include advanced features like infrared heat blocking (e.g., Super Therm®)? | ||
| Are materials selected for high solar reflectance and thermal emittance values? | ||
| Insulation Pairing: | ||
| Is high-quality insulation installed to reduce heat loss during colder months? | ||
| Are insulation and roofing solutions compatible for year-round performance? | ||
| Regular Maintenance: | ||
| Is the roof cleaned and inspected periodically to maintain reflectivity? | ||
| Are any damaged areas repaired promptly to avoid energy loss? | ||
| HVAC System Optimisation: | ||
| Are cooling and heating systems adjusted to reflect reduced energy demands? | ||
| Are HVAC systems regularly serviced to ensure maximum efficiency? | ||
| Energy Monitoring: | ||
| Are energy savings tracked to compare with pre-installation levels? | ||
| Is a monitoring system in place to measure ongoing energy use? | ||
| Building Features: | ||
| Are windows, doors, and other openings properly sealed to prevent energy leaks? | ||
| Are complementary energy-saving measures (e.g., reflective window films or LED lighting) implemented? | ||
| Leveraging Incentives: | ||
| Are local rebates, tax credits, or grants for energy-efficient roofing utilised? | ||
| Is the roof installation documented for compliance with energy efficiency certifications? | ||
| Climate-Specific Adjustments: | ||
| Is the roof designed or adapted for the specific climate (e.g., insulation for cold regions or high reflectivity for hot areas)? | ||
| Are hybrid solutions considered for mixed climates? | ||
| Long-Term Planning: | ||
| Is a maintenance schedule in place to ensure sustained energy efficiency over the roof’s lifespan? | ||
| Are periodic upgrades or recoatings planned to maintain peak performance? | ||
| Roof and Building Insulation: | ||
| Is the roof paired with high-quality insulation to prevent heat transfer during extreme seasons? | ||
| Are walls and other parts of the building also insulated for overall efficiency? | ||
| Climate-Specific Adjustments: | ||
| Are climate considerations (hot, cold, or mixed) factored into the choice of roofing materials? | ||
| Are adaptive solutions, such as infrared-blocking coatings, used for maximum performance in all conditions? | ||
| Maintenance: | ||
| Is the roof cleaned regularly to maintain reflectivity and thermal efficiency? | ||
| Are damaged areas promptly repaired to avoid reduced energy-saving performance? | ||
| HVAC Optimisation: | ||
| Is the HVAC system adjusted to align with the reduced cooling load from the cool roof? | ||
| Are HVAC systems monitored for lower energy consumption and improved efficiency? | ||
| Monitoring Energy Savings: | ||
| Are energy bills tracked before and after installation to measure savings? | ||
| Are tools like the EPA’s Cool Roof Savings Calculator used to estimate potential and actual savings? | ||
| Daylighting Benefits: | ||
| Are skylights or reflective interior features integrated to reduce lighting energy use? | ||
| Is the natural light distribution improved without increasing heat gain? | ||
| Urban Benefits: | ||
| If located in a city, does the cool roof help mitigate the urban heat island effect? | ||
| Are reduced cooling demands contributing to lower energy peaks in the local grid? | ||
| Sustainability Goals: | ||
| Does the cool roof contribute to building certifications, like LEED, or carbon reduction initiatives? | ||
| Are the energy savings aligned with broader sustainability objectives? | ||
| Advanced Technologies: | ||
| Does the paint or coating have a single component, basic formula or does it contain advanced formulations tested across many labs? |
7. Sustainability and Environmental Impact for Cool Roofs
7. Sustainability and Environmental Impact for Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Energy Reduction: | ||
| Does the cool roof significantly reduce energy consumption for cooling and heating? | ||
| Are energy savings tracked and reported to measure impact over time? | ||
| Greenhouse Gas Emissions: | ||
| Does the roof contribute to lower carbon emissions by reducing energy use? | ||
| Is the product aligned with local or global climate goals (e.g., net-zero targets)? | ||
| Environmentally Friendly Materials: | ||
| Is the product water-based and low in VOCs, ensuring minimal environmental harm? | ||
| Are the materials recyclable or designed to reduce waste? | ||
| Heat Island Mitigation: | ||
| Does the roof help reduce ambient temperatures in urban areas, alleviating the urban heat island effect? | ||
| Are there documented local benefits from heat reduction, such as improved air quality? | ||
| Durability and Waste Reduction: | ||
| Does the roof’s extended lifespan reduce the frequency of replacements and associated waste? | ||
| Are repairs and maintenance minimised to prevent excess material use? | ||
| Water and Moisture Management: | ||
| Does the roof prevent water pooling and promote efficient drainage to avoid environmental hazards? | ||
| Is it suitable for applications that involve potable water (if applicable)? | ||
| Sustainability Certifications: | ||
| Does the product meet sustainability certifications or standards (e.g., LEED, USDA)? | ||
| Are these certifications leveraged to enhance building compliance and reputation? | ||
| Adaptability to Climate Change: | ||
| Is the roof designed to withstand extreme weather, including heatwaves and heavy storms? | ||
| Does it perform well in diverse climatic conditions to support long-term resilience? | ||
| Complementary Sustainable Practices: | ||
| Are additional energy-saving systems, such as solar panels or reflective window films, integrated with the roof? | ||
| Are insulation and ventilation systems optimised for year-round efficiency? | ||
| Community and Global Benefits: | ||
| Does the cool roof contribute to local sustainability initiatives or energy efficiency programs? |
8. Confirming Global Validation for Cool Roofs
8. Confirming Global Validation for Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Proven Performance: | ||
| Has the product been tested in diverse climates (hot, cold, humid, and arid)? | ||
| Are results documented showing effectiveness in reducing heat, energy costs, and environmental impact? | ||
| Real-World Applications: | ||
| Are there case studies or testimonials from customers in similar environments or industries? | ||
| Has the product been successfully used in residential, commercial, or industrial settings? | ||
| International Compliance: | ||
| Does the product meet global standards for energy efficiency, safety, and sustainability? | ||
| Is it recognised or certified by authoritative bodies (e.g., USDA, LEED, Energy Star)? | ||
| Versatility Across Regions: | ||
| Is the product adaptable to extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves or freezing temperatures? | ||
| Has it been validated for use in urban, rural, and coastal settings? | ||
| End-User Success: | ||
| Are there measurable outcomes from users, such as reduced cooling costs, lower energy consumption, and improved comfort? | ||
| Have long-term benefits, like durability and reduced maintenance costs, been demonstrated? | ||
| Reputation in Industry: | ||
| Is the product widely adopted or endorsed by professionals in construction, energy, or sustainability sectors? | ||
| Are major projects or companies showcasing its use as a benchmark for performance? | ||
| Environmental Impact: | ||
| Does the product have a proven track record of reducing greenhouse gas emissions? | ||
| Are its sustainability claims backed by independent testing or certifications? | ||
| Global Adaptation: | ||
| Has the product been applied successfully in diverse industries (e.g., manufacturing, healthcare, transportation)? | ||
| Does it provide consistent results across varying building types and designs? | ||
| Innovation and Longevity: | ||
| Is the product recognised for advancing cool roof technologies, such as infrared heat blocking or enhanced durability? | ||
| Are its features designed to perform well over its full expected lifespan? | ||
| Transparent Results: | ||
| Are testing reports, certifications, and validation data available and easily accessible? | ||
| Does the product’s manufacturer provide ongoing support, updates, or performance metrics? |
9. Health and Safety Considerations for Cool Roofs
9. Health and Safety Considerations for Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Safety Certifications: | ||
| Is the product certified by recognised authorities (e.g., USDA, LEED, Energy Star)? | ||
| Does it meet local health and safety standards, especially for specific applications like food processing areas? | ||
| Material Safety: | ||
| Is the product low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds), ensuring minimal indoor air pollution? | ||
| Are all chemical components non-toxic and safe for the intended environment? | ||
| Fire Resistance: | ||
| Does the product provide fire-resistant properties, enhancing building safety? | ||
| Is it compliant with fire safety codes for your region? | ||
| Food Safety: | ||
| If used in food processing facilities, is the product approved for incidental food contact (e.g., USDA-approved coatings)? | ||
| Are application and curing processes suitable for food-safe environments? | ||
| Potable Water Safety: | ||
| Can the product be safely used in potable water applications once fully cured (e.g., after 21 days for Super Therm®)? | ||
| Is it not recommended for direct internal contact with drinking water systems, if applicable? | ||
| Environmental Health: | ||
| Is the product eco-friendly, avoiding harmful chemicals that may impact the surrounding environment? | ||
| Does it minimise runoff risks during application or cleaning? | ||
| Worker Safety: | ||
| Are installers provided with proper safety instructions and personal protective equipment (PPE)? | ||
| Is the product application process safe and manageable under standard working conditions? | ||
| Indoor Air Quality: | ||
| Does the product prevent off-gassing or emissions that could harm indoor air quality? | ||
| Is it suitable for use in buildings where sensitive individuals (e.g., children, elderly, or individuals with allergies) are present? | ||
| Health Benefits: | ||
| Does the product contribute to a healthier indoor environment by reducing heat, humidity, and related health risks? | ||
| Does it help maintain comfortable temperatures during extreme heat, reducing heat-related illnesses? | ||
| Compliance Documentation: | ||
| Are health and safety compliance certificates available for review? |
10. Monitoring Performance of Cool Roofs
10. Monitoring Performance of Cool Roofs
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Temperature Tracking: | ||
| Are roof surface temperatures measured regularly to confirm cooling performance? | ||
| Are interior temperatures monitored, especially in spaces directly under the roof? | ||
| Energy Consumption: | ||
| Is energy usage tracked to compare cooling and heating costs before and after installation? | ||
| Are seasonal variations in energy savings documented? | ||
| Reflectivity and Heat Blocking: | ||
| Are reflectivity and emissivity levels tested periodically to ensure they meet manufacturer specifications? | ||
| Is infrared heat blocking effectiveness maintained over time (e.g., with coatings like Super Therm®)? | ||
| HVAC System Efficiency: | ||
| Is HVAC system performance monitored to verify reduced cooling or heating demands? | ||
| Are HVAC operating times and maintenance costs decreasing as expected? | ||
| Maintenance Inspection: | ||
| Are regular inspections conducted to identify dirt, damage, or wear that could impact performance? | ||
| Are repairs or cleaning completed promptly to restore optimal functionality? | ||
| Environmental Impact: | ||
| Is the roof’s role in reducing urban heat island effects or improving air quality evaluated? | ||
| Are greenhouse gas reductions calculated based on energy savings? | ||
| Durability and Lifespan: | ||
| Are signs of degradation (e.g., peeling, fading, or cracks) monitored? | ||
| Is the roof performing as expected for its projected lifespan (e.g., 15-25 years for Super Therm®)? | ||
| User Feedback: | ||
| Are building occupants satisfied with indoor comfort levels post-installation? | ||
| Are any temperature or energy concerns raised and addressed? | ||
| Data Analysis and Reporting: | ||
| Are performance metrics, such as energy savings and temperature reductions, recorded systematically? | ||
| Are reports generated for stakeholders to demonstrate the roof’s efficiency and ROI? | ||
| Adjustments and Optimisation: | ||
| Are adjustments made to insulation, HVAC systems, or roof coatings as needed to maximise performance? |
11. Key Checklist Components
11. Key Checklist Components
| SUPER THERM | CONSIDERATION | NOTES |
| Identifying Needs: | ||
| Understand the local climate and building use. | ||
| Define energy, comfort, and sustainability goals. | ||
| Proper Product Selection: | ||
| Choose materials with proven durability, compatibility, and energy-saving properties. | ||
| Ensure compliance with global standards and certifications. | ||
| Evaluating Specific Benefits: | ||
| Confirm features like infrared heat blocking, acoustic insulation, corrosion resistance, and fire safety. | ||
| Installation and Application: | ||
| Ensure proper preparation, application, and curing for optimal performance. | ||
| Maintenance and Longevity: | ||
| Schedule regular cleaning, inspections, and repairs to maintain efficiency. | ||
| Maximising Energy Efficiency: | ||
| Pair with insulation, monitor energy use, and optimise HVAC systems. | ||
| Sustainability and Environmental Impact: | ||
| Validate eco-friendliness, waste reduction, and greenhouse gas minimisation. | ||
| Global Validation: | ||
| Confirm the product’s success across climates and industries with case studies and certifications. | ||
| Health and Safety: | ||
| Verify non-toxicity, low VOCs, fire resistance, and suitability for specific uses like food-safe environments. | ||
| Performance Monitoring: | ||
| Track temperatures, energy savings, and durability metrics for continued performance validation. |
The Value of Ensuring the Right Coating
- Energy Savings: The right coating, such as Super Therm®, can reduce cooling energy costs by 15–30%, significantly lowering utility bills.
- Durability: Premium coatings protect against environmental stressors, extending the roof’s lifespan and reducing long-term repair and replacement costs.
- Comfort and Health: Efficient coatings stabilise indoor temperatures, reduce heat-related risks, and improve air quality.
- Sustainability: By lowering energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, cool roofs contribute to environmental goals and combat urban heat islands.
- Compliance: Certified coatings meet international standards, ensuring safety and eligibility for rebates and incentives.
- Return on Investment (ROI): The long-term benefits, including energy savings, durability, and reduced maintenance, deliver measurable financial returns.
- Adaptability: Advanced coatings work in various climates, ensuring consistent performance whether in hot, cold, or mixed environments.
Using the right cool roof coating or paint as a complete solution goes beyond immediate energy savings. It ensures a durable, sustainable, and health-conscious investment that enhances building performance, reduces costs, and aligns with environmental and regulatory standards. A comprehensive checklist empowers decision-makers to select, install, and maintain a solution that meets both short- and long-term goals, proving that cool roofs are not just a product but a pivotal part of future-proofing any structure.
