Insulating Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles absorb heat…they are a Thermal Mass!
The design of most concrete and concrete tiles (including terracotta). With regular roof painting or roof restoration a concrete tiled roof can virtually last a very long time, however the average tiled home owner is rarely this proactive in roof maintenance and restoration.
In summer, a building with concrete surfaces can experience increased internal temperatures due to concrete’s high thermal mass. This effect can lead to:
- Higher Cooling Costs: As the concrete absorbs and stores heat from the sun, the interior of the building may become warmer, leading to increased use of air conditioning and, consequently, higher energy bills.
- Thermal Discomfort: The slow release of heat absorbed during the day can make the building uncomfortable for occupants, especially during the night when it is expected to cool down.
- Increased Energy Demand: The need for cooling to maintain comfortable temperatures inside buildings contributes to higher overall energy demand, which can strain energy resources and increase greenhouse gas emissions.
Implementing energy-efficient designs and coatings can mitigate these effects, improving thermal comfort and reducing energy costs.
Trapped Heat in the Roof
Concrete roofs can trap heat in the roof space. The thermal mass of concrete allows it to absorb a significant amount of heat from sunlight. Without adequate insulation or ventilation, the heat absorbed by the roof during the day can be trapped in the roof space, causing temperatures to rise significantly. This heat can then radiate into living spaces below, increasing the interior temperature and leading to higher cooling costs.
Applying Super Therm® heat block insulation coating, on roof tiles can significantly help in blocking the heat load. Super Therm® is designed to reflect and block 96.1% of the solar spectrum, including visible light, ultraviolet (UV), and infrared (IR) rays, which are primarily responsible for heat buildup. By reflecting and blocking these rays, Super Therm® reduces the amount of heat absorbed by the roof tiles, thereby minimising the heat transfer into the roof space and subsequently into the building. This can lead to a cooler interior environment, reduce the need for air conditioning, and lead to energy savings. Additionally, it can contribute to extending the lifespan of the roof by protecting it from UV and heat damage.
Canberra Home Trial Proves Super Therm® Delivers Year-Round Heat Block and Breathability
Since August 2023, a Super Therm® trial in Rivett, Canberra, has been delivering standout thermal performance on a real residential roof. Applied over a concrete tiled home and topped with a dark “Woodland Grey” overcoat, Super Therm® still managed to cut peak roof temperatures by 12–14 °C compared to an uncoated neighbouring house. This is despite reduced solar reflectivity due to the darker colour – highlighting Super Therm’s strength in blocking infrared and conductive heat. Sensors recorded sustained thermal stability through day/night cycles, showing that even in a challenging mixed climate, Super Therm® reduces summer heat gain and helps retain warmth on cold mornings. No mechanical energy input. Just performance from the film itself!
Beyond heat control, the coating also proved Class 4 vapour-permeable (8.8 US Perms), making it ideal for breathable building envelopes. That means moisture escapes, but heat stays out (or in, seasonally). This balance prevents condensation – something most traditional insulation systems struggle with – especially in Canberra’s dry winters and humid springs. The test confirms Super Therm’s multi-functionality: insulation, infrared barrier, breathable membrane, and durable coating, all in a 0.25 mm layer. For builders and specifiers chasing performance, not marketing fluff, this real-world test validates Super Therm’s edge. See the Case Study.
Concrete Thermal Mass Cooling
Discover the ultimate solution for cooling concrete with Super Therm®! Our revolutionary coating blocks an impressive 96.1% of total solar heat, keeping your thermal mass cool even on scorching days. In this video, witness the incredible difference as we apply Super Therm® to a concrete house in Unley, South Australia.
Despite temperatures soaring over 40°C on the surface, the section treated with Super Therm® remains comfortably in the high 20s, while the unprotected area climbs even higher. By blocking the solar heat load from penetrating the surface, Super Therm® ensures your concrete stays below ambient temperature. Compared to surrounding materials, Super Therm® coated surfaces can be over 50% cooler than other materials, providing unparalleled comfort and energy efficiency. Ready to keep your concrete cool and save on energy costs? Learn more about Super Therm® insulation coating today!
