How does reflective roofing affect energy demand?

• A. It increases heating energy requirements
• B. It reduces daylight access
• C. It reduces cooling energy demand by lowering roof temperatures
• D. It has no effect

Answer: (C)

Reflective roofing reduces cooling energy demand by lowering roof temperatures. With high solar reflectance, the roof bounces more sunlight away, so it absorbs less heat and stays cooler. That cooler roof translates to less heat transfer into the building, meaning the cooling system doesn’t have to work as hard to keep interiors comfortable. The result is lower energy use for air conditioning, especially in hot, sunny climates. It doesn’t affect daylight access, and claiming no effect wouldn’t reflect the actual impact on cooling loads. In colder climates, there can be a modest heating trade-off, but the primary energy benefit highlighted in practice is the reduction in cooling demand.