I had my roof painted with reflective paint because I was looking for a way to cool our house down without relying on air conditioning. We live in an old Queenslander in West End which is hard to air condition as it “leaks” cool air. I also knew that operating air conditioners was going to get much more expensive over time.
I did a lot of research on bulk insulation, foil insulation and the reflective paint options. I discounted most insulation products and companies very quickly as they did not seem to understand the requirements in tropical environments where it is all about keeping heat out of your house.
The effect of the paint was dramatic. We used to feel the heat being radiated down from the ceiling which was warm to touch. Now, the inside temperature of the house is quite acceptable and we have reduced our air conditioner use to night time only during exceptionally hot periods. Coupling the white roof with a PV solar system and energy efficient behaviour we have reduced our electricity bills to less than half what they were five years ago despite the huge price increases sine then.
I would thoroughly recommend reflective paint for houses in the tropics. As with anything do your research, use a local company who you can go back to if anything goes wrong, and find some references if possible.”