You might think your roof simply keeps the rain off your head and the sun out of your living room. But your roof is actually working harder to keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, saving money on energy bills. That's where thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) come into play.
What Is a Thermal Barrier Coating?
Thermal barrier coatings are commonly used in industrial needs, specifically aircraft engines, to improve the efficiency of machinery, such as industrial gas turbines and gas turbine engines, as well as engine components. However, thermal barrier coatings are also part of your building envelope, used to make roofs more energy-efficient and durable and improve high thermal conductivity.
In the simplest terms, a thermal barrier coating is a layer of material applied to your roof to improve its ability to resist heat transfer. These coatings act as a shield that helps to reflect the sun's intense heat away from your roof, keeping the inside of your home cooler.
Australia, where we experience hot summers and unpredictable weather, an extra layer of protection on your roof can make your home more comfortable – and the air healthier – year-round.
How Do Thermal Barrier Coatings Work?
Thermal barrier surface and coatings technology prevent heat transfer. There are three main ways heat travels: conduction, convection, and radiation.
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Conduction is when heat travels directly through materials, like when you touch a hot pot.
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Convection occurs when heat moves through liquids or gases, like when warm air rises.
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Radiation is when heat travels through electromagnetic waves, like the sun's heat reaching the earth.
Thermal barrier coatings target all three forms of heat transfer, but they are particularly effective at blocking radiant heat (the kind that comes from the sun). By reflecting sunlight and insulating against conductive heat, these coatings keep your roof – and your home – cooler.
What Different Types of Thermal Barriers Are There?
There are several different types of thermal barrier coatings, and each one has its own set of benefits. A good thermal barrier coating has very low thermal conductivity and high thermal stability.
Depending on your roof type, your budget, and your energy-saving goals, one may be a better fit for you than another.
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Reflective Coatings
Reflective coatings are the most common type of thermal barrier coating. As the name suggests, they work by reflecting the sun's heat away from your roof. This is especially helpful in keeping the temperature of your roof cool to prevent heat from building up in your attic and reducing the need for air conditioning inside the house.
Reflective coatings come in a range of colours, including white, silver, or other light-coloured coatings. It's ideal for homes in hotter climates where staying cool is a priority.
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Insulating Coatings
Insulating coatings are typically thicker than reflective coatings and are designed to both reflect and insulate. These coatings not only bounce heat away but also create a physical barrier that slows the rate at which heat travels through the roof structure.
Insulating coatings are great for homes in areas that experience extreme temperatures with both hot summers and chilly winters. By maintaining a consistent internal temperature, these coatings can help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter while lowering your energy costs.
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Ceramic-Based Coatings
Ceramic-based thermal barrier coatings are a popular choice among homeowners due to their durability and effectiveness. These coatings use microscopic ceramic beads to reflect elevated temperatures away from the roof. They also help to prevent the roof from absorbing excessive heat.
The great thing about ceramic-based coatings is that they tend to last longer than some other options, providing value and performance for years.
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Spray-On Thermal Barriers
Spray-on thermal barriers are another option to consider. These are typically applied by spraying a liquid coating onto the roof surface. Once applied, the coating hardens into a solid thermal barrier.
Spray-on coatings are ideal for irregularly shaped roofs or roofs with lots of complex and awkward parts as they're easy to install, making them a good option for both residential and commercial buildings.
Why Are Thermal Barrier Coatings Important?
Thermal barrier coatings are essential to make your home more energy-efficient and long-lasting. Your roof is constantly exposed to the elements, from intense sun heat and high temperatures to heavy rain or cold weather. Over time, this can cause significant wear and tear, which means costly repairs or even a premature roof replacement.
That's where thermal barrier coatings come in. These coatings provide an extra layer of protection, helping to block out excess heat during the hot summer months and insulate your home during the winter. This maintains a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for air conditioning or heating.
Thermal barrier coatings also reduce the impact of UV rays, moisture, and temperature extremes. This means fewer repairs, less maintenance, and ultimately, a longer lasting roof.
Final Thoughts on Thermal Barrier Coatings
A thermal barrier coating is one of the smartest investments you can make for your roof. Not only will it help keep your home cool during the high temperature of scorching summers, but it can also contribute to energy savings and improved comfort all year round.
Whether you're after a reflective coating, an insulating one, or something a bit more durable like ceramic-based coatings, there's a thermal barrier coating out there for every type of roof and home.
FAQ
Is It Worth Getting Roof Tiles Coated?
Roof tiles are often made of materials that absorb heat, like clay or concrete. These elevated temperatures can result in your roof getting unbearably hot, especially during the summer. Coating your roof tiles with a thermal barrier coating will reflect the heat away, keeping your home cooler. In turn, this reduces strain on your air conditioning system, leading to lower energy bills.
What Material Is TBC?
Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBC) are made from advanced materials with lower thermal conductivity, meaning it's designed to resist heat and provide insulation. TBCs are often made from common materials like ceramic particles, polymer-based coatings, acrylic-based coatings, and silicone-based coatings. Sometimes they also include metallic pigments like aluminium to enhance reflectivity.