Learn how using high reflectance roofing materials can help reduce heat gain and peak air temperatures in buildings, a key concept for the USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam.
Table of Contents
Question
Use of which of the following can help reduce the heat gain and peak air temperatures?
A. A drip irrigation system
B. Pervious paving materials
C. Low albedo paving materials
D. High reflectance roofing materials
Answer
D. High reflectance roofing materials
Explanation
High reflectance roofing materials can help reduce heat gain and peak air temperatures by reflecting more sunlight away from the building, thereby reducing the amount of heat absorbed bythe roof. This can lead to lower cooling loads and energy use for air conditioning.
High reflectance roofing materials, also known as “cool roofs”, can significantly reduce heat gain and peak air temperatures in buildings. These materials have a high solar reflectance index (SRI), meaning they reflect a large portion of the sun’s energy back into the atmosphere rather than absorbing it. This helps keep the roof surface cooler, reducing the amount of heat transferred into the building.
Cool roofs offer several benefits:
- Reduced cooling loads: By minimizing heat gain, cool roofs decrease the demand on air conditioning systems, leading to energy savings.
- Improved thermal comfort: Cooler roof surfaces contribute to lower indoor air temperatures, enhancing occupant comfort.
- Mitigated urban heat island effect: On a larger scale, the widespread use of cool roofs can help alleviate the urban heat island effect by lowering ambient air temperatures in cities.
The other options listed do not directly address heat gain and peak air temperatures:
- A drip irrigation system is a water-efficient method for landscape irrigation but does not significantly impact building heat gain.
- Pervious paving materials allow water to percolate through, reducing stormwater runoff, but have limited effect on heat gain.
- Low albedo paving materials have a low reflectance and absorb more solar energy, potentially increasing localized air temperatures.
In summary, using high reflectance roofing materials is the most effective strategy among the given options for reducing heat gain and peak air temperatures in buildings, making it the correct answer for this LEED Green Associate exam question.
USGBC LEED Green Associate certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the USGBC LEED Green Associate exam and earn USGBC LEED Green Associate certification.