BUSINESS AND TRAINING
Cooler homes at lower cost
By Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association of SA ( TIPSASA )
A settlement in the Western Cape is set to enjoy cooler homes this year thanks to a passive cooling project undertaken by the South African National Energy Development Institute ( SANEDI ) in partnership with the Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association SA ( TIPSASA ).
The project aims to measure the combined temperature
reduction achievable when using cool-coated roofs in conjunction with insulation , to make living conditions more comfortable in the heat of South Africa ’ s sunny days .
SANEDI ’ s Denise Lundall , Project Officer Energy Efficiency Cool , explains : “ Cool roofing entails the application of heatreflective coating to roofs , which then aids in lowering the indoor temperature . A much-needed application to bring relief to those living under corrugated metal roofing that can reach temperatures of 65 ° C or more in the summer . Global research has shown that used in conjunction with insulation , cool roofs achieve significantly better results .”
Thermal insulation has been mandatory since 2011 . Most areas in South Africa average more than 2 500 hours of sunshine per year and the annual 24-hour global solar radiation average in South Africa is one of the highest in the world . Thermal insulation acts as a barrier to heat flow or heat transfer , whereas cool-coated roofs prevent absorption of the heat by means of solar reflectance , reducing heat transfer to the interior . “ Combining cool coatings with insulation provides a cost-effective and more efficient cooling solution ,” says Lundall
Research done in other countries has led SANEDI to urge the same research locally . SANEDI in partnership with TIPSASA , a strong industry body leading the way for passive heating and cooling across the country , have started the roll out in the Masonwabi settlement . “ This area will not only benefit from cooler homes , but also gain work experience as the project hires and trains local unemployed people , offering them an artisans ’ certificate and a wealth of experience ,” concludes Lundall .
TIPSASA
Thermal insulation acts as a barrier to heat flow or heat transfer , whereas cool-coated roofs prevent absorption of the heat by means of solar reflectance , reducing heat transfer to the interior .
www . saaffordablehousing . co . za MARCH - APRIL 2021 25