Hot Summer. Ugh!
Do you want to reduce heat by 20 degree celsius?
Cool roof tiles sound like a great idea.
You know that it works, but you don’t know about the prices and the reliable brands.
Don’t Worry!
I’ll give you an idea of the price trends.
You’ll find tips regarding the installation of cooling tiles that you can use with your contractor.
Let’s dive right in!
How do Cool tiles reduce heat?
There are actually 2 things to consider when it comes to heat proofing your terrace:
- Solar Reflectance
- Thermal Emittance
In simpler terms, solar reflection is how much heat is bounced back from the surface. It denotes how less is absorbed by the surface.
Thermal emission suggests that for the heat that is absorbed, how much is pushed back into the atmosphere.
Makes sense?
So, Higher the Solar reflection and Thermal Emission, Cooler the surface is.
Cool tiles generally have high solar reflectance and thermal emittance.
The Solar Reflective Index (SFI), that is the parameter used to identify the degree of heat reflectance, Cool Roof Tiles usually have 95%. This means that cool tiles can lower heat for about 10-15 degree celsius on any conditions.
It Reduces Heat because..
- Colour
- Material type
White is the best!
White colour reflects heat and Black absorbs heat. So, the whiter you can make, higher the reflection.
A dark roof can go up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit on a hot day.
That’s what a colour can do!
Along with the colour, the type of material also matters. That’s why white coated shingles might not be able to reflect as much heat as white ceramic glazed roof tiles.
If the surface is smooth, it reflects better than a rough surface.
Cool tiles have a glazed coating which can be of Zirconium oxide (to get maximum whiteness), Alumina silicate or zirconium silicate.
These materials contribute best towards reflecting more and absorbing less heat.
The reflective indices of various materials are explained in detail here.
Benefits of Cool Roof Tiles
Like you imagined, there are pretty useful features.
- It can reduce heat. Tremendously!
- It reduces Global Warming.
- Fans and Coolers to keep you cool will take up less electricity. So, more money in your pocket.
- Your terrace will look better.
- If you want to have a party on your terrace, it is now possible.
Is Weathering tiles the same?
Weathering tiles are just another name given to tiles that are laid on your terrace(or under your roof) to provide insulation.
Cool tiles can also be known as weatherproof tiles due to its ability to not be affected by any weather.
Weathering or weather tiles can also be used to refer to roof tiles.
Several companies market their products under different value propositions. Some focus more on the weatherproofing aspect. Hence the term weathering tiles.
Weather tiles can also be found in terracotta colour. They may not always be ceramic cool tiles. It can be a cost-effective choice. But terracotta weathering tiles may not be able to reflect as much heat as ceramic cool tiles.
Installation of cool roof tiles on Terrace
These are some of the basic guidelines that can be followed:
Step 1: Immerse your cool tile in water for 15 minutes
Step 2: Level the surface with Aggregates bed.
Step 3: Place a Cement-Sand bed at a ratio of 1:15 for the base of cool tiles.
Step 4: Cement Slurry should be poured over it for providing adequate adhesiveness. It shouldn’t be too loose nor too thick.
Step 5: Carve the surface slightly for the cement slurry to be deep inside the bed. This will also give bonding with the tiles.
Step 6: Place the tiles and use a light rubber mallet to place it in position
Step 7: Use 3mm spacers to give adequate space for thermal expansion.
Step 8: Once laying is done, let it water cure for 2 days.
Step 9: Use company-provided grouting and sealing.
Step 10: Enjoy your lovely cool terrace.
It is always advised to refer to the manufacturer’s advice for installation.
Also, there will always be professionals who can undertake the work.
Since your terrace will be a one-time investment, we recommend you take help from reputed professionals.
Popular Cool Tile Brands available
Tamil Nadu is the state that has been using cool tiles the most.
It is due to the perpetual heat that exists in the state. So, most of the manufacturers and dealers of cool tiles are in Tamil Nadu.
Some of the top Brands include ABC Ceramics, Roof Plus, Johnson Tiles and Insulla
The rates may differ from one company to another. But an important pointer is to see the company history before placing an order.
Are there any other solutions?
Absolutely!
You could use a reflective white coating.
Will it be as effective as cool tiles in reducing heat? I don’t think so.
You could use aluminium sheet and shingles white coated, but the coating will fade away soon. Therefore the solar reflectance of aluminium sheeting with cool coating will be less.
If reducing heat is not your primary objective, but aesthetics is, then you can go for beautiful concrete roof tiles. These provide some of the most aesthetically appealing roofing solutions. But they may not be as effective as the cool tiles on the roof.
If you’d like concrete tiles on the floor, you’ll find really good ones with us.
But again, if the reduction of heat is your absolute #1 priority, you will need to go with heatproof cool tiles itself. Ceramic material with anti-heat reflective glazing does a great job of killing the heat from getting inside the house.
Price of Cooling tiles in Tamil Nadu
You can find cool tiles from the price range of rs 30/sq ft in Tamil Nadu. There are certain companies who undertake the entire work including the installation and labour charges for about rs 100/sq ft.
Branded tiles always come with certain standards.
However, Yes, you will still be available to find tiles for as low as 30 rupees per piece. Installation labour charges and materials will be all at additional charges.
Always be wary of dealers who provide you with the products that are considerably lower than branded tiles. There will be some catch to it always.
Conclusion
From the scorching heat from the sun, you will for sure require some respite.
Cool roof tiles do a great job in keeping your terrace cool. This can be a great value addition to your house as well.
Most of the top brands may not be much different. But it is always not preferred to go with local small players. Do a bit of research online, Check out company history and then go with the most trustworthy one.
Happy Cooling!