Solar-reflective Coatings
Solar-reflective Coatings | Metal Roofing | Roofing | Alcoa
Beneath the bright Alcoa sun, ordinary roofs absorb punishing heat—but HEP’s solar-reflective coatings turn that heat away, helping your home stay cooler while your energy bills drop. Applied to durable metal roofing, our advanced pigments bounce a far higher percentage of UV and infrared rays back into the sky, reducing surface temperatures by up to 50°F and extending the lifespan of the roof itself. The result is a sleek, color-rich finish that resists fading, chalking, and corrosion year after year, even in Tennessee’s most unforgiving weather.
From the first on-site consultation to the final inspection, HEP’s local team handles every step with craftsmanship and care. Each coating system is backed by robust warranties, is compatible with rainwater harvesting, and is 100% recyclable—so you protect your wallet today while safeguarding the planet for tomorrow. Schedule a free assessment and discover how effortlessly your roof can outshine the sun.
FAQs
What are solar-reflective coatings and how do they work on metal roofs?
Solar-reflective ("cool roof") coatings are highly reflective, elastomeric finishes that are rolled or sprayed onto existing metal panels. They contain specialized pigments that reflect a large percentage of the sun’s ultraviolet and infrared radiation instead of absorbing it. On a metal roof this lowers surface temperatures by 30–60 °F (16–33 °C), reducing heat transfer into the building and helping the roof shed thermal stress that can lead to expansion, contraction, and premature panel fatigue.
What benefits can Alcoa property owners expect from adding a cool roof coating?
Key advantages include: 1) Energy savings—Lower roof temperatures can cut summertime HVAC run time by 10–25 %, which translates to noticeably smaller electric bills during hot, humid East Tennessee summers. 2) Increased occupant comfort—Buildings without adequate insulation or with large attic cavities feel cooler and more stable in temperature. 3) Extended roof service life—Coatings seal fasteners and seams, protect the metal from UV breakdown and corrosion, and reduce thermal cycling, often adding 10–15 years to a roof’s life. 4) Reduced maintenance—The new monolithic film helps prevent rust and makes the roof easier to wash off after pollen season. 5) Environmental impact—Lower energy use means lower greenhouse-gas emissions, and a coated roof can help a project qualify for LEED or Energy Star points.
Will a reflective coating really hold up in Alcoa’s weather?
Yes. Premium acrylic or silicone coatings are engineered to withstand the full range of East Tennessee conditions—from high summer humidity to winter freeze-thaw cycles. They remain flexible down to –20 °F, resist ponding water, and carry ASTM D6083 ratings for tensile strength and elongation. Most manufacturers back their systems with 10-, 15-, or 20-year renewable warranties when installed by a certified contractor and inspected at completion.
What does the installation process involve and will it disrupt my business or home life?
A coating job is far less intrusive than a tear-off or reroof. Crews first power-wash the metal, treat any rust, and seal seams and fasteners with a butyl or polyurethane flashing compound. After drying, the reflective top coat is applied in one or two passes by sprayer or roller. A typical 10,000-sq-ft commercial roof in Alcoa takes 2–3 days start-to-finish, with no need to move out, shut down production, or expose the interior to weather. Because the existing roof stays in place, there is minimal noise, debris, or landfill waste.
Are there local incentives or rebates for installing solar-reflective coatings in Alcoa?
The Tennessee Valley Authority’s EnergyRight program periodically offers custom incentives for commercial energy-efficiency upgrades, including cool roofing; credits are calculated on projected kWh savings and must be pre-approved. Residential customers may qualify for low-interest loans through TVAEnergyRight partners. In addition, reflective coating systems that meet Energy Star criteria may be eligible for federal tax deductions under Section 179D for commercial buildings. Our team helps clients assemble the paperwork and submit rebate applications at no extra charge.
How much does a coating system cost compared with roof replacement, and what is the payback period?
In the Alcoa market, premium reflective coating systems typically run $2.00–$4.50 per square foot, roughly 50–70 % less than removing and replacing a metal roof. For an average commercial building, the energy savings plus avoided tear-off costs deliver a simple payback of 3–7 years. When you factor in the extended roof life and deferred capital expense, the life-cycle cost is often less than half that of a traditional reroofing project.