Material atelier · Harrison, New York
Cool Roof Decision Guide
Evaluate reflectance within the whole assembly.
The useful comparison is broader than a sample or sales claim. Put solar reflectance and thermal emittance, Harrison climate and seasonal tradeoffs, insulation and air-sealing condition, roof type and product availability, and energy estimate assumptions and maintenance into the same written project record. Stay on the ground or in a safely accessible interior area. Roof access, destructive inspection, and installation belong with qualified people using proper protection.
Planning factors
Five decisions worth documenting
Use the headings as a proposal check. The actions beneath them are specific to this project decision.
Solar reflectance and thermal emittance
Ask for the product’s relevant reflectance and emittance information, not a claim based only on a light color. Use the manufacturer’s actual product data.
Harrison climate and seasonal tradeoffs
Consider both summer and winter conditions in Harrison. DOE notes that energy value depends on climate and building factors, so a warm-climate example is not a local savings promise.
Insulation and air-sealing condition
Review insulation, air sealing, and the rest of the enclosure with an appropriate professional. A reflective surface is not a substitute for correcting another thermal or moisture problem.
Roof type and product availability
Check whether the selected covering and assembly are available in the desired performance range. Slope, appearance, substrate, and detail compatibility still constrain the choice.
Energy estimate assumptions and maintenance
Request the assumptions behind any savings estimate and the maintenance needed to preserve performance. Keep projected results separate from a guarantee in a sales conversation.
Prepare the property
Keep these details on one sheet
- Solar reflectance and thermal emittance
- Harrison climate and seasonal tradeoffs
- Insulation and air-sealing condition
- Roof type and product availability
- Energy estimate assumptions and maintenance
Before authorizing work
What record belongs with “solar reflectance and thermal emittance” before work begins?
Request a dated description and the evidence supporting the proposed treatment. Cross-check entries: Harrison climate and seasonal tradeoffs; insulation and air-sealing condition. Named responsibility: roof type and product availability. Closeout file: energy estimate assumptions and maintenance. Identity check for Cool Roof Decision Guide: confirm the business, applicable County license, roofing insurance, and current Harrison permit steps separately.