Can White Paint Reduce Temperature In House Due To Climate Change

White-painted houses and roofs have long been used in hot countries to help cool buildings by reflecting sunlight. With rising global temperatures, scientists and governments are now exploring new forms of white paint as an affordable and accessible method for combating extreme heat. Recently, researchers at Purdue University developed an ultra-white paint formula that received recognition for its sustainability potential. According to their models, covering just 1% of the Earth’s surface with this paint could offset the total effects of global warming. Read More Business News on our website.

Commercially available white paints already provide some cooling benefits by reflecting 80-90% of the sun’s rays. However, they often contain titanium dioxide, which absorbs about 10% of sunlight and limits their ability to reduce temperatures below the ambient level. Studies have shown that homes with white solar-reflective paint or roofs experience lower indoor air temperatures, with reductions ranging from 1 to 2.1 degrees Celsius. 

While there are differing opinions on the exact temperature reduction achieved, the overall impact of white roofs and paints on reducing carbon dioxide emissions is significant. The new ultra-white paint developed by Purdue University reflects 98.1% of sunlight and solar radiation while deflecting infrared heat, resulting in a cooling effect below the ambient temperature. It has been used on city buildings in New York City and in heat-intensive slums in India. However, challenges remain, including maintaining the paint’s whiteness over time and addressing the cost and availability of the necessary compounds. Nonetheless, white paint shows promise as an effective and accessible cooling solution in the fight against extreme heat.