Solar-reflective liquid glass roof coatings are a modern roofing innovation designed to reduce heat absorption by reflecting a significant portion of solar radiation. By lowering roof surface temperatures, these coatings can reduce the cooling demand of a building, enhance indoor comfort, and potentially improve its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating.
However, the way EPC modelling accounts for such coatings is not always straightforward.
How Liquid Glass Roof Coatings Work
Liquid glass roof coatings form a thin, transparent yet highly reflective layer over the roofing surface.
Key benefits include:
Solar reflectance: Bounces back infrared radiation, keeping the roof cooler.
Thermal emissivity: Radiates absorbed heat more efficiently.
Durability: Creates a protective, weather-resistant layer.
These properties can lead to lower air-conditioning loads in hot climates, but in colder regions, reduced solar gain may slightly increase heating needs during winter.
EPC Modelling Considerations
EPC software primarily assesses a building’s U-value (heat transfer) and overall insulation. While solar-reflective coatings do not change the U-value of the roof structure itself, they influence solar gain and cooling demand, which can be reflected in the EPC if the assessor enters accurate solar absorptance values.
Challenges include:
Limited input fields: Many EPC tools do not have dedicated fields for reflective coatings, requiring the assessor to use custom material data.
Seasonal impact: Benefits are greater in summer than winter, which can make EPC gains modest in mixed climates.
Documentation needs: Assessors may request manufacturer data to justify improved thermal performance.
For details on our experience with complex building envelope materials, see our About Us page.
Residential Applications
Homeowners using solar-reflective liquid glass coatings can still gain EPC improvements, especially in sun-exposed properties. Our Residential EPC service ensures accurate modelling of such advanced materials.
Same-Day EPC for Special Projects
If you’ve recently installed a solar-reflective coating and need updated certification, our Same Day Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) service delivers fast results with consideration of your building’s unique features.
Cost vs. Benefit
While reflective coatings can reduce summer cooling costs, their effect on EPC ratings varies depending on location and building type. For pricing and service options, visit our Pricing Plan page.
Speak to an EPC Expert
Unsure how your coating will be treated in an EPC assessment? Our specialists can review your case and provide guidance. Reach out via our Contact Us page.
