Why are white rooftops becoming popular in Indian cities?

thebetterindia.com

Why are white rooftops becoming popular in Indian cities? India is experiencing rising temperatures, especially in cities where concrete and metal buildings absorb a lot of heat. Air conditioners are not affordable for everyone, so people are adopting a simple and cost-effective solution – painting rooftops white.

How do white rooftops work?
Darker colors absorb heat, whereas white surfaces reflect sunlight. Regular concrete or metal rooftops can heat up to 65°C, but white-painted roofs remain up to 28°C cooler. This technique is known as "cool roofing."

Benefits:
✅ Lower temperatures: Indoor spaces stay 2-5°C cooler.
✅ Energy savings: Fans and coolers are used less, reducing electricity bills.
✅ Better sleep and comfort: People feel more relaxed and comfortable.
✅ Environmental benefits: Lower energy consumption means reduced pollution.
✅ Reduced urban heat: Cities trap excessive heat, and white rooftops help mitigate this effect.

Where is this being implemented in India?
✅ Ahmedabad: 400 homes adopted white rooftops, providing immediate relief to residents.
✅ Telangana: The first Indian state to introduce a "Cool Roof Policy," making white rooftops mandatory for government and commercial buildings.
✅ Delhi: The Mahila Housing Trust and the University of Chicago implemented white rooftops in low-income settlements, reducing heat and electricity costs.

How to paint a white rooftop?
Clean the surface – Remove dust and dirt from the roof.
Fix cracks – Fill any cracks or gaps.
Apply primer (if needed).
Paint with white coating – Use a roller, brush, or spray for even application.
Let it dry – It takes around 24 hours to dry completely.

Things to keep in mind:
🔹 White rooftops are effective in summer but may cause inconvenience in colder regions during winter.
🔹 Regular cleaning is essential, as dust accumulation can reduce reflectivity.
🔹 High-quality paint lasts for about 2-5 years.

Conclusion:
White rooftops are neither expensive nor complex, yet they provide instant relief and save electricity. If more cities adopt this technique like Telangana, it could become a highly effective way to tackle rising temperatures across India. 🚀

(Read the full article on thebetterindia.com.)