Reflective covers and surfaces

Baseline strategy · No score

Reduces solar absorption by finishing with appropriate thermal behaviour and compatible with the visual context.

Subject: Passive and Enveloping DesignContext: Buildings · Cities · IndustryCost: mediumEffort: lowLevel: recommendedStage: design or rehabilitationMaturity: context-dependent
Principle of Cubiertas y superficies reflectantes
Operating principle

How it works

Reduces solar absorption by finishing with appropriate thermal behaviour and compatible with the visual context.

It acts on the shape and envelope to moderate outdoor conditions before resorting to facilities. Measurements should work together, not as isolated pieces.

When does it make sense?

  • In new construction or rehabilitation of the envelope
  • After analyzing climate, orientation, use and humidity risks
  • When it is possible to check the designed detail and execution

How to apply it

  1. 1

    Define what needs resolves "reflective surfaces and covers" and establish a starting situation.

  2. 2

    Compare alternatives and adapt design to climate, use, regulation, affected people and available resources.

  3. 3

    Apply with clear responsibilities, check the actual result and correct unwanted effects.

Potential benefits

Lower thermal demand

Increased comfort and resilience

Lower equipment dependency

Limitations and precautions

  • The result depends on context, design, execution and how it is used and maintained.
  • A poorly adapted passive solution can cause overheating, humidity or poor air quality.
  • Performance depends on both implementation and concept.

Keep Exploring

Related strategies

Illustration of Ventilación cruzada natural
Natural cross-ventilationIt favors air flow between openings located on different sides to renew the air and improve comfort without always relying on mechanical air conditioning.See strategy
Illustration of Enfriamiento nocturno pasivo
Passive night chillsTake advantage of the cooler outdoor air at night to evacuate the accumulated heat in a building and reduce cooling demand the next day.See strategy
Illustration of Forma y geometría bioclimática
Bioclimatic shape and geometryAdjust compactness, depth, height and distribution to balance light, ventilation, thermal losses and gains.See strategy