AC option - the Anti-Sun Roof

[doviatt]

I understand the light colored aluminum shingles for houses works quite well in summer. In winter supposedly the snow also just slides right off keeping it exposed to sun for warmth.

lattice is good in salads.

[Christ]

Silver roof panels don't let heat in during the winter... they keep the cold out, by not allowing snow to build up on the roof... not that they have to worry about that in Phoenix LOL.

If you're really interested in redoing a part of your house, white adobe or stucco would make a great remodel idea... it stores heat and slowly releases it as the temp changes, which is great for desert nights after a 100+ degree day.

[shovel]

Originally Posted by Christ

desert nights after a 100+ degree day.

Ha!

It might still cool off in rural parts around Tucson, but in Phoenix it doesn't cool off anymore. 115F during the day, 111F at the coldest period of night. Something about 3 million air conditioners exhausting hot air at each other over a sea of asphalt, I suppose

The desert was a neat place to live before everyone decided it would be a neat place for them to live, now it's just polluted and hot. No haboobs, the monsoon is neutered, it never cools off at night, it's just a big hot city here anymore.

I'll have to check out those plant suggestions - cholla's out, but there's a nursery not far from here who may have suggestions. Ideally an inorganic solution would be best, as it wouldn't need water or maintenance.

[Christ]

What about a canvas shade drop in front of that wall? That would give you a shaded porch too...

[Peter7307]

Anything which provides shade and some small gap for air movement will work both for the vertical application and for the original topic under discussion (remember the original topic way back?).

For the latter it is common in the Northern parts of the country to have a "fly" roof or a "tropical" roof fitted.
This is a frame of timber , usually 2 x 4" laid on the 2" side , with a dark coloured metal panel roof fixed to the top.
The timber frame is aligned to allow air to flow underneath and the dark colour heats up and draws air between the two roof materials even when there is no wind.

Pete.

[Bicycle Bob]

The most subtle addition would probably be another layer of siding and roofing. Artistically, I prefer the other suggestions. A small amount of water between the house and shade might give good relief, too.

[WaxysChick]

Hi everyone long time no blog..lol
To make our house cooler we painted with the white energy efficiency paint .It works good so far also we changed all drapes and light bulbs for energy efficiency ones. AC at 85 degrees all day. Last electric bill was only $53.00. BWT I live in Phoenix area too