Browse Forums Eco Living 1 Sep 30, 2009 1:01 pm I've noticed some of the new houses around town have dark-coloured eaves. Would the colour of the eaves have much impact on the temperature inside? I was wondering whether dark eaves would in fact keep a house cooler because they wouldn't reflect additional light into the house. But then, I would assume the roof space would be a little hotter because of the extra absorbed energy? Would it just cancel out? Kylie Re: Colour of Eaves 2Sep 30, 2009 5:11 pm A good question that probably doesn't have an accurate answer. There are probably other things to consider that would make a big difference. I presume you are referring to colour of the eave lining or soffit under the eave. A dark eave will also absorb heat which it will radiate after the sun has gone down. But a hot roof space won't make a big difference to the temperature of the rooms inside. The heat reflected off the eave is probably of low intensity anyway because it is not from direct solar radiation but reflected indirectly from elsewhere. The fact that you have eaves means you are already reducing solar radiation entering the house. This is the major cause for overheating. To reduce overheating - orders of priority: a) Reduce sun exposed west and east windows - e.g. shades, awnings, vines, trees, very deep pergolas/overhangs b) Moderately sized eaves on the north side e.g. 450-1000mm depending on location and climate (not too much or you can't get sun in for winter) c) Place a radiant barrier - foil under the roof or paint the roof a light colour d) Same for walls as for roof Read this for more ideas: Passive Cooling Update from me! Couldn't find the trimmer - not sure if there isn't one simply because the eave is so narrow. Went ahead with the spring toggles and it all worked out… 7 5878 The two 15mm holes are obviously not compliant. The Dept of Fair Trading would love to see this one! Do the gutters pool water after it stops raining? Although it's… 4 7872 Thankyou so much 😀 I've decided on White on white for doors and trims, White on white 50% on ceiling and Mt buller for walls. Fingers crossed it will look OK 😀 2 7170 |