The student will demonstrate an understanding of energy efficient building designs by suggesting methods of construction that naturally ventilate the heat from the attic space. The roof has the maximum amount of sun exposure compared with any other building component. This heat passes through the roof to the attic space below. The lower the temperature in the attic space, the more effective the ceiling insulation is. Two ways of reflecting the sun's energy is roof color and radiant barriers.
Lighter colors reflect the sun's heat.
A radiant barrier has a metallic surface which reflects radiant heat. Natural ventilation can be used to take away the heat that penetrates into the attic space. This is done by venting air to the outside. The basic principals of home ventilation are the same for attic ventilation. Hot air rises, so assist it in rising.