ASTM D7897-15

5.1 The solar reflectance of a building envelope surface affects surface temperature and near-surface ambient air temperature. Surfaces with low solar reflectance absorb a high fraction of the incoming solar energy. Sunlight absorbed by a roof or by other building envelope surfaces can be conducted into the building, increasing cooling load and decreasing heating load in a conditioned building, or raising indoor temperature in an unconditioned building. It can also warm the outside air by convection. Determination of solar reflectance can help designers and consumers choose appropriate materials for their buildings and communities.

1.1 Practice D7897 applies to simulation of the effects of field exposure on the solar reflectance and thermal emittance of roof surface materials including but not limited to field-applied coatings, factory-applied coatings, single-ply membranes, modified bitumen products, shingles, tiles, and metal products. The solar reflectance and thermal emittance of roof surface materials can be changed by exposure to the outdoor environment. These changes are caused by three factors: deposition and retention of airborne pollutants; microbiological growth; and changes in physical or chemical properties. This practice applies to simulation of changes in solar reflectance and thermal emittance induced by deposition and retention of airborne pollutants and, to a limited extent, changes caused by microbiological growth.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.