Ryde School was confronted with a challenge affecting the comfort and energy efficiency of its main building. The large barrel vault polycarbonate roof, while architecturally striking, was allowing an excessive amount of sunlight to penetrate the interior. This led to significant glare and an unwanted increase in heat gain, creating an uncomfortable environment for both students and staff, and potentially contributing to higher cooling costs.

The Challenge

The primary objective was to mitigate the glare and reduce the heat gain without compromising the natural lighting benefits that the polycarbonate roof provided. The task required a solution that would be both effective in its performance and durable against the elements, ensuring long-term benefits for the school environment.

The Solution

After a thorough assessment of various options, we installed a specialised SunCool reflective vinyl to the exterior surface of the roof. This innovative solution was chosen for its ability to reflect a substantial portion of the sun’s rays, thereby reducing the heat that is transmitted into the building. The reflective vinyl was applied directly to the polycarbonate surface, offering a seamless integration with the existing structure.

The SunCool vinyl not only helped to decrease the internal temperature but also significantly minimised the glare. This improvement ensured that the natural daylight could still illuminate the space without the adverse effects of direct sunlight, thus maintaining a pleasant and conducive learning environment.

Results and Benefits

• Reduced Glare: The installation markedly diminished the intensity of sunlight entering the building, enhancing visual comfort throughout the school.
• Lower Heat Gain: By reflecting a high percentage of solar radiation, the vinyl helped to reduce the overall temperature inside the building. This resulted in a more stable internal climate and contributed to energy savings by lessening the reliance on air conditioning.
• Preserved Aesthetics: The reflective vinyl was designed to integrate smoothly with the roof’s design, ensuring that the visual appeal of the building was maintained.
• Enhanced Durability: The solution offered a robust, long-lasting barrier against the harsh effects of the sun, reducing maintenance requirements and extending the lifespan of the roof.

The application of the SunCool reflective vinyl at Ryde School is a prime example of how innovative material solutions can address environmental challenges in modern architecture. By carefully selecting a product that balances both functionality and aesthetic considerations, we successfully reduced glare and heat gain, thereby creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient environment for the school community.