Welcome to the often-forgotten world above our heads – the roof space. In Bali, this area can become an oven, especially with tiled, asbestos, or corrugated iron roofs, which trap heat and transfer it to the ceiling and subsequently into your home. This not only makes your home uncomfortable but also increases your energy bills as air conditioners work harder to cool the space.
Understanding how to manage the heat in your roof space is crucial for comfortable and energy-efficient living in Bali. Let’s explore some simple yet effective strategies:
Why Roof Ventilation Matters
- Heat Buildup: Roof spaces, especially under direct sunlight, can become extremely hot, acting like an oven.
- Heat Transfer: This heat radiates down through the ceiling, warming your living space and making air conditioning less efficient.
- Need for Airflow: Proper ventilation allows hot air to escape and cooler air to circulate, reducing the overall temperature of your roof space and subsequently your home.
Effective Ventilation Methods
- Venturi Air Vents: These traditional vents, often seen in older Australian homes, feature a chimney-like structure that uses rising hot air to create suction, drawing cooler air into the roof space. This method works even without wind.
- Slotted Ridgetiles: Modern roofs often use ridgetiles with slots, allowing breezes to pass through and draw hot air out.
- Rotating Air Vents: These shiny, often metal vents, are becoming increasingly popular on industrial roofs in Bali. They turn with the airflow, providing effective and low-cost ventilation.
- Two-Tier Roofs: Traditional designs sometimes include two-tier roofs, which allow for airflow between the levels, promoting natural ventilation.
The Role of Insulation
While roof ventilation is important, insulation plays a crucial role in reducing heat transfer.
- Aluminium Foil: A common practice in Bali is to install aluminum foil under the roof tiles, which reflects heat and reduces the amount entering the roof space.
- Glass Wool Insulation: Installing glass wool insulation above your ceiling further reduces the heat transfer, making your home cooler and energy-efficient.
Important Note: Aluminum Foil and Triplex
Be aware that using aluminum foil with Triplex (thin plywood) can reduce the roof’s ability to “breathe,” as it blocks airflow. This is important in the heat of Bali where airflow is crucial for ventilation.
Safety First: Electrical Wiring
While inspecting your roof, always check your electrical wiring.
- Conduit: Ensure wiring is installed within plastic conduit (20mm plastic pipe) and junction boxes, which provide protection from damage and rodents.
- Rodent Protection: Rodents can chew through wiring, causing short circuits and fire hazards.
- Old Wiring: Be cautious of older houses where bare copper wires may be suspended on insulators, as these can be extremely dangerous.
Conclusion
Paying attention to your roof space is a wise decision for both comfort and safety. By implementing effective ventilation and insulation, you can significantly reduce the heat in your home and lower your energy bills. A well-maintained roof space ensures a cooler, more comfortable, and safer home for you and your family in Bali.
