Where does most heat gain occur in a residence?

Most heat gain in a residence occurs through the roof due to several factors. The roof is often exposed to direct sunlight for the majority of the day, especially in sunny climates like Florida, leading to significant solar radiation absorption. This heat is then transferred into the living spaces of the home.

Additionally, roofs can have varying degrees of insulation and reflective properties, which can affect how much heat is retained or rejected. Materials with lower reflectivity, such as dark-colored shingles, absorb more heat. On the other hand, well-insulated roofs can help mitigate this heat gain, but in many cases, the sheer surface area and exposure to the elements make it a primary contributor to residential heat gain.

While walls and windows do contribute to heat gain, they typically do not account for as much as roofs, particularly when windows are well-shaded or have thermal treatments. Foundations have less impact on heat gain compared to the other surfaces, as they are mostly in contact with cooler ground temperatures. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective energy management and HVAC design in residential architecture.