In today’s world, there is a definite emphasis on saving the environment. We are incorporating eco-friendly materials into our clothing, our food packaging and even our houses. Eco-friendly roofing materials work on two levels. First, recyclable, earth friendly materials minimize toxins in the environment. They also conserve energy which will save you money on your utility bills
Eco-friendly materials can be especially beneficial when used for roofing. After all, this is a large area and a main line of defense against the sun, rain, wind, and other elements. Here are some great environmentally friendly roofing options.
Cool Roofs
These roofs are cool in more ways than one. They are made of a combination of white glue and gravel that works to deflect the sun’s rays. This keeps the home cooler which will save you money on electricity bills. However, these roofs are expensive, and they may only be worthwhile if you live in a hot climate. They also have a high humidity level so they are likely to grow mold which can cause damage and make the roof look unattractive.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles are an eco-friendly choice because they can be recycled to make reclaimed wood products. They are also made of a natural material that won’t leak toxins into the environment. Beyond that, they are durable, easy to stain and give your home a great rustic look.
On the downside, wood shingles can be expensive. They are also susceptible to mold, mildew and rot and usually need to be replaced within 15 to 20 years.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing gets a thumbs up from Mother Earth. It is easy to recycle and its reflective properties cause the sun’s rays to bounce off it, keeping the house cool. It also lasts a long time and comes in a variety of alloys and styles. Disadvantages include the fact that metal roofing is expensive. It is also noisy during rainstorms. It can become dented, damaged and discolored over time and replacing the tiles is not easy to do.
Clay Tiles
Clay is a natural material and it allows heat to circulate rather than become trapped. Therefore, it will keep your home cooler helping you to save on utility bills. Clay tiles are also low maintenance and easy to replace. However, you also want to consider that clay tiles are difficult and expensive to install. The tiles are quite heavy so additional structural support is often needed during installation to make sure the roof doesn’t collapse.
Solar Roofing
Solar roofing can come in the form of tiles or panels. It absorbs the sun’s rays and converts them into usable energy.
The main downside of solar roofing is that it’s expensive to install. However, homeowners will be able to save thousands of dollars on their energy bills making it a terrific investment.
We should also mention that using a synthetic underlayment for your new roof will add years to the life of your roof.
If you are thinking of getting new roofing, these eco-friendly materials are recommended. They are kind to the environment and they can save you money in the long run. Which do you think is right for your home? Let us know how we can help!