Are you planning to have your roof replaced? Did you know that there are environmentally-friendly options make the inside of their homes as eco-friendly as possible but overlook their roof. If you have to replace your roof, and we all have to from time to time, you might as well replace it with an eco-friendly product.
Thankfully there are a plethora of viable options on the market today. Options that are not only good for the environment but durable and long lasting as well. Today we’ll discuss a few options to help you make a more informed decision.
Cool Roof
Traditionally most roofs were built with dark colored shingles that absorb light. A cool roof is a roof that reflects light instead of absorbing it keeping the temperature inside and outside of your home cooler. Choose shingles or metal roofing in light reflective colors, this will allow you to be less reliant on air conditioning. Keeping the temperature down on your roof also extends the life of the materials so that you won’t have to replace your roof as often.
Recycled Metal Roof
A metal roof is a wise environmental choice. They can last over fifty years and can both be constructed from recycled metals and recycled when they need to be replaced. They can also be installed over your existing roof, saving you both time and money. If you live in a climate that frequently experiences inclimate weather, metal roofing can withstand just about anything. In places with heavy snowfall you wouldn’t have to worry about any type of water damage because snow slides right off of these roofs.
Reclaimed Wood Shingles
Reclaimed wood shingles are both attractive and environmentally safe. They only usually last fifteen to twenty years so you must be prepared to replace them. Wood shingles can be a problem in climates that are hot, dry and prone to fire because they are quite flammable.
Salvaged Slate and Clay Roof
Slate and Clay are the most durable roof materials. They can last over a hundred years, but they are often extremely expensive to install. Because these tiles are so heavy the houses’ support system must be reinforced so that it’s able to withstand the weight.
Rubber roof
Rubber shingles are made out of old steel belted tires that have been recycled from landfills. They quite literally put trash to good use. Rubber roofs can last for fifty years and are lightweight and easy to install. They are also fire resistant and can be recycled again after they’ve put in their time on your roof.
Be sure to find a roofer who has experience installing your chosen roofing material. You’ll feel great with a roof that not only protects your home, but is doing its part to preserve our planet.
