There is a growing demand for sustainable living and the rise in this demand is making homeowners seek more eco-friendly roof solutions which will reduce the environmental impact as there is an enhancement in energy efficiency. Having a sustainable roof isn’t just the protection that your home needs but is also what the environment needs in terms of contribution.
- Metal Roofs
Metal Roofs have gained quite a lot of popularity in the past few years because of their energy efficiency and durability. They are made from recycled materials such as steel, copper, aluminum and metal roofs have a chance of lasting over five decades with the maintenance being minimal. The metal roofs can reflact the solar radiant heat and help in the reduction of cooling costs by up to 25%. When the end of the life cycle is approaching, the metal roofs have a chance of being completely recycled into landfill waste. Having a life of over five decades, metal roofs have a lower need for replacements as they contribute to the overall impact on the environment. The initial cost is going to be higher than the traditional roofs, you will get long-term savings on the energy bills and maintenance.
- Green Roofing
A green roof is also known as a living roof that involves the planting of vegetation over the membrane that is used for waterproofing This is a roof that can be partially or fully vegetated by combining plants as well as other materials.
Green roofs help provide great insulation and keep the buildings cooler in the months of summer and warmer in the months of winter. This can help in the reduction of energy consumption significantly. They also help in the absorption of rainwater reducing the runoff and also reduction in flooding risk. This also can alleviate stress on the drainages. Green Roofs also create a habitat for many species and help in the development of the ecosystem. They do require very careful planning though
- Solar Roofs
The solar shingles can integrate the photovoltaic cells into the roofing materials traditionally used allowing the homeowners to use solar energy without the sacrifice of aesthetics. These are shingles that look like normal roofing but can generate electricity. This helps in the reduction of electricity bills by providing independence when it comes to energy. This allows the homeowners to generate power themselves. Different from the traditional panels, the shingles can blend easily with the roof and keep the architecture intact. There are many incentives offered by governments for the installations and this makes it an attractive option financially. The initial cost could be high though.
- Tiles made of Clay and concrete.
The tiles that are made of concrete and clay from natural materials have been known to be durable and can last over a century if maintained well. Both clays, as well as concrete tiles, can provide great thermal performance and keep the homes appropriate for the temperature. This is made from a lot of natural resources from material that is eco-friendly and also sourced locally.
They have a long life span and are resistant to very harsh conditions. They require less upkeep. However, the downside is that they can cost heavily in the initial phase.
- Recycled roofing materials.
By using recycled roofing materials like metal, and plastic rubber, you can innovate and reduce the impact on the environment. These are materials that may be sourced from post-consumption waste such as slate, tires, and plastic.
By utilizing these recycled materials, you can divert the wastes from many landfills and have a reduced need for the raw materials. Many of the recycled materials are also designed to create a similar look to that of the traditional materials while they offer performance and durability. Upon the choice of the material, recycled roofs may be an option that is cost effective and also provides great money value. However, the problem that needs to be considered here is that the recycled material may not be aesthetically excellent. It is important to choose these products from reputable manufacturers to ensure performance and quality.
Choosing an eco-friendly roofing solution is a major step towards making your home sustainable. Every single one of the roofing types has a benefit that is unique from energy efficiency to recyclability to longevity to appeal aesthetically. By investing in one of these solutions, you are contributing towards the reduction of your footprint as you also enjoy the many benefits it is offering. As you are now going to consider the roofing, you can also take an account the initial cost versus the long-term advantages to get the greatest solution for the planet and home.
Having a roof over your head is an expression that is used quite commonly but if that roof is an eco-friendly one it just makes everything better and makes it important and good from the point of view of the environment
