Environmentally Friendly Roofing Materials
When building or remodeling a home, you are faced with hundreds of decisions. These decisions are based on factors such as cost, aesthetics, functionality, and durability. One factor that is becoming more important is materials' impact on the environment. What you use on the roof can have a major impact on the environment simply because of the amount of materials needed. There are several options when choosing an environmentally-friendly roofing material. Does this Spark an idea?
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Recycled Shingles
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A typical asphalt shingle has a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years and these types of shingles are hardly ever recycled. Recycled asphalt shingles use reclaimed materials that reduce waste going into landfills. Their life expectancy is often 50 years, so you do not have to replace them as frequently. Recycled shingles are made from regular asphalt shingles--either excess material from a roofing project or old shingles torn off a roof. These materials are ground up and re-used as the main ingredient in recycled asphalt shingles.
Metal
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Metal roofs are becoming more popular due to their energy-efficient nature. They are typically made from copper, aluminum, or steel. Metal does not absorb heat like asphalt shingles, so less heat will be absorbed into your home making a metal roof very attractive in hot climates. Metal roofing can last at least 50 years and up to 100 for some types. Also, once the roof has come to the end of its life the material can be recycled. Metal is ideal for rainwater catchment systems because there are no chemicals or other materials that will run off with the water.
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Reflective Coatings
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Reflective coatings can be used with many different material types including metal, wood, and asphalt. A coated roof can reflect up to 80 percent of the heat from the sun while an uncoated roof will absorb that same amount into your home. This reflection of heat, particularly in hot climates, can generate significant cost savings and less impact on natural resources to generate energy to cool the home.
Clay and Slate Tiles
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Clay and slate tiles used for roofing have been around for hundreds of years. Both are natural materials that are energy-efficient and non-toxic, and can be recycled and disposed of without pollution. Tiles allow air flow on the surface of the roof, which keeps the home cool in hot weather. Slate is very durable and can last up to 100 years.
Green Roofs
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Green roofs are becoming more popular in urban settings, particularly with very large roofs. Green roofs use a protective membrane that provides a base for soil and plants. They do a great job of cooling the roof by absorbing the heat and light generated by the sun. These roofs also retain rainwater, which is very valuable in cities because it reduces runoff. These roofs have a life expectancy of over 40 years and are effective at insulating for sound in the building.
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References
- Photo Credit roof image by Eldin Muratovic from Fotolia.com
