Introduction:
If you want to upgrade the roof of your home or building by keeping the well-being of the environment into consideration, why not consider roofing options that along with the provision of sustainability are economical and eco-friendly as well?
Down below are listed 5 such roofing materials that have been proven to be highly sustainable and beneficial to the environment:
- Green roofs
Green roofs are one of the most trending roofing options because they introduce nature in densely populated urban cities. These roofs are constructed with the idea to bring rainwater into usage that was once considered waste. A TPO roofing company wouldn’t be able to install this for you, you’d need to find a company that does residential roofing.
Pros
- Green roofs can keep a city safe from flooding caused by rainwater as that water is now utilized by the plants on the green roof.
- In addition, such roofs provide shade to a building thus maintaining the internal temperature and lowering energy costs.
- Since the demand for organic fruits and vegetables is on the rise why not grow your own organic greens on your green roof which would lessen your visits to the market for fruits and veggies.
Cons
- A green roof is high-priced relative to other roofing materials.
- Maintaining a green roof can be tiresome as it would require the same attention and care as in the case of a garden.
- Green roofs tend to increase the load on any roof. Therefore, a roof has to be checked thoroughly if it can bear the weight of a green roof.
- Metal Panels
Metal roofing includes metal tiles, panels, or pieces and all of them are constructed from a variety of metals like aluminum, zinc, silicon, copper, etc. If we specifically talk about metal panels, they’re made immensely lightweight and can function in the long run (40 to 75 years). They also come in a wide range of colors to add up to your construction’s aesthetics. However, metal roofs tend to be one of the most expensive options available which can be outshined by their ability to be energy-efficient.
Pros
- Being eco-friendly, metal panels are formulated from recycled metals thus they can also be recycled and reused.
- Their installation is comparatively easy and these panels can also be installed with other roofs of your choice.
- Metal panels protect against winds (interlocking panels) and pests.
Cons
- The primary issue with metal panels is that they have a high weight-to-thickness ratio (meaning you get less material for your money) and thus are an expensive setup as a whole.
- Metal panels can give rise to noise when raindrops or hail hit them and the panels can even get damaged during hail.
- Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common and widely used types of roofing materials known. They come in a variety of styles and colors, which particularly helps homeowners who wish to explore different color choices for their roofs. Moreover, they are available in three types:
- Architectural
- Luxury
- 3-tab
Pros
- There’s a reason that asphalt shingles have been around for over 100 years and that is it’s easy-going on the wallet and can be installed by an unskilled person as well.
- They are resistant to almost all-natural wear and tear processes.
- Furthermore, asphalt shingles are recyclable and require minimal maintenance.
Cons
- Asphalt shingles have a shorter lifespan(15 to 30 years) than all the other roofing materials.
- Also, there is a high chance that the color of asphalt shingles would subside with time on direct exposure to sunlight.
- Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are made from natural materials such as terracotta or slate that are baked and then given the shape of tiles. These tiles can be given various colors according to the owner’s preferences.
Pros
- Clay tiles are highly durable and can last for 50 to 100 years.
- Since they are composed of natural earth materials, they can be recycled. Also, during the process of formation of clay tiles, there is no release of toxic chemicals which could pollute the air.
- They are also energy-efficient by keeping the internal temperature at normal levels thus cutting down the expenditure on electricity.
Cons
- They are expensive compared to other roofing materials such as concrete tiles and are heavyweight.
- Clay tiles can also be susceptible to leaks, especially if you don’t install them correctly.
Therefore, a skilled roofer is needed for its proper placement.
- Wood Shakes
Wood shakes are made from southern pine, cedar, or redwood. wood shakes are more expensive relative to wood shingles as they are handmade. The best part about wood shingles is that they’re one of the most aesthetically pleasing, rustic-looking roofing materials available.
Pros
- Wood shakes are not only attractive, but they’re also quite affordable about $6.00 per square foot.
- They have a longer lifespan and last between 30 and 40 years when properly maintained hence, making them a solid investment for any homeowner.
Cons
- The major drawback of a wood shake is the fact that it is highly maintained. It requires protection from moisture as there is a probability of damage to the roof.
- They cannot be installed by an amateur. Rather, a professional’s hand is required in its installation.
- Wood shakes are not preferred in areas where there is a risk of fire as they cannot protect against wildfires.
Conclusion:
Before installing a new roof, it is necessary to dig into roofing options that are affordable and environment-friendly. Therefore, by choosing from one of the roofing options mentioned above, you are not only bestowing your roof with the best material but also saving the already disturbed environment as these roofs come from recycled or natural raw materials and after wear and tear can again be broken down into usable substances.
