One of the most expensive home improvement jobs you can undertake is re-roofing. Your home's heat gain and loss are partly caused by your roofing material, which is also visible, exposed to the weather, and suffers damage. Thus, selecting a long-lasting, energy-efficient material is a must that does not need too much roofing maintenance. 

Nevertheless, about sustainability, only some roofing materials meet this criterion. Suppose your idea of a sustainable roof is restricted to a green roof. In that case, you might be shocked to hear that sustainability is a broad category that includes many roofing materials.

Further, most people opt for long-lasting, reasonably priced, and environmentally friendly roofing materials. Several eco-friendly solutions are available in the market these days. You can choose one based on your budget, preferred material, roof repair maintenance, personal preferences, and home style. Roofing is not a scenario where one solution fits all.

5 Eco-friendly Roofing Options

Solar Roof

The weather and other factors are protected from your home with solar roof shingles, like ordinary ones. In contrast to the enormous, bulky panels associated with solar energy, these shingles not only offer a more pleasing look to a property.

Costly initial installation is a drawback of this roof style. Long-term advantages, like cheaper electricity costs and a reduction in carbon emissions, are in your favor. But it still needs more roofing maintenance in the long run.

Wooden Shingles and Shakes

Wood is a renewable resource, making wood shakes and shingles one of, if not the only, sustainable roofing options. These roofs, often called cedar shakes, stand out for their unmatched beauty. They draw attention from everyone who sees them because they scream sophistication and exude elegance. But the beauty is more complex than it first appears.

Slate and clay tiles are far more durable and need less energy than shakes and shingles, which are only durable. Wood shakes are robust and long-lasting. With routine roofing maintenance, 40 years of peace of mind are possible. Also, stress-free months in your new home will be yours thanks to lower energy bills. The roof has insulation, making it a roof with good energy efficiency.

If the wood roofing has not been treated with artificial additives, it can be disposed of because it is biodegradable. It often needs roof repair & maintenance. Wood can be a sustainable alternative if you live in a region where shakes are produced or have access to shingles made from FSC-certified wood.

Although this roof is long-lasting, it is expensive. You'll also have to deal with recurring plant growth and insect infestation, which could result in damage if not addressed. But the wood is pre-treated, so you don't need to worry as much about these things.

Clay Tile Roofing

Your home gains character and aesthetic appeal thanks to clay roofing tiles. Furthermore, because it insulates the building and deflects solar heat, you stand to save money on energy costs. Because clay roofs stay longer, durability is not a concern. They are also waterproof, which does not need the demand for roofing maintenance.

Clay tiles, usually called terra cotta, are sturdy, heavy, and expensive. Like ceramic tiles, authentic clay tiles are manufactured by shaping and firing natural clay. Certain tiles get unique paints or glaze for color or other added qualities. Many clay tile manufacturers assert that their goods are sustainable since the clay used to make tiles is plentiful.

One drawback is the weight, which requires a sturdy support system to prevent collapsing. This results in higher installation labor expenses.

Roof Made from Recycled Materials

Today's shingles are made of recyclable materials, including plastic, rubber, and wood fiber. The roof resembles cedar shakes and recycled slate. The most environmentally friendly roofing material is recycled shingles. They are strong and have a lifespan of more than 50 years. The roof also provides environmental advantages and does not need much maintenance of roof.

Although attractive, one would never guess the roof was constructed from the trash. As more people use this roof, less waste will be generated, and fewer raw materials will need to be processed. Less energy will be used as a result, which will reduce pollution.

Green Roof

Little trees, bushes, and other plants are mounted over a waterproofing system on flat or sloped roofs with levels for drainage to create rooftop gardens. These are typical in North America and countries like Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland.

Black asphalt can be replaced with vegetation to create shade, which lowers the temperature outside and uses less energy in your home. Also, to help you and your neighbors breathe easier, a rooftop garden can help manage stormwater since the plants will soak up some rainwater.

A green roof is ideal for any nature enthusiast living in the city or the country. Depending on your environment, a green roof can promote sustainability and the growth of new plants. Also, you can provide a healthy habitat for local wildlife, including birds, insects, and other small animals.

Growing a green roof has several advantages, especially in metropolitan areas where it helps to clean the air and decrease the heat effect. A green home design also provides your home with more cooling and insulation, reduces the quantity of rainwater runoff, and enhances the appearance of your home with its natural beauty. This eco-friendly roof does not need further roofing maintenance on a quarterly session.

Aspects of a Roof’s Environmental Performance

A roofing material's environmental friendliness is also determined by how well it performs throughout its lifetime and how it is disposed of.

The material's resistance to heat gain and general durability are the primary performance variables, and they can impact how much it costs to cool a home. The Energy Star program accredited many roofing materials for having high thermal reflectivity or capacity to reflect heat away from the roof and save cooling expenses. Many types of roofing materials are eligible for Energy Star certification.

What Time of Year Is Best to Replace a Roof?

Autumn is generally when roofing maintenance and replacements are done. It is considered the ideal season to replace your roof due to the mild spring temperatures and reliable summer weather. Optimal working conditions for a roofing project would be around 55 degrees, with a little breeze, humidity, and no rain.

Bottomline

Many eco-friendly roof styles exist, and each one provides a unique benefit for certain types of households. Due to the hefty materials and high altitudes involved, roofing is a work best left to professionals. It also calls for expertise and knowledge. As a result, for you to be involved in roofing, you must have done it before or have carpentry abilities. If you need help, hire a professional to handle the roofing.