Eco-friendly roofing options are becoming increasingly trendy, particularly for those looking to create a sustainable home. The roof of your home is an excellent place to explore these eco-friendly options, especially if you plan to replace your existing one.
These roofing materials are perfect for minimizing your environmental impact as well as lowering your energy bills. Additionally, using these eco-friendly materials will enhance the lifespan of your home.
In this guide, we will take a look at some of the eco-friendly roofing materials that you can use on your roof. We’ll also consider the benefits of each to help you decide which one is right for your needs.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is one of the most durable options you can select when deciding on a new roofing material. Many metal roofs are made from recycled materials, making them a more sustainable choice.
Homeowners often choose steel, aluminum, and other metals for their roofs, which makes metal roofing options very versatile. It can also help save you money because the material requires little maintenance. The small downside is that having metal roofing on your home can make rain and hailstorms louder compared to asphalt shingles. However, the difference shouldn’t be too severe if the roof is properly installed.
This is a roof that can have multiple styles. Metal roofing features a reflective design that bounces UV rays from the sun away from the roof. This helps extend the life of your roof and reduces the load on your cooling system to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. In general, metal roofing will last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. When it is time to replace it, you can easily recycle the metal.
Recycled Shingle Roofing
Shingle roofing tends to be a more affordable option that many homeowners choose, but it can also be eco-friendly. For example, instead of using traditional materials, these shingles incorporate recyclable materials in their construction, such as rubber, plastic, and wood fibers. This presents a unique option with various styles available, allowing you to choose a shingle that complements your home’s aesthetic. You can enhance your curb appeal with minimal effort.
This type of material is also often weather-resistant, making it a durable option that can withstand strong storms without requiring extra maintenance. Most roofs made with this type of eco-friendly material are expected to last between 30 and 50 years. Some types of recycled shingles also have a reflective surface or coating to reduce heat absorption, making them a more energy-efficient choice that will help lower your cooling costs.
Wood Shake Roofing
Wood shake roofing is an old style of roofing that provides a rustic look many homeowners seek, especially in Minnesota. While this material is not as durable as some other available selections, cedar wood shake roofing contains natural oils in the wood that help keep it from rotting and decaying.
Most roofs with this eco-friendly material can last about 40 to 50 years with proper maintenance. It is also an excellent choice for withstanding storm damage, particularly if strong winds are part of the storm.
Even though the material tends to last for several years, you need to maintain it on a regular basis so that it maintains its stability. Since it’s made out of wood, you will find that it does not conduct heat from sunlight.
That said, it’s great for insulating your home and keeping it cool in the summer. Keep in mind that less heat absorption during the summer helps your home stay cooler without straining your air conditioner, preventing it from having to work harder to cool your home.
Rubber Roofing
Did you know that old, worn-out tires that are no longer suitable for your car are often broken down and reused as roofing materials? The rubber material, known as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), is a very durable option for a relatively flat roof.
EPDM roofs are able to hold up to storms relatively well, and with this durability comes an extended life span of about 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance. In addition, the material is resistant to extreme weather, so your home will need fewer roofing repairs over the years.
In general, EPDM is a flexible, single-ply material that lies across the roof surface. White or light-colored coatings can be added to EPDM to reflect UV rays from the sun, helping to improve energy efficiency during the summer. Although adding a reflective coating incurs an additional cost, it can significantly reduce cooling costs in warmer months.
TPO Roofing
TPO roofing, or thermoplastic polyolefin roofing, is a material that combines both plastic and rubber to create a flexible, durable material. The material is heat-resistant, which will help you save money on your energy bills. In fact, this material reflects up to 80% of the UV light that hits the roof. TPO roofing tends to last about 20 years with minimal maintenance requirements, making it an investment that many consider.
It is also puncture-resistant, so there is a lower chance of damage occurring to the roof during a storm. Since this material is less susceptible to punctures, mold and mildew growth under the surface is not a concern. This type of roofing welds the seams with heat, making it more waterproof than most. Installation of this type of roofing is simple, but depending on the roof’s foundation, we may need to attach fasteners to ensure it is secure.
Other Eco-Friendly Roofing Options
No matter which type of roofing material you select for your home, you can add an additional layer to make it eco-friendly. For example, most roofing materials are dark in color, but adding a light-colored, reflective layer on top can transform it into a roof that cools your home instead of retaining heat.
The aim with these roofs is to reflect sunlight and reduce energy costs. Reflective coatings are available for tiles, shingles, metal, and TPO roofing materials, offering a relatively simple upgrade that can make a big difference in energy efficiency.
Contact a Dependable Roofer Today
Choosing an eco-friendly roof can be a smart investment, especially if you’re committed to a sustainable home.
That said, figuring out the best option for your home can be challenging. At Schmidt Roofing, we are a family-owned business that has more than 30 years of experience serving the Burnsville area. We aim for the roofs we provide to be a durable, protective shield for your home and to offer aesthetic appeal that makes your property stand out from your neighbors’.
As one of the top residential roofing companies in Burnsville, MN, we prioritize your needs. If you need roofing repairs or a consultation about the best eco-friendly options, contact us right away!
