As our blog continues to evolve and grow in popularity as the authoritative voice in the industry, so have emails and calls from guest bloggers. They ask if we would entertain the idea of posting a blog written by someone other than us. The answer is YES! We always have room for quality guest blog posts that are relevant to the roofing and/or snow guard industries. Here, Matt Smith of Choice Solutions Roofing and Exteriors shares his knowledge about eco-friendly roof materials with you!
With that being said . . . Matt, take it away!
Eco-Friendly Roof Materials
Guest Blogger: Matt Smith, Choice Solutions Roofing and Exteriors
If nature had its way, no harm would come to our environment. Unfortunately, humans are the ones in charge which have resulted in much harm done to earth and its life living on it. Luckily with a higher awareness that has come forth in most of the today’s society, there is hope that big changes are about to come.
Construction has been one of the big culprits that played a role in the greenhouse gasses and reduction of natural resources. The green movement going into force is challenging the way we construct our homes, encouraging the construction industries to find more sustainable options.
When you are looking for the right roofing material for your home, the best option is to choose eco-friendly roof materials which will provide a healthier and greener environment for all.
Examples of Eco-friendly Roof Materials on the Market
White Roofs
You can cut your energy bills by using less air condition during the day. The roofs that are lighter in color or that has been coated with a white coating will reflect the sun rays, not allowing your home to get hot in the summer.
Metal Roofs
A metal roof that is 100% recyclable is no doubt a sustainable building material. These roofs can last up to 50 years which reduces construction waste. Metal is fire resistant, a good material to use when harvesting rainwater and reflex sunlight which makes these roofs a great choice when it comes to sustainability.
Wood shakes
Using shingles that come from a managed forest allows you to keep that classic appearance and at the same time considerate to the environment.
Clay or Reclaimed Slate
Clay or reclaimed slate is very durable and can give that natural feel for up to one century. Therefore clay or reclaimed slate are very eco-friendly roof materials. These materials have been around for ages but is brought up to date and today you can get them in light-colored clay tiles that will give your home the benefit of a cool roof system.
Recycled Materials
Recycled roof shingles made from recycled materials, such as plastic, wood fiber, and rubber. Even though these shingles consists of varies materials the finished roof looks like recycled slate and cedar shakes. They are affordable and durable with a lifespan of over 50 years. Less waste during the making of these roofs and the need to process new raw materials gets minimized causing less pollution.
Living Roofs
Having plants growing on top of your roof might cost a bit more, but the green benefits are many and these roofs give your home a wonderfully authentic look. Storm water management, insulation, and a cooling effect are just a few benefits these roofs offer.
Rubber Shingles
These shingles, made from old tires coated with ground slate to enhance texture. Not only do these shingles make use of material that would have gone to waste in the land-field, but they produce durable roofs that can last for up to 50 years because of their resistance to storms and harsh weather. These shingles are also found in different colors.
As technology in the construction industry is improving, so is the roofing material and additional roofing applications, for examples Solar roof panels which can make your overall home more sustainable by generating solar energy for your house.
If you were to compare these eco-friendly roof materials with some conventional roofing materials, you will find that going green is in many cases the less expensive and most durable way to go.
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Alpine SnowGuards designs, engineers, and manufactures snow management systems from our facilities in Morrisville, VT. We work closely with leading roofing contractors, architects, engineering firms, developers, and roofing manufacturers to ensure we deliver quality products that do what we say they’ll do. Alpine SnowGuards can help a building qualify for LEED® credits.