Re-roofing the house may be a costly affair that requires a lot of planning and proper execution. The roofing material you choose for the purpose is responsible for heat gain or loss. Hence, selecting a durable and energy-efficient material must be on your priority list. When it comes to sustainability, there are no fully sustainable roofing materials. However, there are various kinds of roofing materials in the sphere of sustainability that has become preferable.
Environment-Friendly Roofing Material
When the question arises that what makes a roofing material environment-friendly or green, it is the process of manufacturing that must be under consideration. It also encompasses the roof’s performance over the lifetime and the process of disposition after use. The significant factors over here are material resistance and durability. Both these factors affect the cost of roofing the structure. Recent market surveys reveal a large variety of roofing materials high in heat-reflectivity and can stand severe climatic conditions.
Sustainability Ratings of Roofing Material
Various kinds of international authorities’ ratings determine the standard of roofing materials, thereby throwing light upon their durability and life span. You must take a look at each of them in detail to make an appropriate choice.
• Metal roofing: the production of metal roofs is an energy-intensive process. They are both long-lasting and attractive and also contain high recycled content, which makes them easily recyclable. In addition to this, a metal roof can reflect heat, thereby reducing heat gain; however, they require insulation as the metal is a high conductor of heat. Aluminum and steel are the most popular metal roofing materials available in the market. These materials are technically sustainable as they are mined directly from Earth.
• Slate roofing: slate roofing is incredibly durable and beautiful in comparison to other alternatives. Moreover, it is heavy and expensive as it requires significant resources for processing, mining, and transportation. However, they are not a sustainable material than others as the weight of these roofing requires extra framing. Hence, it requires additional resources in comparison to lighter-weight roofing material. You may also consult Benchmark Roofing for premium roofing materials.
• Clay tile roof: clay tile roofs are a good option though popularly known as terracotta; it is incredibly durable and expensive roofing material. You may use natural clay, which is flamed and shaped similarly to ceramic tiles. They also receive paints and unique glaze for added property and color. Clay is a plentiful resource, which makes these styles manufacturer-friendly.
• Shingles and wood shakes: they are the only sustainable roofing material available in the market. It is because wood is a naturally sustainable resource. Shingles are energy-intensive and moderately durable. Wood may be a sustainable choice for those individuals who are environment-friendly.
While choosing sustainable roofing materials, always keep in mind that certain areas require crucial attention that encompasses maintenance charges, coating, the material’s weight, roof slope, warranty, and reflectivity. Each of these aspects requires equal attention before choosing a sustainable roofing material so that you do not spend more than your budget.