3 Eco-Friendly Roofing Options You Should Consider

To adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle, most homeowners now install timers on their lights, invest in smart thermostats that switch off HVAC systems when they aren't home, and low-flow faucets. But do you know that you can also replace your roof with an eco-friendly roofing option? Eco-friendly roofs enhance your home's energy efficiency, which ultimately saves you money on power bills.



Furthermore, eco-friendly roofs boast excellent resistant properties against fire and other environmental elements, which adds to their durability. Manufacturers use recycled products to make some of these roofing materials (like metal), which in turn contributes to a cleaner planet. 

Below is a comprehensive review of three green roofs you can consider for your home.

1. Metal Roof

A metal roof is incredibly durable and boasts a lifespan of up to 50 years, which makes it ideal for homeowners who don't plan to change locations any time soon. Compared to asphalt roofs, metal roofs can withstand harsh elements like fungal growth and mold. Additionally, a metal roof is highly reflective, so the sun's rays harsh bounce away from your home, which keeps your home cool.

Consequently, your HVAC systems take a break, which saves you money on energy costs. And when cold weather kicks in, metal roofs insulate your home, so your home stays warm during winter. If lightning storms and wildfires are rampant in your area, a metal roof will keep you safe because metal is a fire-resistant material.

This roof is also ideal if you live in snowy areas as it allows snow to smoothly slide down your roof rather than form ice dams. As a weather-resistant material, a metal roof guarantees superior protection from hail storms and extreme winds that easily destroy shingles roofs. Note that metal roofs have a high initial cost, but their longevity justifies the price.

2. Solar Roof

Solar roofing is an emerging eco-friendly roofing option that comes as either solar tiles or solar panels. The solar tiles comprise solar cells built into conventional roofing materials like metal or asphalt shingles. A major upside of solar roofs is their impressive ability to lower energy bills.

A solar roof absorbs the sun's rays and converts the sun's energy into electricity, hence the low energy bills. Furthermore, a solar roof utilizes sunshine to generate electricity, so it doesn't release any dangerous substances that cause air pollution.

Unfortunately, solar roofs don't come cheap. Still, solar panels cost less than solar shingles because you can install the panels on your current roof. Ensure that you first reinforce your existing roof so it can handle the additional weight of the solar panels. But if you are constructing a new home, solar shingles can be a cost-effective option because you won't incur the dual cost of solar panels and roofing materials.

3. Cool Roof

Manufacturers mix white gravel and glue to make cool roofs.

The cool roof's design allows it to reflect sunlight rather than absorb it as dark-colored shingles do. As a result, the heat amount that penetrates your home is low, which cuts the need to use your HVAC system, especially during summer. By reducing electricity usage, cool roofs reduce the greenhouse emissions and air pollution associated with electricity production from coal-fired power plants. 

Keep in mind that this roof best suits regions with a lot of sunlight. If you live in areas with high humidity, consider another roofing option because mold might develop on your roof, which can compromise your roof's aesthetics and structure.

If you are an eco-conscious homeowner looking for an eco-friendly roof, any of the above options will fit the bill. But note that your roof needs expert installation so you can derive the maximum benefits. So, contact CB Chandler Roofing for unparalleled roofing installation services.