Environmentally Friendly Roofing and Practices

Roofing is an essential part of the construction process and just the way it affects the builders and even the property owner; it also has tremendous effects on the environment. Just the way you protect yourself during this process, you’re also supposed to protect the environment by ensuring you carry out eco-friendly roofing practices as well as use the right roofing materials that will not affect the environment. You should do all it takes to protect the environment from pollutants, and the best way to do this is to recycle any materials that you cannot use anymore and use eco-friendly roofing materials. Here are some of the practices that you should carry out during the roofing process to protect the environment.

Recycling

Recycling is one of the most common eco-friendly practice not only in roofing but all methods that aim at protecting the environment. The best way to do this is to ensure that any materials that you’re not using are not thrown around aimlessly. You should consider taking them back to the manufacturer who will find a way to re-use them or sell them to metal collectors if they are metallic so that can use them to make something helpful. Another way to protect the environment is to use recycled or reclaimed material. Even though these roofing products are not made from scratch, they can enhance the look of your home, and you have peace of mind knowing that you’re taking part in protecting the environment.

Eco-friendly practices

Ensure all the work done during the roofing process is in line with eco-friendly practices. This starts by hiring a qualified contractor who will ensure that everything is organized nicely and all the unused materials are collected and separated according to their use. The contractor will also ensure that the amount of energy used when roofing is minimized. He should use the right cooling and heating methods to conserve the energy. Do not throw all your good materials in a pile somewhere. Ensure they are well organized and appropriately kept for future use.

Use heat-reducing methods

Roofs are mostly exposed to direct sunlight and trap in too much heat that may warm up the interior of the house and can endanger the occupants. One of the best solutions to this problem is using green roofs, especially in areas that experience too much sun. You can also utilize heat reflective methods such as tiles, roof paint, roof covering or planting grass on top of the roof. These methods result in cooler building and save on the energy that you would have used to cool the house.

Save as much space as you can

To save space, you should come up with a smart house design that will utilize space and still not compromise on your desired area. Hire a good developer and a designer to help you in this. Once you can save space, you can use the remaining area for environmentally friendly practices such as planting some trees.

Environmentally Friendly Roofing Materials

In today’s go-green society, traditional asphalt or composite shingles are decreasing in popularity as many consumers are now seeking more environmentally friendly options. Metal roofing, recycled shingles, and clay or slates are just a few options in the market to choose from. So, let’s take a look at these environmentally friendly roofing options in details to help you select the best one.

Green Roof

A green roof is a roof which is made from living plants over a waterproof membrane. Depending on the roof, they usually include particular drainage and irrigation systems. These roofs, which are often thought to be the gold standard among environmentalist, are difficult to install and relatively new to American communities. Each green roof is unique and requires a good amount of planning before installation to ensure they are sustainable in your climate.

The benefits of a green roofing system include increased oxygen output and pollution reduction, reduced stormwater drainage, and increased effectiveness of heating and cooling systems. Further, green roofs may also help to reduce noise and burn at a much slower rate than the traditional roof.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing comes in many varieties which you can use create different looks or styles for your home. One popular choice for those looking to go the eco-friendly way is the aluminum panel roofing which is usually made from recycled aluminum. For many people, aluminum roofing is considered one of the best options from an environmental standpoint due to its long life and recycling potential. Metal roofs generally last about 50 years, and you will probably not need to replace or even maintain them during their lifetime. Other advantages to metal or aluminum roofing include there unique aesthetics, resistance to fire, easy snow removal and ease of rainwater for gardening or other activities.  

Recycled shingles

Recycled shingles are considered an eco-friendly option because they are made from recycled materials. Recycled shingles come in a variety of materials including, recycled tires, plastic, and wood. Depending on the type, they can be made from up to 95% recycled materials. Rubber shingles are typically resistant to rotting, cracking, mold, and discoloration. However, they may have a low wind uplift rating and can deteriorate when exposed to sunlight, but they are usually chemically treated to slow this process. The life expectancy of rubber roofs is approximately 50 years, and they require little to no maintenance. Installation of rubber shingles is similar to that of any other materials and does not require any special tools or supplies. Their downfall is the smell. Rubber roofing materials emit a strong rubber or chemical smell that can stick around for a while. Further, the chemical sprays used to make these shingles are also smelly, toxic, and not environmentally friendly.

Clay or slate shingles

Clay or slate shingles are also a great alternative to traditional asphalt. They have been popular roofing materials for hundreds of years, and they are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. However, clay or slate roofs can often be expensive and require a slightly more time-consuming and challenging installation process. Additionally, clay/ slate roofs cannot be used in frigid climates due to the potential of cracking if they are exposed to freezing temperatures.

Wood Shake and shingle Wood Shake and shingle

Wood Shake and shingles are sustainable environmental options. Grown in strategically planned forests, their use promotes the cycle of reforestation and oxygen production. They are often made of cedar and are biodegradable. They require less energy to produce than many other types of manufactured shingles. However, wood shingles are less durable and have a shorter life span than many other options with an average of 25 years.

Conclusion

Protecting the environment is an obligation of every person and is for the good of every living creature and future generations. With many eco-friendly roofing options available, you have no excuse as to why you should not protect the environment when roofing. Eco-friendly roofing practice is not so difficult to implement either, and all you need is the willingness to do so. Ensure you consult an experienced Portland roofing contractor to help you choose the best roofing materials as well as carry out the best environmentally friendly roofing tips possible. There are many different ways to roof a home, and eco-friendly is just one style. All County Roofing is here for you and can help your roof go on fast and smoothly no matter what form or material you need. Call us today, and let’s find your perfect roofing style. Thanks for reading All County Roofing