Going Green? Here’s How to Pick the Best Sustainable Roofing Materials

In today’s world, eco-friendly roofing materials are becoming more popular as homeowners shift to a more sustainable lifestyle. There are many benefits to going green when it comes to roofing. You can reduce energy costs, improve durability, and lower your home’s environmental impact. With the growing demand, so many options are available that it can often become overwhelming to choose which material you should use for your roof. If you’re looking into going green, you’re probably researching how to pick the best sustainable roofing materials. At RoofsOnly.com, we can help you choose the best eco-friendly roofing materials. 

What Makes a Roofing Material Eco-Friendly?

Not all environmentally friendly roofing is made equally. Some are more durable than others, while others benefit the environment more. For materials to be genuinely environmentally friendly, they must contain:

• Sustainability: Renewable resources should be used to make materials. As an alternative, they could be designed to last longer, which would cut down on waste.
• Energy Efficiency: Roofs that reflect heat or provide insulation can lower energy consumption.
• Recyclable: Eco-friendly materials should be made to be recycled or repurposed at the end of their lifespan.

Combining these three factors makes an eco-friendly roof good for the planet and your wallet. Ask your roofer about the materials they use to get the most out of a green roof in terms of cost. Make sure that they use recyclable, energy-efficient, and sustainable materials. 

Best Eco-Friendly Roofing Materials for Sustainable Homes

If you are considering going green, you might discover just how many options you have. Choosing the best eco-friendly roofing material can seem like an overwhelming task, but the top choices to keep in mind are:

• Metal Roofing: This is recyclable and made from recycled materials. Its highly reflective surface helps reduce cooling costs for the house, and it has a forty to seventy-year lifespan.
• Solar Roofing: Solar panels or solar shingles convert sunlight into energy, lowering a house’s electricity costs. These options also qualify for green energy tax credits and incentives, adding to their cost-effectiveness.
• Cool Roofing Technology: This type of roofing uses a high-reflectivity coating to prevent heat from absorbing, which lowers the electric bill by keeping your home naturally cool. It can be applied to shingles, tiles, or metal roofing.
• Green Roofs: This roof, also known as a living roof, is covered in vegetation, which improves insulation and reduces stormwater runoff. Because the plants produce oxygen, the air quality surrounding the house will also be improved.
• Recycled Shingles: These are made from recycled plastic, rubber, or wood fibers and offer the traditional appearance of shingles with eco-friendly benefits.
• Clay and Slate Tiles: These fire-resistant options are durable, lasting over one hundred years, and are excellent for insulating homes and reducing energy consumption.
• Sustainably Sourced Wood Shingles and Shakes: This roof can be made from reclaimed wood or sustainably harvested cedar. It is a naturally biodegradable and beautiful option, but it requires more maintenance than most other types of roofing.

LEED-Certified Roofing

LEED-certified roofing includes roofing that meets Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and can include green roofs, cooling technology, and some other energy-efficient materials that lower energy costs and provide tax incentives.

The roofing industry continues to develop significantly more LEED-certified roofing options to help reduce the overall carbon footprint and energy costs of the homes they protect. Not every option is right for every house, but knowing all available options is essential. 

Choosing the Right Sustainable Roofing for Your Home

After reading the list above, you might know the roof you want to install in your home. Or, you might be even more overwhelmed than you were when you first heard about green roofing. To make sure you’re choosing the right roof for your home, there are a few things to consider:

• Climate: Materials like metal roofs are better suited for hotter climates, while slate and clay are better for areas with temperature fluctuations.
• Budget: While eco-friendly options can cost more upfront, they will reduce energy bills and maintenance costs over time.
• Lifespan and Maintenance: Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to spend on your roof, as well as how long it will last.
• Local Building Codes: Be sure to check with your area’s building codes. Some states have regulations for or against certain types of roofing, and you want to be sure you’re choosing one that meets that code.
• Professional Installation: Working with a trusted roofing contractor is critical to ensure the roofing is installed correctly. Ask your roofer about their experience working with your chosen materials.

Choosing an appropriate eco-friendly roofing solution for your home can significantly impact your wallet and your home’s future. Although factors like climate, budget, and building codes all play a part in your decision, a professional and experienced roofer can walk you through your options and tell you which ones are best for your home based on where you live. 

How We Can Help

An eco-friendly roof isn’t just about sustainability. It’s about making a wise investment in your home’s future. Metal roofing, solar panels, recycled shingles, and green roofs are all great decisions, and whichever you choose, you can significantly impact your energy efficiency, long-term costs, and carbon footprint.

When you choose us to help you go green, you will get the following:

• Service from a family-owned and operated business, so you know we’ll treat you like family.
• Clean and safe worksites so you don’t have to worry about hazards while we complete your project.
• High-quality materials and craftsmanship so that you know your roof will be durable and aesthetically pleasing.
• Comprehensive roofing solutions, including residential and commercial repair and replacement roofing solutions.

At RoofsOnly.com, we are experienced roofers who know eco-friendly materials and the factors that determine which materials might be best for your house. We are committed to customizing a roofing solution for your home’s unique needs. Are you ready to go green? Book a consultation with us today to find the best eco-friendly solution for your home!