Roofing technology has come a long way over the last few decades, with a ton of attention now being given to materials that are safe for the environment.
And while asphalt shingles are still overwhelmingly the most popular roofing materials in the United States due to their affordability, several other types of roofs are consistently cutting into this market share.
So if you desire a roof made of materials that are especially kind to Mother Earth, keep reading below for several quality choices that are certainly worth considering.
Wood Shingles
Roofs made of wood were all the rage back in the day before more modern materials came about and largely replaced them. But these kinds of roofs are enjoying a resurgence in recent years because of the “green” qualities they enjoy.
Contrary to many common misconceptions, wood roofs actually last for quite a long time. It’s not unusual to get 15 to 20 years of use out of these types of roofs, which is a lot of time to be using environmentally friendly materials.
And more good news – not only can these materials be recycled when they’re replaced, but the organic material can also be manufactured from reclaimed or recycled wood.
So if you want an environmentally friendly roof, wood is definitely one of the top available choices.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs have many of the same environmentally friendly qualities of wood, but this type of roofing material has gained a much more significant foothold in North America over the last several years.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, metal roofs also have the added benefit of lasting longer than most other types of roofing material, often up to 50 years. A metal roof company in San Antonio. In cities where temperatures can get extremely hot, we are finding more and more people choosing metal over shingles.”
But as our topic today is environmentally friendly roofing options, let’s revert back to that. Metal roofs can also be produced from recycled products and can also be recycled when replaced.
Add in the long life, and metal is a fantastic option for the environmentally friendly homeowner.
Clay Tiles
These types of environmentally friendly roofs are especially popular in exceptionally hot weather climates as they’re known for their durability and their ability to reflect the heat.
Clay roofs can save a good deal on your electricity costs, thus being friendlier to the environment. But they’re also completely recyclable, yet another worthwhile “green” quality of these types of roofs.
Slate Tiles
If you’re interested in an environmentally friendly roof that will literally last longer than you will, then slate tile could be for you.
Slate tiles roofs have been known to last for centuries, with some companies offering up to a 100-year warranty on slate roofing products.
And while these roofs are incredibly eco-friendly, they’re even more so if you can find a company that repurposes salvaged slate tiles.
They’re out there, you just have to look for them.
Cool Roofs
While we’ve focused so far primarily on roofing materials that are mainstream and easily attainable, we’re going to go a little high tech on you for option number five.
These roofs actually make up one of the fastest-growing segments of the roofing industry, but many people still haven’t heard of “cool roofs.”
So what are cool roofs exactly?
These types of roofing materials consist of a mixture of white glue and white gravel that serves to reflect the sun’s rays. This reduces the amount of heat that comes into your home or business.
This means less of a need for air conditioning, thus cutting down a homeowner’s need for electricity and dependence on facilities like power plants.
In other words, cool roofs are extremely good for the environment. And that’s kind of the point.
