Green roofing is growing in popularity among homeowners looking for creative and eco-friendly ways to boost home comfort and energy efficiency. Home builders and material manufacturers recognized this demand, and answered with a plethora of products and materials in a wide array of styles, materials and greener roofing designs and options from which to choose. Explore these 10 popular ways to green roofing to see which suits your tastes and needs.
1. Asphalt roofing
Asphalt roofing has undergone quality and efficiency upgrades over recent years, which place this roofing material in the middle of the pack when it comes to solar reflectivity and durability. Asphalt roofing holds many advantages over other roofing materials, such as ease of installation, accommodating vents, chimneys and skylights and competitive lifespan of 30 to 40 years.
2. Metal roofing
Hot tin roofs of decades past have all but disappeared with modern engineering, manufacturing and installation. Metal roofing materials are often composed of up to 95% recycled. Metal roofs are designed for durability and may resist hurricane-force winds. Metal roofs are available in a wide array of styles, such as slate, standing seam and cedar shake, to enhance the appeal of any home.
3. Synthetic slate roofing
Synthetic slate roofing products are one of the most attractive roofing materials for homeowners seeking energy efficiency with charm and durability. Manufactured from rubber and plastics, synthetic slate roofing materials are significantly lighter than genuine slate and, with lower materials and installation costs, are available to a broader market of homeowners.
4. Genuine slate roofing
Available in a wide array of colors and hues, genuine slate roofing adds refinement to any home. Genuine slate roofs are made of fine-grained rock and are naturally energy efficient. Due to their weight and expense, genuine slate roofs aren't practical solutions for all green roofing projects.
5. Flat roofing
Flat roofing presents a host of greener roofing options for homeowners. While flat roofs are often identified with commercial projects, there are many residential uses for flat roofs. Flat roofs may be easily coated with UV-reflective coatings, making them a top green roofing option.
6. Living roof
Flat living roofs are no longer reserved for urban living. More homeowners are getting creative by incorporating flat living roofs into their home designs. Flat living roofs literally elevate outdoor living spaces to imaginative heights and, in addition to a rooftop garden, you may install fountains, a swimming pool or jacuzzi.
7. Single-ply roofing
Single-ply roofing such as thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) are popular for environmentally friendly flat-roofing solutions. TPO’s resistance to ultraviolet, ozone and chemical exposure also increase the roofing system longevity. EPDM roofing also has superior weatherability and ozone resistance.
8. Tile roofing
Tile roofing is more closely associated with the warmer western region of the country, but tile roofing is certainly a viable green roofing option for Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland homeowners. The curved shape aids in ventilation, and its composition and ability to be recycled enhances its green appeal.
9. Cedar shingle and shake roofing
Cedar shingle and shake roofing materials are very popular, durable and enhance the beauty of a home. Cedar shingle and shake roofs are the least reflective of the green roofing options. However, cedar shingle and shakes may be treated with reflective pigments for better heat management.
10. Field-applied and factory coatings
Generally, any roofing material may be coated after installation, or the roofing materials may be coated at the factory. The applied coating reflects UV and infrared energy, which reduces cooling expenses. Field-applied coatings are a nice option for homeowners seeking a greener and cooler roof, but don’t need a new roof.
Image Credit: kretyen
Comments