It’s so important to carefully consider all your options and make the right decision when re-roofing your home. It’s a costly process and the roof is a huge part of any building – so it’s not to be rushed.
A roof is exposed to and battered by all manner of elements, it makes up a large part of your home’s aesthetic, and it plays a part in a house’s energy efficiency. For these reasons, using sustainable materials when re-roofing should be your priority.
Though we’ll be talking about sustainable roofing materials here, note that a number of other tools and products will be required as part of the re-roofing process. If you’re getting in a professional team of builders, they’ll be aware that a high quality grab adhesive, for example, is essential in making sure your roof is strong and long-lasting.
The Importance of Sustainable Roofing
There are many factors that come into play when considering which materials to use and what makes them environmentally friendly. The raw material is of course important – to be sustainable, it must be produced without depleting its resource. But we also need to look beyond this, to also consider how the roof holds up over the years and how it’s disposed of at the end of its life. All of these factors come together to determine the sustainability of a roofing material.
So what are your options and how do they differ?
Recycled Shingles
Recycled shingles are an incredibly green option. A more affordable alternative to slate roofs, they are made completely from waste materials such as wood, plastic or even rubber. Some of these shingles are made from home waste, while others are produced from factory waste. They’re also super durable – so they rate very highly on the sustainable roofing scale.
Reclaimed Slate or Clay
Slate and clay have always been popular choices for roofing, and if you want to go down this route, choose reclaimed options in order to be more sustainable. Slate and clay are natural but durable, and can still be in good condition after 100 years. Choosing reclaimed tiles to suit the style of a home can be a fun, exciting process – and will be kind to the environment, too.
Wood Shakes
Many people think shakes are the same as shingles – but there is actually a subtle difference. Shakes are made from a variety of wood, such as pine, cedar and redwood; while shingles can be produced out of anything from slate, to cement or even plastic. Using a renewable and sustainable wood as a base material has obvious benefits and in using shakes, your roof is likely to be in good condition for a long time – you can relax for at least 40 years. You’ll also be able to enjoy reduced energy costs thanks to its insulating abilities.
So there you have it – three solid, sustainable materials to consider when re-roofing your home. In 30 years, you’ll thank yourself for making a carefully considered decision.
