Are you in the market for a new roof but want to make sure you’re choosing a sustainable option?
You’re not alone!
As we become more aware of our environmental impact, we must consider every aspect of our homes, including our roofing materials. But don’t worry; there are plenty of natural, sustainable materials out there that can keep your home protected while minimizing your carbon footprint.
In this blog, we’ll dive into some of the best sustainable natural materials for roofing and why they’re worth considering. Let’s explore the common ones in detail.
Sustainable Roofing: 5 Natural Options for a Greener Home
Wood Shingles and Shakes
If you’re looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly roofing material, wood shingles materials are a great option to consider. Wood shingles and shakes can last anywhere from 25 to 50 years, depending on the type of wood used, whether left in its natural state or treated with chemicals.
You can install the shingles over existing asphalt shingles or directly over plywood sheathing, making them easy to install. They come in several different styles, including traditional three-tab shingles and architectural three-tab shingles (also known as dimensional). There’s also an architectural dimensional shingle style called architectural dimensional with deep grooves or lines running through it, giving it an old-world look like slate roof tiles do.
Slate Tiles
Slate tiles are another option for sustainable roofing. These tiles are made from rocks and are extremely durable, lasting up to 100 years. They are also fire-resistant and require very little maintenance. However, they are heavy and may require additional support to be installed properly.
In addition to being durable and low maintenance, slate tiles are also an excellent option for those looking for a natural, earthy aesthetic. They come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing you to choose a style that complements your home’s architecture. And while slate tiles may be more expensive than other roofing options, their longevity and sustainability make them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Clay Tiles
Clay roof tiles are another type of natural material that you can use on your roof. Clay roof tiles have been used since ancient times because they’re durable and easy to install. They’re also resistant to fire, rot, and insects and have a low environmental impact since they don’t contain any chemicals that could harm the environment if they leak into groundwater supplies or nearby bodies of water such as lakes and rivers.
Clay tiles are made from natural clay and are highly durable, lasting up to 50 years. They are also fire-resistant and energy-efficient. However, they can be brittle and crack or break if stepped on.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are the preferred choice for homeowners who want a sustainable and long-lasting roofing material. These roofs are fire-resistant and made from recycled materials, such as aluminum or steel. They also have a long lifespan, up to 50 years or more.
Metal roofing is also an excellent choice for sustainability because it is lightweight and requires little maintenance. Metal roofs come in many different styles, including shingle, standing seam, or corrugated metal that can easily fit into any style of home design, from traditional to modern contemporary.
In addition to being durable, metal roofs also have excellent insulation properties that keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Green Roofs
Green roofs are a unique type of sustainable roofing that involves planting vegetation on the roof of a building. These roofs can provide insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve air quality. They also provide a natural habitat for birds and insects.
Green roofs are more sustainable than most other options because they reduce the heat effect, reduce pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses, improve air quality by filtering harmful compounds from the atmosphere, and shade the building from the sun’s rays.
Green roofs can be installed on any structure but are most often used on residential buildings. Green roofs can be installed over an existing roof or as part of a new construction project. However, they can be expensive to install and may require additional maintenance.
In Conclusion
If you are a homeowner who values sustainability and wants to reduce your environmental impact, a sustainable natural materials roof may be the right choice. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs and circumstances before making a decision.
However, choosing a sustainable roofing material can help protect the environment and enjoy a durable and long-lasting roof for years to come.
If you want to discuss the best sustainable options based on your home location and preferences, call (678)-956-5152 to schedule a call with one of our roofing experts today
