A roof needs to be well maintained at all times to protect both the exterior and interior of the premises. When work needs to be done, people are often looking for tips for choosing the right roofing materials. A growing number of homeowners and businesses are looking for sustainable roofing solutions that offer both performance and environmental benefits.
In this article, we'll discuss the main reasons why this option is something you should consider for your roof.
What Are Sustainable Roofing Solutions?
Sustainable roofing solutions are ones that take the environment into account (unlike many other commercial products). This means that they use materials and methods which will have minimal impact on the earth, its resources, and its inhabitants.
There are many different types of sustainable roofing solutions available on the market today. Each one has its own set of benefits that can make it a great option for your home or business.
Durability
Durability is one of the main benefits of sustainable roofing solutions. They typically last longer than traditional roofing materials. They are also designed to resist leaks and weather-related damage. This can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs or replacements. The importance of roof cleaning and maintenance cannot be overstated when it comes to keeping your roof in top condition. Also, many sustainable roofing solutions are made from recycled materials, making them even more environmentally friendly.
Some property owners have issues with flat roofs and have limited access to them. The popularity of Rubberfuse roofing systems demonstrates peoples' desire to find waterproofing solutions that are also heat and UV resistant. People want to experience outstanding physical and mechanical performance, whilst choosing products that are made using carbon and hydrogen only (with no halogens or plasticisers).
image © Polina Kuzovkova
Green Roofs (aka Vegetated Roofs / Living Roofs)
Green roofs are one of the most popular types of sustainable roofing solutions. They are made up of a layer of soil and plants that sits on top of the roof deck. This option helps to lower greenhouse gas emissions and conserve energy resources. In terms of cost-effectiveness, green roofs can last for up to 50 years. In financial terms, they would be a long-term investment for your property. Here are some additional benefits:
- Reduces energy costs – A vegetated roof helps to keep a building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. In addition, it reduces the need for air conditioning and heating, which results in lower energy bills.
- Improves air quality – The plants on a vegetated roof filter out pollutants from the air and help improve overall air quality.
- Reduces stormwater runoff – A vegetated roof helps to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff that occurs during a rainstorm. This is because the plants act as a natural filter and soak up the water.
- Increases property value – A vegetated roof can add value to a property and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
- Reduces noise pollution
- Creates a habitat for birds and other animals, and increases biodiversity
Cool Roofs
Cool roofs are defined as roofing materials that have been designed to reflect more sunlight and heat back into the atmosphere than traditional asphalt or concrete tiles. Cool roof coatings, paints, and membranes also fall into this category. They can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, asphalt, concrete, tile, slate, wood, or plastic. Cool roofs offer a number of benefits for both building owners and the environment:
- Reduced energy costs: cool roofs can reduce cooling expenses by up to 30%. This is because they keep buildings cooler in the summertime, meaning less air conditioning is needed to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Reduced emissions: they also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing the amount of energy needed to cool buildings. This will consequently help to prevent global warming and climate change.
- Extended roof life: cool roofs can extend the life of a building’s roofing system by protecting it from the sun’s heat and ultraviolet radiation. Asphalt shingles, for example, can last twice as long when installed on a cool roof.
- Improved comfort: living or working in a building with a cool roof is more comfortable than being in one with a traditional roof (due to the lower temperatures indoors).
- Compliance with codes and standards: cool roofs meet or exceed many of the latest energy codes and standards, including California’s Title 24 building code.
image © Vivint Solar
Solar Roofs
Solar roofs are made up of solar panels that have been designed to look like regular roof tiles. The equipment used in solar roofs is the same as that used in traditional rooftop solar systems. The benefits of using a solar roof are many:
- They can help you save cash on your energy expenses.
- They can increase the value of your home.
- They are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
- They last longer than traditional roofs.
The main benefit of using solar roofs is that they allow you to generate electricity from the sun without taking up any additional space. Solar roofs also have the added advantage of being hidden from view, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing than traditional solar panels.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs have become a popular choice for homeowners in recent years. There are many benefits to using them, including the following:
- Metal roofs are sustainable and environmentally friendly. They can be made from recycled materials, and they are recyclable themselves.
- Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting. They can last up to 50 years or more, compared to 20-30 years for traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles.
- Metal roofs are fire-resistant. They will not ignite or spread flames if there is a fire on your property.
- Metal roofs are energy efficient. They reflect heat away from the home in the summertime, helping to keep the interior cooler and reduce air conditioning costs. They also keep the home warm in the winter by trapping heat inside.
- Metal roofs are aesthetically pleasing. They come in a wide spectrum of colors and styles to match any residence.
Home for a Winemaker in Arrowtown, New Zealand by Stacey Farrell Architect
As you can see, the benefits of sustainable roofing solutions are as wide as the options available to you. It's encouraging to know that your property can be maintained or upgraded in a way that's good for your home, your budget, and the environment.
