When it comes to residential roof replacement, homeowners have difficulties deciding on a material for their roof. It’s no small decision: The roof generally represents about 40% of the visual exterior of a typical home, and therefore plays an important role in its overall look. Simply choosing the right roofing material could result in as much as a 30% decrease in your home’s energy needs. Eco-friendly sustainable roofing options are quickly increasing in popularity due to their potential energy savings and environmental value to potential buyers. Here are just a few eco-friendly roofing materials you may want to consider when it’s time to get your roof replaced.
‘Cool Roof’
A ‘cool roof’ is considered any roof made from lighter or white colored materials. True to its name, a cool roof has a lower temperature because it reflects more of the sun’s rays away from your home, which effectively cools the home’s interior as well. Residential roofing contractors should be happy to walk you through the process of choosing a cool roof material, and while white asphalt is known for its durability and affordability, it’s very difficult, and sometimes impossible, to recycle.
Metal Roof
Not only will a metal roof protect your home from suffering major damage because it has a 140 mph wind rating, but it’s also fully recyclable and light-reflective. These qualities make a metal roof a viable investment for any homeowner with a higher budget, and fortunately, they’re available in a wide variety of colors and styles. Keep in mind, however, that if you live in an area that gets heavy snowfall, a metal roof may not be ideal, since the snow will slide right off and can potentially create major snowdrifts around your home’s perimeter.
Recycled Content Roof
Finally, there are growing options when it comes to roofs made with recyclable components. They tend to be lower cost, and there are countless style options available. Colors tend to be limited, but as research and development continues, design options will expand as well.
Ultimately, understanding how to choose an eco-friendly roof is the key to maximizing home energy efficiency. For more information about residential roofing contractors, contact Richmond Exteriors.
