The construction industry has a keen interest in sustainability and new eco-friendly roofing materials are hitting the market. Residential and commercial building owners who want to do their part by installing attractive, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly roofs have a wide range of options. At Davidoff Roofing, we fully support sustainable initiatives.
There are many environmentally friendly roofing options available that can help reduce the carbon footprint of your home or business while also providing energy efficiency and durability. In this guide, we’ll explore the best eco-friendly roofing materials and their benefits, so you can make an informed decision for your next roofing project.
How to Choose the Right Eco-Friendly Roofing Material
Choosing the most eco-friendly roofing material is not simply a matter of what goes into it. Truly sustainable products also involve an environmentally conscious manufacturing process. Wood shakes, for example, may be quite green-friendly if logging companies replant the forests and carefully maintain the land.
Other determining factors involve longevity and the ability to recycle roofing materials. Metal roofs, for instance, rank among the longest lasting and the materials are usually recyclable. When selecting a roofing option for your home or business, consider manufacturing, longevity, and whether or not it can be recycled.
Consider these points when choosing your next roofing material:
- Does the material have a higher recycled content?
- Is the coating on the material harmful to the environment?
- Is the roof material durable, and easy to maintain?
- What kind of warranty is available?
Environmentally Friendly Roofing Options Available
These are among the most prevalent environmentally friendly roofs installed in Ontario.
Metal Roofs
High-quality metal roofs can last for upwards of 100 years when properly maintained. To put that in context, 3-tab asphalt shingle roofs typically last for 25 years or less. Simple math demonstrates the environment would sustain a hit four times from an asphalt shingle replacement versus a metal system. Metal roofing systems are also environmentally-friendly as they can typically be reused.
Wood Shakes
Few materials deliver the classic ambiance of wood shingles. These durable materials can be stained to enhance a home’s curbside appeal and generally last upwards of 30 years when adequately maintained. Many of today’s products are being created from reclaimed wood. By choosing reclaimed wood shakes, homeowners are minimizing the impact on the environment.
Slate Tiles
Known for their stunning appearance, fire resistance, and exceptional longevity, some consider slate the most eco-friendly roofing material. These tiles require sturdy load-bearing infrastructure to handle the weight and slate roofs can last anywhere from 75 to 200 years. Although slate roofing systems are beautiful, they are not necessarily the most cost effective for home and commercial property owners.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles remain one of the popular environmentally friendly roofing options because they come in a wide variety of colours and styles. They rank among the more energy efficient roofing systems and are considered low maintenance. Even when severe weather storms or a hard impact cracks a clay tile or two, replacing them is a relatively straightforward process. Like slate, they require strong, load-bearing infrastructure and are among the pricier installation.
Composite Shingles
In terms of eco-friendly roofing materials, composite shingles have an inherently sustainable foundation. The elements used to create composite shingles typically include synthetic polymer, slate, laminate, wood, and recycled materials. Composite shingle manufacturers make products that emulate slate, clay, and wood shakes. They also come in a wide range of attractive styles and colours. Depending on the product, care, and maintenance, a composite shingle roof can last for up to 50 years.
If you don’t have the bandwidth to do a deep dive into these factors, check for an Energy Star label. A product that earned this certification ranks among the most environmentally friendly roofing options.
How Eco-Friendly Roofing Can Benefit Your Home
As you may have gleaned from the list of eco-friendly roofing materials, they tend to last far longer than other products. While asphalt remains very popular because of its low upfront cost, it requires replacement more frequently. Home and business owners who select one of these green products save money in terms of replacing a roofing system.
These materials also tend to be highly energy efficient in terms of insulation and reflecting harmful UV rays. Those benefits also translate to building owners lowering their utility costs and saving money year after year. Lastly, environmentally friendly roofs are attractive. The exterior beauty of your home is only rivalled by the good feeling you enjoy knowing you did right for our environment.
Choose an Eco-Friendly Roofing Contractor in London, Ontario
If you are considering replacing an aging roof and want to choose one of the environmentally friendly roofing options, we applaud your commitment and are here to help. At Davidoff Roofing, we’re proud to offer members of our Ontario community sustainable roofing choices that provide economic and aesthetic benefits. Contact us at our London, Ontario, offices to get an estimate for your green roof today.