Eco Roofing

Green roofing materials are gaining momentum in the United States, as many Americans are breaking away from traditional materials in favor of eco-friendly alternatives.

Eco roofing products can be made from recycled materials which cut down on the pollution caused during manufacturing, and can insulate your home better in warm weather. Although the upfront investment is higher, the energy costs save homeowners money in the long run. Eco-friendly material is also very durable, outlasting many mainstream options. Read on to learn more about eco roofing materials.

Eco Roofing Materials

Although over 75% of Americans have asphalt shingle roofs, these materials have low insulation ratings. This material is created from petroleum products, which causes a large amount of pollution during production. Fortunately, there are many eco-friendly options that provide long-term energy savings and reduced costs. Eco roofing can also qualify you for tax credits, so it's worthwhile to take a look at the different types of eco roofing products available.

The most eco friendly roofing materials are recycled products. Ask your roofing professional about recycled roofing products which are crafted from recycled materials like rubber and plastic. These materials are more durable than other products and come with a 50 year warranty. They also come in styles that resemble slate and cedar roofing.

Choose Color Carefully
Light colored roofs reflect heat while darker colors absorb it. In residential areas that are highly developed, having a high density of dark colored roofs, like asphalt, can actually raise outdoor temperatures. This can cause increased air conditioning costs and ramp up air pollution levels. Ask your roofing professional about materials called “cool roofs.” These materials have solar reflective properties, which reduce the amount of heat that enters the home. Installing cool roof products can drop your air conditioning bill by as much as 15%.

Other Eco Roofing Tips
In addition to installing an eco roof, it’s also important to make sure your attic is insulated well. This will ensure that during the hot and cold months, your home isn’t leaking energy, which can be costly. Your roofing professional may be able to install an attic fan which can get rid of hot air that pools in the attic during intense weather.

Professional Help with Eco Roofing
If you haven’t installed an eco roof before, consider contacting a professional. Although there are “do it yourself” kits available on the market, it’s important to install the product correctly to enjoy the maximum benefit. An expert in eco-roofing can install the materials quickly, and work on solutions to make your home more energy efficient and eco-friendly.