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With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing more people to stay at home, house improvement spending has seen an uptick in the past year. One of the major fixes for many homeowners involves the literal roof over their heads. Natural calamities and climate change have spurred the demand for stronger, weather-resistant, and eco-friendly roofing materials.
A report from Allied Market Research notes that the global roofing market is set to garner $132.77 billion by 2027, as the construction sector recovers and home remodeling efforts drive further growth. The report also talks about how there are plenty of technological advancements in eco-friendly roof technology.
Currently, some of the most sustainable roofing technologies include:
Wood Shingle Roofs
Wood shingle roofs create a classic, rustic look that’s very popular right now. Aside from their aesthetic appeal, wooden roofs are actually experiencing a resurgence in popularity for their "greenness," as the shingles can be recycled into reclaimed wood products for your home.
A wooden roof is generally durable and can last 15 to 20 years before needing to be replaced. Homeowners also like wood shingles because they come in different colors, and are very easy to stain. Of course, wooden roofs can be a little costly if you don’t live near wood mills. They also require maintenance against rotting, mold, mildew, and other damages.
Metal Roofs
Much like wood shingles, metal roofs can be produced from new or recycled metal products. They can also be recycled themselves after getting replaced. As a popular, eco-friendly choice, metal roofs have reflective properties that bounce the sun’s rays off a house, keeping it cool and less reliant on air conditioning in hotter climates.
KLCC’s insights on metal roofing also highlight how these absorb less heat than asphalt, so it’s ideal for warmer areas, as a light-colored metal roof can cool the house by three degrees. Although they tend to be more expensive and noisier — especially during hailstorms — metal roofs are sturdy and can last up to 50 years.
Solar Roofing
Solar power is one of the most well-known forms of renewable energy, and it’s becoming much easier to install these into your roofs. In fact, there are even plans to expand the US federal renewable energy tax credit to make solar energy technology more accessible to homeowners. Currently, solar panel technology is much more sustainable, as it can harness energy from the sun and convert it into electricity efficiently.
However, as a primer on microinverters on Hoymiles explains, when it comes to solar, the panels are just part of the big picture. You’ll need microinverters to turn raw energy into safe, usable electricity. But this process may waste some energy, so you'd need to choose premium quality microinverters. This way, you can maximize your construction spending and ensure your roof can generate enough electricity. Aside from saving money on utility bills, solar roofing helps the planet with minimal maintenance.
Horticultural Roofs
For a unique and eco-friendly roofing option, horticultural roofs — also known as living roofs or green roofs — replace traditional tiles, sheets, and shingles with actual gardens. Not only will your home stand out, but your roof will also have a longer lifespan. Living roofs are built by putting a sealed material on the roof which is then layered with soil to support habitat for flowers, shrubs, hedges, mosses, and even crops. The plants can absorb heat and boost your home’s thermal performance while improving air quality in your area.
On the whole, horticultural roofs cost a little more to set up because providers must prepare the roof to handle the weight of the dirt and plants. As we discussed in the article on Tips for Hiring the Best Roofing Companies, it’s always good to do some research before hiring a company to install complex roof structures, like horticultural roofs.
Read up on the company, its expertise, pricing, former client reviews, and comments to choose the best roofing partner for you. Of course, you can always turn to Roofers101 and let us help you find the best match.