These days, everyone is looking for ways to make their homes eco-friendlier. Concerns about climate change and landfill waste are driving homeowners to prioritize sustainability for their home improvements. Believe it or not, there are steps you can take to make your roof eco-friendlier too! As your trusted roofers in Centennial, CO, we're here to break down your options.
Stick with our insightful tips and you'll turn your property into an eco-friendly home in no time.
Why Sustainability Matters for Your Roof
We all know that sustainability is important. But why should you focus on making your roof "greener"? Wouldn't it be better to instead focus on investing in other pieces of green technology (e.g., electric vehicles, smart appliances, etc.)?
Yes, it's important to still take steps to reduce your carbon footprint in your everyday life. However, an eco-friendly roofing system should be at the top of your to-do list for several reasons, such as:
- Generate less waste - It's estimated that 11 million tons of asphalt shingle waste are generated in the U.S. each year (RecycleNation). And a majority of that waste will end up sitting in a landfill for several decades.
- Reduce energy usage - Certain roofing upgrades may actually improve your home's energy efficiency. In turn, you'll use less electricity and gas, thus cutting your carbon footprint and your energy bill.
- Boost your home value - On average, a roof replacement project can generate a 68% ROI (IKO). And if you leverage eco-friendly upgrades on your roof, that ROI may be even greater.
5 Eco-Friendly Roofing Tips from our Roofers in Centennial, CO
If you're itching to make your home greener, start with these essential roofing tips.
1. Utilize Clay Tiles or Metal Roofing
Over time, your roof will gradually break down due to Colorado storms and general wear-n-tear. What will happen to your old materials when you get your roof replacement?
If you have asphalt shingles, those materials will likely end up in a landfill.
But, if you have clay tiles or a metal roofing system, your materials will be recycled instead!
Authentic roofing tiles are typically made from natural clay, then shaped and fired at a high temperature. This means your tile roof is both biodegradable and easily reusable.
A metal roof is also environmentally friendly as the panels use mined materials like aluminum, copper, steel, and zinc. If you're looking for a sustainable roof, then metal might be the best way to go.
2. Convert Your Home with a Cool Roof
One of the simplest ways to improve the sustainability of your property is with a cool roof. And no, we're not talking about aesthetics here.
A cool roof is any roofing installation that features heat and solar reflective properties. These systems are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less solar energy.
For example, on a sunny summer afternoon, a conventional roof can reach temperatures as high as 150° F. Under the same conditions, a cool roof can stay more than 50° cooler (Energy.gov). In turn, this system helps save energy and money that you'd have spent on air conditioning.
3. Consider A Living Roof
Also referred to as a "green roof," a living roof is a unique eco-friendly system to consider for your home. A living roof consists of a layer of vegetation planted over a waterproofing system that's installed on a flat or slightly-sloped roof (NPS).
Living roofs create a pleasing aesthetic that also serves two practical purposes:
- Stormwater management and
- Home insulation
These systems also have a lifespan of two to three times that of a traditional asphalt shingle roof. So, you'll generate less waste, have a pleasing aesthetic, and maximize your use of resources.
That said, a living roof is not applicable to every type of home. As noted earlier, only flat or slight-sloped roofs can support this system.
It's also worth noting that not all roofing contractors can install living roofs. These systems are incredibly detailed and require specialized training to be properly installed. Make sure your roofing contractor has the training to install this system for you.
4. Install Solar Panels
This should feel like a no-brainer for anyone interested in sustainability. Solar panel installations are some of the largest investments on this list, but they offer many long-term benefits for you. These include:
- Reducing or eliminating your energy bills
- Earning tax credits and rebates
- Save more money in the long-term
- Support the environment through renewable energy
- Improved home value
- And more
Please note that most roofers in Centennial cannot install solar panels on your roof. You'll need to find qualified and insured professionals with the proper certification for solar panel installation services.
That said, your roofing contractor can likely refer you to a top local company for your solar panel upgrades. And after a quick inspection, your preferred contractor will likely know whether or not your roof can support the weight of a solar panel system.
5. Utilize Recycled Shingles
Another way that you can help keep waste out of landfills is by using shingles made from recycled materials.
Some shingle manufacturers create recycled shingles out of plastic, rubber, wood fiber, or other materials. We've even seen some roofing products that have been made from old tires!
Those roofing materials make the shingles tough and long-lasting. Plus, the recycled shingles can be created to look just like regular ones too. You can have peace of mind about your home's aesthetic and your carbon footprint.
Make Your Home Greener with Our Roofers in Centennial, CO
Whether you need to repair some roof damage or want to improve your sustainability, Ethos is the place to call.
We can provide a wide range of roofing services on both residential properties and commercial buildings. As a top local roofing company, we aim to deliver outstanding service on every project with high-quality products.
Contact Ethos today to book your FREE roof inspection with our roofers in Centennial, CO.