Do you want an affordable roof that will last for many years and be eco-friendly?

Shingles must be replaced by homeowners at some point during the lifetime of the roof. Shingles made of asphalt are expected to last 20 years or more if you're lucky, since they are continuously exposed to sun, heat and cold, wind, rain, and occasionally snow, sleet, or hail.

If you're looking for roofing that is more durable than an asphalt shingle roof and is made of environmentally friendly roofing materials, think about these options. They are almost invulnerable to hail. Green roofing options are numerous and diverse, from recycled-plastic shingles, recycled metal roofs, to environmentally sustainable wood or reclaimed roofing to the possibility of plants growing on your rooftop. The ideal choice for your home will depend on the style of your house, local building codes, as well as cost factors.

Recycled Shingles

The most sought-after and the most sustainable alternative is shingles made of recycled materials, including rubber, plastic, and wood fiber. Some are made of pure post-consumer waste (waste from houses) as well as post-industrial garbage (factory garbage). Recycled-content shingles are extremely sturdy, and they appear stunning, too. You'd be hard-pressed to believe they were created out of "waste" materials!

The amount of waste that is disposed into landfills is reduced due to recycled roof shingles. These shingles reduce the extraction and processing of raw materials, which has reduced pollution and energy use. Certain types of these materials are also recyclable and have warranties of 50 years or more. Some of them even carry a rating for fire that can lower the insurance premiums you pay.

A very popular option throughout the United States is wood shakes and shingles for roofers and homeowners. However, the traditional wood shingles are produced of old-growth western cedar. While the amount of energy required to make the product is quite minimal but the harvesting of these trees isn't sustainable over the long term. They are also inflammable and should not be utilized in areas with the possibility of forest fires and brush.

If you're thinking of installing wood shingles, consider shingles made from recycled lumber. Reclaimed lumber is made of old mills, bridges, older water systems, wine tanks, and many other sources.

Slate and Clay Tiles

The slate is an extremely long-lasting tile that is able to last for hundreds of years and is an all-natural material. It is an energy-intensive process to extract slate tiles; however, the majority of companies recycle the slate tiles and also clay. Roofers are familiar with slate roofing since it is becoming increasingly popular. The installation cost could be somewhat expensive; however, with that said, your roofing can last two times longer as one that is the minimum of repairs made.

Metal Roofing

A lot of metal roofing products contain at least some recycled materials. One benefit of roofing made from metal is that it is able to be reused at the end of its lifespan. Because metal roofing lasts for up to 50 years, replacement of roofs is less frequent, which results in less wasted energy in the long term. They are extremely durable as well as fire resistant. They're perfect for people who wish to harvest rainwater from their roofs and use it to create water gardens (or for use in the home). There's no need to worry about the chemicals that could leach out of the asphalt roof of a typical. Standing seam metal roofs work well as the foundation for photovoltaic thin-film panels too.