If you are planning on replacing your old roof or are building a new home, you should evaluate all your roofing options before making your decision. There are numerous products in the modern market, and they differ in terms of cost, appearance, durability and suitability for installation in your home. The wrong choice could mean premature failure of the roofing system which necessitates another replacement and high costs of maintenance and repair.

Therefore, you must think about multiple factors before making your decision on the roofing material. One of the important considerations is the eco-friendliness of the product. More people are turning towards building materials which promote environmental preservation. Green roofing materials will reduce degradation of the planet and perform well above conventional materials. Here are the most beneficial options for eco-friendly roofing in Canada.

Recycled Shingles

Shingles are popular in the roofing industry because the products are relatively inexpensive. Also, the roofing units do not require extensive maintenance, and you can repair damage with relative ease. However, traditional shingles are not favourable because they drain natural resources. Moreover, they are not long-lasting and often end up in landfills. If you love shingles but would like to go green, you should consider choosing recycled shingles. These are manufactured using waste materials such as rubber, fibres and plastic. This action reduces the amount of waste that ends up in the landfills every year. Also, you will not notice any difference in performance and appearance between new and recycled shingles.

Green Wood Shakes and Shingles

Wooden shingles and shakes are popular because they have an attractive natural look. Moreover, they are quite long-lasting after the initial installation. Unfortunately, the traditional wooden roofing products are made using rare cedar trees. These trees are difficult to grow, so cutting them down is not good for the planet. If you are interested in eco-friendly wood shakes, you can still obtain them without contributing to environmental degradation. In simple terms, consider acquiring wooden shakes and shingles fabricated using reclaimed lumber. The old wood is often extracted from old homes, worn out bridges, mills and other diverse sources. You can use the shakes both for your primary roofing as well as the siding. For the best results, discuss the best source of eco-friendly wood shingles with your roofing contractor or a local reclamation company.

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are favourable for eco-friendly roofing because they are highly resilient and long-lasting. Slate is a natural material which has withstood the test of time. Therefore, the roofing system created with the tiles will be able to withstand mechanical stress from snow and other adverse condition. The tiles are also naturally resistant to heat, so changes in weather will not have an adverse effect.

Though the purchase price is high, you should note that slate tiles are extremely durable such that most companies will offer up to 100 years warranty. This aspect means that if you install these in your home, you will not need to replace in the foreseeable future. If you can find a company which repurposes old slate tiles for new roofing, your home will be even more eco-friendly.

Clay Tiles

Like slate tiles, clay roofing tiles are beautiful and hold a classic charm. The different properties of this material also make this type of roofing option one of the most environmentally-friendly. Clay tiles are completely recyclable due to their nature and manufacturing methods. Therefore, the material will not go to waste when the time for replacement comes. Also, clay tiles display exceptional performance in terms of heat insulation.

In general, this roofing material is used in hot desert climates because it helps form a protective thermal insulating layer against the external temperatures in such regions. In the same way, it can work for your Canadian home. The barrier will prevent heat from escaping from your home or entering your home, depending on the season. Consequently, you will be able to manage your heating and cooling demands, and this will reduce your electricity usage.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing systems have multiple advantages for homeowners. They are also quite friendly for the environment. The most significant green characteristic of metal roofing sheets, panels and tiles is its recyclability. The metals used in the manufacturing process, including iron, steel and copper, can be recycled. Therefore, you can purchase roofing products made from recycled materials. Also, when your roof is stripped, the metal can be used to manufacture other items.

Also, metal roofs are resilient and durable. The intrinsic strength of the roofing system ensures that the structure will withstand mechanical stress and pressure. So, you will not have to perform frequent repairs or premature replacements. You should also note that treated metal roofs will reflect heat which keeps the total energy costs in the home low. When shopping for your metal roofing product, remember to be keen on quality for the best long-term results.

Rubber roofing

Rubber roofing products are not yet popular in the general market. However, the material is building an excellent reputation as eco-friendly roofing option. The roofing material is robust and resistant to most form of damage and adverse weather. Therefore, you can expect good durability after installation in your home. Moreover, the roofing is made from recycled radial tyres. It does not cause strain to the environment. On the other hand, rubber roofing is not accepted in every part of the country. So, before you choose to install this type of product, you should confirm with your local authorities.

If you are uncertain about your choices concerning eco-friendly roofing in Canada, you should discuss your reservations with your reputable roofing contractor before proceeding.