Sustainable Roofs and Your Home
Roofing is one of the most important decisions you will make when building your new home. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade and include sustainable roofing materials and practices, there are many aspects to consider before making your choice. Asphalt shingles are traditionally the most popular type, but other options exist too. Some types of roofing are more sustainable than others, so it’s important to know about all the possibilities before committing.
Many people decide between asphalt shingle roofs and metal roofs based on how long they last, but this is not always an accurate way to compare them. Here’s what else you need to know before deciding whether metal or asphalt shingles are right for you.
Sustainable or Otherwise, Roofing is Important
It’s possible that you haven’t given much thought to roofing as something that might need to be replaced. But it is an important consideration.
Asphalt shingles, for example, are the most popular type of roofing material in North America and they can last up to about 20 years. Metal roofs, on the other hand, can last up to fifty years and may even come with a warranty.
And don’t forget about sustainability: asphalt shingles contribute to climate change because they don’t offer good insulation and trap heat better than metal roofs. So if you’re thinking about your house’s environmental impact, metal roofs are a good choice.
More on Sustainable Roofing Options
Roofing options vary from metal to asphalt shingles. You can also choose synthetic or natural rubber as a roofing material.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roof, but they have their drawbacks. They wear out quickly and can’t be recycled like metal roofs. Synthetic and natural rubber roofs resist fire and last about twice as long as asphalt shingles (around 20 years).
Metal roofs usually last three times longer than asphalt shingles (around 40-50 years). Metal is also more sustainable since it doesn’t need repairs and holds value when selling your house.
There is no single “best” type of roof because every roof has its pros and cons. What’s best for you depends on your needs, budget, and personal preference.
Are Sustainable Roofing Options Right for You?
The type of roofing material you choose to install on your home is a major investment. You want to make sure that you’re making a decision that will last for many years and that won’t harm the environment.
Metal roofs have been gaining popularity in recent years, but they’re still not as common as asphalt shingle roofs. If you’re considering going with metal roofing, there are some things to consider before making your choice.
For one thing, metal roofing requires less maintenance than asphalt shingle roofs. It doesn’t need regular sealing, which is one of the most expensive parts of regular maintenance for asphalt shingle roofs.
Additionally, metal roofs are more environmentally friendly than asphalt shingle roofs because they don’t use any chemicals in their production process. While this may be an important consideration for some people, it’s not necessary for everyone; keep in mind that it can increase installation costs significantly.
Asphalt shingle roofs are easier to find and more cost-effective than metal ones; therefore, they’re usually the better choice for homeowners who want an affordable roofing option that’s easy to maintain.
How to Choose the Right Roofing for Your House?
No matter what kind of roof you choose, installation is a major undertaking. The process will involve tearing up your old roof, installing the new one, and repairing any damage caused by the installation.
If you’re looking for a more traditional roofing material, asphalt shingles are likely your best bet. They’re generally less expensive than metal roofs and offer more color options. However, they have a shorter lifespan of about 20 to 30 years before they need to be replaced—a major factor that many people consider when making this decision.
When you compare asphalt shingles with metal roofs, it’s important to keep in mind that metal roofs are not guaranteed to last longer than asphalt shingle roofs. Metal roofs have an average lifespan of about 50 years or so, but they are heavier and more difficult to install due to their weight.
Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to install because they don’t weigh as much as metal. They’re also cheaper upfront because there is no need for scaffolding while installing them, whereas metal roofs require scaffolding for installation purposes.
Metal roofs do come with some extra perks though: They reflect heat away from your house during the summertime, which can help lower your air conditioning bills. Not a bad perk in hot Athens, Georgia!
An Important Decision Best Made Locally
Roofing is one of the most important decisions you will make when building your new home. Asphalt shingle roofs are the most popular type, but other options exist too. It’s important to know about all the possibilities before committing. Cecil Jennings Roofing Co is locally-based here in Athens, GA and is family-owned. We would be happy to discuss with you the best options for your home, the pros and cons of each, and what makes the most sense for your needs and budget. Our estimates are always free, competitive, and fully transparent.