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Asphalt shingles are one of the most popular materials for roofs, yet asphalt shingles are fairly fragile and tend to last no more than 20 years. Homeowners who prefer asphalt shingles will most likely need the roof replaced 2 or 3 times over the course of a lifetime. For this reason, many homeowners are turning to companies that offer environmentally-friendly roofing supply in Atlanta using materials that are more sustainable than asphalt shingles and give a home character. Wood Wood shingles and shakes are one of the oldest options for roofing. Traditionally, wood shingles are made from cedar that is harvested from old forests. Lately, manufacturers have started a new trend by planting cedar farms, where cedar trees are replanted as soon as they are harvested. Also, some companies are making the shakes and shingles from reclaimed lumber from various older buildings. Professional tip: Wood shingles are wonderful products, but they do require special fasteners and techniques when installing and are not fire resistant. Clay or Slate Tiles In dryer climates, clay was used as the primary building material due to its prevalence and durability. The clay was formed into tiles and sun dried until it was hard as rock. Today, the clay is kiln dried, but just as hard. Slate is a natural stone that is the longest lasting material, lasting several decades when installed correctly. Both products can consume more than usual amounts of energy, but that is offset by their long lifespans, meaning tiles do not need replacing as often and can be reused on several different roofs. Metal Metal is second only to slate in durability, and that is because the metal can dent when bombarded by hail. Many metal roofs have some recycled metal in them and more manufacturers are using recycled metals in manufacturing. And, the roof material can be recycled again when it outlasts the house. Metal roofs are becoming very popular because they are the best option for homeowners that collect the rainwater off their roof without the chemicals from asphalt or wood shingles. There are even manufacturers that are making metal shingles for homeowners that prefer that look. Rubber Rubber shingles are the most “green” by using recycled tires to make the shingles. Sand or other materials are added for texture and they even come in colors other than black. Rubber shingles stand up the best to hail and falling debris, but can dry out in the intense sun in the warmer climates of the country. Another possible downside to rubber shingles is that some building codes only allow the rubber material on flat roofs as opposed to pitched ones. Recycled Materials There is nothing greener than shingles made entirely from recycled materials. Whether it is plastic bottles or rubber, recycled shingles look and handle like traditional asphalt shingles while diverting trash from the landfills. The point to an environmentally-friendly home is reduce, reuse, and recycle. Building materials should not only recycle materials, they should last longer than normal ones to limit harvesting of natural resources. If you're interested in recycled roofing materials, there are many contractors dealing in roofing supply in Atlanta that can help homeowners find the right roof for their house.
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