Thursday, December 15, 2011

Six Little Known Sustainable Roofing Tips

By Adriana Noton


Any homeowner who aspires to acquire some roofing material that is affordable and sustainable in the long run needs to pay due regard to a number of factors. The most important of these are energy efficiency as well as moisture retention and need for maintenance. While there is no single material that will encompass the entirety of this ideal list, a detailed search will inevitably lead to suitable choices.

The most suitable choices will depend on the location of the house being roofed. This f means that those who live under hot climatic conditions should opt for materials that are highly reflective. Heat absorbing materials are more ideal for houses located in much cooler climates.

Homeowners will also need to pay due regard to the durability of the materials they opt for. A deliberate choice that discriminates against materials that do not undergo frequent tear and wear will be called for in that case. While there is every likelihood that durability is almost always accompanied by dear prices, this will prove immaterial in the long run due to the costs it will save the owner.

The green intentions of any homeowner will also be given a big boost by considering materials made from recycled components. This is important because of two major concerns: affordability and environmental suitability. But one needs to take care that they do not opt for recycled roofing just for the sake of it. If the materials are not suitably durable, the benefits will be wiped off soon. It is also necessary to ensurer that the materials do not contain anything that might be considered biohazardous for instance lead or asbestos.

The warranty issued with any product is also an important consideration that needs proper examination. In this sense, there are two key factors that have to be borne in mind: the period covered and the nature of the guarantee. Be sure to go for materials that have lengthy warranty periods as this is usually an expression of confidence by the manufacturers on the performance of their creations. With regard to the nature of guarantees, be sure to check if the providers commit to replace faulty parts or they have pledged to offer repairs.

Some materials render themselves naturally for those looking to roof or re-roof their houses in a way that will prove durable and environmentally friendly. Terra cotta or clay tiles occupy the pride of place at the top of this list because of their durability and aesthetic appeal. However they can be heavy and costly. Even more appealing are slate tiles but they are also more costlier but one can beat this by looking for salvaged materials which come at a much lower cost.

A recent development that is fast taking root, literally, among green enthusiasts is the rise of "live roofs" as sustainable alternatives. These are mainly notable because they are usually entirely or mainly covered by live vegetation. Many people who prefer these roof versions almost invariably use grass but there are some short plant alternatives gaining popularity. To ensure that the structure serves the purposes for which it is intended, the vegetation has to be planted on a suitable medium that is mounted on a waterproof layer.

Both owners of old homes and new ones have to give adequate consideration to the issue of sustainability when opting for a material do roof or re-roof their houses. Where such a material needs to be affordable as well, this can turn into a veritable dilemma. It is for this reason that this detailed guide on suitable roofing ideas will prove an adequate resource for those seeking answers.




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