Sustainable Roofing Choices

Sustainable roofing can be made from a variety of materials, both recycled and recyclable.   Such materials include plastic, aluminum, copper and steel.  Even old tires are recycled and shaped into a remarkable likeness of slate or shake shingles.  Unlike typical dark asphalt shingles, some traditionally styled yet high tech dark shingles feature special coatings that deflect the sun's radiation instead of absorbing and transferring excessive heat to your home. This is a property normally found only in white or light colored roofing products.   Even though this new generation of roofing products has a somewhat higher first cost, most products feature warranties up to 50 years.  Even better, they can be recycled into new materials at the end of their useful life.

Reroofing is the perfect opportunity to add an energy upgrade.  Installing a layer of foam board insulation is like putting a hat on your home in the winter, keeping the heat in your home and the cash in your wallet.  The addition of a radiant barrier will reflect summer heat to keep your attic and home cooler in the summer, easing the burden on your air conditioner.  Both upgrades are relatively inexpensive and yet make a noticable difference in the comfort and performance of your home.  

Does your roof feature a low slope?  Turn it into a living garden! The layers of planting medium and greenery will cool your house in the summer while absorbing and filtering stormwater that would otherwise run off into the Chesapeake. All those layers also serve as a protective barrier for your existing roof, greatly extending its life. There are several things to keep in mind when considering a green roof installation.  Existing roofs not originally designed as green roofs will likely require structural reinforcement because the added load is beyond what the structure was designed to carry, and even the most hardy of rooftop plantings will require some watering and maintenance while becoming established in the first year.   Otherwise, enjoy watching your garden grow! >Watch video