Deciding which type of material you choose to have your new or replacement roof made from deserves a lot of careful consideration, and you’ll need to take into account your budget, location, and whether you want to try and make your home eco-friendlier. Having said that, many homeowners aren’t aware that certain roofing materials are eco-friendlier than others, and if you want to make your home more energy efficient, the following 3 roofing solutions could help you do exactly that:
- Thermoplastic roofing (TPO)
Easily installed with plates and screws, a thermoplastic roofing system can be installed by a roofing contractor to help a home or business improve its energy efficiency. Sealed using professional welding techniques, TPO roofing systems are excellent for keeping drafts out of buildings thanks to their waterproofed seams, and hence, also help to improve heat retention and insulation.
While typically used for commercial buildings, TPO systems can be used on residential roofs, too, with the material lasting for as long as 30 years before needing to be replaced. It also doesn’t release any toxic substances and can be recycled when the time does come to replace it.
- Built-up asphalt roofing
Providing more than a whopping 50 years of weatherproofing, built-up asphalt roofs helps to prevent leaks and doesn’t cost as much to maintain as other, less hardier materials. Newer types of built-up asphalt roofing also block UV rays and certain topcoats can help to keep the inside of a building cool in the long, hot, summer months.
Lower in cost to replace, they also reduce the financial burden of air conditioning costs.
- Modified bitumen
With a UV coating, premium bitumen roofs can insulate a building in away that helps to reduce energy costs, and with regular maintenance and upkeep, they can last for as long as 30 years. Available in 2 or 3 ply strengths, this flat roofing material holds up well against high winds and fluctuating temperatures from season to season.
Less likely to crack or tear off than stiffer, non-stretchable materials, bitumen roofing is expandable and with its intricate system of layered, overlapping seams, it provides exceptional safeguarding against water penetration, preventing leakage. Lastly, it is a low maintenance material and typically needs few repairs during its lifespan.
The importance of properly maintaining your roof
The financial investment of a new roof means that you should also invest in maintaining it with regular inspections and timely repairs. Inspections should ideally take place every year, and repairs should always be taken care of by a professional roofer as and when needed.
First and foremost, whatever type of roofing material you choose, make sure that your roof is installed by a trusted local roofing contractor. Proper installation can help your roof last for many years without ever needing repairs, helping you to make the most of your investment.