In the last few decades, we’ve witnessed the rise of sustainable living. Innovations such as solar panels and energy-efficient windows have become part of the mainstream, allowing homeowners to reduce their carbon footprints and help the environment.
The roofing industry has undergone significant changes in light of the push toward sustainability. From recyclable materials to solar-ready roofs, roofing companies have had to get creative to keep up with the changing times. Here at Able Roofing, we’ve embraced sustainability with open arms. We have noticed a few major ways the green movement has impacted the roofing industry so far:
Tax Incentives for Green Homes
At Able Roofing, we’ve had more requests for green and eco-friendly building supplies and materials so that homeowners can receive enticing tax benefits. The federal government will give tax credits for energy-rated windows, doors, skylights, insulation, and other consumer items. There may also be local tax credits and benefits for going green in your area.
At Able Roofing, we have the ability to install eco-friendly residential systems for the benefit of the homeowner. Ask us for ways you can improve energy efficiency, and get in on the current tax advantages available for these investments.
Green Roofs
One of the most popular roofing industry trends is now the “green roof” – a roof with living plants or vegetation. Green roofs take careful design and engineering, but they have many environmental benefits. A well-designed green roof can manage storm water, reduce energy use in the building by providing insulation, and provide a habitat for native birds and insects.
Green roofs have gained popularity in crowded metropolitan areas, where many residents cannot have outdoor gardens or spaces to enjoy. In the typical city, concrete absorbs solar radiation. This can lead to hotter temperatures and increased energy consumption. Green roofs can help prevent these issues in city environments.
Recyclable Shingles
In the past, all asphalt roofs went into landfills at the end of their lifespan. The U.S. generates millions of tons of asphalt shingle waste every year. Thanks to recent asphalt recycling programs and efforts, we are finally starting to reduce shingle waste. Some states are recycling old asphalt shingles into paving for roads. Others donate old shingles to charitable organizations that can put them to good use.
Recycling shingles is a growing trend that’s helping to cut the amount of waste sitting in national landfills. Ask your roofing contractor if it recycles shingles before replacing your roof. It’s one easy way you can help the environment.
Solar-Ready Roofing
Solar panels have taken the residential industry by storm since becoming more affordable to the average home and business owner. Thousands of people have now installed solar panels on their roofs to enjoy lower energy consumption, reduced utility bills, and smaller impacts on the environment.
Between these benefits and tax credits, it’s no surprise that we’ve received an influx in requests at Able Roof for solar-ready roofing systems. We can design roofs to help maximize solar panel efficiency and safely take the extra weight. We take the wind, sun, weather, and pitch of your roof into account when designing solar-friendly roofing systems.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofing is sweeping the nation as an attractive and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional asphalt roofs. Metal roofs are far more energy efficient than asphalt, since they reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing heat. Most metal roofs are also made with more than 56% recycled materials, making them sustainable. If you work with a local contractor, recycled materials will be locally sourced. Metal roofs last longer than other types and add to the lifespan of the building itself – two things that improve the overall sustainability of this roofing practice.
More Emphasis on Attic Ventilation and Insulation
Lack of ventilation can lead to a much hotter attic space, since heat rises within the home. This can make your HVAC system work harder to cool the home and waste of valuable energy. Today’s roofers design custom ventilation plans for individual houses to maximize the flow of air in and out of the building. A well-ventilated attic will protect your roofing system and prevent issues such as shingle damage, ice dams, and mold growth.
Insulation is also important in the mission toward energy-efficient homes. Insulation is key to your home’s overall energy consumption. Proper roofing insulation will keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, taking pressure off of your HVAC system and lowering your energy bills.
Replacing your old roof and getting new insulation can make a surprising difference on your household’s overall energy usage and carbon footprint – making your utility bill a fraction of what it was. For new insulation in Columbus, Ohio, contact us today!
