5 Ways to Go Green at the Top: Eco-Friendly Roof Ideas
Going green means using a process or object that’s beneficial for the natural environment. For example, a hybrid car is a green alternative to diesel cars.
In terms of construction or, more specifically, roofing, there are greener alternatives available as well, especially with the introduction of new methodologies to turn your flat roof into a more environmentally friendly space. We’ll look at some of them in more detail to guide you on how to go green at the top.
Top Eco-Friendly Roof Ideas for Going Green at the Top
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Installing Solar Panels
When it comes to going green, the most obvious choice is to install solar panels on your roof. Solar panels have green credentials, and installing them on your property will provide green energy and reduce utility costs.
When positioned correctly, these panels can provide enough power to limit your dependency on the grid. However, not all roofs are suitable for solar panels, mainly because they don’t have enough space, or maybe they are going in the wrong direction. However, with proper planning and installation, that can be overcome.
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Make Cool Roofs
Another option is to install cool roofs. This is a relatively recent idea, and they are designed to block the sun’s UV rays. You can use a combination of gravel and white glue or just add white paint. These roofs can reflect the sun’s rays, helping minimize the heat penetrating your property.
By doing so, your home will be less dependent on air conditioning, ultimately reducing your electricity costs. But these cool roofs can only be effective if you use air conditioning regularly. These roofs are becoming increasingly popular as cities heat up due to climate change.
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Go with Green Roofs
Green roofs are in increasing demand due to their stunning look and eco-friendliness. Also referred to as living roofs, they don’t feature regular tiles or shingles and turn your rooftop into a green space. These roofs also help reduce utility costs and have a positive impact on the environment. They attract wildlife and improve air quality, especially in urban areas.
However, these green roofs are expensive and require proper care, like a garden or a lawn. However, the good thing is that you can implement various ideas to create your green rooftop.
You can use various mulches and plants here to design your rooftop garden in various ways. Do a quick search by typing “mulch sales near me” on Google, and you will come up with a range of items that can be used in your rooftop garden.
You can also go for sod insulation on your rooftop. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, sod is a layer of living grass that has enough soil to cover the roots. It works as an excellent insulation on your rooftop and deals well with any excess water on any flat roof.
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Use Wood Shingles
If you want to improve your roof and try to be green, you must consider using long-lasting, environmentally friendly materials that don’t need to be replaced often. Therefore, you can go for wooden shingles made of cedar wood. These shingles are made of thin cedar strips and are light. Hence, they are a common choice for timer houses. These shingles are made of reclaimed or recycled cedar wood and are highly eco-friendly.
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Choose Clay Tiles
Another option to go green over the top is to use clay tiles to create a stunning green roof. Clay tiles are available in various colors and styles and can work well with your green roofs. You can easily match the color of these clay tiles with the current looks of your home.
Furthermore, these tiles are much easier to maintain and highly durable. You can choose from hand-crafted or machine-cut designs and quickly change the look of your rooftop. They can effectively circulate hot air and make your property energy efficient, implementing green living.
Conclusion
There are different ways to make your rooftop greener and more environmentally friendly, from clay tiles to wood shingles, solar panels, and green roofs. Climate change is upon us, profoundly impacting our lifestyles, especially in the cities.
Using these green ideas, you can turn your property into a green haven and become more energy efficient in the long run. In doing so, you can significantly elevate your property’s overall eco-friendly rating and the surrounding environment.