Things are looking up for homeowners in the United Kingdom. Demand for domestic re-roofing has increased this decade. Good news if you are among those requiring a new or repurposed roof. You have more options now, with some combining environmental impact with a fashion statement. In short, it is easier for you to be on your way to having an eco-fashionable home.
Let’s take a look at common roofing materials, most of which have been industry mainstays for ages. Then let’s also see the potential of new materials that promote sustainability and a brighter future.
Traditional: natural slates
Slates can be synthetic or natural. The traditional roofing material can be found in many British structures such as churches. Due to recent trends, architects have pointed back to the beauty and durability of true metamorphic slates (as opposed to human-made ones). From 2002 to 2006, there was an increase in the market share of natural slates from 5% to around 8%.
Aside from the price, natural slates also derive their appeal from three factors: low water absorption, basically making them waterproof; resistance to fire; and energy efficiency, as they require the least amount of energy to produce among roofing materials. Consider this type if you want aesthetics with a classic feel or a shelter covering that can last a century.
Reusable and recyclable: clay tiles
Using clay tiles is one of the inexpensive ways to go green. The material lasts for 60 years, more or less. It is resilient against winters and ready for the effects of climate change. We also have it in large reserves. Further, manufacturers have found a way to lessen its environmental impact. The Roof Tile Association claims that it is possible for clay roof tile products to achieve an A+ rating within the BRE Green Guide to Specification.
Did you know that there is a second-hand market for clay roof tiles to ensure reuse? Upon reaching the end of its life cycle, the material can also be “recycled as crushed aggregate in a wide range of applications.” With this type, nothing is laid to waste after all.
Revolutionary: rubber membranes
You do not have to imagine a series of rubber tires stacked atop your house. Rubber membranes are made to look like other roofing materials, not discarded wheels from automobiles. This premise is why they are revolutionary: they have as much as 75% recycled content. Plus, the material is least expensive than metal roofs and just as stylish as slates and cedar shakes.
Rubber is a great protector against the elements, as the rubber-clad cottage of award-winning architect Simon Conder proves. Rubber is easy to trim and fit into an existing roof, potentially bringing down the cost of installation. Find a reliable roofing company to ensure that finest craftsmanship is applied. Also, we discussed rubber roofing a little bit more in this article.
Now, we go to the so-called materials of the future. These are not yet available in the mainstream market. But if you are looking forward to adding value to your stock, consider them when planning the details of your current dwelling.
Solar roofs
No, we are not talking about panels individually placed on a roof. That can be counterintuitive for homeowners looking to re-roof. You will want to avoid it, too, if you live in an area where the risk of solar panel theft is high. But SolarCity, the solar power company now owned by Elon Musk, has a solution: build a solar roof instead. “It’s not a thing on the roof. It is the roof,” says CEO Musk. He also wants to create beautiful roofs, not just eco-friendly ones. We are excited to see how this will play out.
Roof gardens
This trend is particularly useful in bustling cities like London. It also involves steep investment and high-level planning. “Whatever you choose to plant, you should definitely be thinking more Russian steppe than tropical island,” says designer Dan Pearson.
In other words, you do not just plant anything that’s green and grows. You also do not want water to be leaking from the ceiling while your family is resting. For now, roof gardens can be seen as the replacement of lush gardens in limited spaces.