Way Up on the Roof

If you're in the process of building a new home, make the right choice for your roof. There was a time when standard roofing material was the only way to go. Those options are still good. But, when you're looking for a more environmentally-friendly approach, there's a better option. Choose a sustainable roof instead. Sustainable roofs let you reduce your carbon footprint while improving your life. Here are three ways sustainable roofs are a great way to make your home environmentally friendly. 

Produce Usable Energy

Now that you're building a home, think about the energy you'll be using. If you're going to connect to the energy grid in your community, you'll be paying an electric bill for the energy you'll use. Not only that, but you'll also be contributing to the increased demand for electric power. But, if you plan well, you can put your roof to work for you. While you're designing your new home, talk to your roofing contractor about installing solar panels on your roof. Taking the steps ahead of time will ensure that your roof is designed for maximum solar power benefit. By using your roof as a solar panel field, you'll be generating power. 

Reduce Material Waste

If you're designing your own home, think about future material waste. Depending on the type of roof you install, it will eventually need to be replaced. When that happens, the discarded material will need to be hauled away to the landfill. But, if you choose a green, sustainable roof, you'll never need to worry about material waste. Green roofs incorporate soil, plants, and grass to create an environmentally-friendly structure. You'll eliminate waste, and you'll reduce your energy usage. That's because green roofs help to insulate your home from extreme temperatures. 

Reclaim Rainwater

If you hate watching rainwater flow off your home each time it rains, then use your new roof to eliminate the problem. You might not realize this, but the rainwater that flows off of your roof contributes to water contamination. There's a better way to deal with the runoff; capture it instead. You can have your roofing contractor install rain guards. These rain guards capture rainwater before it flows off your roof. The water can be stored for your vegetation. That way, you can prevent the waste of a valuable natural resource. 

If you want to make your new home more environmentally friendly, start with your roof. Talk to a roofing contractor about sustainable roof options for your home.