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Sustainable Flat Roofs: What Are Their Benefits?
When you’re looking for a new flat roof, durability is usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, it would be worth considering a material’s eco-friendliness as well. Shelter Construction Services, a top roofing contractor in the state, gives you an overview of the most sustainable flat roofing materials below.
Why Choose an Eco-Friendly Roofing Material?
The thing is, durability and sustainability go hand in hand, in a sense. After all, manufacturers need to make eco-friendly materials durable if they want to reduce landfill waste.
EPDM
Flat roofs are notoriously vulnerable to moisture damage, which is why you should choose a waterproof material. Most flat roofing materials are moisture-resistant, but EPDM, a type of rubber, has an edge—it’s resistant to both freshwater and saltwater, making it a suitable choice for residential homes and commercial buildings along the coast.
As for the material’s sustainability, most manufacturers usually use recycled rubber to manufacture new EPDM roofs. And since rubber has excellent insulating capabilities, an EPDM membrane can help reduce your power costs and consequently your carbon footprint as well.
TPO Membranes
If durability is your main concern, TPO membranes would be a better choice . Manufacturers claim TPO membranes are on average three to four times more durable than the EPDM rubber’s adhesive system.
In terms of eco-friendliness, manufacturers don’t need to add polymeric or liquid plasticizers when making TPO membranes, which are 100% recyclable. As such, this material would be a great choice for homeowners who might be worried about toxic chemicals being used in their house.
Getting Professional Help
As mentioned earlier, due to their low slope, flat roofs can easily be infiltrated by water. To make sure the membrane is installed properly, only hire a qualified roofer. Remember, whether you’re installing metal roofing or a membrane, always vet your contractor.
Looking for reputable contractors in your area?
Shelter Construction Services, a contractor with an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau®, offers a wide range of professional roofing services, including slate roof replacement, to address your needs. To get a free estimate, call us at (336) 303-4600 or (434) 333-7200. You can also leave us a message here. Talk to us today!