How can your roof affect the environment? This is a question more and more homeowners are asking themselves as we move forward to a more eco-aware attitude.  And for those who are still not asking this question, its high time you should, because the type of roofing material used on your roofs has a substantial impact on the overall environment.

Roofs, Energy & Our Environment

The effect that roofs have on energy is frequently ignored, the impact of which can be momentous. In winter, inadequate or damaged roof insulation lets heat to easily escape and during summers, heat gained through the roof upsurges not only the cooling load, for buildings where the primary cooling system is electrically driven, the electricity demands also peaks up.

Most of the flat and low-slope roofing materials used in majority of the projects are black. Such materials readily absorb solar energy, including the ultraviolet portion of sunlight. The temperature of the roofs during the afternoon (from noon to later afternoon) time is 60 to 100 degrees higher than the ambient temperature. Although some heat is emitted back to the atmosphere, much of it is conducted to the conditioned space below.

The effect the roof has on energy use hinge on the climate, few elements are:

• The orientation of the roof
• The thickness and quality of insulation
• The reflectivity of the roof’s surface
• How well the roof has been maintained

Roofing Materials – Key Elements To Be Consider

Roofing systems are a totally unique building enclosure element and due to their extreme environmental exposure, the impact on the whole building energy consumption is huge.  The decision of which roofing system to implement during new construction and roof replacements projects can greatly impact the long-term environmental impact of that building structure.

Minsk 1. Functionality

In a tropical country like India, especially the highly humid southern part of the country, keeping your house cool can be the cause for huge energy consumption. The functionality of the roof as per the need of the house is a must. Selecting roofing materials like clay can be a perfect choice as they are energy efficient.

order Lyrica samples 2. Right Materials

There are various innovations on roofing solutions that provide enhanced looks and add strength to the construction. It is advisable to use the right materials. The material such as asphalt shingles, slate, metal, clay and concrete materials should be highly evaluated and then used. Look matters but in this case the longevity is important too.

3. Weather Resistance

Buying decision of the roof must cater to the weather conditions of the place you live in. The weather resisting properties of any roof can be best availed with quality underlayment.

4. Lifespan And Durability

For most house owners, purchasing a roof could be a few times in their lives. Better to choose one that lasts long and is durable.

5. On Time Maintenance

Roofs should be given good and on time maintenance. Leaks can permit water to enter the surface and saturate the insulation, extinguishing its thermal resistance. Wet insulation is almost the equal of no insulation. Wet insulation also accelerates the deterioration of other roofing components. It is essential for both energy efficiency and the integrity of the roof that roofs be properly maintained.

6. Aesthetics

Perfect usage of tiles enhances the beauty of the home we live in. A good tile, not only provides safety but gives a good look to the house. Clay tiles, in particular, have the ability to fend harshness of the changing weather. Be it scorching temperatures in summer or cold winds in winters or during rains.

Roofing Materials – Choose The One That Is Environmentally Responsible Like CLAY

The most environmentally responsible roofing materials needs to be selected when planning roof construction or replacement. Again, such systems are dependent upon the building type and geographical location.

Clay – one of the oldest building materials in human history. Anyone who builds with clay roof tiles opts not only for safety and appearance but also for sustainability. The use of clay roof tiles is environmentally friendly and safeguards the earth‘s long-term natural resources.

Clay Roof Solutions from Wienerberger

Wienerberger’s Clay Roof Solution gives each product a distinctive look and unique feel by offering an exclusive range of imported roof tiles, with different colours, finishes (natural, glazed and engobe) and fittings to create the perfect roof.

• Natural – Made of 100% clay with all the attributes of a terracotta clay product
• Diversity – Available in a wide range of colours and finishes
• Latest Technology – Strict adherence to International Quality control standards
• Better Efficiency – Large format roof tiles (10pcs/sq. mt), leading to faster installation with minimum support materials
• Flexibility – A wide range of colours & finishes and allows for the desired batten spacing
• Quality – Manufactured in Europe, designed and built with impeccable quality and precision to meet the architect’s sensibilities
• Long Lasting – High Quality, durable tiles providing optimum value and customer delight

Final Thoughts

This was surely an extensive read about how roofs can affect the environment and what to consider when selecting the best roofing materials, isn’t it? Remember, having the perfect roof that looks good and is sustainable can go a long way into creating that perfect first and long-term impression for your house, hence make sure you evaluate each and every factor carefully before you make your final selection.

Curated by editor at  Wienerberger India

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