Going Green? Check Out These 5 Eco-Friendly Roofing Options

?Going green? is a lifestyle choice, and it permeates everything you do and everything you buy. So, if you are dedicated to living an eco-friendly life, you will want to pay close attention to the materials used in your home?s construction. When you?re conducting roofing repair and maintenance or getting a new roofing installation, you will need to make a choice about the kind of roof you want. Here are five environmentally-friendly and affordable options to discuss with your roof service.

1. A white roof
   
   Choosing a white roof is a smart choice when it comes to energy consumption. The color (or lack thereof) reflects the sun?s rays away from the house, which helps to keep the interior of the home much cooler. This means that you will not need to crank the AC when the temperatures start to climb. Not only will this save you money on your energy bill, but it will reduce your carbon dioxide emission, which greatly benefits the environment.
2. Reclaimed clay or slate roofs
   
   Did you know that slate and clay tiles can last for over a century? These tiles are much more durable than metal, so you can reuse them again and again instead of contributing to the high demand of other materials that cause manufacturing plants to use more and more energy. Recycling and repurposing are always good for the environment.
3. Sustainable wood shingled roofs
   
   Wood shingles are both natural and biodegradable. They are also very durable when it comes to extreme weather like high winds or hail. Unfortunately, wood shingles are not fire-resistant, so they should not be used in regions where fires are common like southern California.
4. Overhangs
   
   Like white roofs, roof overhangs are great for keeping your home cool in the summertime. An overhang will shelter your home from the sun?s rays, reducing energy costs and lowering your monthly bill.
5. A green roof
   
   If you?re ?going green,? you might as well go all the way. Green roofs add insulation to your home, capturing airborne pollutants and cleansing the air. They also limit the amount of water runoffs, keeping your home safe.

So, when you?re considering the materials you want to use for your new installation or roofing repair and maintenance, keep the five options listed above in mind.