Since the environmental battle has become more intense in the last decades, there is a high interest in homeowners to support this movement. As such, most of them are looking for a sustainable alternative for any project, from their HVAC system to their roof system.
When it comes to the sustainability of roofing materials or any architectural choice, we can’t limit to choosing a certain material, but we have to consider how that material behaves over time and how it will be discarded at the end of its life cycle. Sustainability is also about the environmental impact a certain industry has, and how many resources it needs in the extraction and working processes before getting to the end product.
We will show how slate roofing is one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly roofing options out there, and how it passed the test of time.
WHAT IS SLATE ROOFING?
First of all, let’s be clear about what slate roofing is and how to make sure we are using the right kind of slate tiles for our sustainable project. Slate roofing has been around since the 12th century when it started protecting and adorning Welsh cathedrals and churches. It is made of natural stone, which is cut into tiles and installed on the roof to protect it from the weather and insulate the building. Some slate roofs have outlasted the building they sat on, with many examples lasting over 100 years or more.
WHY IS SLATE ROOFING ECO-FRIENDLY?
Stone is one of the greatest ecological options for many structural elements of a house, and locally harvested stone is the best choice. If you are planning to get a natural stone roof, research the best slate you can get in terms of eco-friendly transportation. Going local will be much better for the environment and your wallet, however, when that is not possible using reputable slate importers who are conscious of their footprint is the way to go.
ALTERNATIVES TO STANDARD ROOFING
Other sustainable roofing options are also based on harvesting natural materials that can be recycled, are biodegradable and help you save energy in the long term. When choosing a roof tile material, also ask yourself if it will need a lot of maintenance and treatments. Speaking of, make sure you choose a roof that isn’t treated with chemical products. Otherwise, discarding it might be more difficult.
HOW ABOUT OTHER TYPES OF ROOFING?
Besides slate roofs, which are sustainable in many ways, here are a few other roofing products that can be part of your eco-friendly home: metal roofing, green roofing, clay tiles, and concrete tiles. Each of them has pros and cons when it comes to sustainability, and the impact of a product on the environment depends a lot on how it is integrated into the bigger project and how it is achieved.
PROFESSIONAL SLATE ROOFING SERVICES
Slate is subject only to the initial process of mining, cutting and transporting it, but it really makes up for it by being so durable. A roof that lasts at least 75 years without needing much maintenance and that helps your home thermoregulate is a great investment in the future of your home. Moreover, due to its energy-efficient and sustainable properties, it’s also an investment in the future of our planet.