Asphalt tile roofs are often not seen as environmentally friendly due to the fact that asphalt is a by-product of crude oil refining. However, modern asphalt roofing shingles are made from recycled materials such as old tires and plastic bags, and are designed to minimize the raw materials needed to produce them. Asphalt roof shingles can also reduce roof surface temperatures by up to 50°F, making them an energy efficient option. In addition, they require little maintenance and can last up to 30 years. Recycled asphalt shingles have significantly saved industries such as roads and transportation and the construction industry.
They can be recycled and reused at the end of their useful life, but must undergo a cleaning process before they can be recycled. To get the most energy savings with your asphalt roofing system, opt for lighter colored tiles such as white or tan, as they reflect heat better than darker tones. Unfortunately, asphalt roofs absorb most of the sunlight that hits them, making your home warmer during the summer months and leading to higher energy bills. To improve your energy efficiency, you'll need to invest in a reflective coating or an attic ventilation system. Technically referred to as composite shingles, standard asphalt shingles are moderately durable and can offer good thermal reflectivity, depending on the design and color of the shingle. Many homeowners automatically discard asphalt roofing shingles when considering eco-friendly roofing materials, but this is a big mistake.
Rubber roof: A rubber roof is generally made of reinforced rubber shingles that are made with radial tires used with a steel strap. Considered a “cool” roofing option, metal roofs can help homeowners save up to 40% on their energy consumption. Ultimately, asphalt shingle roofs are an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable, low-maintenance roofing solution.
