Alternative Energy Metal Roofing and Green Home Improvement

Let’s take a look at the elements of green home design, and how we can build a zero energy home on a budget. If you are looking to make your existing home greener and more energy efficient, you should be able to extrapolate the main points and apply them to your existing home.

Renewable Energy Systems do not have to cost a fortune

Unlike what many people may think, designing and building a green home does not involve a fortune, and can be done on a budget that is comparable with what it would normally cost to build a traditionally constructed home. Further, if you would like to outfit your new home with PV solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling, or a solar hot water system, it does not have to cost a fortune if you keep these factors in mind; many states provide generous solar rebates to homeowners as an incentive to invest into green technology and renewable energy systems. In addition to solar rebates, many states require utility companies to buy back the electricity that your solar system generates at the rates that are often higher than what you would normally pay for a kilowatt hour.

Solar Payback Period

You may be able to make back the money you would pay for a professional installation of a solar power system in five to ten years. With an average life of solar power system being 20 years and longer, you would actually be earning money from your PV solar power system. Not a bad way to make a buck, appraise the value of your home, support the growth of renewable energy technology and support the environment.

If you are planning to put up solar panels on your existing home, I would recommend replacing your old roof with an energy efficient standing seam metal roof, which would make it easy for solar installers to attach PV solar panels to the seams of a metal roof with the help of a special mounting system. This method does not require any penetrations made to your roof.

By combining solar panels with a green metal roof, you will get a” penetration-free” roof, which will lessen any chances of a roof leak in your home, and will not require replacing at some point in the future. Factor in extra energy savings from reduced cooling costs, home appreciation, and looks to see why it is a no brainier!

If you live in the northern geographic zone, having a metal roof will also help prevent ice dams. It can be really messy when you have to deal with ice dams on a roof that happens to have solar panels, or a solar hot water system installed. Trust me, you do not want to be in that situation.

Passive Solar Design

Passive solar design is one of the least costly green home design solutions for new construction homes, and home additions. Passive solar design involves the use of longer roof overhangs to provide a shadow over the walls and windowsof a house. Further, you can design your home to have rooms with glass walls and glass ceilings facing south for solar exposure. Inside the rooms you would have solar thermal mass floors, walls that can be made of bricks similar to the brick fireplace, or walls made from poured concrete. You can also use concrete blocks for easier assembly instead of mixing, pouring and forming concrete walls by yourself. Concrete is a good material of choice because it is reasonable inexpensive and has high thermal mass (HTM), which is what you want to have for effective passive solar design.

You can also integrate thermal shutters around your windows. You can close your thermal shutters at night to reduce the heat loss.

References:

https://www.thenaturalhome.com/passivesolar.html

Commercial Modular Construction can be a great sustainable alternative to conventionally  constructed buildings for educational facilities, commercial office spaces, healthcare, real estate development projects, and many other industries that may require custom design, speed of construction, structural integrity, compliance with the local building codes and US Green Building Council’s LEED accreditation.

Two Types of Modular Buildings:

There are two types of modular buildings that organizations can consider in order to best meet their needs for temporary and permanent spaces, in a timely and cost effective ways;

Relocatable buildings are designed for ease of transportation, deployment, and multiple relocation to different sites on as needed basis.
Temporary modular buildings can be partially or fully prefabricated using modular construction process in accordance with client specifications and state and local building codes. Relocatable buildings do not have the same status as permanent real estate, and can, therefore, be depreciated as equipment. Relocatable buildings can serve well as temporary office spaces, or temporary classrooms for schools that require additional classroom space to meet their growing enrollment needs.

Temporary relocatable buildings can also be leased, which provides flexibility and affordability to companies that require extra space, but are not ready to meet the expense to permanent building structures.

Permanent Modular Construction

PMC is a permanent modular construction method based on an offsite, lean manufacturing techniques to prefabricate single or multistory buildings using sections/modules that are delivered to the construction site, and then, put together to construct a whole building. Permanent Modular Buildings can be custom designed and built of wood, steel, or concrete materials. PMC buildings can serve as stand alone building solutions, or can be integrated into conventional site built projects.

Benefits and Advantages of Modular Construction

Permanent modular buildings can be delivered with integrated fixtures including lighting, plumbing, high efficiency HVAC systems, appliances, custom interior finishes, doors and windows, and other components that help make the building fully functioning in less time, with less waste, and a significantly higher quality control compared to projects utilizing conventional site construction methods.

Green Building, Sustainability, Custom Design and Flexibility

Modular Buildings are designed and build to meet the specific needs of a client, state and local building compliance codes, and can also meet green building LEED accreditation standards. For instance Triumph Modular, a modular construction company based in Massachusetts, provides custom modular classroom solutions that can contain integrated science labs, and restrooms to meet the specific needs of schools and daycare facilities requiring healthy, eco-friendly and energy efficient green buildings.

Triumph Modular custom designs and builds green classroom spaces that make use of green building materials designed for human health, comfort, and sustainability.

References

http://modular.org/

Why even consider metal roofing in the first place?

Before we look at pros and cons of metal roofing, let’s first figure out what is wrong with roofing shingles…

The problem with asphalt shingles roofing is that it is a petroleum based product, which means that it is inherently ecologically and environmentally unfriendly choice. There is no easy and effective way to dispose off all the asphalt shingle roofs that require replacement other than to tear off the old shingles, and send it into the landfill where it will be buried in the ground and left there to decompose for many decades to come.

Petroleum based Products should be Eliminated as much as possible, not recycled.

One does not need to be a hardcore environmentalist to see how detrimental asphalt shingles roofing products are to the nature and the environment. So, the big question comes up, what is an environmentally friendly and practical roofing alternative to an asphalt shingle roof? The answer is simple, for the last few years metal roofing has been gaining market share and popularity as a green roofing material of choice.

Metal roofing can last much longer than an asphalt shingle roof, which only averages 10 to 20 years of service life. Metal roofing on the other hand, can last well over 35 years when properly installed.
The key to a long lasting metal roof is strict adherence to the metal roofing manufacturers installation guidelines.

Metal Roofing Installation Video

Installing metal roofing correctly involves preparation of the roof deck, proper application of roofing underlayment, and correct installation of metal roofing system. Whether or not you hire a professional metal roofing contractor, or choose to go do it yourself way, be sure to follow the installation instructions thoroughly. This way your metal roof will last for decades providing energy savings, maintenance free roof protection, and durable and long lasting beauty.

Here are a few reasons to consider metal roofing for your home

Metal roofing is reliable and long lasting green building material, which means that you can earn green building credits for the installation of the energy efficient metal roof that is rated by Cool-Roof council and by Energy Star for its solar reflective properties.

Metal roofing can help lower your homeowner’s insurance by as much as 35%. Metal roofs are fire retardant, which means they do not support fire, which can be a significant factor if you live in a heavily wooded area. Metal roofs can withstand powerful storms and category four hurricane winds. This may be very helpful if you live in a hurricane prone area.

Metal roofs provide excellent protection in the cold climates. Coated with specialty coatings, metal roofs shed snow and ice, which may help you prevent ice dams from forming on your roof.

As far as aesthetics go, modern metal roofs may add a unique touch of modern architecture to your home. You can choose from than traditional metal shingles and shakes profiles available in beautiful metal roofing colors, to the vertically oriented lines of standing-seam metal roofing panels that can easily be enhanced with roof integrated solar roofing panels. This combination will make your house not only energy efficient, but also capable of generating electricity from the sun.

Do not let the initially higher metal roofing costs to deter you from considering installing metal roofing for your home. Metal roofing will help you lower your cooling costs, appraise the value of your property, and provide many years of reliable and worry free service to you.

Top 5 metal roofing myths to promote metal roofing awareness.

Not too long ago, I had the old rusty barn roof image in my mind. But now, after having been involved with metal roofing for nearly 10 years I have developed a true appreciation for this roofing material, and I would like to share some of the insights dealing with unexpected benefits and advantages of metal roofs, with you.

After reading these tips you will gain a better understanding, and appreciation of metal roofing technology.

Myth 1:
Metal roof has a higher risk of getting struck by a lightning.

Reality; No, metal roofing does not increase chances of your home getting struck by a lightning. But, if your house does get hit by a lightning, metal roof will help to dissipate the charge. Because metal is a non combustible material, your roof will not catch fire.

Myth 2: Metal roof makes a lot of noise when it rains.

Reality; You probably envision the old and rusty corrugated metal roofs that you can see covering old barns. You probably also think that modern metal roofs will sound like a machine gun burst when it is raining, but this is far from the truth.

Modern metal roofing is typically installed over solid sheathing such as plywood or solid wooden boards that comprise your roof deck. With the solid sheathing and roofing underlayment, your new metal roof will make no more noise than a regular asphalt shingle roof.

Myth 3: Metal roofing costs a lot of money.

Reality; It may seem like metal roofing costs a lot, but if you look at the cost of metal roofing over a long enough period of time, you will realize that it is actually the best remodeling investment a homeowner can make.

You may be surprised to find this out, but a metal roof will actually costs less than an asphalt shingle roof if you stay in your house long enough. A metal roof, which is an energy efficient roofing retrofit will increase the resale value of your home in terms of remodeling costs vs. value, but it will also help you save significantly on your cooling costs. Metal roofing can result in up to 35 percent savings in energy costs during summer months.

Metal Roof installed right is a very long lasting roofing system, and it may well be the last roof you will ever have to install on your home, provided that you get a quality installation from a qualified metal roofing contractor.

Metal Roofing Costs Vs. Shingles Example

Learn from this hypothetical example of the cost of metal roofing vs the asphalt shingle roof, from a homeowner’s stand point.

Myth 4: Metal Roof is susceptible to rust and corrosion.

Reality; Modern metal roofing is built to last for decades. Steel metal roofing has a metal coating protection layer made with zinc or aluminum, which is bonded to the steel and then painted with a high quality paint designed to withstand the toughest abuse from bad weather, and provide the desirable color and looks that homeowners want.

Myth 5: Metal Roof is susceptible to dents.

Reality; Modern metal roofs are built to withstand years of abuse from severe weather such as hail, extreme winds, and snow. Hail will not dent a metal roof, and extremely high winds are not a threat either, as many modern metal roofing systems are rated for 120mph winds. In fact, metal roofs perform extremely well in the hurricane. It is not unusual to see the metal roof with no damage, next to naked regular roofs that have lost all its shingles and plywood in hurricane.

As I was writing these 5 metal roofing myths, yet another metal roof myth came to my mind! This one in a bonus! Please enjoy!

Bonus Myth: You cannot walk on metal roof without damaging it.

Reality; While you should definitely take all the necessary precautions before venturing out for a walk on your roof, metal roofs are completely walkable. I would recommend using sport shoes with rubber soles, because they will provide good traction for your feet when on the roof. Avoid walking on your roof when its raining as you could easily slip and fall. Rule of thumb is to stay off the roof whenever its surface is wet. Contact your roofing contractor for special techniques on how to walk on the metal roof they have installed.

I hope that you enjoyed reading my metal roofing tips, and that you have learned something new about metal roofing.

I would love to get your comments and feedback on this article, as well as your request for another metal roofing article. If you have something to contribute, please feel free to offer your perspective at the bottom of this page.

New England Metal Roofing Company www.newenglandmetalroof.com – Learn about the true cost of metal roofing features useful information about metal roofing, providing facts, answering questions and dispelling metal roofing myths. Provides always current metal roofing prices, and explains advantages and benefits of the metal roofs.

References:

Cost of metal roof vs shingles

From the point of view of construction and remodeling industry the biggest irony of the housing bubble collapse and economic downturn that followed it, is that both commercial construction and residential remodeling companies which used to rip great profits during the housing boom, suffered immensely once the housing market collapsed. “The recent remodeling downturn was the most severe in the last 25 years, with a 12.5% decline in remodeling spending from 2007 to 2009″. (Citation: http://www.remodeling.hw.net/economic-conditions/state-of-the-nations-housing-remodeling-industry-poised-for-growth.aspx)

While it is true that every segment of the industry has suffered the consequences of the economic recession, commercial construction companies and businesses that are dependent upon the overall health of the construction and remodeling industry (Building material suppliers, and manufacturers) were among the ones most affected by the turmoil of global recession and global economic downturn.

Cost-to-Value, Remodeling Costs Recouped as a percentage of resale value

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The technology dealing with Energy Storage materials and devices such as advanced electric batteries, supper capacitors and hydrogen fuel cells.

Many world conflicts and tensions are the results of competition for finite resources. Fossil fuels and Oil are the primary sources of energy and the U.S. and in the world in general.

From the geopolitical standpoint, the United States have become increasingly dependent on the use of foreign oil, which is not only bad for the environment, but also threatens our National Security.

The development of Energy Storage Materials Technology could eventually reduce our dependence on foreign oil and help us make a transition towards using electric batteries, supper capacitors and hydrogen fuel cells as energy sources for automobiles, buses, trains, and transportation system in general.

Integrating Energy Storage Materials Technology would strengthen are military by allowing our military vehicles, and weaponry technology devices to operate in a more remote areas with decreased dependence on fuel sources.

The use of super capacitors could also lead to the development of new and improved military weaponry systems.

The advanced electric batteries could make our electric vehicles run further and faster, and help protect the environment by reducing the carbon for print.

The use of hydrogen fuel cells could reduce / and eventually diminish the need to use petroleum products to operate cars, buses, trucks and trains.

The hydrogen fuel cell research is well underway and there is some possibility of developing a technology that would allow split the water molecules to obtain hydrogen in an energy efficient way.

If these technologies are developed and implemented in the near future, then the U.S. will not only benefit in terms off geopolitical independence, but could also assume the leadership in providing this technologies to the rapidly developing countries of Brazil, China, India and Russia.

Although it’s hard to make any sort of accurate prediction as to how the development of these technology will progress, it is clear that it could benefit the U.S. and many other industrialized nations in the world as well as have a positive impact on the world climate.

Countries of the European Union, and Japan are also engaged in the rapid development of Energy Storage Materials. Toyota motor company, a Japanese auto manufacturing Company is planning to introduce a hydrogen fuel cell car by 2015. This a new development from Toyota concept cars that has made its debut during the negative publicity of Toyota Prius Hybrid Vehicle.

Many companies are engaged in the development of advanced batteries that could store a significant amount of Electric Energy to make these batteries viable as a source of energy for the electric vehicles.

Solar Energy, Wind Turbine Farms, and geothermal energy technologies are also being developed, which will help further reduce the dependence on foreign oil, and help the conservation effort. Further development of these technologies and their implementation with green buildings, and energy production plants could mark a gradual shift from fossil fuels to alternative and renewable energy sources.

What is geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is a sustainable source of renewable energy that can be extracted from the heat derived from the earth. The natural heat of the earth creates geothermal energy that can be used by geothermal power plants to create electricity. The geothermal heat comes from molten rock called magma located at the earth core, deep below the geothermal resource.

As the rain water seeps through the cracks in the earth surface over hundreds and thousands of years, it accumulates and collects into underground water reservoirs forming underground springs and bodies of water. The magma heats this underground water until it becomes a super-heated fluid. These super-heated fluid reservoirs and springs exist all over the world. To reach the super-heated fluid wells are drilled 5000 – 10000 feet below the surface of the earth. These wells called production wells bring the superheated fluid to the earth surface where it can be used to generate electricity for homes and businesses.

The superheated fluid flows up the production wells under its own pressure, this is an essentially important aspect, because it requires no energy to bring the superheated fluid up to the surface. The steam is then obtained from the superheated fluid, and delivered to the steam turbines that spin under the pressure and force of the steam. The steam turbines rotate the shaft of the electrical generator which produces electricity that is then delivered to the homes and businesses.

Ground Source heating and Cooling

Many people often call it geothermal heating and cooling, but this is not correct because there is no geothermal energy that is being derived from the depth of the earth. What it is a just a ground source heat that is stored underground. This heat is not generated by the earth, but rather it is the heat that is absorbed by the surface of the earth from the sun.

Still it is often referred to as Geothermal heating and cooling, but in reality it is just a ground source heating and cooling. This residential application is also commonly referred to as a ground source heat pump. Ground source heat technology uses ground temperature to increase the efficiency of the home heating and cooling systems and to lower the cost of operation. A geothermal heat pump transfers heat from the heat collector in the ground through the insulated pipes to the thermal storage collector in our home. This heat is then distributed to our home heating systems, baseboards, and floor heating.

The operation of the ground source heat pump requires electricity, but it only requires 1 unit of the electricity for every 4 units of heat generated. Thus, the ground source heat is very cost effective, and efficient in terms of energy expanded and the heat obtained. The principle of cost effectiveness comes from the fact that ground temperatures are always more stable than air temperatures, so the exchange of heat with the ground is more efficient.

How does Ground source Heat Pump work?

Once again, it must be stated that the ground source heat pump is not the same as the geothermal energy. It does not use the super heated underground fluid that is used to power geothermal power plants. The ground source heat works in a very simple way. In a typical system, the ground source horizontal heat collector, which is a network of pipes forming a continuous loop are laid out one meter below the earth surface. The warmth obtained from the heat collectors gets transferred by means of ground source heat pump that uses insulated pipes to deliver warm fluid inside the thermal storage collection inside the house. This heat is then available to heat the home.

There are also vertically oriented trench collectors, and bore drill up to 200 meters heat collection methods for homes with limited ground area. a Typical home will require about two and half times floor space ground area for the horizontal collectors. Less ground area is needed for trench or, bore heat collection method.

Benefits of using ground source heat pump

Air pollution is also reduced when using a ground source heat pump. According to the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), geothermal heating and cooling systems are clean as well as energy and cost efficient. Ground source heat pumps themselves produce no emissions, but unless the electricity is from renewable resources, the electricity source normally does.

Greenhouse gas emissions are less than most other options of heating and cooling; natural gas is the only one that might be in the same league if the local electric supply is environmentally friendly. One of the downsides to the eco-responsible geothermal heat pump used to be the use of ozone depleting refrigerant. Ozone-friendly refrigerant is replacing the old type of refrigerant.

Ground source heat pumps work by taking ground heat out of the ground in the winter and putting heat into the ground during the summer. Geothermal heating and cooling systems can be designed to work as a singular heating or cooling system depending upon the climate of the area.

The difference in efficiency when compared to an air-source heat pumps is dramatic. A ground source can reach an efficiency of up to 600% in contrast to the air-source, which can only reach up to 250% efficiency.

The initial cost of a ground source heat pump is more than other types of heating and cooling systems, but the return on investment is usually seen within the first 10 years of service. Most ground source heat pumps will last 25 years or more. Geothermal heating and cooling options such as the ground source heat pump work will with radiator heating and under-floor systems and are, therefore, good for open interior spaces found in offices and such.

Installing a ground source heat pump system will call for a licensed professional. Technical knowledge of the system is essential as well as the skill at designing a properly sized system that will provide for adequate heating and cooling benefits. Ask for references while shopping for a reputable company. Dealers and installers should be more than willing to discuss their qualifications with you to make sure you are comfortable.

A common concern is whether or not the underground loop of a ground source heat pump will damage the lawn or landscaping. While there might be a few bare areas from the digging of small trenches might occur, there is no lasting damage from the installation or operation of geothermal heating and cooling systems.

Be sure to get an inclusive estimate of installation cost as you will not only be paying for the system, but also the electrical work, water hook-up and duct work necessary to install all of the components. While every job is different, it is typical for the installation of this type of system to take about two days. There are tax credits associated with geothermal heat pumps and some utility companies will even offer a rebate to customers who purchase a ground source heat pump.

Resources:

Learn more about geothermal energy applications.

Learn How geothermal heating and cooling works

Related Posts and Alternative Energy Resources:

Alternative Energy Guide

Alternative Energy Directory

LED lighting isn’t new. In fact, it has been around for decades. LED stands for light emitting diode and until recently, were only used for specialty purposes such as indicator lamps, traffic signals, and exit signs. Over the years, changes have been made to the technology, making it an efficient replacement to incandescent and fluorescent lighting in the residential arena as well.

Light output of an LED lamp is considerably smaller than an incandescent bulb, but can be grouped together to improve the output, and high power LEDs are now available to completely replace the use of incandescent and fluorescent. Since LED uses DC electric power instead of AC, the lamps are equipped with conversion circuits. LED lights also require a driver, which is like a ballast for fluorescent lighting. Most are built into the light. Unlike fluorescent ballasts, the driver for the LED light will not interfere with television or radio signals.

LED lights have many advantages over incandescent and fluorescent. The singular directional output of light from an LED lamp make them a good choice for strip lighting, reading light, ceiling light, artwork lighting, and path lighting. Durable LED lighting comes in a waterproof variety as well, making them a nice choice for outdoor use in gardens and on patios. LED doesn’t attract bugs either! They can handle more wear and tear than incandescent and fluorescent bulbs as they can deal with vibration and they don’t mind being turned off and on repeatedly.

LED lights are sturdy, but they are also sensitive to heat, so the lamps typically include heat sink or some type of cooling mechanism, so be mindful of where you will be using the LED bulbs to ensure they do not become overheated. Using LED in an excessively warm spot can decrease the bulb’s lifespan. On a positive note, they don’t emit heat as incandescent bulbs do. Incandescent bulbs emit about 98% of their energy as heat. Another benefit to LED lighting is that they do not contain any mercury, which means they are non-toxic.

Unlike fluorescent, LED lights do not flicker. LED lights last a long time and unlike other light bulbs, they do not burn out, but rather dim over time. In areas where it is difficult to change the bulb, LED makes sense, as you will not have to replace them nearly as often as their counterparts.

The cost of LED lighting is initially more expensive than other lighting options. As demand grows, the LED lighting manufacturers will produce more and the price will decrease. In addition, there are not a lot of lighting fixtures made for LED lamps. There are retrofit LED bulbs for use in traditional light fixtures, but they are costly. Because LED lasts longer than other types of bulbs, the initial cost can eventually catch up with the cost and operation of incandescent and fluorescent.

The low energy use makes LED lighting an environmentally wise choice and the long life of somewhere between 25 to 30 years, or roughly 40,000 hours of typical operation. When used in warmer climates, LED lamps can reduce the cost of cooling since they do not emit any heat, but when used in cooler climates there is no noticeable change.

Many pilot projects around the world are using LED lighting in different types of applications to increase public knowledge and interest. There are studies that have shown LED bulb manufacturers sometimes overstate the efficiency of their products, but overall, LED technology is a viable replacement for incandescent and fluorescent lighting. In fact, LED lamps last so long and save so much energy, it’s hard to imagine how the manufacturers will get any repeat business!

Resources:

Lighting Directory

Have you ever considered getting a rainwater collection system for
your home? A standing-seam metal roof with its smooth surface provides
an ideal platform for harvesting rainwater using a sloped metal roof.
Englert Inc. a metal roofing and leafless gutter manufacturing
company committed to the environmental cause is now offering a 3 in 1
fully integrated standing seam metal roofing system combined with a
leafless gutter, and enhanced with a rainwater collection system that
collects rainwater for non-potable use.

The way that the rainwater collection system works is very simple; It
starts with the rainwater running down the slope of a standing seam metal
roofing system. Once the water gets into the gutter system, it flows down
the drain until it reaches the connecting point to a water storage
tank. It than flows through an initial filter that removes large
debris like leaves and twigs.

The rainwater is then collected in a water storage tank. Englert Inc.
offers the following water collection tank capacities: 225 gallons,
400 gallons, and 1700 gallons. Custom water collection systems can be
ordered as well for commercial, and institutional use.

Once in the water storage tank, the harvested rainwater passes through
more filters to remove any debris from it. The collected water is
then available for use through the use of a controller providing
pressurized water supply for use such as landscape irrigation, toilet
flushing and laundry needs.

Water is a finite commodity that needs to be preserved. The water
collected from rain is water saved. That is the water you do not have
to pay for. It’s good for you and it’s good for the environment.
Water collection system may be a good solution for the areas where the
water is scarce.

Areas that are prone to flooding can also benefit from the water
collection systems.

Architects and builders working on building green homes can integrate
an environmentally correct standing-seam
metal roofing system with a water collection system.

If you’re a homeowner considering investing in an Energy Star rated,
and a green building accredited standing-seam metal roof coupled with
the Englert leafless gutter system, and water collection system, then
contact Englert Inc. and they will put you in touch with a local
roofing company.

If you are considering several green roofing options, then a
comprehensive overview of seven popular roofing
materials will offer some great tips and information on pros and
cons of major roofs.

Green Building and Environmental Responsibility

Fuel hungry cars, airplanes, and manufacturing plants are not the only CO 2 / carbon footprint contributors. Residential, commercial, and industrial buildings are also contributing a great deal to overall carbon footprint. Poorly insulated buildings consume vast amounts of energy, natural resources, and contribute to greenhouse gases affect. One of the ways to combat environmental degradation associated with poorly constructed buildings, is to use green building technology in retrofitting of existing buildings and constructing new buildings using green building practices.

Green building practices encourage environmental responsibility through the use of sustainable building materials in residential and commercial retrofit and new construction projects. The roof structure of the building is not an exception when it comes to in green building design. In fact, roof constructed according to green building practices can earn green building credits with the U.S. green building council based in Washington, DC.

Whole Foods Market place, one of the U.S. top organic food retailers has embraced green building technology by building a state of the art store made of aluminum and green building materials. The roof design incorporates vegetated roofing technology by using easy to integrate green roofing containers containing local vegetation. Green roofing design provides energy savings, insulation, and combats urban heat island affect.

In order for a roofing system to qualify for green building credits it must meet solar reflectivity index of a minimum of 78 percents for flat roofs and 29 percents for sloped roofs. Solar reflectivity index is assigned by cool-roof rating council. SRI incorporates solar reflectivity and thermal emissivity.

Metal roofs provide a wide variety of sustainable roofing options including standing-seam roofs made with long lasting and environmentally friendly metals such as aluminum, zinc, steel and copper. Metal roofs contain up to 50% post consumer content and are fully recyclable. Painted metal roofing panels are coated with solar reflective paint finishes that help keep the roof cooler in warm seasons.

The use of metal in a residential, commercial and industrial roofing aides in reducing building’s carbon footprint, and provides long lasting and reliable roofing solution that is also U.S green building council accredited.

In a typical residential re-roofing situation, the cool-roof rated galvanized steel metal roofing system can offer longevity, durability, energy savings, and earn green building credits for existing buildings and new construction. Modern steel shingle metal roofing systems are available in wide variety of cool-roof rated metal roofing colors that literally reflect solar radiant heat, reduce air conditioning load and provide energy savings.

For homeowners whose roof is covered with a flat roof, installing PVC based cool flat roof membrane similar to IB roofs in performance will provide significant energy savings, reliability, and long lasting roofing solution. Yes, PVC and green combination may seem counter intuitive, but PVC roofs can last three times longer than EPDM Rubber roofs and can be recycled when the roof has served its purpose. Certain PVC roofing systems are designed to withstand standing / ponds of water, which means that they can be used for vegetated green roofing systems.

No matter what type of metal / cool roofing system you choose, be sure to pay special attention to longevity and Cool Roof ratings of the roofing system in question.

References:

Metal Roofing Materials

Green Roofing

Metal roofing and green building