Use durable and reflective roofing materials

Roofs are subject to a lot of wear and tear
Of all the components in a house, the roof is exposed to the most demanding conditions: tremendous temperature fluctuations, sunlight, hail, high winds, snow and rain. Roofing is also one of the largest sources of construction and demolition waste today, especially asphalt shingles that have short life spans. Look for roofing materials with a 50-year life. In areas with high cooling loads, a reflective roof certified under the Energy StarLabeling system sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy for labeling the most energy-efficient products on the market; applies to a wide range of products, from computers and office equipment to refrigerators and air conditioners. program can reduce air conditioning costs significantly. In urban areas, a reflective roof also helps reduce the "heat island" effect, localized warming generated by dark paved areas and building rooftops.

Green Points

NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions. /ICC-700: 1 point for installing solar reflective roofing in certain climate zones.

Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia

Roofing Material Choices

Further resources

EPA EnergyStar roofing products

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