The world is full of copper lovers, and lovers of the copper roof are by no means an exception. There are essentially two different types of copper roof you can buy, there is the solid copper roof that consists solely of sheet copper on your roof. It is very resilient to weathering and will protect your house for decades but it is incredibly costly, as you can imagine. On the other hand, copper roof shingles are made by attached sheets of copper around standard asphalt shingles. All in all, the cost is likely to work out less than a slate roof but once the copper roof shingles have aged and been weathered they will take on the magnificent green look that only copper can create.

Can I use copper roof shingles?

One of the advantages that copper roof shingles offer over other forms of long lasting roofs, especially the solid copper roof, is that the shingles are actually surprisingly light and most roofs and structures can usually cope with the load admirably. As long as you are prepared to pay approximately per square foot (compared to for standard asphalt but up to for solid copper) there is unlikely to be any good reason why you can not use copper roof shingles on your roof.

What kind of life can I expect from copper roof shingles? This is something of a confusing issue. Asphalt roof shingles will normally only last 20 years, but covered in copper sheeting the life of the asphalt shingles can easily be extended to between 30 and 40 years. However, the copper sheet itself will last an average of about 150 years. Obviously the copper roof shingles themselves will only last as long as the asphalt roof shingles that are found underneath the copper.

The cost of copper roof shingles.

Copper roof shingles are by no means a cheap alternative to other styles of roofing but if you like the look of copper and you want a longer life than asphalt shingles can offer then copper roof shingles are an excellent option. The copper sheet doesn’t an excellent job of protecting the asphalt shingles underneath effectively giving them an extended life of around 30 to 40 years. The copper sheeting also protects the shingles from most general wear and tear meaning that with good, regular maintenance you won’t need to have repairs done too often. On a yearly basis copper roof shingles do work out cheap but not overall and not for the initial installation.

Standard asphalt roof shingles usually cost around per square foot, whereas solid copper roofing will set you back around per square foot. Copper roof shingles are available at approximately to per square foot so they are 4 times more expensive than asphalt but considerably cheaper than a full solid copper roof. However, you are undoubtedly paying for the attractive looks of a copper roof but for less money than covering the entire roof in an expensive metal.

The world is full of copper lovers, and lovers of the copper roof are by no means an exception. There are essentially two different types of copper roof you can buy, there is the solid copper roof that consists solely of sheet copper on your roof. It is very resilient to weathering and will protect your house for decades but it is incredibly costly, as you can imagine. On the other hand, copper roof shingles are made by attached sheets of copper around standard asphalt shingles. All in all, the cost is likely to work out less than a slate roof but once the copper roof shingles have aged and been weathered they will take on the magnificent green look that only copper can create.

Can I use copper roof shingles?

One of the advantages that copper roof shingles offer over other forms of long lasting roofs, especially the solid copper roof, is that the shingles are actually surprisingly light and most roofs and structures can usually cope with the load admirably. As long as you are prepared to pay approximately per square foot (compared to for standard asphalt but up to for solid copper) there is unlikely to be any good reason why you can not use copper roof shingles on your roof.

What kind of life can I expect from copper roof shingles? This is something of a confusing issue. Asphalt roof shingles will normally only last 20 years, but covered in copper sheeting the life of the asphalt shingles can easily be extended to between 30 and 40 years. However, the copper sheet itself will last an average of about 150 years. Obviously the copper roof shingles themselves will only last as long as the asphalt roof shingles that are found underneath the copper.

The cost of copper roof shingles.

Copper roof shingles are by no means a cheap alternative to other styles of roofing but if you like the look of copper and you want a longer life than asphalt shingles can offer then copper roof shingles are an excellent option. The copper sheet doesn’t an excellent job of protecting the asphalt shingles underneath effectively giving them an extended life of around 30 to 40 years. The copper sheeting also protects the shingles from most general wear and tear meaning that with good, regular maintenance you won’t need to have repairs done too often. On a yearly basis copper roof shingles do work out cheap but not overall and not for the initial installation.

Standard asphalt roof shingles usually cost around per square foot, whereas solid copper roofing will set you back around per square foot. Copper roof shingles are available at approximately to per square foot so they are 4 times more expensive than asphalt but considerably cheaper than a full solid copper roof. However, you are undoubtedly paying for the attractive looks of a copper roof but for less money than covering the entire roof in an expensive metal.

The US Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has been trying to come up with roof materials and plans which help to save energy. Since it is the only part of the building which remains exposed to sun, it tends to absorb a lot of energy thereby increasing cooling costs.

Environmental Benefits Of Green Roofs

Apart from a marked decrease in cooling costs, green roofing technology has helped reduce heat loss and energy consumption during winter months also. They help bring down storm water run-off and filter pollutants especially carbon dioxide out of the air.

They also help increase the life span of the roof and also contribute to LEED points for the building. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification provides independent, third-party verification for your building project and determines if the building is indeed environmentally responsible, profitable and a healthy place to live and work at.

Green Roofs – Save Money and the Environment

Generally, it consists of a vegetative layer grown on rooftops. These roofs provide shade and help reduce heat and temperature of the surface and surrounding air. Depending on the load capabilities and the structure of your building, many include a variety of grasses, flowers or trees of different heights. In these systems, plants and soil replace the conventional roof coverings and the same layer of plants and soil protects the water proofing membrane.

Installing a green roof is a complex task and it is best to consult a landscape architect and an independent roofing contractor to analyze the effectiveness for your home or office.

The US Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has been trying to come up with roof materials and plans which help to save energy. Since it is the only part of the building which remains exposed to sun, it tends to absorb a lot of energy thereby increasing cooling costs.

Environmental Benefits Of Green Roofs

Apart from a marked decrease in cooling costs, green roofing technology has helped reduce heat loss and energy consumption during winter months also. They help bring down storm water run-off and filter pollutants especially carbon dioxide out of the air.

They also help increase the life span of the roof and also contribute to LEED points for the building. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification provides independent, third-party verification for your building project and determines if the building is indeed environmentally responsible, profitable and a healthy place to live and work at.

Green Roofs – Save Money and the Environment

Generally, it consists of a vegetative layer grown on rooftops. These roofs provide shade and help reduce heat and temperature of the surface and surrounding air. Depending on the load capabilities and the structure of your building, many include a variety of grasses, flowers or trees of different heights. In these systems, plants and soil replace the conventional roof coverings and the same layer of plants and soil protects the water proofing membrane.

Installing a green roof is a complex task and it is best to consult a landscape architect and an independent roofing contractor to analyze the effectiveness for your home or office.

Each year the amount of green space in the UK is affected by the continued requirement for new builds. The key players and influencers in the house building market need to take urgent action to ensure that new builds are designed with green space in mind.

Gordon Brown has set targets for 5 new eco-towns accounting for 100,000 homes. Thankfully these developments are ear marked for old industrial or brownfield sites. However, due to population increases and lack of space it is likely that there will be a case for high density housing. 

Key living roofs commentators such as Dusty Gedge would argue that designers should make green space a top priority in early design stages to help ensure that high density housing maximises green space. Living green roofs can help to maximise green space in such developments. We often forget about the amount of roof space available which can be used as sky gardens. With so much space being taken up by the footprint of buildings, calls for sky gardens or green roofs are now high on the agenda.

Green roof systems not only are an aesthetical feature but they help significantly reduce the urban heat island affect. Many of us will be well aware that inner city temperatures are often 5 degree’s higher than our rural neighbours. Green roofs lock in moisture giving a cooling affect to our inner city concrete jungles. They act as a haven for wildlife and importantly reduce surface water run off. So in turn helping to reduce strains on drainage systems. 

Large schemes encorporting green space are not uncommon and one well known example is the BedZED eco-homes. The Beddington Zero Energy Development (BedZED) recognised the importance of roof terraces and balcony’s including green roofs to maximise green space. Not to mention the improved insulation properties that green roofs can achieve.

Each year the amount of green space in the UK is affected by the continued requirement for new builds. The key players and influencers in the house building market need to take urgent action to ensure that new builds are designed with green space in mind.

Gordon Brown has set targets for 5 new eco-towns accounting for 100,000 homes. Thankfully these developments are ear marked for old industrial or brownfield sites. However, due to population increases and lack of space it is likely that there will be a case for high density housing. 

Key living roofs commentators such as Dusty Gedge would argue that designers should make green space a top priority in early design stages to help ensure that high density housing maximises green space. Living green roofs can help to maximise green space in such developments. We often forget about the amount of roof space available which can be used as sky gardens. With so much space being taken up by the footprint of buildings, calls for sky gardens or green roofs are now high on the agenda.

Green roof systems not only are an aesthetical feature but they help significantly reduce the urban heat island affect. Many of us will be well aware that inner city temperatures are often 5 degree’s higher than our rural neighbours. Green roofs lock in moisture giving a cooling affect to our inner city concrete jungles. They act as a haven for wildlife and importantly reduce surface water run off. So in turn helping to reduce strains on drainage systems. 

Large schemes encorporting green space are not uncommon and one well known example is the BedZED eco-homes. The Beddington Zero Energy Development (BedZED) recognised the importance of roof terraces and balcony’s including green roofs to maximise green space. Not to mention the improved insulation properties that green roofs can achieve.

Buildings all have one thing in common, four walls supported by a roof overhead. Building owners, whether their properties are residential or commercial, are responsible for the installation and maintenance of these components. When considering new residential roofing, commercial roofing, or roofing repair options, something that is efficient and cost effective is top priority. Maybe it’s time to consider a green or solar roof.

A green roof really has very little to do with color, although there are a few different uses for the terminology. Most commonly, green roofs are environmentally friendly roofing systems made from recycled materials. The life cycle of these roofs is much longer than that of traditional roofing systems. They also require much less work by way of maintenance requirements, and the materials used in the roofs can be recycled once they have reached the end of their life spans.

Several different sustainable building materials can be used on a green roof. The key is choosing a durable product that will keep the elements at bay. Some asphalt shingles contain recycled paper, but are not recyclable themselves and require more frequent replacement. Recycled rubber roofing, made from recycled tires, is a relatively new product on the market with a high likelihood for durability.

Steel and aluminum roofs can have recycled content levels as high as 100%, are lightweight and durable, easily recyclable, reduce energy usage by reflecting heat, and are an optimum surface for rainwater collection systems. Slate, clay, and concrete tiles are durable, easy to recycle, and more attractive than some other roofing materials, but along with their more aesthetically pleasing characteristics come at a higher initial cost. The products used in the installation of a roof can also affect its level of sustainability. Cold adhesives reduce odor and the amount of hazardous fumes emitted during application.

Newer hot adhesives have also been introduced with lower emissions ratings. Another recent advancement is the fume-capturing kettle, which true to its name, reduces the amount of fumes released by adhesives. Another option in green roofing can actually provide energy to meet electrical needs. This is done through solar roofing systems.

Solar roof shingles are one such example. These shingles create no air or noise pollution. They can be used as a sole source of energy by charging batteries to use at night or overcast days. Or they can be used in conjunction with standard utilities, removing some of the dependence placed on traditional energy sources and lowering overall environmental impact.

Another solar roofing option is the solar panel. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity in the same manner as solar roof shingles and can be installed onto an existing roof on the portion that gets the most direct sun exposure. Converting to a green or solar roof has many more benefits than disadvantages. It helps save money.

Solar and green roofing has many advantages. It helps save the earth and the environment and improves personal health through lower pollution levels. It stimulates the economy through an increased interested in green technologies. Finally, and most importantly, it just makes sense.

Buildings all have one thing in common, four walls supported by a roof overhead. Building owners, whether their properties are residential or commercial, are responsible for the installation and maintenance of these components. When considering new residential roofing, commercial roofing, or roofing repair options, something that is efficient and cost effective is top priority. Maybe it’s time to consider a green or solar roof.

A green roof really has very little to do with color, although there are a few different uses for the terminology. Most commonly, green roofs are environmentally friendly roofing systems made from recycled materials. The life cycle of these roofs is much longer than that of traditional roofing systems. They also require much less work by way of maintenance requirements, and the materials used in the roofs can be recycled once they have reached the end of their life spans.

Several different sustainable building materials can be used on a green roof. The key is choosing a durable product that will keep the elements at bay. Some asphalt shingles contain recycled paper, but are not recyclable themselves and require more frequent replacement. Recycled rubber roofing, made from recycled tires, is a relatively new product on the market with a high likelihood for durability.

Steel and aluminum roofs can have recycled content levels as high as 100%, are lightweight and durable, easily recyclable, reduce energy usage by reflecting heat, and are an optimum surface for rainwater collection systems. Slate, clay, and concrete tiles are durable, easy to recycle, and more attractive than some other roofing materials, but along with their more aesthetically pleasing characteristics come at a higher initial cost. The products used in the installation of a roof can also affect its level of sustainability. Cold adhesives reduce odor and the amount of hazardous fumes emitted during application.

Newer hot adhesives have also been introduced with lower emissions ratings. Another recent advancement is the fume-capturing kettle, which true to its name, reduces the amount of fumes released by adhesives. Another option in green roofing can actually provide energy to meet electrical needs. This is done through solar roofing systems.

Solar roof shingles are one such example. These shingles create no air or noise pollution. They can be used as a sole source of energy by charging batteries to use at night or overcast days. Or they can be used in conjunction with standard utilities, removing some of the dependence placed on traditional energy sources and lowering overall environmental impact.

Another solar roofing option is the solar panel. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity in the same manner as solar roof shingles and can be installed onto an existing roof on the portion that gets the most direct sun exposure. Converting to a green or solar roof has many more benefits than disadvantages. It helps save money.

Solar and green roofing has many advantages. It helps save the earth and the environment and improves personal health through lower pollution levels. It stimulates the economy through an increased interested in green technologies. Finally, and most importantly, it just makes sense.

What are green roofs?

Green roofs or eco-roofs are the modern versions, and have many of the benefits of the ‘sod roofs’ that have been used in Scandinavia for centuries. Green roofs have risen rapidly in popularity, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands, and now in the UK.

There are 2 types of modern green roof systems, intensive and extensive. Intensive green roof systems are generally for heavier landscape constructions on flat roofs, whereas extensive systems can be installed over any deck and contain a number of layers including vapour retarder, insulation and waterproofing membrane layers beneath the vegetation. The general idea is to firstly provide a waterproof layer on a flat roof (or angled up to 45 degrees), and then put a thin layer of living vegetation on top of this.

What is the point of a green roof?

A green roof / eco-roof / living roof as the name suggests, has a more positive environmental and energy efficient impact than a conventional roof. A green roof provides an ecologically friendly space which ‘gives back’ to its environment rather than harming or taking away from it.

Unlike ‘roof gardens’ which are traditionally for city dwellers with no ground level garden space, green roofs are not as ‘heavy’ i.e. they only have a thin layer of vegetation (sedum and mosses). Roof gardens have large amounts of soil and all manner of plants, which in turn means work and maintenance are required throughout the year. Green roofs however are virtually self-sustaining, perhaps requiring some weeding once a year, or an application of slow-release fertiliser.

There are a number of other benefits to green roofs:

Rainfall is trapped in the vegetation and released slowly, thus helping to prevent flooding.

The layer of vegetation acts as natural insulation, thus reducing your heating / energy consumption and bills.

The insulating properties of the vegetation layer also reduce any extremes of temperature inside a building i.e. the sun’s heat is absorbed during the day keeping the inside of the building cool, and this heat is retained at night keeping the building warm.

Green roofs provide a fantastic environment / micro habitat for wildlife e.g. beetles, spiders, birds, bees and butterflies.

A green roof is visually appealing and contributes to a more ‘natural’ looking environment in a built-up area.

How can you get a green roof?

Find a specialist flat roofing company in your area, and ask them for a survey and quote.

What are green roofs?

Green roofs or eco-roofs are the modern versions, and have many of the benefits of the ‘sod roofs’ that have been used in Scandinavia for centuries. Green roofs have risen rapidly in popularity, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands, and now in the UK.

There are 2 types of modern green roof systems, intensive and extensive. Intensive green roof systems are generally for heavier landscape constructions on flat roofs, whereas extensive systems can be installed over any deck and contain a number of layers including vapour retarder, insulation and waterproofing membrane layers beneath the vegetation. The general idea is to firstly provide a waterproof layer on a flat roof (or angled up to 45 degrees), and then put a thin layer of living vegetation on top of this.

What is the point of a green roof?

A green roof / eco-roof / living roof as the name suggests, has a more positive environmental and energy efficient impact than a conventional roof. A green roof provides an ecologically friendly space which ‘gives back’ to its environment rather than harming or taking away from it.

Unlike ‘roof gardens’ which are traditionally for city dwellers with no ground level garden space, green roofs are not as ‘heavy’ i.e. they only have a thin layer of vegetation (sedum and mosses). Roof gardens have large amounts of soil and all manner of plants, which in turn means work and maintenance are required throughout the year. Green roofs however are virtually self-sustaining, perhaps requiring some weeding once a year, or an application of slow-release fertiliser.

There are a number of other benefits to green roofs:

Rainfall is trapped in the vegetation and released slowly, thus helping to prevent flooding.

The layer of vegetation acts as natural insulation, thus reducing your heating / energy consumption and bills.

The insulating properties of the vegetation layer also reduce any extremes of temperature inside a building i.e. the sun’s heat is absorbed during the day keeping the inside of the building cool, and this heat is retained at night keeping the building warm.

Green roofs provide a fantastic environment / micro habitat for wildlife e.g. beetles, spiders, birds, bees and butterflies.

A green roof is visually appealing and contributes to a more ‘natural’ looking environment in a built-up area.

How can you get a green roof?

Find a specialist flat roofing company in your area, and ask them for a survey and quote.