Green Home ButtonIf you're like many Minnesotans, you may be trying to learn more about green living and materials.  If so, you'll want to consider some green options for a reliable, strong and great roofing system to put on your home that will last a lifetime.  You don't have to settle for an impractical or cheap roof with materials that claim to be green.  And when you make the right choice, your roof will look great and stand out as one of the most practical in the neighborhood. Check out some of the green roofing materials out there. Slate Roofing

This is a type of roofing material that continues to gain popularity throughout the nation. Slate requires very little to no maintenance at all and last a very long time. Professionals should install this type of roof and it can cost a decent amount – but is well worth it in the end. It is one of the most durable on the market, looks great and requires little effort on your part. There is also slate that you can get that is re-salvaged.  Keep in mind that slate is heavy, and your home's structure must be able to support the extra weight.  Not all roofing contractors install slate, so if you're choosing this option, make sure your roofing contractor is experienced with slate installation.

Clay Roofing Tiles

Clay tiles are durable and require little to no maintenance as well. They can last a good fifty years before they need to be replaced, insulate very well and are great for fire resistance. They can give you a different look on your home depending on what look you're after. They might cost a bit much but this is worth it to not have to replace your roof for quite some time. The clay tiles are also non-toxic and safe for the environment.  As with slate, you'll want to make sure your roofing company has experience with installation of clay tile roofing.

Steel and Other Metal Roofing

Metal is probably the greenest roofing choice on the market currently. These products are made mostly from recycled content, are durable, lightweight and solar reflective with high insulation properties. A metal roof lasts a lifetime, and even at the end of its useful life, the material can be recycled and reused. Always choose metals that are lead-free for a environmentally friendly and healthy choice.  At Quarve Contracting, metal roofing is our top roofing recommendation for Minneapolis and St. Paul area homes.

Wood or Cedar Shakes and Shingles

These are great for an eco-friendly option since they can age gracefully over the years. However, wood roofing is not fire resistant unless treated with a chemical, which would then make it less environmentally friendly. It is durable, non-toxic and has low maintenance costs.  However, wood roofing is subject to issues such as rotting, insect infestation, mold, etc.

Asphalt Roofing

These never used to be one of the go-to's for eco-friendly roofing materials but with the world changing, you're able to find asphalt shingles made from recycled paper and many other recycled components. They are cheaper than many other options.

Quarve Contracting is a MN roofing contractor.  We offer a variety of roofing products, and we proudly install metal roofing in many different Minneapolis and St. Paul communities throughout the state including, but not limited to Eagan 55120, Bloomington 55425, Little Canada and North Oaks 55127.  Visit our Pinterest Eco-Friendly Roof Ideas board for eco-friendly roofing inspiration!