Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important facet of the construction industry, where the right materials can not only reduce the environmental impact of a build, but help to make that building more energy efficient, reducing its long-term carbon footprint. And when it comes to construction sustainability, no area is more important than roofing.
Four Reasons Why Roof Sheets Can be an Eco-Friendly Choice in Construction
Energy efficiency
Roof sheets come in a range of forms and materials, each with their own benefits that can assist with energy efficiency. Zinc-coated, or galvanised steel roofing sheets, such as forms of standing seam roofing, and all-in-one roof systems like insulated roofing sheets help to maintain a more stable indoor temperature, leading to less reliance on heating and cooling systems. While fibre cement roofing sheets have low thermal conductivity which reduces heat build-up in summer and heat loss in winter.
Sustainable materials
Many roofing sheets are also made from sustainable materials. Fibre cement roof sheets are made from a combination of organic materials that are not used by plants or animals. Most of which are renewable or recyclable. It's also lightweight, which means it uses fewer raw materials. It also uses less energy in production than other roofing materials. Onduline roofing sheets are made from recycled cellulose fibres, which are renewable and biodegradable. While the manufacturing process uses minimal energy and generates little waste.
Durability
Steel roofing sheets have a low carbon footprint, are durable, can be recycled and, when installed correctly, can last up to 70 years. Galvanised steel roofs can last for over 50 years. While fibre cement roof sheets can last up to 60 years. Whichever option you choose, you’re saving resources. And reducing the carbon emissions related to disposal and landfill accumulation
Recyclability
Disposal always has to be factored into the green credentials of any building material. And many roofing sheets now produced are designed with recycling in mind. Steel is widely known as the only material used in construction that can be 100% recycled and re-used. Onduline roofing sheets are totally biodegradable. While fibre cement roof sheets can be ground down and reused to produce other construction materials.
Not all roofing sheets are made equal. Some lack all eco credentials. Some are better at certain elements of sustainability than others. But if you do a little research and choose energy-efficient, sustainable, and recyclable roof sheet materials, you can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your building. Not only saving yourself money on reduced energy consumption. But lowering the building’s overall carbon footprint, and doing your bit for sustainability.
Are you looking for sustainable roofing sheets for your next project? Find out what Southern Sheeting has to offer.
