Solar Cell Roofing

Solar cell roofing made from solar shingles or solar panels is being increasingly incorporated into the construction of new residential and commercial buildings. In many areas, people are choosing to replace their conventional roof with a solar roof when it is time for maintenance. And most of these people would tell you that the long-term value, or short-term increase is resale interest, made it worthwhile.

A solar cell roof is called "building integrated", also known by the more complete name "building integrated photovoltaic" (BIPV). BIPV suggests that you would have needed that part of the structure built anyway, and you've chosen to use material that will also serve the purpose of generating power through solar energy. The first advantage of solar cell shingles or panels on the roof is obvious: some of the initial cost is paid by lowering the overall material and labor costs involved in the construction. The second advantage is that the BIPV does not stand out - it is a normal and expected part of the design and structure of the building. These two advantages often make bipv solar roofing the clear choice over rooftop wind turbines, raised solar panels, and backyard windmills which both stand out and cost a lot more to build and install.

In some parts of the world, often due to government subsidies, many new houses are built with solar roofs. Until recently, this was not the case in the U.S., UK, and much of Europe because the cost remained prohibitive. However, with the invention of what is called "thin film solar technology", solar roofing tiles, panels and shingles have become easier to fabricate and work with and are much more aesthetically pleasing. This technology is best for pitched roofs where shingles or small tiles are the norm. Large flat roofs, such as the tops of many commercial buildings, can have one giant layer of solar film, or large integrated panels.

Go Green With Your Roof!

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.

Keeping Your Roofing Green!

Everyone is familiar with the green tubs put out on the curb every couple of weeks or so, with their distinctive triangular arrow symbol. While recycling goes back quite far in human history, not until World War II did modern recycling policies begin taking hold. Still, only 32-35% of the garbage Americans generate each year is recycled; this number could be much higher. It begins not only with collecting recyclable goods and manufacturing new products from them, but purchasing said products as well.

Moving into the area of energy we find various ways of maintaining a green agenda by cutting down on waste and costs. Wind energy is, and should be, an increasing phenomenon of recent years, and by selling excess electricity back to the power grid everyone wins. By using ENERGY STAR-labeled products an energy bill can be lowered by up to 30%. Thermostats programmed to your schedule can make a world of difference as well.

When it comes to roofing several things can be considered. From supplying electricity, or collecting water, to simply helping to cool an area, a roof can play a major role in the immediate environment. Whether it is a new roof or a repair job, things to look at include recycled synthetic shingles, an eco-roof, or solar roof shingles. Synthetic shingles can be made from recycled plastic, rubber, and wood waist. Some of these have a 50-year life span, and are UV and fire resistant. Biodiverse green roofs (or eco-roofs) can be intensive or extensive.

If extensive, the roof generally sustains itself, left on its own with herbs and grasses over a layer of shallow soil. An intensive eco-roof provides deeper soil for larger plants and trees, and can be used for recreation. Biodiverse green roofs are becoming increasingly popular in urban settings. The price of photovoltaic systems is also falling gradually, and with government incentives solar shingles should become more and more common in the coming years. This should always be considered for any unobstructed roof, and with the right roof more than one of these ideas can be combined.

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