5 Environmentally Friendly Roofing Options

Roofers Manchester • March 9, 2023

Roofers Manchester recommend property owners consider the use of environmentally friendly materials on roofing projects. A roof made from sustainable materials is a smart choice, especially if you are passionate about the environment. The good news for eco-conscious homeowners! There are now an abundance of budget-friendly options when it comes to green roofing, offering a great way to make your home more sustainable.


Our roofers in Manchester like to remind property owners that investing in an eco-friendly roof gives a great opportunity to cut costs on energy bills, while at the same time contributing positively towards building a sustainable future by lowering your carbon footprint helping to create our world anew for generations to come!


To help make your next roofing project more eco friendly, we have highlighted 5 environmentally friendly roofing materials below.


Natural Slate

Slate is an environmentally friendly material in all stages of its design life, making it a popular, sustainable building material. Slate has excellent durability - with a lifespan of up to 100 years or more. This makes it an ideal choice for reliable protection for your property's roofing needs. In addition slate is 100% natural and can be dismantled and recycled at the end of its useful life.


Clay Tile

For centuries, clay has been used to build homes and other structures - but its popularity is undergoing a revival. From rustic dwellings to modern eco-friendly hotels, this classic material offers the perfect balance of affordability, durability and insulation for any setting!


Flat Rubber Roofs

Who knew that discarded tires could lead to such resilience? Repurposed rubber is a fantastic roofing material for flat roofs. Especially for those living in storm-prone areas, providing 50 years of protection before needing to be replaced. With this option comes great durability against the elements and less maintenance required on your part - what an ingenious solution.


Metal Roofs

Metal roofs provide a great way to be kinder to the environment while keeping your home comfortable and shielded from natural elements. Not only are they highly reflective, helping reduce temperatures inside, but their durability allows them up to 50 years of good performance with minimal maintenance requirement. Plus you can increase its eco-friendliness by looking out for metal roof manufacturers who use recycled materials.


Green Roofs

If you're looking for a unique way to spruce up your home and benefit from environmental bonuses our roofers in Manchester recommend investing in green roofing! There's more than one style to explore - far beyond the hobbit-inspired rounded roofs of lore. Best of all, these solutions keep homes comfortable throughout summer or winter while purifying nearby air. And with some creative thought, they can even provide additional space for gardening activities!


For an overview of our service visit our homepage. Contact Roofers Manchester today for professional advice and your free competitive quote.


Check out our UK roofing friends -  Roofers in Nottingham

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When it comes to roofing projects, understanding and adhering to local regulations is essential. Whether you're repairing storm damage, replacing an aging roof, or installing a completely new one, compliance with local rules can save you from fines, delays, and even costly rework. In this post, we’ll guide you through Manchester’s specific roofing regulations and explain why following them is vital for homeowners. Why Are Roofing Regulations Important? Local building regulations are designed to ensure that all construction work, including roofing, is safe, durable, and environmentally friendly. By adhering to these rules, you achieve the following: Protection of Your Home: A compliant roof can withstand Manchester’s frequent rain, wind, and occasional snow. Ensure Safety: A properly installed roof reduces risks like leaks, collapses, or structural instability. Avoid Legal Issues: Non-compliance can lead to fines, enforcement notices, or the need to redo the work. Maintain Property Value: When selling a property, buyers often request proof that any roofing work meets local building regulation compliance and planning restrictions. Key Roofing Regulations in Manchester While roofing regulations may vary slightly depending on your specific borough in Greater Manchester, here are the main rules to be aware of: Planning Permission for Roofing Projects In most cases, roof repairs or replacements don’t require planning permission. However, you’ll need approval if your project significantly alters the building's appearance or height, such as adding dormer windows or changing roof shapes. Homes in conservation areas or listed buildings often have stricter requirements. Building Regulations Compliance Even if planning permission isn’t required, roofing projects must comply with building regulations. This includes ensuring adequate insulation, structural integrity, and proper ventilation. You may need an inspection from a local council budling inspector to confirm compliance. Energy Efficiency Standards Re-roofing projects involving more than 50% of the roof require you to improve the insulation to meet current energy standards. This regulation helps reduce energy bills and aligns with Manchester’s commitment to sustainability and carbon reduction. A well insulated roof can also help you to stay warmer, providing a mor comfortable property to live in. Drainage and Rainwater Runoff Given Manchester's frequent rainfall, proper drainage systems are essential. Roofs must include appropriate guttering and downpipes to direct water safely away from your property. Water run off from roofs generally goes into surface water drains, however you may need further approval from the local water authority if you are tapping into new drains or creating new drainage runs. Fire Safety Regulations New roofs must comply with part B of the building regulations in relation to fire safety. Be aware that if your property is classified as high risk, additional fire safety documentation may be required and you may need to apply to the Building Safety Regulator under the updated building safety act . If you're using materials that could impact fire safety , you must ensure to obtain the required documentation to prove that your roof is compliant with the appropriate standards. Most reputable roofing manufacturers will provide fire safety certificates for their products. Health and Safety During Construction Contractors working on your roof must follow the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. This includes having a safe plan for working at height and minimising risks to workers and homeowners. As the client, it is important for you to do your due diligence when researching for a contractor to use, as you have a duty to ensure they are competent to carry out their work. How to Stay Compliant Hire a Professional Roofing Company - a reputable roofer will be familiar with Manchester’s local regulations and ensure all work complies. Always ask for certifications or proof of accreditation when hiring contractors. Obtain Necessary Permissions Check with your local council to confirm whether your project requires planning permission or a building control application. Your contractor can often handle this on your behalf. Use Approved Materials Only use roofing materials that meet UK safety and quality standards. Your contractor should provide documentation for the materials they use. Schedule Inspections If your project requires building control approval, arrange for inspections at key stages of the work. Keep all paperwork for future reference. What Happens if You Don’t Comply? Non-compliance with local roofing regulations is a serious issue and should not be ignored. If the completed work is not compliant to the required standards, it can lead to fines, delays due to being served with stop notices by the council, expensive repairs, reduced property value. If you are unsure about what is required in accordance with the regulations, get in touch with a qualified roofing contractor.  Manchester Roofing Experts You Can Trust Navigating roofing regulations can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Manchester Roofing Repairs , we specialise in roofing projects across Greater Manchester, ensuring compliance with all local and national regulations. From planning permissions to inspections, we handle the details so you can focus on enjoying your home. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s make your roofing project a success!
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