How many types of biomass roofing materials do you know? Basically, there are roofing materials that are made from various plant materials such as wood and thatch. These kinds of roofs are eco-friendly and exhibit high durability properties. However, just like all other roofing materials, they have a few cons.
Here is an expert view on the different types of biomass roofing that you can use to give your home a new touch of elegance and uniqueness.
Wood
There are many ways of using wood to create sturdy roofing materials. Generally, it is made into tiles, shingles and thick shingles which are commonly referred to as shakes. The main difference between shingles and shakes is that the latter is normally split while the shingles are cut into specific pieces using a saw. To suit the diverse clients’ needs, they are made available in thin, thick, wide, short, long and narrow varieties. You can be rest assured that you will find one that best suits your home’s architectural design and specific preferences.
Not all wood is used to make these materials; it’s sourced from hardwood trees such as cedar and oak. Bamboo is also used to make shingles in regions that experience dry climatic conditions.
Spaces are left between the supporting wood strips under the strip for air circulation purposes. Nevertheless, wood shingles provide a good insulation. They are known to last between 25 to 50 years if well maintained. This is relatively longer than conventional tar roofs that last for only 10 years on average.
It goes without saying that both shakes and wood shingles are highly flammable. Also, they need to be cleaned regularly to get rid of vegetation such as molds. This retains their fresh amazing outlook. Leaves, pine needles and other forms of debris do not compromise the quality of roof easily.
Thatch
This biomass is as old as the hills. It has been used in various parts of the world for thousands if not millions of years. Some of the common materials that are used to make it include leaves, reeds, straws and grasses. However, modern thatching usually uses water reeds, straw or wheat reed. It’s important to point out that wheat reed is in fact a straw that is cut to resemble the reeds. If well installed, reed roofs are even and tighter than thresh wheat straws that have a rough appearance.
Based on the fact that they are made from basic plant materials, most people tend to think that they have a short lifespan. Unknown to them is that modern thatched roofs are very durable and can last between 30-50 years according to some recent studies. One of the supreme benefits derived from these roofs is that they are very effective in repelling water and flexible enough to accommodate just any roof pitch and shape and easy to repair.
Based on the fact that thatch is applied in layers, it’s usually thick and therefore a good insulator. Just like other biomass roofs, it’s flammable.
Why biomass roofs?
They hold a great appeal and are planet friendly because the materials are renewable and locally available. Due to their unique insulation properties, they are able to reduce energy loss and carbon footprint. Treating any of these roofs with chemical to prevent water, fire or insect damage undermines its biodegradable status.
