Eco-friendly roofing is one area of construction that's evolving quickly. Today, you have many options for choosing environmentally sound roofing; here are some of the best picks. 

White Roofing

White roofing materials are being billed as a low-cost eco-friendly roofing option. By using white roofing materials, you can help to reflect some of the sun's rays away from your house, reducing your cooling bills. White roofing can come in asphalt shingle form or in metal painted with low-VOC white paint. 

Wood Shingle Roofs

Wood shingle roofs are popular with homeowners because they can give the home a slightly rustic feel. They are also a great green roofing option because the materials can be sourced naturally to reduce the environmental costs of manufacturing. They are also biodegradable, meaning that the content won't end up in a landfill when you're done with it. Note that wood shingles can be flammable, but there are many different finishes that your roofing contractor can apply to make wood shingles safer for home use

Standing-Seam Metal Roofs

Standing-seam metal roofing material is a great option for homeowners. It's not only recyclable, but it can also help to reflect light away from the home. Metal roofing can also be fully created from recycled content. At the same time, it is extremely durable and long-lasting, as long as you take steps to protect it from rusting. If you're interested in an option like this, check with companies like Advanced Seamless Gutter & Roofing Inc.

Green Roofs

Your roof can also contain actual vegetation as a way to be energy efficient. The sunlight is absorbed by the plants before it reaches your home and provides unwanted heat. Be sure to choose succulent plants that don't require a lot of weekly maintenance in order to make this roofing option work. 

Clay Tiles

Clay tiles are a great option for working salvaged materials into your home design. Clay is an excellent roofing choice for those who don't want a lot of roofing maintenance as well; as long as your clay tiles are in good condition when they are installed, they can last for up to 100 years.  Before you get your heart set on a clay roof, be sure to talk about costs with your roofing contractor; clay roofs can be an expensive option because the material is difficult to install. 

Your roofing contractor may have additional ideas on how to create an energy efficient roofing system; there are so many different finishes and materials that can be used depending on your budget. These ideas should get you started in thinking about the qualities that make a great, eco-friendly roof.