2 Futuristic Shingle and Siding Technologies You Should Consider

Home improvement technologies are creating sustainable living spaces that help save the environment. Two of the more recent advancements in shingles and siding not only protect your home, they can even provide it with all of the energy you need throughout the year. It's worth your time to learn more about these two high-tech building materials and why they should be part of your next home improvement projects.

1. Solar Shingles: The Roof is on Fire--and It's Storing Energy

Solar shingles, also known as photovoltaic shingles, look like conventional asphalt shingles in every way--except they have an energy-saving secret. These shingles are actually photovoltaic cells designed to collect the sun's rays and convert them into energy to be used in a home. These shingles are fairly new on the scene, but they're definitely up-and-coming for eco-friendly home design. Roofing Network reveals some of the finer points of solar shingles:

Transition. When the sun strikes a semiconductor layer, electricity is generated and then transferred in to your home's electrical system.
Costs. Costs for materials and installation run between $10,000 and $14,000, minus the tax credits you'll be eligible to receive and the money you'll be saving by not purchasing energy.
Buyback. Once your solar shingles are operational, the power company will actually buy a portion of the energy that your home produces, giving you a passive income stream.

2. Smart Siding: Resembling Armor and Delivering Tax Credits

All siding is not created equally. Particularly when it comes to CedarBoards with TrueComfort Siding Technology. This multilayer siding material offers the pinnacle of performance with respect to building integrity and potential tax benefits. It is quickly becoming the material of choice for eco-conscious builders. eBuild discusses the aspects of this smart siding so many homeowners are enjoying:

Sturdy. Smart siding increases the R-value by up to 22 percent. It also provides added strength and rigidity.
Stylish. Available siding options include a double 6-inch and a single 7-inch clapboard, both with a rough cedar texture.
Silent. Enjoy a reduction of exterior noise and an enhancement of interior acoustics.

Keep in mind that these two building material technologies may incur a substantial initial cost; however, the investment is likely worth it in the long run. You can recover the costs many times over with free energy and reduced maintenance. Check with your local home improvement expert for more information on how to make solar shingles and smart siding a part of your next home improvement project.

2 Futuristic Shingle and Siding Technologies You Should Consider

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